United News of Bangladesh

Silver has reached a record-high price in Bangladesh this month, marking one of the strongest rallies the market has seen in 2025. This surge has turned silver investment into a serious conversation among general buyers, traders and long-term wealth planners. Let’s look at how the silver price has risen in 2025 so far and whether now is the best time to invest in silver. Silver Price Rising Trend in 2025 According to recent data released by the Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS), silver prices have witnessed a remarkable climb throughout 2025. It breaks previous records in multiple categories – 22 Karat, 21 Karat, 18 Karat, and Traditional – reflecting a year-long progression in value. Table: Category-wise Silver Price Rates as per BAJUS in 2025 Date Category-wise Price Rates (BDT/Vori) 22 Karat Cadmium (Hallmarked) 21 Karat Cadmium (Hallmarked) 18 Karat Cadmium (Hallmarked) Traditional October 14, 2025 6206 5914 5074 3803 September 18, 2025 3476 3313 2847 2135 August 27, 2025 2812 2683 2298 1727 July 8, 2025 2812 2683 2298 1727 June 15, 2025 2812 2683 2298 1727 May 22, 2025 2812 2683 2298 1727 April 23, 2025 2847 2718 2333 1750 March 19, 2025 2578 2450 2112 1587 February 10, 2025 2578 2450 2112 1587 January 22, 2025 2578 2450 2112 1587 . Read more:  5-Year Bangladesh Sanchayapatra 2025: Revised Profit Rates Silver market rates in Bangladesh remained mostly stable during the first eight months of 2025, followed by a sharp upswing from September onwards. The 22 Karat rate held around BDT 2,578 per vori early in the year, with minor movement until April’s BDT 2,847, then steadied again through August. A sudden leap to BDT 3,476 in September and a dramatic climb to BDT 6,206 by October marked the pinnacle of this year’s market rise. Similarly, each vori of 21-karat silver hovered between BDT 2,450 and BDT 2,718 until August, before spiking to BDT 3,313 in September and BDT 5,914 in October. The 18 Karat category stayed near BDT 2,112 through March and BDT 2,298 midyear, then rose to BDT 2,847 and finally BDT 5,074 by October. Traditional silver followed a steadier curve, moving from BDT 1,587 in early 2025 to BDT 1,750 in April, holding steady through August. Then, it jumps to BDT 2,135 in September and now to BDT 3,803. Overall, all categories showed remarkable late-year growth, suggesting heightened demand and market adjustments influenced by global price pressures and local currency shifts. Is Now the Right Time to Invest in Silver? . Global Market Influence Silver’s recent price momentum is deeply tied to structural global demand, playing a crucial role in industrial innovation. The metal is essential for manufacturing solar panels, electric vehicles, and even components used in artificial intelligence (AI) systems. As these sectors expand, particularly the clean energy transition, the pressure on silver supply is intensifying. Production levels haven’t caught up with the pace of industrial consumption, and major mining regions are already signalling reduced output. Therefore, the rising technological dependence and tightening supply point toward a medium-term bullish case for silver. This makes current prices, though elevated, still favourable for long-term investors seeking entry before demand outpaces availability further. Read more: Gold Buyer's Guide: Know the types, colors, karats of the precious metal Classic Supply-Demand Impact The spot market has been showing signs of tightening, with refineries and traders reporting limited physical supply. This scarcity is naturally pushing prices upward. For local investors, silver’s appeal is also growing because it remains a more attainable option compared to gold. Everyday jewellery buyers and small investors have increasingly turned to silver as gold’s price continues to surge beyond affordability. Globally, this persistent demand imbalance is fuelling a structural tailwind for prices. Even minor supply disruptions could amplify price gains, making silver a particularly attractive hedge in times of inflation or currency depreciation. In essence, the ongoing shortage is an opportunity for strategic investors. Safe-Haven Demand In times of economic and geopolitical instability, silver, like gold, becomes a safe-haven asset. The current investment climate, marked by currency fluctuations and uneven stock market performance, has made precious metals increasingly appealing. Yet, silver offers a distinctive advantage: it’s comparatively undervalued when assessed through the Gold-to-Silver Ratio (GSR). GSR = Gold Price ÷ Silver Price = BDT 2,13,720 ÷ BDT 6,206 ≈ 34.4 (For