United News of Bangladesh

As winter settles over Narail, open fields in Shalua of Maijpara Union and Sholpur of Singasholpur Union transform into makeshift drying yards where the district’s famed dry fish season begins in earnest. For the communities here, the annual cycle is more than a tradition — it is a vital source of income that supports hundreds of families. Dry fish has long been considered a staple across the region, but in Narail it is an economic backbone. Fishermen, labourers, small traders, and transporters all rely on the trade, which has earned the district recognition as a notable hub for producing chemical-free dry fish. On raised bamboo macha, fish sourced daily from canals, beels, and rivers are cleaned, salted and arranged under the open sky to dry. The process is entirely natural, a fact that locals say has boosted demand in recent years. Read more: Fish export to India halted thru Akhaura land port Since this dry fish is prepared without any chemicals and in a safe environment, demand is increasing day by day, villagers said. Among those who travel to Narail for seasonal work are Md Kabir Sheikh and Kamrul Sheikh from Muksudpur in Gopalganj. They spend the winter months drying varieties such as climbing perch (koi) and glassy perchlet (chanda), along with the widely popular chapa shutki. No chemicals are used — only salt, they said, as rows of fish dried slowly under the sun. While the work continues smoothly, selling remains a challenge. Fisherman Md Mosa Mia said lower water levels during winter make it easier to catch different local species, allowing producers to buy raw fish at relatively low prices. The difficulty lies in accessing the market. “We buy the fish and make dry fish. But without a broker, it has become difficult to sell,” he said, adding, “If we could sell directly to buyers, we would earn better profits.” Another fisherman, Alok Biswas, described the realities of production: two to three maunds of raw fish reduce to one maund after drying. Read more: PKSF holds policy dialogue on fisheries market “Depending on the type, one maund of dry fish is sold for Tk 7,000 to Tk 8,000,” he said. Official target and growing reputation Narail District Fisheries Officer Mahbubur Rahman said a target of 80 metric tonnes of dry fish production has been set for the district this year. “Since the dry fish here is chemical-free, it is in demand not only within the district but across the country,” he said. The Fisheries Office has been providing training and technical support to help producers maintain quality and strengthen their position in the market. For now, as winter sunlight glints across the bamboo platforms, families continue the work that has sustained them for generations. The methods remain simple, the challenges persistent, but for Narail, dry fish remains a lifeline — one that keeps the district’s economy moving long after the drying season ends. Read more: Hilsa prices soar further putting this beloved fish beyond reach

Suwaidi Park in Riyadh overflowed with thousands of expatriate Bangladeshis as renowned artist Asif Akbar made his presence felt among the Bangladesh community and their friends from other participating countries, including the host - the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The atmosphere was electric—yet deeply emotional—as their beloved singer connected heart-to-heart with the very people who keep Bangladesh’s economy moving from miles away. Speaking with warmth and sincerity, Asif Akbar emphasised that the remittance fighters - the expatriate workers who sacrifice comfort, family time, and their personal dreams - deserve more than just appreciation. They deserve joy, he said. Bangladesh’s colourful heritage takes centre‐stage at Riyadh’s Global Harmony festival “Remittance fighters need entertainment to breathe, to stay human,” Asif said passionately. “Without moments of happiness with entertainment, people become hardened by the struggles they carry every day." Asif who sang a huge number of hit songs like ‘O Priya Tumi Kothai’ shed light on the silent battles these workers face abroad - loneliness, isolation, tireless labor, and the emotional burden of constantly giving while rarely receiving. Yet, despite the weight on their shoulders, they continue to send money home, build futures for their families, and strengthen the foundations of Bangladesh’s economy, he remembered. Asif described expatriate Bangladeshis as “the most patriotic sons and daughters of our nation.” He praised their unwavering dedication, calling them pillars of progress whose sacrifices often go unnoticed. “They work in foreign lands, far from loved ones, just to keep joy alive back home. But in doing so, they often lose their own moments of happiness,” Asif mentioned in between the conversation with the audience from the large stage. In Suwaidi Park, surrounded by the cheers and warmth of his compatriots, Asif reminded everyone that behind every remittance sent home lies a story of resilience, sacrifice and unspoken pain. And through music and togetherness, even for a brief moment, those burdens felt a little lighter, said the singer who sang for nearly two hours. With each song, expatriates Bangladeshis were seen singing together with their favourite singers. The Saudi Ministry of Media launched the second edition of the Global Harmony in cooperation