Is the financial industry ready for circular economy and sustainable development goals? A case of a developing country

PurposeThis study aims to examine the role of Pakistan's banking industry in the transition toward a circular economy (CE) and the implementation of sustainable development goals (SDGs).Design/methodology/approachThis study uses a qualitative content analysis technique on 75 annual reports of 25 Pakistani banks. Data has been collected from websites and annual reports of concerned banks incorporating CE practices and SDGs in their annual reports. In addition, the data collected from the annual reports of concern sample is based on three dimensions of sustainable development (environmental, social and governance) along with the leading practices of CE to reduce, reuse, recycle, redesign, restructure, and recover.FindingsThe findings show that most firms have reported CE and SDGs. Also, the study explores the level and linkage of CE and SDGs practices among the sample firms.Research limitations/implicationsThis study provides important insights for the regulators, policymakers, State Bank of Pakistan, commercial banks and stakeholders in Pakistan's banking industry. It adds significant value to the CE and SDGs, especially in developing economies like Pakistan.Originality/valueThe study has explored and examined the ever-investigated dimensions of SDGs and CE in the banking industry of Pakistan.