October, 2025) A ratio above 34 indicates that gold is over thirty-four times more expensive than silver per vori. This ratio offers Bangladeshi investors greater upside potential, making silver not only a protective asset but also a tactical play for value appreciation. Read more: Paribar Sanchayapatra 2025: Revised profit rates of Family Savings Certificate in Bangladesh Drawback of Price Fluctuation Volatility is a natural part of the silver market, and its recent price surge illustrates how fast momentum can shift. However, the short-term (like throughout a month) volatility is not a big fall for investors with a medium- or long-term horizon. In other words, price swings might create anxiety for speculative traders, but for those viewing silver as a strategic allocation, they offer entry opportunities. Good Reselling Value – Will the Rise Continue? The continuation of silver’s upward trajectory seems increasingly plausible. Across the year, prices have shown consistent growth with no notable dips – an encouraging sign for both short- and long-term traders. The global narrative favouring precious metals remains intact: inflation concerns and rising industrial demand all reinforce bullish sentiment. Moreover, first-time buyers have been entering the silver market at a record pace, boosting liquidity and confidence. For Bangladesh, this means silver retains strong resale potential, especially if global economic uncertainty persists. All in all, the industrial relevance, supply constraints, and investor enthusiasm suggest that silver’s rally still has meaningful distance to run. Read more: Gold Investment in Bangladesh in 2025: Safe Haven or Risky Bet? Verdict The investment decision in silver in Bangladesh in 2025 stands at a defining moment. The price of 22-Karat hallmarked silver surged to BDT 6,206, while the 21-Karat price climbed to BDT 5,914. Meanwhile, 18 Karat silver reached BDT 5,074, and the Traditional category rose to BDT 3,803. This dramatic spike reflects tightening supply, soaring industrial demand, and rising safe-haven interest. Given these fundamentals, silver presents a strategic long-term opportunity. For investors seeking value beyond gold, 2025 may well be the year silver shines brightest.

For generations, gold has been viewed as a reliable way to hold value. In Bangladesh, 2025 is turning into another pivotal year for this metal’s role in personal finance. With prices showing an upward trend, profit in gold investment is rising among both cautious savers and ambitious investors. Its promise is stability, though it does not come without trade-offs. Let’s evaluate whether gold is still a safe investment today. Gold Price Rising Trend in 2025 Bangladesh's gold market witnesses frequent swings, with prices changing noticeably within short periods in 2025. Updates from the Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS) highlight a steady rise across different categories, confirming gold’s continued momentum. Table: Recent Rise in Gold Rates in Bangladesh 2025 Date Category-wise Price Rates (BDT/Gram) 22 Karat 21 Karat 18 Karat Traditional September 02, 2025 15,071 14,386 12,331 10,206 August 27, 2025 14,802 14,129 12,111 10,018 July 08, 2025 14,622 13,957 11,964 9,893 June 15, 2025 14,963 14,283 12,243 10,131 May 18, 2025 14,326 13,675 11,721 9,686 April 14, 2025 13,904 13,272 11,376 9,391 March 19, 2025 13,284 12,680 10,869 8,959 February 18, 2025 12,970 12,380 10,611 8,739 January 16, 2025 11,955 11,411 9,781 8,031 . Read more: 5-Year Bangladesh Sanchayapatra 2025: Revised Profit Rates The data shows a steady climb in all categories of gold throughout 2025, though not without fluctuations. 22 Karat was at its lowest, BDT 11,955, on January 16 and has risen to BDT 15,071 since September 2, the highest so far. A brief drop occurred from BDT 14,963 in mid-June to BDT 14,622 in early July before rebounding. 21 Karat moved from BDT 11,411 at the year’s start to BDT 14,386. The mid-June level of BDT 14,283 slipped to BDT 13,957 in early July before rising again. Following the same trend, 18 Karat advanced from BDT 9,781 in mid-January to BDT 12,331 now. It too saw a decline from BDT 12,243 in June to BDT 11,964 in July. Read more: Shopping in Dubai: What to Buy, Where to Buy from Similarly, traditional gold increased from BDT 8,031 to BDT 10,206 till now. A similar mid-year dip took it from BDT 10,131 down to BDT 9,893 before recovery. Overall, all categories reflect a clear upward trajectory from the beginning of the year, with the current month marking the peak. The June-July drop stands out as the single significant short-term dip.