with the General Entertainment Authority highlighting cultures of 14 countries, including Bangladesh. The ‘Bangladeshi Cultural’ segment began on November 11 and ended on Friday night (Riyadh time, November 14). Asif highly appreciated the Saudi government, Saudi Ministry of Media and everyone involved for hosting such a mega event. He also thanked the organisers for honoring the Bangladeshi expatriate community with an opportunity to enjoy a concert free of charge. Read more: Global Harmony: Bangladesh’s rich cultural heritage to shine in Riyadh The event, hosted by popular Bangladeshi actress Prarthana Fardin Dighi and Rabiul Haque Zaman, showcased the rich traditions, music, dance, and cuisine of Bangladesh as part of Saudi Arabia’s Global Harmony initiative. Thousands of expatriate Bangladeshis, along with some of their families, gathered to enjoy live performances and sing together, transforming the park into a sea of sounds and lights. For many, it was an emotional and pride-filled night, a moment to reconnect with their roots and share their culture with the wider Saudi community, celebrating unity, friendship, and the growing cultural ties between Bangladesh and the Kingdom. “This is absolutely amazing. We remain busy, struggling every day here to keep our families smiling back home. This event is refreshing and a chance to share joy with friends,” Rumel, a Bangladeshi expatriate who attended with his friends, told UNB. “I came here to host for the first time — a role I’ve never played before. It feels wonderful to be here, close to the Bangladeshi community. The audience is amazing. We are grateful to the Saudi authorities and the Ministry of Media,” Dighi told UNB. Sarry Shaaban, spokesperson for the Global Harmony committee, expressed his excitement at hosting one of the largest expatriate communities in Saudi Arabia as part of the initiative. “We are thrilled to have the Bangladeshi community join us. This event will help Saudi audiences learn more about Bangladesh and its culture,” he said. Other nations and regions to be featured in the event include Egypt (Nov. 15–17); the Levant (Nov. 18–20); Yemen (Nov. 21–28); Pakistan (Nov. 29–Dec. 1); Indonesia (Dec. 2–4); the Philippines (Dec. 5–8); Uganda (Dec. 9–10); Ethiopia (Dec. 11–13); and Sudan (Dec. 14–20). The Global Harmony initiative was first launched in October 2024 to celebrate the diversity of the Kingdom’s residents. Last year’s event celebrated the cultures of Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Yemen, Syria, Palestine, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, and the Philippines. Last year’s event featured legendary Bangladeshi rock icon Nagar Baul James, DJ Sonica, and popular singers Habib Wahid, Porshi, and Beauty Khan — with James’s first-ever performance in Riyadh being a major highlight. The Global Harmony initiative continues to host a series of cultural weeks representing 14 countries over a span of 49 days. The programme is part of the Kingdom’s broader efforts to promote intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding, reinforcing Riyadh’s position as a global hub for cultural and civilizational diversity. Read more: Saudi Arabia to allow 78,500 Bangladeshis for 2026 Hajj

Bangladesh’s economy is caught in a debilitating ‘waiting vortex’ of stagnant investment, high inflation and weak business confidence, with experts saying only a credible and participatory election can restore stability and drive recovery. The prevailing consensus across the business and policy landscape is that the economy is currently ‘breathing, but unable to walk’ as it is paralysed by political uncertainty ahead of the general election expected next February. Business owners and entrepreneurs unanimously assert that new initiatives and investments are impossible without political stability and certainty. Professor Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir of Dhaka University, Liaquat Ali Bhuiyan, Senior Vice-President of the Real Estate and Housing Association of Bangladesh (REHAB), Inamul Haq Khan, Senior Vice-President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Anwar-ul-Alam Chowdhury (Parvez), President of the Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI), and former Chief Economist of Bangladesh Bank Dr Mustofa K Mujeri talked to the UNB correspondent about the current economic situation in Bangladesh. Read more: Bangladesh’s reserves still remain above $31 billion after ACU payment The economy is sustained by political trust, and it is the government’s responsibility to restore that confidence, said economists, underscoring that without a stable political environment, the recovery process cannot begin. This sentiment is echoed by the country’s development partners. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reportedly linked the disbursement of the next tranche of its $4.7 billion loan to the formation of an elected government. Similarly, both domestic and foreign investors are reluctant to take risks, preferring instead to adopt a cautious ‘wait-and-see’ stance. Worrying Economic Indicators Private Sector Credit Growth: Loan growth to the private sector has dropped to around 6.5 per cent — roughly half the normal rate — signalling a sharp contraction in new business activity and entrepreneurship. Capital Machinery Imports: Imports of capital machinery, a key indicator of future industrial output, have declined by 25 per cent, casting a shadow over upcoming production and employment prospects. Inflation and Savings: Inflation has been persistently high, hitting 8.36 per cent in September 2025, hitting hard the purchasing power of ordinary citizens, with the sales of national savings certificates falling by over Tk 6,000 crore, making it clear that many are being forced to liquidate their savings. Foreign Investment: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) fell by 22 per cent in the first quarter of the current fiscal year, as international investors remain cautious — with some existing firms even scaling back their operations. Govt moves to make SMEs a driving force of economy: CA’s office “Investment is now not just an economic question, but a question of social confidence,” one analyst observed, noting that political instability and deteriorating law and order are heavily discouraging entrepreneurs. Social Costs and Unemployment The economic stagnation is inflicting a deep social toll, with experts warning of rising poverty and worsening unemployment. Professor Titumir cautioned that high inflation has “reduced the purchasing power of the common people, increased poverty, and may push another 30 lakh people below the extreme poverty line.” The country now faces a mounting unemployment crisis, with around 13 lakh jobless youths — including one in every three university graduates. Industry Leaders Demand Clarity Business leaders across key sectors have emphasised the urgent need to restore political and policy clarity. Liaquat Ali Bhuiyan said that new investment in manufacturing, real estate, banking, and services has “nearly stopped.” Inamul Haq Khan noted that foreign buyers and partners, including the IMF, have little confidence in a temporary setup. Dhaka’s economy driven by manufacturing sector with 56% share: DCCI “IMF and foreign stakeholders are waiting for the new government. Only then will confidence and investment surge,” he added. Path to Recovery Economists argue that the top priority for the current interim administration must be to hold a swift, credible, and widely accepted national election, paving the way for an elected government to take charge. Anwar-ul-Alam Chowdhury (Parvez) told UNB that clarity on the election timeline and assurance of a peaceful process are the most crucial prerequisites for restoring economic stability. Dr Mustofa K Mujeri observed that the economic environment will remain fragile as long as high interest rates persist and political uncertainty continues to limit capital flow. Ultimately, analysts suggest that the nation stands at a “historic juncture,” where it must either accept the current stagnation or move decisively towards a new economic model anchored in political stability and trust. Read more: IMF to decide Bangladesh’s next loan installment after formation of political govt: Adviser

Bangladesh’s economic outlook for August 2025 shows signs of stabilisation on the external front but troubling weaknesses in domestic investment, revenue collection and development spending, according to a government report. The latest monthly economic update by the General Economics Division (GED) under the Planning Ministry said inflation declined to 8.29 percent in August, the lowest since July 2022, after months of volatility that saw double-digit inflation from July to December 2024. Non-food inflation dropped below 9 percent for the first time in 20 months, helping offset a marginal rise in food prices. Food inflation stabilised at 7.6 percent for three consecutive months, a sharp improvement from the 14 percent peak in July 2024. Rice remains the single largest driver of food inflation, contributing 48.37 percent in August. Government procurement of 1.7 million tons of Boro rice, imports of half a million tons duty-free and higher distribution under public food schemes are expected to ease prices in the coming months. Still, GED noted that delays in real-time monitoring and policy response prevented earlier stabilisation. The report highlighted a robust performance in the external sector. Export earnings consistently crossed the $4 billion mark, hitting $4.77 billion in July 2025. The exchange rate remained stable at Tk 121–122 per USD, while foreign exchange reserves climbed from $24.86 billion in September 2024 to $31.17 billion in August 2025. This, according to GED, provided a solid cushion against trade shocks and debt obligations. Despite positive external indicators, the domestic financial sector showed deep stress. Private sector credit growth plunged to 6.49 percent in June 2025 — the lowest on record and far short of Bangladesh Bank’s target. Businesses remain reluctant to borrow amid high interest rates, political and economic uncertainty, and cautious bank lending. Commerce Adviser stresses surplus economy for sustainable growth By contrast, public sector credit rose sharply by 13.09 percent, driven by the government’s heavy reliance on bank borrowing to finance its fiscal deficit. This trend, GED warned, is effectively “crowding out” the private sector and undermining future investment and job creation. Revenue collection in August stood at Tk 27,162 crore, falling Tk 3,727 crore short of the target. While collections grew 17.6 percent year-on-year, the shortfall was