United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s banking sector is struggling with a deepening crisis, as the latest independent audit for the June quarter exposes a collective capital shortfall exceeding Tk 1.55 lakh crore. Experts warn that restoring stability and achieving a standardised balance will require significant time and concerted effort. This alarming deficit highlights a growing systemic crisis driven by a dramatic surge in non-performing loans (NPLs) across the industry. According to data from the Bangladesh Bank (BB), 24 of the country's 61 scheduled banks have failed to maintain the legally required minimum capital. The list of non-compliant institutions includes four state-owned commercial banks, two specialised banks, and a staggering 18 private commercial banks. Economists are raising serious concerns, stating that the situation poses a significant threat not only to the stability of the individual banks involved but also to the overall resilience of the nation's financial sector. Mamun Rashid, an economic analyst, said that the stability of the banking sector will bring stability to the greater financial sector of Bangladesh. So, it is essential to emphasize the banking sector. Bangladesh Bank reinstates extra increment benefit to attract, retain top talent But this is a difficult job as over two dozen banks are struggling with over-loaded, defaulted loans. The banks required long-term planning with a stable political situation, he pointed out. He predicted that a stable political situation would create a flood of foreign investment in Bangladesh, which would bring stability in the banking sector as well as the financial sector. The combined capital shortfall for the 24 distressed banks stood at Tk 1,55,866 crore as of the end of June. This figure marks a sharp escalation from the previous quarter, where the shortfall among 23 banks was Tk 1,10,260 crore in March. The primary cause of this capital depletion is the overwhelming pressure from bad loans. As the volume of NPLs increases, banks are required to hold larger security provisions (loan-loss provisions). When they fail to maintain these necessary provisions, their capital base is directly eroded. Mahbubur Rahman, CEO of Mutual Trust Bank, told UNB that a significant portion of the NPL surge is due to past irregularities and alleged large-scale loan corruption under the previous government. BSEC needs autonomy like central bank: Anisuzzaman Following the recent change in the political landscape, banks are now beginning to report these previously hidden or 'evergreened' debts as genuine defaults, leading to a record increase in NPL figures over the last few quarters, he said. This surge in NPLs has, in turn, escalated the size of banks' risk-weighted assets, further increasing the requirement for capital, said Mahbub. Under the Basel-III framework, Bangladesh Bank mandates that scheduled banks must maintain a Minimum Capital Requirement (MCR) plus a Capital Conservation Buffer (CCB) equivalent to 12.5 percent of their total Risk-Weighted Assets (RWA). Besides, banks have been directed since 2015 to maintain a minimum 3 percent Leverage Ratio (LR), which is slated to be gradually increased to 4 percent by 2026. The 24 banks on the shortfall list have demonstrably failed to meet these essential regulatory standards. The financial consequences for non-compliant banks are severe, including restrictions on paying dividends to shareholders and facing difficulties in conducting transactions with international banks, which view low capital adequacy as a major credit risk. The capital crisis has hit the state and private sectors with severity The two specialized banks are the worst hit. Bangladesh Krishi Bank recorded the highest overall capital shortfall at Tk 29,161 crore as of June. Rajshahi Krishi Unnayan Bank followed with a deficit of Tk 2,620 crore. ICAB urges proper IFRS 9 implementation to restore banking sector trust Among the state-owned commercial banks, the highest deficits were reported by: ·         Janata Bank: Tk 17,025 crore ·         Agrani Bank: Tk 7,698 crore ·         Rupali Bank: Tk 4,173 crore ·         Basic Bank: Tk 3,783 crore Private Commercial Banks: Eighteen private banks are now on the capital deficit list, with several highly exposed. New additions to the list for the June quarter include NRBC Bank and Al-Arafah Islami Bank. The worst-hit private banks (excluding Shariah-based): ·         National Bank: Tk 8,459 crore ·         AB Bank: Tk 6,775 crore ·         Padma Bank: Tk 5,619 crore ·         IFIC Bank: Tk 4,051 crore ·         Shariah-Based Banks: The Islamic banking sector, which has been the subject of recent merger plans, also contributes significantly to the shortfall: ·         Union Bank: Tk 21,387 crore ·         Islami Bank Bangladesh: Tk 18,504 crore ·         First Security Islami Bank: Tk 10,501 crore ·         Global Islami Bank: Tk 5,552 crore ·         Social Islami Bank: Tk 2,079 crore Professor Shohidul Islam, Chairman, Department of Banking and Insurance, Dhaka University, told UNB that the alarming rise in capital shortfalls confirms that the financial sector's core problems—poor governance and lax lending practices—have come to a head, forcing the regulatory body to confront a crisis of confidence that may require extensive government intervention to resolve. He said some banks require a long time, 20 years to 30 years, to make a standard balance sheet in the defaulted loan and deposit ratio, as the loan scam in the banking sector has never happened in the world ever.