China’s economy lost momentum in July as industrial output, retail sales and housing prices all weakened, according to official data released Friday. Uncertainty over U.S. tariffs continues to weigh on the world’s second-largest economy, even after President Donald Trump extended a 90-day pause on planned duty hikes starting Monday — following an earlier three-month suspension in May. Exports rose 7.2% year-on-year in July and imports grew at the fastest pace in a year, driven partly by businesses rushing to ship goods during the tariff truce. However, the gains came from a low base, and manufacturers have scaled back investment, hiring and output while diverting shipments to Southeast Asia, Africa and other markets to offset U.S. losses. Asian shares mixed as hopes for US rate cuts wane; Bitcoin hits record Industrial output growth slowed to 5.7% in July from 6.8% in June, while fixed-asset investment rose just 1.6% in January-July. Property investment plunged 12% in the first seven months, with residential investment down nearly 11%. New home prices in major cities dropped 1.1%, extending a prolonged slump that began with the COVID-19 pandemic and led to widespread developer defaults. The housing crisis has curbed consumer spending, with retail sales growth slowing to 3.7% in July from 4.8% in June. Unemployment edged up to 5.2%, while wholesale prices fell 3.6% year-on-year despite a 0.4% monthly rise in consumer prices. Source: Agency 

Across its full suite of savings instruments, sweeping modifications have been rolled out under Bangladesh's National Savings Scheme. One key alteration pertains to the Pensioner Sanchayapatra, which now follows a redefined approach to distributing annual gains. From July 2025, the scheme will operate under a revised model, defining yearly profit margins based on investment volume. Both full-term and premature encashment returns are now clearly stipulated. Let’s delve into the refreshed July-December 2025 interest rate structure of the pensioner savings arrangement. Pensioner Savings Certificates’ Profit Framework for July to December 2025 All existing and new investments, across every category of savings certificate, will be aggregated to determine the applicable rate. The new segmentation, reflecting the framework, is outlined below: i) BDT 7,50,000 or less ii) More than BDT 7,50,000 Read more: July 2025 Interest Rates of Paribar Sanchayapatra under Bangladesh's National Saving Scheme Presented below is the latest rate chart, indicating yearly returns based on investment tier and withdrawal status: Table: Yearly Profit Breakdown by Investment Level – Pensioner Sanchayapatra for July-December 2025  Investment Period (Year) Investments Up to BDT 7,50,000 Investments More than BDT 7,50,000 (BDT 7,50,001 and Above) Profit Rate (%) 1st 9.84 9.72 2nd 10.32 10.19 3rd 10.84 10.70 4th 11.39 11.23 5th / At Maturity 11.98 11.80 . Investors selecting the Pensioner Sanchayapatra with a maximum principal of BDT 7.5 lakh (7,50,000 or below) are entitled to the highest annual return upon full maturity. The corresponding annual rate of return is 11.98 percent (11.98%). For investments exceeding BDT 7.5 lakh (7,50,001 and above), the maximum annual return is slightly reduced to 11.80 percent (11.80%). If the investment is encashed before maturity, the return will be based on the rate structure given in the table. For amounts within the BDT 7.5 lakh limit, the first-year return is 9.84 percent. The second, third, and fourth years offer returns of 10.32 percent, 10.84 percent, and 11.39 percent, respectively. For sums exceeding BDT 7.5 lakh, premature encashment yields 9.72 percent in the first year. The applicable rates for the second, third, and fourth years are 10.19 percent, 10.70 percent, and 11.23 percent, respectively. Read more: July 2025 Interest Rates of 5-year Bangladesh Sanchayapatra under National Savings Scheme Who Benefits from the July-December 2025 Interest Rates on Pensioner Savings Certificates? The updated profit rates apply exclusively to Pensioner Sanchayapatra accounts initiated on or after July 1, 2025. A formal review of the revised rates is set to occur six months following implementation. However, the return rate secured at the time of issuance will remain unchanged throughout the duration of the investment. Therefore, the rate assigned upon purchase is fixed for the entire term. In a Nutshell Modifications to the National Savings Scheme have been implemented for the July–December 2025 period. According to the updated framework, the highest annual return for the Pensioner Sanchayapatra is 11.98 percent at maturity for investments up to BDT 7,50,000. For contributions exceeding BDT 7,50,000, the peak return is revised to 11.80 percent annually. This rate structure applies solely to certificates opened on or after July 1, 2025. Read more: July 2025 Interest Rates of 3-Monthly Profit-Bearing Sanchayapatra under Bangladesh's National Saving Scheme