mainly due to weaker import and income tax receipts. Only VAT at the local level showed improvement. The report flagged persistent revenue gaps as a key challenge in meeting the ambitious annual target of Tk 4,99,000 crore. Development spending remains another weak spot. ADP utilization dropped to 2.39 percent of allocation in the July–August period of FY26, down from 2.57 percent in the same period last year. Although August utilisation improved slightly year-on-year (1.71 percent vs 1.52 percent), GED noted that such low early-year implementation reflects structural bottlenecks, bureaucratic delays, and poor fund release capacity, raising the risk of back-loaded spending and inefficiency. While the decline in inflation and strengthening of reserves signal macroeconomic stability, GED cautioned that the domestic economy faces significant headwinds. Weak private investment, revenue shortfalls, and under-utilisation of development funds threaten to slow growth momentum. “The economy is showing resilience externally but risks remain high domestically. Without urgent measures to stimulate private credit, enhance revenue collection, and accelerate ADP implementation, medium-term growth prospects may weaken,” the report said.

Bangladesh hopes to build on the progress made during the first round of fruitful negotiations with the United States, as the second round of talks on the tariff issue is set to begin in Washington DC today (Wednesday). "Bangladesh hopes to build on the progress made during the first round of fruitful negotiations on 27th June and conclude the agreement expeditiously," said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Wednesday. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is responsible for developing and coordinating US international trade, commodity and direct investment policy and overseeing negotiations with other countries. The head of USTR is the US Trade Representative, a Cabinet member who serves as the president’s principal trade advisor, negotiator and spokesperson on trade issues. The USTR has invited Bangladesh to the second round of negotiations on the Agreement on Reciprocal Tariff during July 9-11, 2025. "Bangladesh is among the first countries to restart negotiations following the issuance of President Trump's letter to leaders of 14 countries on July 7," Alam said. Trump announces 35% tariff on Bangladeshi goods, to be effective Aug. 1 Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin, who is leading the Bangladesh delegation, will participate in person in Washington DC while National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman will join virtually from Dhaka, said the Press Secretary.  Senior officials, including the Commerce Secretary and an Additional Commerce Secretary, have arrived in Washington DC to join the talks. US President Donald Trump in his letter to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus said, "We look forward to working with you as your trading partner for many years to come. If you wish to open your heretofore closed trading markets to the United States, and eliminate your tariff, and non-tariff, policies and trade barriers, we will, perhaps, consider an adjustment to this letter." Trump said these tariffs may be modified, upward or downward, depending on their relationship with Bangladesh. "You will never be disappointed with the United States of America," President Trump wrote to Prof Yunus. Starting on August 1, 2025, the US President said they will charge Bangladesh a tariff of only 35% on any and all Bangladeshi products sent into the United States, separate from all sectoral tariffs. "Please understand that the 35% number is far less than what is needed to eliminate the trade deficit disparity we have with your country. As you are aware, there will be no tariff if Bangladesh, or companies within your country, decide to build or manufacture products within the United States and, in fact, we will do everything possible to get approvals quickly, professionally, and routinely - In other words, in a matter of weeks," Trump said. Trump to put 25% tariffs on Japan and South Korea, new import taxes on five other nations The White House in its factsheets said President Trump is the best trade negotiator in history. “His strategy has focused on addressing systemic imbalances in our tariff rates that have tilted the playing field in favor of our trading partners for decades.” The White House said countries that are not serious about addressing the tariff and non-tariff trade barriers that impede American exports and harm American workers, farmers and businesses are facing the consequences. On July 7, President Trump signed an Executive Order determining that certain tariff rates, which were initially set to expire on July 9, will expire on August 1, 2025. President Trump has sent tariff notification letters to multiple countries, informing them of new reciprocal tariff rates set to take effect on August 1. The US President may send more letters in the coming days and weeks. Asian shares mostly down as Trump’s tariff deadline nears The countries he sent letters include: Bangladesh (35%), Japan (25%), Korea (25%), South Africa (30%), Kazakhstan (25%), Laos (40%), Malaysia (25%), Myanmar (40%), Tunisia (25%), Bosnia and Herzegovina (30%), Indonesia (32%), Serbia (35%), Cambodia (36%) and Thailand (36%).

