Bangladesh Bank has reconstituted the boards of directors of three private banks in its latest move to reform troubled financial institutions. This marks the central bank’s second initiative to overhaul the boards of struggling banks. The three banks are NRBC Bank PLC, NBR Bank PLC and Meghna Bank PLC. In the newly formed board of NRBC Bank, former Krishi Bank Managing Director Md. Ali Hossain Prodhania has been appointed as Chairman. Other board members include former Bangladesh Bank Executive Directors Md. Abul Bashar and Md. Anowar Hossain, former Sonali Bank Deputy Managing Director Md. Nurul Hoque, Supreme Court lawyer Barrister Md. Shafiqur Rahman, American International University–Bangladesh (AIUB) Professor Dr. Syed Abul Kalam Azad, and Chartered Accountant Muhammad Emdad Ullah. Bangladesh Bank halts exchange of new notes for Eid At NBR Bank PLC, entrepreneur-shareholder Iqbal Ahmed has been appointed as Chairman. The new board consists of former Grameen Bank Board Member Ferdous Ara Begum, former Bangladesh Bank Executive Director Sheikh Md. Selim, former Mercantile Bank Managing Director Md. Kamrul Islam Chowdhury, former Prime Bank Deputy Managing Director Sheikh Matiur Rahman, North South University Professor Sharif Nurul Ahkam, and Chartered Accountant Mizanur Rahman FCA. Meanwhile, the restructuring of Meghna Bank's board is still in progress. According to insiders, Bangladesh’s banking sector has been grappling with a prolonged crisis, which has intensified over the last two years. Key issues include the dominance of influential groups over bank management, misappropriation of funds under the guise of loans, large-scale money laundering, mounting defaulted loans, severe liquidity shortages and the ongoing dollar and foreign reserve crisis. Following the change in government on August 5, Bangladesh Bank dissolved the boards of 11 banks, including Islami Bank—formerly controlled by the S Alam Group—and appointed new boards. Bangladesh Bank reduces CRR to increase cash flow in banks This latest intervention marks the second restructuring effort by the central bank under the tenure of Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur.

Vision has introduced its new 4D Ultra Series air conditioners (ACs), designed to meet the diverse needs and preferences of customers. RN Paul, Managing Director of RFL Group unveiled the new series of ACs at a function held at Fuji Trade Center in the capital’s Badda recently, according to a press release. RN Paul said, "While buying an AC, many people hesitate whether to buy a good quality AC or consider the budget. To solve this problem and keeping the weather of Bangladesh and customer service in mind, Vision Electronics has brought the completely new 4D Ultra Series AC. Three types of 4D Ultra Series ACs—Regular, Inverter, and Inverter Hot & Cool (with WiFi technology)—will be available with advanced technology at prices 15-18% lower than before." Shohoz partners with Benchmark PR to strengthen brand communication He further said, " Vision Electronics always sets product prices with utmost importance to customer needs, affordability and convenience." Nur Alam, Executive Director of Vision Refrigerators and AC, said that the highest quality components have been used in the 4D Ultra series of Vision AC, ensuring long-lasting and effective performance. It has 100% copper tube, which ensure long-lasting performance and fast cooling of the AC. It uses R32 refrigerant, which is environmentally friendly. He also mentioned that this series incorporates dual inverter technology, which saves up to 70% of electricity. Moreover, the ACs can be controlled remotely via a mobile app, allowing users to operate them from anywhere at any time. Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 launched in Bangladesh Mohit Chakraborty, Head of Marketing of Vision AC, along with senior officials of the company, were present at the event. A total of nine models of 4D Ultra series ACs are available in the market, priced between Tk 43,900 and 77,900.

The Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel is going to host a unique feast this Ramadan, a 'special Egyptian and Middle Eastern food festival featuring buffet Iftar followed by a buffet dinner. Pan Pacific Sonargaon is organizing this exceptional event to celebrate the sanctity and beauty of Ramadan, a gathering of traditional Middle Eastern food and cultural performances. In this, guests will be able to enjoy delicious traditional Egyptian and Middle Eastern Iftar and Sehri. Asif Ahmed, acting general manager of the hotel, stated this at a press conference organized by Hotel Sonargaon on Tuesday evening. At the same time, Director of Food and Beverage Department Kazi Moazzem Hossain, two culinary artists from Egypt, Chef Al Khalifa and Chef Ramadan Ahmed, also spoke. The purpose of this event is not just to serve food, but to showcase the culture and heritage of the Middle East. It will feature traditional Middle Eastern food, charming lighting and special hospitality, said Asif Ahmed. “Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel has always been working to ensure world-class hospitality for its guests. Through this event, the hotel is going to add a new dimension to the luxury hotel and restaurant culture of Dhaka,” he added. Dhaka's streets abuzz with Iftar delicacies on Ramadan’s first day During this time, guests will be able to enjoy a unique iftar and dinner experience, which will be prepared by two famous culinary artists from Egypt, Chef Al Khalifa and Chef Ramadan Ahmed. BRAC Bank will be the banking partner for this entire event, and if you buy 1 buffet iftar with a specific BRAC Bank card, you will get 2 buffet iftars completely free. Air Asia will be the airline partner. This grand buffet Iftar, organized at the hotel's Cafe Bazaar restaurant, will be organized by BRAC Bank, and around 20 specific bank cards will be used to purchase 1 buffet Iftar, get 1 free, 2 free or 3 buffets completely free, respectively.

Bangladesh Bank has announced the postponement of its planned exchange of new currency notes ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr. Arif Hossain Khan, Executive Director and Spokesperson of the central bank, confirmed the decision to UNB, stating that a fresh notification had been issued, revoking the previous directive on new note exchanges. He, however, did not specify the reason behind the move. Bangladesh Bank to issue new notes for Eid-ul-Fitr from March 19 As a result, banks will not be facilitating the exchange of new notes for customers during this Eid. During Eid celebrations in Bangladesh, it is customary for people to collect crisp new notes from banks to give as cash gifts, particularly to children and loved ones.

Bangladesh’s financial sector is witnessing a transformative shift as women continue to carve out a significant space in banking employment. A recent report by Bangladesh Bank underscores a substantial increase in female participation, highlighting a promising trend of workplace inclusivity and professional advancement. According to the report, female employment in the banking sector surged by 12.90 percent, outpacing the overall employment growth rate of 5.17 per cent. Eid shopping in Faridpur starts picking up This upward trajectory not only reflects the evolving landscape of the financial sector but also underscores the growing contributions of women in traditionally male-dominated spheres. Steady Climb Across All Levels The report provides a detailed breakdown of female representation across different tiers of banking employment. Women now occupy 18.87 percent of entry-level positions, 15.96 per cent of mid-level roles and 9.73 percent of senior managerial posts. This consistent growth over the past three years signals a progressive evolution in workplace dynamics, fostering a more balanced representation at various organisational levels. Besides, female representation on bank boards of directors has witnessed a slight yet meaningful increase, rising to 13.61 per cent by the end of 2024 from 13.51 per cent in 2023. While incremental, this shift indicates a gradual move towards gender diversity in leadership roles, a crucial aspect of equitable corporate governance. Private Banks Driving Change A deeper analysis of the Bangladesh Bank report reveals that private sector banks have been at the forefront of this transformation. In 2023, the number of female employees in the banking sector stood at 33,346, a figure that climbed to 37,649 by the end of 2024. Remittance inflow surges amid forex reserve crisis This represents an impressive 12.90 per cent year-over-year growth. Concurrently, the total workforce within the banking sector expanded from 203,696 to 214,245 employees during the same period. The increasing participation of women in banking mirrors broader societal changes, where women are making significant strides across various professional fields. With female employees now comprising 17.6 per cent of the banking workforce, the sector is witnessing a paradigm shift towards greater gender inclusivity. Fostering a Supportive Environment Industry insiders attribute this remarkable growth to the banking sector’s conducive work environment, competitive salaries, and comprehensive benefits, including maternity leave and career progression opportunities. These factors have played a pivotal role in attracting and retaining female talent in an industry traditionally dominated by men. However, challenges remain. Women in banking continue to face hurdles such as work-life balance struggles, limited representation in senior leadership, and societal expectations. Bangladesh sees sluggish growth in new business and employment in Feb: Report Despite these obstacles, their growing presence and influence in the sector highlight a resilient commitment to professional excellence. A Promising Future As Bangladesh’s financial sector continues to evolve, the increasing participation of women signals a more inclusive and dynamic industry. While there is still progress to be made, the current trajectory suggests that women will play an even greater role in shaping the future of banking in Bangladesh. With continued policy support and organisational commitment, the sector is well on its way to breaking traditional barriers and fostering a truly diverse workforce