The National Savings Scheme has introduced important revisions across all categories of savings certificates. Among them, the 5-year Bangladesh Sanchayapatra has undergone a key update regarding its profit allocation framework. Effective from July 2025, the revised structure outlines annual return rates. These rates are set both at maturity and for early encashment, based on the scale of investment. Let’s delve into the revised July-December 2025 profit structure of the 5-year savings scheme. 5-year Bangladesh Sanchayapatra's Interest Rates & Profits for July to December 2025 In assessing the applicable return rate, total accumulated investments across all savings instruments, including past contributions, will be included. The latest investment thresholds are detailed as follows: i) Up to BDT 7,50,000 ii) Above BDT 7,50,000 The table below outlines the updated annual profit rates for the 5-year scheme, reflecting both maturity and early withdrawal scenarios: Read more: July 2025 Interest Rates of 3-Monthly Profit-Bearing Sanchayapatra under Bangladesh's National Saving Scheme Table: Annual Return Rates by Investment Tier – 5-year Bangladesh Sanchayapatra for July-December 2025 Period Investment Period (Year) Investments Up to BDT 7,50,000 Investments More than BDT 7,50,000 (BDT 7,50,001 and Above) Profit Rate (%) 1st 9.74 9.72 2nd 10.21 10.19 3rd 10.72 10.70 4th 11.26 11.23 5th / At Maturity 11.83 11.80 . Individuals opting for the 5-year Bangladesh Sanchayapatra with an investment of BDT 7.5 lakh (7,50,000 or below) will receive the highest annual return at full term. This translates to an annual yield of 11.83 percent (11.83%). For amounts over BDT 7.5 lakh (7,50,001 and above), the peak yearly return is slightly lower at 11.80 percent. Should encashment occur before maturity, the applicable profit will align with the specified breakdown. For holdings within the BDT 7.5 lakh threshold, the rate stands at 9.74 percent in the initial year. Returns in the second, third, and fourth years are 10.21 percent, 10.72 percent, and 11.26 percent, respectively. Where the principal crosses BDT 7.5 lakh, early withdrawal will yield 9.72 percent in the first year. The second year offers 10.19 percent, followed by 10.70 percent and 11.23 percent in the third and fourth years, respectively. Read more: July 2025 Interest Rates of Paribar Sanchayapatra under Bangladesh's National Saving Scheme Who Can Access July-December 2025 Interests of 5-Year Bangladesh Sanchayapatra? The revised interest structure applies solely to 5-year Bangladesh Sanchayapatra accounts opened on or after July 1, 2025. A formal reassessment of the rates is scheduled six months after this policy takes effect. Nevertheless, the earnings rate confirmed at the time of purchase will remain fixed throughout the investment's lifespan. In essence, the initially assigned return is locked in for the full term. Piling Up Enhancements to Bangladesh's National Savings Scheme have been introduced for the July–December 2025 cycle. Under the revised structure, the peak annual yield for the 5-year Bangladesh Sanchayapatra reaches 11.83 per cent at maturity for deposits up to BDT 7,50,000. For amounts above BDT 7,50,000, the maximum annual return slightly adjusts to 11.80 per cent. This structure exclusively governs certificates issued from July 1, 2025, onwards. Read more: 6 Popular Bangladeshi Banks Offering Personal Loans for Marriage, Education, Travel, Medical and Other Purposes