The General Economics Division (GED) of the Planning Commission has forecast a cautiously optimistic economic outlook for May and June 2025 supported by reform measures and a gradually stabilising macroeconomic environment. In its latest Economic Update and Outlook released this month, the GED said the country’s economic recovery is expected to gain pace, backed by improvements in exports, remittance inflows, a stable exchange rate, and easing inflationary pressures. Bank deposits and private sector credit growth have also shown steady progress, it added. However, the report cautioned that domestic factors, particularly persistent inflation and political uncertainty, could dampen short-term prospects.  Bangladesh Bank simplifies overseas money transfer for language courses It stressed the need for prudent fiscal measures in the upcoming budget to ease inflationary pressures and strengthen investor confidence for a sustained recovery in the new fiscal year. Although revenue collection remains below target, the GED expressed optimism that structural reforms would help improve the situation. It noted the recent dissolution of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and the formation of two new bodies—the Revenue Policy Division and the Revenue Management Division—under the Ministry of Finance. This restructuring, enacted through an Ordinance on May 12, followed recommendations by task forces from the Planning and Finance Ministries. It aims to resolve longstanding inefficiencies and promote evidence-based policymaking. The GED also highlighted the introduction of a Medium- and Long-Term Revenue Strategy (MLTRS) for FY2025-26 to FY2034-35, which targets a tax-to-GDP ratio of 10.5% by FY2034-35. The report recommends a critical review of past reform failures to ensure the success of the new strategy, noting that Bangladesh’s revenue-to-GDP ratio remains lower than that of many peer economies.  Bangladesh Stock Market: Early gains fade as indices dip in second hour The Outlook reports a steady increase in foreign exchange reserves, reflecting a strengthened external position. Gross reserves rose from $25.8 billion in July 2024 to $27.4 billion in April 2025, while BPM6 reserves climbed from $20.4 billion to $22.0 billion. The government has cleared substantial payments for LNG, electricity, and oil imports, further reinforcing reserve health. Although fluctuations occurred—such as a dip in November 2024 followed by recovery in December—these were attributed to temporary external inflow changes and valuation adjustments. The difference between gross and BPM6 reserves, typically $5–6 billion, represents non-reserve assets excluded under BPM6 accounting. March 2025 saw an 8.51% year-on-year growth in aggregate bank deposits—the highest in nine months—driven by increased customer confidence and record remittance inflows. Private sector credit growth also rebounded to 7.57% in March from 6.82% in February, following a prolonged slowdown. Public sector borrowing from commercial banks surged to BDT 985.79 billion by mid-April 2025—a 60% year-on-year increase—due to weak revenue collection and a suspension of central bank financing. The GED warns that this could crowd out credit access for the private sector. Bangladesh’s external sector in April 2025 presented a mixed picture. Remittance inflows rose sharply—up 35% year-on-year—contributing to a projected narrowing of the current account deficit from 1.4% of GDP in FY2024 to 0.9% in FY2025. This was attributed to rising remittances and a shrinking trade deficit. However, exports declined, with April recording the lowest monthly figures of the fiscal year at $3.01 billion—a modest 0.86% growth. This drop was largely due to a slowdown in apparel shipments, the Eid al-Fitr holidays, and uncertainty over the U.S. administration’s reciprocal tariff policy. Inflation showed a slight decline in April compared to March, mainly due to a decrease in food prices—especially rice and fish. The Outlook recommends maintaining strategic food reserves and strengthening targeted safety net programs such as school feeding initiatives, food-for-work schemes, open market sales, and employment guarantee programs. These measures are deemed essential, given fiscal constraints and the rising cost of food. The GED underscores that while Bangladesh’s economy shows signs of recovery, sustained efforts in revenue generation, prudent fiscal management, and targeted social protection will be vital to ensure macroeconomic stability and inclusive growth in the months ahead.  