The Ministry of Finance has warned all to stay alert against a smear campaign on social media by a vested quarter regarding the ongoing bank merger process. In a media release issued on Monday, the ministry urged investors not to pay heed to any misinformation about the merger of Islamic banks. “A vested group has recently been spreading rumours on social media, claiming that investors will be harmed due to the merger of five Islamic banks. The matter has come to the attention of the government,” the release says. The government has not taken any decision that could hurt the interests of investors, says the statement, adding, “All possible measures are being taken to safeguard investors’ interests while examining the merger process.” Bank merger: BSEC urges central bank to protect interests of investors Terming the claim ‘completely baseless and false’, the ministry called upon all to remain cautious about such misleading information circulating online. On October 9, the Council of Advisers gave its policy approval to merge five Islamic banks — First Security Islami Bank, Social Islami Bank, Global Islami Bank, Union Bank, and EXIM Bank — into a single Shariah-based institution. At a subsequent press briefing, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said that no employees would lose their jobs, and the deposits of customers would remain fully protected under the merger plan. The new bank will initially operate under state ownership, managed by the Finance Division, and will later be transferred to private ownership at an appropriate time.

A personal loan is an unsecured form of credit that helps individuals meet personal needs like education, travel, or medical emergencies without needing any collateral. It is repaid through fixed monthly instalments over 1 to 5 years. In this article, we will explore the top 6 banks in Bangladesh offering personal loans and compare their features, eligibility, and benefits to guide you in choosing the best loan provider based on your needs. 6 Bangladeshi Banks to Consider for Personal Loans in 2025 Here we have reviewed the personal loan schemes of six selected banks in Bangladesh in 2025. The detailed information regarding the loans can be accessed from the official websites of respective banks.  Jamuna Bank When it comes to fulfilling personal needs—be it for marriage, travel, education, medical emergencies, or simply upgrading your lifestyle—Jamuna Bank’s Personal Loan stands out as a versatile and trustworthy solution.  Designed for a wide spectrum of borrowers, including salaried professionals, self-employed individuals, landlords, and businesspersons, this loan is available for any lawful purpose deemed acceptable by the bank. Applicants can secure financing from BDT 1 lakh up to BDT 20 lakh with repayment tenures extending up to 5 years. This provision offers flexibility to suit individual financial capacities.  Read more: How to Invest in Bonds: A Comprehensive Guide To be eligible, applicants must be aged between 21 and 60 and meet specific income thresholds starting from BDT 40,000 for salaried persons and going up to BDT 80,000 for businesspeople. Experience requirements vary by profession, ensuring responsible lending and borrower credibility.  Jamuna Bank requires standard documentation, including a national ID, proof of income, six months’ bank statements, and professional certifications. Loan repayment is easy and convenient through EMIs, which can be paid via bank transfer, cheques, MFS, or directly from a Jamuna Bank account. The bank also allows early settlements and partial payments, adding more flexibility for borrowers. With transparent terms, responsible lending, and a customer-friendly approach, Jamuna Bank remains a top-tier choice for personal loans in Bangladesh in 2025. Agrani Bank Agrani Bank PLC offers a highly dependable personal loan option tailored specifically for its salaried employees. This exclusive product is designed to help meet a variety of financial needs, such as home renovation, marriage, medical treatment, educational expenses, or lifestyle enhancements.  Read more: How to Buy Bangladesh Government Treasury Bond: Everything You Need to Know The bank offers loans up to BDT 20 lakh, with a maximum tenure of 5 years or until the end of the applicant’s service period, whichever comes first. The interest rate is fixed at 13.40%, providing predictable and manageable monthly payments.  Eligible applicants must be between 18 and 55 years of age and be full-time salaried individuals working within Agrani Bank PLC. This internal loan product is specially structured to maintain minimal risk while providing meaningful financial support to its staff. In terms of security, Agrani Bank requires both a personal guarantee and an additional guarantee from a solvent person, reinforcing the loan’s reliability and ensuring responsible borrowing. Brac Bank BRAC Bank’s Personal Loan is a flexible and accessible financial solution designed to fulfil a wide range of personal needs. This unsecured loan offers up to BDT 20 lakh without requiring any collateral or cash security, making it a truly customer-centric option for individuals across Bangladesh. The loan comes with a variable interest rate, aligned with Bangladesh Bank’s guidelines and BRAC Bank’s current lending policies. There is a processing fee of up to 0.50% of the loan amount, and other charges are applicable as per the bank's retail loan schedule of charges. One notable feature is the inclusion of an insurance shield, with the premium conveniently payable through the bank itself. Read more: How to Raise Angel Investment for Startups in Bangladesh Applicants aged 25 to 65 years are eligible, with a minimum income requirement of BDT 25,000 per month. Salaried individuals must have at least one year of confirmed employment, while businesspersons need a minimum of three years’ experience in the same business. The repayment period is quite flexible, ranging from 12 to 60 months, and borrowers even get extra time to pay their first EMI. For loans up to BDT 5 lakh, no guarantor is needed, making it even more convenient. BRAC Bank’s personal loan is a hassle-free option backed by quick processing, strong customer support (available 24/7 via 16221), and clear eligibility requirements. All these make it a reliable financial partner for all your life’s important moments.  