Introduction

The Centre for Research in Accounting, Finance and Technology (CRAFT), established in 2021, focuses on advancing knowledge in quantitative finance, accounting, and financial technology (FinTech) through the development and dissemination of innovative research.

Aims and Objectives

CRAFT aims to enhance understanding of accounting, finance, financial markets, and FinTech by applying advanced econometric and statistical techniques to key areas such as accounting systems, asset management, asset pricing, stock analysis, and digital finance. It provides a platform for researchers interested in empirical investigation of issues in accounting, finance, and FinTech. The center promotes collaboration among academics, policymakers, and industry professionals to develop practical solutions to business problems, and seeks to bridge the industry–academia gap, particularly in emerging economies.

Special Interest Groups (SIGs)

SIG: Climate Finance and Green Technology Innovations
The Climate Finance and Green Technology Innovations (CFGTI) Division, established under CRAFT, focuses on advancing sustainable development through research in climate finance and green technologies. The division promotes climate-resilient business models, supports the development of green financial instruments, and evaluates projects that contribute to environmental sustainability. It collaborates with governments, financial institutions, and industry to address climate-related risks and opportunities. Through targeted research and partnerships, CFGTI aims to support the transition to a low-carbon and inclusive economy.

SIG: FinTech and AI Transformation in Accounting and Finance
Another interest group within CRAFT focuses on examining the role of Financial Technology (FinTech) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in accounting and finance. This group explores how emerging technologies such as machine learning, blockchain, and data analytics are transforming financial reporting, auditing, risk management, and decision-making processes. It emphasizes empirical and applied research to assess efficiency gains, transparency, and potential risks associated with digital transformation in financial systems. The group also aims to provide insights for practitioners and policymakers on the adoption and governance of AI-driven financial solutions.

Completed Project

• Microcredit and Poverty Alleviation: An impact analysis of Prime Minister's Karnyab Jawan – Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme (YES) — HEC NRPU.

Current Projects

• IMF Structural Reforms and their asymmetric impacts on the Poverty Alleviation of countries under different political regimes.
• Personalized Stock Trading Bot for the Pakistan Stock Exchange Using Autonomous AI Agents.
• Integrating Artificial Intelligence and Uncertainties for Real-Time Sustainability Assessment in Pakistan.