As Bangladesh’s economy evolves, a new class of local investors is stepping into the spotlight, playing a transformative role in driving growth, innovation and resilience across key sectors. With increased focus on domestic capital, experts and entrepreneurs are calling for greater involvement of local investors in shaping a sustainable economic future, highlighting the importance of security, stability and a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. In recent years, sectors such as technology, textiles, fintech and retail have seen significant expansion.  Local capital has become a crucial pillar in this growth, especially as homegrown startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often struggle to attract foreign investment due to scale or perceived risk.  In such cases, support from domestic backers is proving to be a vital lifeline. “Local investors bring more than just money to the table,” says Arif Hossain, a startup mentor based in Dhaka. “They understand the terrain, the people, and the potential. Their involvement can make or break emerging businesses,” he said.  While foreign investment remains an essential contributor to the economy, an overreliance on external funding can lead to delayed decisions and a shift in strategic control overseas.  In contrast, local investors offer faster, more contextual support and are naturally inclined to back ventures tailored to Bangladeshi consumers, he said.  “It’s not just about business—it’s about nation-building,” says Shahnaz Akter, an angel investor in Dhaka. “When we invest in our own people, we’re creating jobs, sparking innovation, and keeping profits and talent within the country,” Arif added.  Challenges on the Road Ahead Despite the growing momentum, several challenges hinder the full potential of local investment.  Structured platforms for investment remain limited, regulatory processes need clarity, and investor education is still in its early stages. Analysts argue that for local investment to thrive, collaboration between government bodies and the private sector is crucial.  Efforts to create a more transparent and investor-friendly ecosystem would help unlock a broader base of domestic capital. Nevertheless, progress is evident. Local venture capital firms and individual angel investors are gaining ground, contributing to a quiet yet powerful shift in Bangladesh’s economic stewardship. Investment Growth: A Rising Trend Investment Growth in Bangladesh (2018–2024) Data show that local investment has risen steadily over the past six years—from Tk 80 billion in 2018 to Tk 190 billion in 2024, a 137.5% increase.  This trajectory underscores a growing confidence among local investors in domestic opportunities. Notably, the gap between foreign and local investment has narrowed.  In 2018, foreign investment exceeded local investment by 50%. By 2024, that difference had dropped to just Tk 25 billion, indicating a more balanced contribution to national development. The sharpest acceleration came after 2020, a shift that analysts attribute to digital transformation, supportive government policies, and improved access to financial tools for local investors. This growth represents more than numbers—it signals a transfer of economic agency to domestic hands. Sector-Wise Distribution Reflects Balanced Strategy Sector-wise Local Investment in Bangladesh (2024) A closer look at sectoral data for 2024 shows a strong tilt toward innovation, with traditional industries also retaining solid investor interest. Technology (Tk 55 billion): The sector attracted the highest amount of local capital, driven by interest in fintech, mobile applications, SaaS platforms, and digital services. The government’s “Smart Bangladesh 2041” initiative appears to be fuelling this investment trend. Textiles (Tk 40 billion): Continuing Bangladesh’s long-standing dominance in garments and textiles, local investors are focusing on modernisation, sustainability, and automation. Retail & E-commerce (Tk 35 billion): Post-pandemic digital adoption has fuelled a boom in e-commerce, drawing substantial investment into delivery platforms, retail tech, and online marketplaces. Agri-business (Tk 20 billion) and Healthcare (Tk 15 billion): Although smaller in volume, these sectors are attracting growing interest. With strong local relevance and direct societal impact, they represent emerging areas of promise. This distribution highlights how local investors are not only backing cutting-edge ventures but also maintaining confidence in time-tested sectors—balancing innovation with stability. Bangladesh’s economy holds glimmers of hope amid IMF-ADB’s lower growth forecasts: Experts Why Local Investment Matters The impact of local investment goes beyond financial input. Domestic investors are better attuned to the nuances of cultural, economic, and consumer behaviour, allowing for more informed and timely decisions. Faster Decision-Making: Free from foreign exchange constraints and international bureaucracy, local investors can act swiftly on opportunities. Boosting Startups & Innovation: The rise of local angel investors and venture capital firms is giving Bangladeshi startups a much-needed boost, allowing them to scale while retaining more local ownership. Strengthening the Economy: By keeping money circulating within the country, local investments support SMEs, generate employment, and promote long-term, sustainable development. Bangladesh’s economy stabilising on exports and remittances: MCCI review Long-Term Commitment: Domestic investors are more likely to commit to the country's economic journey rather than pursue short-term returns. Locally Run Businesses Fuel Employment Across the nation, locally owned businesses are making a tangible impact by generating thousands of jobs and empowering communities. From small family-run enterprises in rural areas to urban retail centres in cities like Dhaka and Chattogram, Bangladeshi entrepreneurs are creating employment opportunities—especially for women and youth.  