Standard Chartered Bank Standard Chartered Bank’s Personal Loan is a versatile and convenient solution tailored to meet your various financial needs. With loan amounts ranging from BDT 50,000 to BDT 20 lakh and flexible repayment options of 12 to 60 months, this product ensures financial comfort with complete control. Salaried individuals aged 21 and above and self-employed/businessmen aged 25 and above are eligible, provided they meet the minimum monthly income requirement of BDT 26,000 to BDT 55,000, depending on their banking relationship. Applicants must also be Bangladeshi citizens with a valid NID and reside in cities like Dhaka, Narayanganj, or Chattogram, among other branch-covered areas. Read more: How to Build Social Capital to Grow Your Business One of the standout features of Standard Chartered’s personal loan is its seamless repayment method. Even if you do not have an account with the bank, your EMIs can be automatically collected from any other bank account via BEFTN, eliminating the need for post-dated cheques. The bank also offers employee banking privileges, including preferential treatment and top-up loan options for existing customers. Also, insurance coverage is available to protect your loved ones in unforeseen circumstances. Loan processing is swift, within 2 working days for payroll clients and up to 5 days for others, ensuring fast access to funds when you need it most. United Commercial Bank When life calls for a financial boost, United Commercial Bank (UCB) stands ready with its versatile and customer-friendly personal loan. This all-purpose loan offers up to BDT 20 lakh, catering to a wide range of legitimate personal financial needs, without requiring any collateral or cash security. One of UCB’s strongest features is its completely unsecured structure, which means hassle-free approvals and no need for a mortgage or guarantees. With a repayment tenure of up to 5 years, borrowers can comfortably manage EMIs based on their income flow.  Read more: Gold vs Diamond: Which Should You Choose for Investment? The bank also provides top-up and takeover facilities, allowing existing borrowers to access additional funds or switch from other institutions—ensuring maximum flexibility. Additionally, UCB extends this facility to Non-Resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) and offers global citizens a chance to finance needs back home. Eligibility criteria are designed to be inclusive. Salaried individuals and doctors with a monthly income of BDT 25,000 and self-employed professionals, businesspeople, or landlords earning at least BDT 50,000 can apply.  Applicants must be at least 21 years old. UCB takes pride in its transparent loan terms, with no hidden charges, a fast approval process, and attractive interest rates that make borrowing both affordable and stress-free. This makes UCB a smart, reliable choice for anyone seeking quick and flexible personal financing in 2025.  City Bank City Bank’s Personal Loan is designed to add joy and ease to your life by helping you manage your financial needs smartly. Offering a generous loan range from BDT 2 lakh to BDT 20 lakh, this loan is structured with flexible repayment tenures between 12 and 60 months, allowing borrowers to comfortably plan their EMIs over time. Read more: Silent Partner vs Investor in Business: Know the Difference, Pros and Cons City Bank stands out with its competitive interest rates, no hidden charges, and a unique Double Benefit Insurance Coverage. This insurance ensures that in the unfortunate event of death or permanent total disability, your outstanding loan is taken care of—providing your loved ones with peace of mind. Such value-added features make it more than just a loan—it is a complete financial solution.  Eligibility criteria are straightforward. Applicants must be between 22 and 60 years of age and meet specific experience and income thresholds depending on their profession. For instance, salaried individuals must earn BDT 40,000/month, professionals BDT 60,000, landlords BDT 50,000, and businesspeople BDT 100,000. Additionally, applicants must have at least 2–3 years of professional or business experience.  City Bank’s transparent process, coupled with quick approvals and an emphasis on customer satisfaction, makes it one of the most dependable choices for personal loans in Bangladesh. Whether you are planning a major life event or need a financial bridge for unforeseen needs, City Bank helps you reach new heights and celebrate life’s journey with confidence.  Read more: What to Consider Before Taking a Personal Loan from a Bangladeshi Bank Final Words Each of these top-tier banks offers unique strengths—from fast approvals to flexible tenures and insurance-backed security—making them ideal choices for personal loans in Bangladesh. Choose based on your income, profession, and specific needs for the best financial fit.

