It is so unfortunate that a commercial banker has been made SPB Governor again. The governor is supposed to be totally indipendent with sufficient exposure to international monetory and economic policies and to provide guidance to the government and where necessary to take a firm stand on his stance (Dr. Yaqub, Dr. Ishrat Hussain, Dr. Shamshad Akhtar) whereas a commercial banker has a totally different mindset and he will always be dependant on finance ministry for instructions. The govt, in the larger interest of the country should consider a highly qualified economist for this slot

Ashraf is a "can do" person who is not afraid of making tough decisions. He had these traits 30 years ago when he managed American Express bank in Islamabad

@AW My dear this the central bank and not AMEX, experience of commercial and investment banking will do a little. A tough economist is needed.

I agree with Naeem's comment, what is a commerical banker doing running this organization? In most developed countries, the Central Bank is run by an economist. Some one who understands Monetary and Economic policy. The Governor of the Reserve Bank of India is an Economist who has worked as a Chief Economist for the IMF. The Chairman of the Federal Reserves in the US is an Economist with a PhD in Economics. And here we have a banker running the central bank and an accountant running the finance ministry. Ridiculous.

@Naeem Khan If you read carefully, the AmEx experience was 30 years ago. Ashraf has gained valuable experience over these years and is well seasoned to take this position at the State Bank (not Central Bank). You don't get to the position that he is in by just messing around and being mediocre. Ashraf has been the best at what he has done and we need loyal, qualified people like him in these important positions.

@Naeem Khan . Yes, a solid world class economist with international experience is required at the state bank and Ashraf can hire one or two such consultants/advisors. Remember that this is the top leadership position at the State bank and generally economists do not have leadership skills or experience to manage and lead an organization of this magnitude. Ashraf has the required leadership skills and experience and is bold in action

congratulation to Mr. Ashraf Mahmood Wathra on his appointment as Governor of State Bank of Pakistan congratulated Mr. Ashraf Mahmood Wathra on his appointment as Governor of State Bank of Pakistan. They welcomed and appreciated the decision of the prime minister of pakistan for nominating Mr. Ashraf Mahmood Wathra as Governor of SBP who has long and rich experience of more than 36 years in the banking sector. Prior to this he was serving as Senior Executive Vice President in National Bank of Pakistan & Habib Bank Lit. They said that Mr. Wathra is an asset for the country and business community Hyderabad has great expectations that the SBP and the business community will make maximum use of his experience. Mr. Ashraf Wathra is a dedicated and honest banker and his appointment as Governor SBP is recognition of his long meritorious and outstanding services. Regards.Muhammad Sohail Memon M.D CCIC Hyd 03003047644