These ventures are also fostering financial independence and skill development. Data from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) indicate that SMEs contribute around 25% to the national GDP and employ approximately 7.8 million people.  Government programmes offering training, microloans, and infrastructure support are further bolstering this sector. “Locally run businesses are the backbone of our economy,” says Anisur Rahman, a business development officer in Dhaka. “They ensure money circulates within communities and open doors for people who might otherwise struggle to find work.” Taskforce aims to re-strategise Bangladesh’s economy for sustainable growth Besides, sectors such as agriculture, telecommunications, and IT have witnessed a surge in locally managed initiatives, bridging the urban-rural employment divide. As Bangladesh moves towards middle-income status, the role of local businesses in driving inclusive growth is expected to become even more significant. A Cultural and Economic Awakening Together, the rise in local investment and business ownership points to a deeper shift in Bangladesh’s economic fabric. This is more than a financial transition—it is a cultural awakening that places confidence in homegrown talent, ideas, and enterprise. Local investors are not merely participants in the economy—they are becoming its architects, shaping a future where growth is inclusive, innovation is indigenous, and progress is sustainable.      

Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur on Thursday said that the country’s foreign exchange reserves are stable and gradually increasing, despite the delayed disbursement of loan installments from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Speaking at an event of Economic Reporters Forum (ERF) in the capital, Dr Mansur highlighted the central bank’s primary objective of reducing inflation to a range of 5 to 7 percent by the end of the year. He acknowledged the slowdown in private sector credit growth, attributing it to declining bank deposits and increased government borrowing from the banking system. Dr Mansur noted that the situation is improving as Treasury bill bond rates have declined from 12.5 percent to below 10 percent. ‘This indicates a reduction in government borrowing from the banking sector, paving the way for increased private sector credit growth,” he added. Dr Atiur, Dr Barkat among 23 sued by ACC The Governor said that Bangladesh’s macroeconomic position has reached a stable state, with a steady exchange rate and a surplus in the balance of payments. He described this as a significant achievement following the recent political changes in the country.

Interest rates for five national savings schemes have been revised for the January–June 2025 period, aligning them with prevailing market rates for the first time in the country. A notification issued by the Internal Resources Division (IRD) of the Ministry of Finance on January 15, 2025, said that the revised rates are effective from January 1, 2025. The schemes affected by this adjustment include the Five-Year Bangladesh Savings Certificate, Three-Monthly Profit-Based Savings Certificate, Pensioner Savings Certificate, Family Savings Certificate and Post Office Savings Bank Term Accounts under the National Savings Scheme. Interim govt vows justice, recovery of stolen money Besides, the interest rates for these savings schemes will now be revised biannually, reflecting changes in the rates of five-year and two-year treasury bonds. Importantly, investors will receive the profit rate prevailing at the time of purchase throughout the entire term of the investment, ensuring consistent returns. To ensure equity for less privileged groups, the investor categories under the National Savings Scheme have been simplified into two new stages: investments of Tk 7.50 lakh or below, and those exceeding Tk 7.50 lakh. As in the past, early encashment will yield profits based on an annual rate applicable at the time of withdrawal. This move is anticipated to benefit marginal investors and encourage greater participation in the National Savings Scheme, according to an IRD press release. New law in the works empowering Bangladesh Bank to transfer bank owners' shares even without their consent Through the scheme, women, retired employees, pensioners, senior citizens and the physically disabled can access enhanced financial and social security. The changes are expected to make the scheme more effective in supporting these groups.

JPMorgan’s net income soared 50% to more than $14 billion in the fourth quarter as the bank’s profit and revenue easily beat Wall Street forecasts. Earnings per share rose to $4.81 from $3.04 a year ago. The result beat Wall Street profit projections of $4.09 a share, according to the data firm FactSet. Total managed revenue hit $43.7 billion, up 10%, from $39.9 billion a year ago. Wall Street was expecting revenue of $41.9 billion. Britain’s Treasury chief kicks off China visit The New York bank set aside $2.6 billion to cover bad loans, up about 20% from the same period a year ago. JPMorgan shares jumped on the bank's final financial results of 2024, climbing 2.6% before the bell.