The National Pension Authority (NPA) on Thursday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with 12 banks to facilitate registration and contribution collection under the Universal Pension Schemes. This brings the total number of banks partnering with the NPA to 24, as 12 banks had previously signed similar agreements.  NBR lifts suspension of Tax Tribunal member Shafiqul, cites no reason Executive Chairman of the National Pension Authority Md. Mahiyuddin Khan was present at the meeting. Finance Secretary Dr. Md. Khairuzzaman Mozumder attended the event as the chief guest. The 12 banks are-AB Bank, Al-Arafah Islami Bank, Islami Bank, IFIC Bank, Midland Bank, Modhumoti Bank,National Bank, NCC Bank, ONE Bank, Premier Bank, Southeast Bank and Trust Bank. The NPA has announced plans to gradually sign MoUs with all domestically-owned banks to ensure widespread access and seamless contribution collection for all citizens under the Universal Pension Schemes. Pensioner Sanchayapatra in Bangladesh: Revised profit rates in 2025

To resolve the ongoing crisis in the banking sector, the government has made the ‘Bank Resolution Ordinance 2025’, which has been published as a gazette notification. The ordinance is empowering Bangladesh Bank, so stricter and more organised steps can be taken to maintain the stability of the banking sector, as stated in the introduction of the ordinance. Bangladesh Bank can take over any bank, including and financial institutions to bring stability to these institutions. Bangladesh Bank to release newly designed banknotes ahead of Eid To this end, the 67-page Bank Resolution Ordinance, 2025 was published in the form of a gazette on Friday (9 May), a holiday. Earlier, on 17 April, the advisery council approved the draft of the ordinance. The new provision states that the central bank can temporarily take over any scheduled bank or financial institution, including any Islamic banks, under government ownership. For this, Bangladesh Bank can issue an order to transfer one or more shares. However, the recipient of the shares must be a government-owned institution. According to the ordinance, if the owner of a bank misuses the bank's assets for personal gain or resorts to fraud, then Bangladesh Bank can take any action against that bank through a resolution. If necessary, there will be an opportunity to appoint a temporary administrator in the bank, reinvest capital, transfer assets and shares to a third party, and suspend operations partially or completely. Bridge Bank Concept and Liquidation Process: As part of the restructuring of a weak bank, an opportunity has been provided for establishing a "bridge bank", which can also be sold at a later date. If it is necessary to completely close the bank's operations, Bangladesh Bank can take the initiative for liquidation through the court. In this case, a time limit has also been set for the appointment of a liquidator and settlement of liabilities. Personal liability and fines: The liability of the persons involved in the failure of the bank has been determined, and it has been said that if the bank suffers losses as a result of the actions or decisions of any person, he will be personally liable. In addition, a provision has been made for imposing a fine of up to Tk50 lakh and an additional penalty of Tk5,000 for each day of violation of the ordinance. Inter-institutional Council for Crisis Management: A seven-member ‘Banking Sector Crisis Management Council’ will be formed to deal with the crisis in the banking sector, headed by the Governor of the Bangladesh Bank. The other members are the Finance Secretary, the Secretary of the Financial Institutions Division, the BSEC Chairman, the Legislative Secretary, and two Deputy Governors of the Bangladesh Bank. The council will meet every three months and prepare emergency crisis plans.  

