Karachi: The Searle Company Limited has credited a 15% bonus share issuance to its shareholders, following the Board of Directors’ announcement during their meeting on October 3, 2025. The allocation, pertaining to the fiscal year ending on June 30, 2025, was finalized on October 16, 2025, as shares were deposited into individual accounts via the Central Depository System (CDS) of the Central Depository Company Pakistan Limited (CDC).
The distribution of bonus shares, a key component of the company’s shareholder return strategy, is subject to tax withholding as specified under section 236Z of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001. Shareholders listed in the latest “Active Taxpayers List” (ATL) will see a 10% withholding, while those not listed will have 20% withheld. The balance will be credited to shareholders’ accounts post the requisite tax deposits.
According to information available from the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), the issuance aligns with regulatory compliance and taxation frameworks, ensuring transparency and adherence to statutory requirements. Searle’s move reflects a broader trend among companies in the designated market category of pharmaceuticals, where shareholder returns through bonus shares are common.
Physical share certificates are scheduled for dispatch through registered post or courier services by November 10, 2025, marking the completion of the distribution process. This step is essential for shareholders opting out of digital holdings, ensuring they receive their entitlements securely and efficiently.