The National Savings Scheme in Bangladesh has brought notable updates to all savings certificates. The 3-Monthly Profit-Bearing Sanchayapatra is among those receiving renewed attention. These revisions, effective from July 2025, apply to the profit distribution. The scheme sets quarterly profit rates for maturity and early encashment based on the amount invested. Let’s explore the newly structured July-December 2025 returns under the quarterly interest-bearing savings option. 3-month Profit-bearing Savings Certificates’ Return Framework for July to December 2025 When considering total holdings across all schemes, including prior investments, the applicable return rate will be determined according to the following investment brackets: i) BDT 7,50,000 or less ii) Exceeding BDT 7,50,000 The following table presents the profit structure for this three-year scheme, detailing returns upon maturity and early encashment. Table: Annual Profit Rates by Investment Tier in the 3-Month Interest-Bearing Scheme Investment Period (Year) Investments (Up to BDT 7,50,000) Investments (More than BDT 7,50,000 or BDT 7,50,001 and Above) Profit Rate (%) 1st 10.65 10.60 2nd 11.22 11.16 3rd / At Maturity 11.82 11.77 . Those purchasing the 3-Month Profit-Bearing Sanchayapatra with amounts up to BDT 7.5 lakh (7,50,000 or below) will receive a maximum quarterly profit at maturity. This corresponds to an annual rate of 11.82 percent (11.82%). For investments exceeding BDT 7.5 lakh (7,50,001 and above), the maximum annual rate is slightly reduced to 11.77 percent. In cases of early encashment, profit will be calculated according to the rates indicated in the table. Balances up to BDT 7.5 lakh (7,50,000 or less) attract an annual interest rate of 10.65 percent at the end of the first year. The rate rises to 11.22 percent by the second year.  Amounts above BDT 7.5 lakh (7,50,001 or more) earn 10.60 percent annually if encashed in the first year. The return rate increases to 11.16 percent in the second year. Read more: July 2025 Interest Rates of Paribar Sanchayapatra under Bangladesh's National Saving Scheme Who Qualifies for July-December 2025 Interest Rates on 3-Monthly Sanchayapatra? The updated interest rates are effective exclusively for 3-monthly profit-bearing savings certificates purchased on or after July 1, 2025. Return rates will undergo review six months following the implementation of this directive. However, Investors will continue to earn the rate prevailing at the time of their investment for the full duration. Put simply, the original rate at issuance remains unchanged for the entire investment term. Wrapping Up The National Saving Scheme in Bangladesh has been upgraded for the July to December 2025 period. The highest annual rate offered on the 3-month profit-bearing Sanchayapatra is 11.82 percent at maturity for investments up to BDT 7,50,000. When the investment amount surpasses BDT 7,50,000, the profit rate adjusts slightly to 11.77 percent. This updated rate framework applies only to 3-month Profit-bearing Savings Certificates acquired on or after July 1, 2025. Read more: 6 Popular Bangladeshi Banks Offering Personal Loans for Marriage, Education, Travel, Medical and Other Purposes

Six months after introducing a bold framework, the Bangladesh government have once again made significant changes to all national savings schemes. The revisions cover various schemes, including the well-known Paribar Sanchayapatra. These changes focus only on return rates against different investments. Let’s explore the newly announced profit rates of the Family Savings Certificate. Paribar Sanchayapatra (Family Savings Certificates’) Yield Structure from July 2025 In the case of any existing holdings across all schemes, along with previous investments, the return rate will apply based on the following investment limits: i) BDT 7,50,000 or belowii) Above BDT 7,50,000 The profit breakdown for this five-year savings scheme is detailed in the following table: Table: Revised Interest Rates of Paribar Sanchayapatra Applicable from 1st July, 2025 Year Investments Up to BDT 7,50,000 Investments More than BDT 7,50,000  ( BDT 7,50,001 and Above) Profit Rate (%) 1st 9.81 9.72 2nd 10.29 10.19 3rd 10.80 10.70 4th 11.35 11.23 5th / At Maturity 11.93 11.80 For Paribar Sanchayapatra investments up to BDT 7.5 lakh (7,50,000 or below), the highest monthly return will follow an annual rate of 11.93 percent (11.93%). For amounts exceeding BDT 7.5 lakh (7,50,001 and above), the top rate slightly drops to 11.80 percent. For early encashment, profit will be paid at the annual rates shown in the table above. Within the BDT 7.5 lakh ceiling, returns will be 9.81 percent in the first year. The second, third, and fourth years will offer 10.29 percent, 10.80 percent, and 11.35 percent, respectively. For investments above BDT 7.5 lakh, early encashment yields 9.72 percent in the first year. In the second, it will be 10.19 percent. The third and fourth years