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has issued a notification introducing the “Customs Risk Management Regulations, 2025” aimed at addressing economic risks such as money laundering and terrorism financing. According to the notification, “economic risk” also refers proceeds of crime, other illegal financial activities, customs and tax evasion, and transnational organized economic crimes. As part of this initiative, a dedicated Customs Risk Management Commissionerate (CRMC) will be established. The CRMC will be responsible for collecting, analysing, and reviewing risk-related information to identify and categorise customs risks. It will create and manage risk profiles, update online risk registers, and classify goods consignments into risk-based lanes — Red, Yellow, Blue, or Green — using targeting intelligence, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data analysis techniques. It will determine risk trends and nature by collecting data from national and international sources and analysing them, collect data for the purpose of monitoring and reviewing economic conditions, geographical conditions, customs duty rates, customs valuation, customs duty exemptions, regional and international agreements, market arrangements and other aspects that affect the duties and functions of customs, conducting necessary surveys and research activities and providing advice in taking remedial measures and formulating customs policies. Bangladesh sees sluggish growth in new business and employment in Feb: Report It will determine the criteria for the selection of consignments on the basis of random selection for all Customs Stations and Bond Commissionerates and to update the said criteria from time to time, monitor and supervise the effectiveness of risk management activities, to inform the Board and make necessary adjustments and to review the results of the activities taken against the Key Performance Indicators. The CRMC will collect information and data from any government, semi-government and autonomous organization, any person or institution related to import and export, banks, financial institutions and other organisations and take the assistance of other organisations in analysing the information if necessary. It will maintain confidentiality in the storage and use of confidential and sensitive information, sign any agreement or memorandum of understanding related to the functions of the Customs Risk Management Commissionerate on behalf of the National Board of Revenue, with the prior approval of the National Board of Revenue. It will Issue risk warnings to all concerned departments, Identify the risk areas and, where appropriate, advising the concerned Customs House or Customs Station VAT Commissionerate to take timely steps to resolve them, Review the necessary information related to risks on a regular basis and updating the risk management indicators. It will exchange information and regularly communicate and coordinate with various national and international organisations and institutions involved in risk management related to inter-country border trade, Prepare annual reports and presenting them to the Board; and Perform other duties assigned by the Board from time to time. Only an elected government can drive real economic growth: Abdul Awal Mintoo For the purpose of establishing proper customs control, the Customs Risk Management Commissionerate shall use ARMS (Automated Risk Management System) or a suitable automated electronic system to determine selectivity after analysing the risks related to cargo, passengers, agents and banks. The Customs Risk Management Commissionerate shall collect the relevant data for risk management from the customs computer system. Any information received from inside or outside Bangladesh or through confidential informants shall be collected, analysed and, if necessary, verified on-site and used as a risk management criterion. The CRMC may follow and use the World Customs Organization Risk Management Model or International Best Practices or any risk management model approved by the Board and may establish a risk register and risk assessment database accordingly. Bangladesh’s stock market plunges on week’s first trading day In order to monitor the effectiveness of the selectivity system, CRMC shall prepare an annual evaluation report from the data stored in the customs computer system or ARMS or any system capable of identifying the effectiveness of the selectivity system and the results of the risk mitigation measures adopted on its basis.  

