The carry over transaction (CoT), commonly known as 'badla' rates during the last week recorded an increase of 38 percent after rise in share prices and imposition of withholding tax on badla income.
The weighted average badla rates at the Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) increased by 310 basis points during the week, and closed at 11.2 percent on Friday (July 2) as compared to 8.1 percent on previous Friday (June 25). This was despite the fact that June end factor is now over.
The 10 percent withholding tax on badla income was the primary reason for this increase in badla rates. Many badla investors pulled out their money due to the imposition of this new levy. Few financiers are also confused about the procedural matters of the tax payment, and, therefore, they are out of the badla market.
On Friday, badla rates at the KSE in leading stocks like OGDCL, PSO, DG Cement, Pakistan Oilfield and NBP were 13.0 percent, 10.6 percent, 13.3 percent, 8.4 percent, 9.1 percent, respectively. Badla rates at the Lahore Stock Exchange (LSE) also increased during the week by 350 basis points to 12.1 percent on last Friday.
The KSE badla investment increased by Rs 0.7 billion (up 3 percent) during the week to reach Rs 22.6 billion on Friday, as compared to Rs 21.8 billion on previous Friday. The increase in badla investment was due mainly to the share prices rise.
The badla investment at the LSE increased by Rs 0.8 billion or 33 percent to Rs 3.2 billion on Friday. The combined badla investment on the KSE and the LSE increased by Rs 1.5 billion to Rs 25.8 billion on the last Friday.
Contrary to expectations, the impact of 10 percent withholding tax on the badla income, starting from July 1 did not have a significant impact on the badla rates. A few investors are out of the badla market, but they are likely to return once the procedural matters regarding 10 percent tax is clarified and understood.
The badla market still offers superior returns with growing mutual fund industry, the chances of funds moving out of this market are slim.
Moreover, according to reports, the SECP has finalised margin-trading rules. Going forward, badla market will gradually be phased out with margin financing as a source of funding for leveraged buyers.