bring returns of 10.70 percent and 11.23 percent, respectively. Read more: 6 Popular Bangladeshi Banks Offering Personal Loans for Marriage, Education, Travel, Medical and Other Purposes Who Can Avail the July 2025 Return Rates of Paribar Sanchayapatra? The revised profit rates apply exclusively to purchases made on or after July 1, 2025. Investments prior to this date will remain under the previous terms. The profit rate will be revised six months after this order takes effect. However, investors will receive the rate applicable at the time of purchase for the entire tenure. In other words, the initially issued rate will remain unchanged throughout the investment period. Summing Up The maximum annual rate, featured in Paribar Sanchayapatra, for investments up to BDT 7,50,000 is 11.93%. For amounts above BDT 7,50,000, the highest rate stands at 11.80%. Only those who purchase Family Savings Certificates on or after July 1, 2025, will fall under this revised rate structure. Read more: Sanchayapatra at Maturity: Encashment or Renewal of Bangladesh’s National Savings Certificate

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 Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) experienced an upward trend over the past week, with both indices and market capitalisation showing gains. However, despite this positive movement, the influence of poorly performing shares remains significant. A review of DSE’s weekly report reveals that, among the ten most-traded stocks in the past five trading days, only two belong to the A-category. The remaining eight comprise three mid-tier B-category companies and five poorly performing firms that have not paid dividends. New Line Clothings Limited topped the trading chart throughout the week. The company last issued dividends in 2021 and held its last annual general meeting in 2022. Since then, it has remained in the Z-category, offering no returns to investors. Another Z-category company, Apollo Ispat Complex Limited, secured the third position in terms of trading volume. Despite failing to pay dividends since 2016, it continues to attract investor interest. DSE director Minhaj Mannan Emon noted that the index’s rise amidst liquidity constraints has led many investors to target low-quality shares for quick profits. This trend inflates the value of underperforming stocks and increases market risks. Manipulators exploit misinformation to drive up these shares, leading to financial irregularities. It is not just companies taking advantage of market instability; several brokerage houses have also been implicated in manipulation. According to the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC), four brokerage houses have recently been accused of defrauding investors of approximately Tk 300 crore through fraudulent software. The banking sector lagged behind in trading throughout the week, with share prices dropping by 23.72% over five trading days. The sector’s index declined from 648 points to 494 points. Similarly, the insurance sector also witnessed a downturn, with share prices falling by 16.62% during the same period. In contrast, financial institutions performed well, with share prices increasing by 6.68%. The energy sector also saw significant growth, with share prices rising by over 35%. Over the five-day period, DSE’s key index, DSEX, increased by 22 points, while the blue-chip DS30 gained 6 points, and the Shariah-compliant DSES rose by 7 points. Stock market closes week on upward trend Out of all the companies traded, 183 saw price increases, 166 experienced declines, and 49 remained unchanged. While the average daily turnover on the DSE dipped by around 1% over the week, total market capitalisation rose by 2.35%. Beyond regular trading, the block market saw transactions worth Tk 106 crore. Among these, ACI Limited recorded the highest trading volume, selling shares worth Tk 25.50 crore over five days. The ceramics sector generated the highest returns during the week, while financial institutions, life insurance, and general insurance were at the bottom in terms of profitability. Overall, market returns increased by 0.50%. Stock markets close with downtrend despite positive start Last week, for the first time, the task force on stock market reforms submitted its initial two recommendations to the BSEC. Market analysts believe that the adoption of these recommendations, which focus on margin loans and mutual funds, could stabilise the volatile stock market.

