Muhammad Waseem, CFA, is the Head of Research at NBP Funds, where he leads the research team and serves as a member of the Investment Committee for equities, fixed income, and SMAs. With over a decade of experience in equity research and portfolio management, he has a strong track record of identifying opportunities and generating alpha. Prior to joining NBP Funds, he headed Islamic Equities & Research at UBL Funds, managing multiple equity funds. A CFA charterholder, Waseem is dedicated to combining rigorous research with a forward-looking perspective to deliver long-term value for investors.

As the Head of research, what is your typical day at work?

My day begins with a morning briefing where we review key developments in Pakistan’s economy, financial markets, and corporate sector that could impact our portfolios. I then work with the fund management team to discuss investment strategies and market outlook, while engaging with our analysts to identify new stock opportunities that can generate alpha for our clients. Beyond local markets, I closely track international developments—global commodity prices, inflation trends, and research on major economies—to build a comprehensive investment perspective.

As the Head of Research, how do you keep yourself up to date with the latest market trends?

I stay updated through a mix of continuous reading and active engagement. This includes reviewing company financial reports, tracking economic data, and studying global research articles. In addition, I regularly monitor market movements, commodities, and industry-specific insights to ensure our views remain relevant and forward-looking.

In your opinion, what characteristics are essential to have a successful career in research?

A successful career in research requires curiosity, critical thinking, and attention to detail. One must have the discipline to dig deep into data, the patience to wait for insights to play out, and the ability to think independently rather than follow consensus. Equally important are communication skills—the ability to convert complex analysis into clear, actionable ideas for decision-makers.