Bangladesh Bank has allowed Bangladeshi startup businesses to invest up to US$ $10,000 or equivalent foreign currency to form a single company abroad. According to a circular issued by the central bank on Thursday, startup businesses in Bangladesh can send $10,000 to form a single company abroad. This permission has been granted under the Foreign Exchange Control Act, 1947. As a result, the resident companies can now send remittances to establish companies abroad by applying to the bank. Banks asked to shore up online services, keep ATMs full and secure before 9-day holiday According to the circular, Bangladeshi citizens at the individual level have been allowed to establish companies abroad in the same manner. In this case, the applicants must have innovative ideas, which will create opportunities for investment and income in Bangladesh, including expanding their business abroad. In addition to small-scale investments, Bangladesh Bank has allowed resident companies to invest abroad by swapping their own shares/securities with those of foreign companies. Bangladesh Bank lifts ban of foreign tour for NBFIs In this method, there will be no need for cash to invest abroad. In this system, when considering investment proposals abroad, the swap ratio of shares/securities must be consistent with global best practices, said the central bank circular.  

Keeping valuables at home carries risks like theft, fire, or misplacement. To ensure security, several banks in Bangladesh offer locker facilities, providing a safe place for important documents, jewellery, and other valuables. However, the bank locker charges and refundable security fees vary from bank to bank. Let’s take a look at the safety deposit box or locker services with associated charges in some renowned banks in Bangladesh in 2025. Bank Locker Services in 10 Popular Government-owned and Private Banks in Bangladesh Here the banks have been ranked alphabetically.  Agrani Bank PLC Agrani Bank provides Safe Deposit Locker services at many of its urban branches. In this state-owned commercial bank, customers can choose from Small, Medium, and Large lockers. The yearly charges are Tk 2,000 for Small, Tk 2,500 for Medium, and Tk 3,000 for Large lockers.  Locker Size Annual Charges (BDT) Small 2000 Medium 2500 Large 3000 A refundable key deposit of Tk 5,000 is required. The service is available to Savings and Current account holders. Customers can pay locker rent in advance and set up automatic deductions from their accounts. The bank ensures strong security measures for valuables stored in its lockers. Read more: Pensioner Sanchayapatra in Bangladesh: Revised profit rates in 2025 Al-Arafah Islami Bank PLC Al-Arafah Islami Bank has been providing Safe Deposit Locker services for years, with 23 branches currently offering this facility. Lockers are available in small, medium, and large sizes. The annual rent is Tk 2,000 for Small, Tk 2,500 for Medium, and Tk 3,500 for Large lockers.  Locker Size Annual Charges (BDT) Security Deposit (BDT) Small 2000 10000 Medium 2500 12000 Large 3500 15000 Customers must deposit a refundable security fee. The annual security deposits for the small, medium, and large-sized lockers are 10,000 Tk, 12,000 Tk, and 15000 Tk, respectively. Key replacement costs Tk 2,500 in Dhaka and other locations. Lockers provide high-security storage for valuables, including documents and jewellery. Read more: 5-Year Bangladesh Sanchayapatra 2025: Revised Profit Rates City Bank PLC City Bank’s Safe Deposit Locker service ensures high-security storage for customers’ valuables. Available at select branches across major cities, the service is ideal for safeguarding jewellery, documents, and other assets. Lockers are available in three sizes: small (Tk. 5,500), medium (Tk. 7,500), and large (Tk. 9,500). Locker Size Annual Charges (BDT) Small 5,500 Medium 7,500 Large 9,500 Read more: 3-Monthly Profit-Bearing Sanchayapatra in Bangladesh: Revised Profit Rates in 2025 Dhaka Bank PLC Dhaka Bank offers secure locker facilities across various branches, ensuring top-level protection for valuables. Lockers are available in Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large sizes. The annual charges for small, medium, large, and extra-large lockers are Tk 5,000, Tk 7,000, Tk 9,000, and Tk 14,000, respectively. Locker Size Annual Charges (BDT) Small 5000 Medium 7000 Large 9000 Extra Large 14000 A refundable security deposit of Tk 5,000 is required. Lockers are available in Gulshan, Banani, Dhanmondi, Uttara, Chattogram, Sylhet, and other key locations. Customers can conveniently pay the rent through direct debit from their deposit accounts. Read more: Paribar Sanchayapatra 2025: Revised profit rates of Family Savings Certificate in Bangladesh IFIC Bank PLC IFIC Bank offers locker services with enhanced security and confidentiality. Lockers come in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The annual rent is Tk 5,000 for small, Tk 10,000 for medium, and Tk 12,000 for large lockers. Customers must pay a refundable security deposit equal to the annual rent.  