Shanchayapatra or national savings certificate has long served as a reliable saving scheme, providing a dependable path toward financial stability for the people of Bangladesh. Upon reaching maturity, some holders may find it necessary to withdraw their funds, whether for personal expenses, medical needs, or investment opportunities. For others, however, the renewal option of their Sanchayapatra offers a chance to continue growing their savings. Let’s explore what steps to take when it reaches maturity. Sanchayapatra Encashment Process Completing the encashment of Sanchayapatra typically requires around 2 to 3 business days after maturity depending on the issuing bank. For certain banks, processing may even take a few additional days. Each bank maintains its unique form to carry out the process. The first step in withdrawing funds is to fill out a form. After completing it, the form must be manually signed and submitted to the branch of the bank from where the Sanchayapatra was purchased. Read more: Buying US Dollar Investment Bonds: A Comprehensive Guide for NRBs If the investor cannot appear at the bank or sign the form due to physical limitations, a nominee can carry out the procedure on his/her behalf. In such cases, the investor must provide a medical certificate that verifies their physical condition. In addition to the investor, the nominee may withdraw only the profit earned from the Sanchayapatra. However, this requires explicit written authorization from the investor, including their signature and a discharge of the profit coupon. The initial deposit value, however, cannot be accessed solely through an authorization letter or permit. For Sanchayapatra purchased online, this procedure becomes much simpler. This online context refers to the National Savings Scheme Online Management System. In this regard, Bangladesh Bank recently issued directives to all its branches and scheduled banks. The principal of Sanchayapatra bought via the system will be credited directly to the investor’s account upon the exact day of maturity. Read more: How to Buy Bangladesh Government Treasury Bond: Everything You Need to Know Additionally, any profits will be transferred in installments on schedule. All transactions will be processed through the Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) system. It means neither the investor nor their nominee will need to visit the bank to receive the profits or maturity value. Sanchayapatra Renewal Process With the automation of the new system, paperwork-related complications are set to reduce significantly. Here are the updated renewal guidelines for Sanchayapatra as per the directives of Bangladesh Bank: - For Family Sanchayapatra, Three-Month Profit-Based Sanchayapatra, and Pensioner Sanchayapatra, only the original invested amount will be automatically reinvested.- For five-year Sanchayapatra and Post Office Sanchayapatra, both the principal and the profits will be automatically reinvested. Read more: Investment: What Factors to Consider before Investing Money? In these cases, the maximum investment limit will be applied from the date of reinvestment.Profits from Pensioner Sanchayapatra will now be disbursed monthly rather than quarterly. In a Nutshell The recent advancements in Shanchayapatra’s encashment and renewal processes offer a streamlined, hassle-free experience. By utilizing the National Savings Scheme's online management system, investors gain seamless access to renew or encash Sanchayapatra. Thanks to the EFT system, funds are deposited directly into the account on maturity day, eliminating the need for in-person visits or form submissions. With automatic renewal options, holders can effortlessly reinvest, avoiding administrative delays and potential complications. Together, these improvements ensure a smoother, more accessible experience for all Sanchayapatra holders. Read more: Is Sanchayapatra a Good Investment Read more: How to Buy Sanchayapatra in Bangladesh: A Beginner's Guide