Karachi, Pakistan – Zarea Limited, one of Pakistan’s largest B2B commodities platforms, has announced plans to raise at least Rs1 billion ($3.59 million) through an initial public offering (IPO) at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). The company aims to offer 62.5 million shares, representing 23.81% of its post-IPO paid-up capital, at a floor price of Rs16 per share via a 100% book-building mechanism.
According to a press statement released on Friday, Zarea intends to utilize the IPO proceeds to drive expansion and enhance operational efficiency. A significant portion of the working capital will be directed towards agri biomass, a rapidly growing sector that aligns with the increasing adoption of renewable and sustainable energy solutions.
Additionally, 24% of the funds will be allocated to establishing an in-house logistics model, reducing dependence on third-party logistics providers. Another 12% will be invested in technology upgrades to ensure scalability and enhance the customer experience. The remaining funds will support marketing, human resources, and office expansion.
Zarea also plans to broaden its offerings by introducing seven additional commodity categories, including fertilizers, chemicals, and agri perishables.
The book-building phase of the IPO is scheduled for February 10-11, 2025, followed by the retail subscription period on February 17-18, 2025. Topline Securities and Growth Securities have been appointed as joint consultants and book runners for the offering.
Pakistan’s IPO market experienced a strong revival in 2024, with seven IPOs, including two GEM Board offerings, compared to just one in the previous year. The total amount raised through these IPOs stood at Rs8.4 billion, the highest level since 2021.
“We attribute this as a good year for IPOs, driven by macroeconomic stability under the IMF program, coupled with positive market sentiment, high liquidity, falling interest rates, and political stability, which encouraged equity investment,” an analyst at Topline Securities commented last month.
Zarea’s IPO is expected to contribute to this positive trend, offering investors an opportunity to participate in the company’s growth as it expands its footprint in Pakistan’s commodities sector.
Source: Business Recorder