To avail of the service, an individual or business entity must maintain a current or savings account with IFIC Bank. Rent payments are directly deducted from the customer’s account, providing a hassle-free experience. Lockers are available at multiple branches nationwide. Locker Size Annual Charges (BDT) Small 5,000 Medium 10,000 Large 12,000 Read more: Sanchayapatra interest rate revised: New profit rates of Bangladesh National Savings Certificate in 2025 Janata Bank PLC Janata Bank offers Safe Deposit Lockers across most of its branches in Bangladesh. This state-owned bank offer Small, Medium, and Large safety deposit boxes or lockers. The annual rent is Tk 2,000 for Small, Tk 3,000 for Medium, and Tk 5,000 for Large lockers. A refundable locker key security deposit of Tk 5,000 is required for all sizes.  Locker Size Annual Charges (BDT) Security Deposit (BDT) Small 2000 5000 Medium 3000 Large 5000 Locker services are available to individual and business account holders. Rent is payable in advance, and customers can conveniently set up standing orders for automatic payments. The service ensures high security and ease of access. Read more: Sanchayapatra at Maturity: Encashment or Renewal of Bangladesh’s National Savings Certificate Pubali Bank PLC Pubali Bank offers Safe Deposit Lockers to ensure the security of customers’ valuables. Lockers are available in three sizes: Small, Medium, and Large. The annual charges are Tk 2,000 for Small, Tk 3,000 for Medium, and Tk 5,000 for Large lockers.  Locker Size Annual Charges (BDT) Small 2000 Medium 3000 Large 5000 To avail of this service, customers must have a Savings, Current, or Short Notice Deposit account in the respective branch. Lockers are rented for a minimum period of one year. The bank ensures strict confidentiality and security, making it a trusted choice for locker services. Read more: How to Invest in Bonds: A Comprehensive Guide Standard Bank PLC Standard Bank offers lockers in Small, Medium, and Large sizes at competitive rates. The annual rent is Tk 3,000 for Small, Tk 4,000 for Medium, and Tk 6,000 for Large lockers. A refundable security deposit equivalent to one year’s rent is required. The service is available at select branches, ensuring customers can store valuables safely.  Locker Size Annual Charges (BDT) Small 3000 Medium 4000 Large 6000 Locker holders can nominate family members for easy access in emergencies. Payments can be made conveniently through automatic deductions from the customer’s account. Read more: How to Buy Bangladesh Government Treasury Bond: Everything You Need to Know Sonali Bank PLC Sonali Bank PLC offers a secure locker service in 54 branches, allowing customers to safeguard their valuables. In this government-owned commercial bank, safety deposit boxes or lockers are available in three sizes: small (4.7" x 7" x 23.50"), medium (4.7" x 14.33" x 23.50"), and large (9.4" x 14.33" x 23.50"). A refundable security deposit of Tk. 5,000 is required. The annual charges are 2500 Tk, 3000 Tk, and 4000 Tk for the small, medium, and large-sized lockers, respectively. Locker Size Annual Charges (BDT) Small 2500 Medium 3000 Large 4000 An additional 15% VAT applies to all charges. Lockers provide high security and easy accessibility for customers. The service is ideal for storing important documents, jewellery, and other valuables. Customers can visit designated branches to avail of this service and ensure the safety of their possessions. Read more: What to Consider Before Buying Land: A Step-by-Step Guide United Commercial Bank (UCB) Limited UCB provides Safe Deposit Lockers in 84 branches nationwide, offering maximum security for valuables like documents and jewellery. Lockers are available in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The annual rental fees are Tk 1,500 for the small, Tk 2,000 for the medium, and Tk 2,500 for the large-sized lockers. Locker Size Annual Charges (BDT) Small 1500 Medium 2000 Large 2500 A refundable security deposit equivalent to one year’s rent is required. The bank ensures confidentiality and ease of access with a hassle-free rent payment system through standing orders. UCB locker services are among the most affordable options in Bangladesh. Final Words Bank locker services in Bangladesh offer a secure way to store valuables, protecting them from theft, fire, and loss. With various sizes, affordable rents, and strong security measures, these safety deposit boxes or lockers provide peace of mind. Choosing a reliable bank locker ensures your precious belongings remain safe and easily accessible when needed. However, the annual fees of bank lockers are subject to change. Read more: What to Consider Before Investing in a Startup or Company?