The stock markets in Dhaka and Chattogram witnessed a sharp fall on the first trading day of the week, with all major indices declining and most company shares losing value on Sunday. At the end of day's trading session, the benchmark index DSEX of the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) dropped by 29 points. Among the other indices, the Shariah-based DSES fell by 4 points, while the blue-chip DS-30 declined by 9 points. Out of the 399 companies that participated in trading on the DSE, the share prices of 274 companies fell, while only 58 companies saw an increase. Meanwhile, the share prices of 67 companies remained unchanged. In terms of categories, the share prices in all three categories — A, B and Z— mostly declined. Among the 36 mutual funds that were traded, most remained unchanged in price, while three funds gained value, and 11 saw a decline. The total transaction value on the DSE amounted to Tk 336 crore, compared to Tk 353 crore in the previous trading session. Mixed trends in stock markets: DSE gains, CSE declines in early trading Among the traded shares, Titas Gas topped the gainers' list with a price increase of 7.28%, while Alif Industries Limited suffered the steepest decline, losing 10% of its value. Chattogram Market Also Falls Similar to Dhaka, the Chattogram Stock Exchange (CSE) experienced a significant downturn. The overall index of the CSE dropped by 43 points after the day's trading activities. Out of the 220 companies that traded on the CSE, 141 recorded a decline in share prices, while only 46 companies saw an increase. The prices of 33 companies remained unchanged. Despite the index falling and the majority of shares losing value, trading volume in Chattogram increased. The total transaction amount, which stood in the Tk 3 crore range in the previous session, rose to Tk 4.41 crore on the first trading day of the week. DSE announces new trading hours for Ramadan At the CSE, Prime Islami Life Insurance led the gainers with a 10% price increase, while Aman Cotton Fibrous Limited suffered the largest decline, losing 9.55% of its value.

Women entrepreneurs must prioritise quality products to stay competitive in both domestic and global markets, said Anowar Hossain Chowdhury, Managing Director of the SME Foundation, on Saturday. He assured that the SME Foundation would continue to provide training and technical support to potential women entrepreneurs to help them develop quality products. The three-day fair, held at the Shooting Club in Gulshan, showcased the innovations and products of women entrepreneurs. Bangladesh exported goods worth $32.94bn in 8 months with 10.53 % growth Anowar Hossain also mentioned that, as of the current fiscal year, the SME Foundation has disbursed Tk 200 crore through 17 banks and five financial institutions across the country to support small and medium-sized enterprises. Notably, 24 percent of the foundation’s trainers are women entrepreneurs, he said. WEAB President Nasrin Fatem Awal presided over the event, with Gitanjali Singh, UN Women Representative to Bangladesh, and former FBCCI Directors Anowar Hossain and Jalal Uddin, among others, also speaking at the event. Nasrin Awal, in her speech, emphasised the need for easier access to loans and business certifications for women. Women Entrepreneurs organize 3-day trade fair at Gulshan Shooting Club She also called for a reduction in trade license and BSTI certification fees for women to enable marginal women to become entrepreneurs. The "July Corner," which attracted considerable attention at the fair, was designed to honor women in the July Uprising. Former FBCCI President Abdul Awal Mintoo, along with other trade body leaders, also visited the "July Corner" during the closing ceremony. Over 50 stalls showcasing products by women entrepreneurs were on display at the event. Women entrepreneurs from Nepal, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan also took part in the fair.

Mujib Ahmed Siddiqui has been appointed as the director of state-owned Rupali Bank. The Financial Institutions Division, a wing of the Ministry of Finance, appointed him to the bank’s board of directors for a three-year term. Bangladesh Bank recently approved his appointment, according to a press release. No CEO designation of insurance company without approval: IDRA Prior to joining Rupali Bank, Siddiqui served as the Senior Executive Vice President of AB Bank and Executive Vice President of Dhaka Bank. Over his 35-year career, he also worked as a project development, human resource development, and training advisor at the USAID Bangladesh Mission. Siddiqui obtained an MBA from the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) of Dhaka University and a Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) from the University of London.  

The Insurance Development and Regulatory Authority (IDRA) in a notification stated that no one can be appointed as the chief executive officer (CEO) in an insurance company on an ongoing basis. At the same time, no one can use the title of CEO without the approval of the IDRA. The directive in this regard was issued by IDRA on Thursday (Mar 6). The IDRA directive also stated- 1. No one can use the title of CEO unless approved by the IDRA. 2. No one can be appointed as the CEO (Ongoing Charge). No one can use the title of CEO as in Charge. 3. Until the proposal for the appointment of the CEO is approved by the IDRA, an additional managing director can be given the responsibility of the CEO by following the relevant provisions. Such an officer can use the title of Chief Executive Officer (Acting). 4. No officer below the rank of CEO or Chief Executive Officer (Acting) will be able to sign letters sent to the IDRA.