A Khulna court has ordered the freezing of five bank accounts belonging to former land minister Narayon Chandra Chanda and his wife Usha Rani Chanda. Judge Md Sharif Hossain Haider of Khulna Metropolitan Senior Special Judge’s Court passed the order on Thursday following a petition filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).  Court and relevant sources said the ACC had launched an inquiry into allegations including bribery in recruitment processes, illegal land occupation, and misappropriation of public funds from government development projects against the former minister. Ex Khulna-2 MP Mizanur Rahman gets 8 years in jail for graft The illegally acquired wealth was allegedly deposited in various bank accounts, fixed deposits, and savings certificates under both his and his wife's names.  Based on preliminary investigation, the ACC, led by Deputy Director Md Abdul Wadud, submitted a petition to a court to freeze the couple’s financial assets.

The sales of saving all types of savings certificates which remained suspended since last Thursday due to software upgrades are likely to resume on Thursday. Savings Certificate Director of the Department of National Savings (DNS) Mohammad Shariful Islam told UNB that the software upgrade work is underway and it will take one or two more days.  He said that all types of activities including sales will start from next Thursday. Savings certificate sales suspended amid server upgrade; customers frustrated The service was scheduled to resume after 12 noon on Monday but the upgrade work was not completed. Roknuzzaman, Director of Bangladesh Bank's Motijheel Office, said that DNS is looking into the matter. The unexpected suspension has caused significant inconvenience to savings certificate customers, including both men and women, many of whom expressed their annoyance at the lack of timely communication. Visitors reported being informed only upon arrival that services were unavailable, despite receiving assistance at the helpdesk with filling out forms.  

The Managing Directors (MDs) of six crisis-hit banks have been placed on compulsory leave to facilitate an international audit, as instructed by Bangladesh Bank (BB), officials said. The directive is aimed at shariah-based banks owned by S Alam Group. First Security Islami Bank (FSIB) has already acted on this instruction, sending its MD, Syed Wasek Md Ali, on forced leave for the next three months. The decision was made in an emergency meeting of the bank’s board of directors on Saturday (January 4). Mohammad Abdul Mannan, FSIB’s chairman, confirmed the development. The bank’s Additional Managing Director, Abu Reza Md. Yahia, has been appointed as acting MD. Five more banks are on the central bank’s list for similar actions. These are Union Bank, Global Islami Bank, Exim Bank, ICB Islami Bank and Social Islami Bank. The process of sending their MDs on leave is currently underway. Banks in Bangladesh faced catastrophic year in 2024 amid liquidity crisis An official from BB revealed that an emergency meeting with the boards of directors of these banks was held last Thursday (January 2). Bangladesh Bank spokesperson Husneara Shikha said, "The decision for the six bank MDs to remain on leave is a collective resolution by the respective banking boards. Bangladesh Bank will conduct audits and asset quality reviews on these six banks.” This measure, she said, aims to prevent the managing directors from making undue interventions during the process. “The leave is temporary at this stage. If they are found innocent after the audit, they will be allowed to resume their roles without any restrictions. However, if irregularities are detected, appropriate actions will be taken following due regulations. This decision by the central bank aligns with international practices." During the meeting, the central bank ordered the removal of senior officials, including MDs closely associated with S Alam Group, to ensure a transparent investigation and further necessary actions. In compliance with these instructions, FSIB’s board promptly convened and decided to send its MD on leave. Many struggling banks recovering: Bangladesh Bank Governor Meanwhile, Social Islami Bank, which has recently been freed from S Alam’s control, has scheduled an emergency board meeting for Sunday (January 5). Similar changes to the leadership of the other banks are anticipated soon. Mohammad Abdul Mannan, who took over as chairman of FSIB on September 1 following a BB-led restructuring of the board, said the move aligns with efforts to reform the banking sector. He replaced Saiful Alam Masud, head of S Alam Group, who previously chaired the bank. Mannan himself was removed from Islami Bank in 2017 after S Alam took control. A chairman of another affected bank, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “The MDs who served during the period of corruption will be sent on leave temporarily, enabling international audit organisations to work impartially through the central bank.” This decision was reportedly taken on the recommendation of the Banking Task Force, formed to drive reforms in the sector.