Message

The financial sector of Bangladesh has evolved remarkably since the nation’s independence in 1971. From a primarily agrarian economy, we have transitioned to a diversified economy where the industrial and service sectors now play an equally significant role alongside agriculture. With this transformation, banks and finance companies have emerged as a cornerstone of our economic growth, driving savings, investments, trade, and commerce. Their contribution to ensuring financial stability, promoting financial inclusion, and supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is indeed commendable. Amid a plethora of global challenges such as the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, disruptions in global supply chains, inflationary pressures, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, Bangladesh Bank, as the Central of Bank of Bangladesh, has demonstrated unwavering commitment to safeguarding the stability of the financial sector, implementing measures to mitigate risks, fostering resilience, and supporting economic recovery.

Aligned with national and international standards and action plans, Bangladesh Bank has emerged as a leading Central Bank in promoting green and sustainable finance, and effectively addressing climate and sustainability risks through strategic policy measures. These policy measures encompass the development of Green and Sustainable Finance Taxonomy, various Refinance Schemes, Carbon Footprint Measurement, Climate Risk Fund (CRF), Sustainability Rating, CSR initiatives, and guidelines for Environmental & Social Risk Management (ESRM), and Sustainability and Climate-related Financial Disclosure (SCFD) through which Bangladesh Bank is committed to establishing a sustainable banking landscape in Bangladesh. As a pioneering regulatory body, Bangladesh Bank encourages banks and finance companies to embrace sustainable practices, including the development of sustainable products, energy-efficient and low-carbon emission measures, renewable energy projects, mitigation and adaptation measures, and gender-inclusive practices, while integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into their financing strategies.

The 6th edition of the Banking Almanac comes at a crucial time when the global financial landscape is undergoing profound changes with special emphasis on sustainability, digital transformation, gender equality, and inclusive growth – factors that have necessitated a redefinition of the roles and responsibilities of financial institutions worldwide. It is, therefore, a matter of great excitement and pleasure that Shikkhabichitra has undertaken the endeavor to publish Banking Almanac: Banks and Financial Institutions of Bangladesh (6th Edition), which I believe will serve as a worthwhile resource, offering a comprehensive repository of data and information on various financial indicators of banks and finance companies. Additionally, for policymakers, financial institutions, academia, investors, entrepreneurs, and customers, the Banking Almanac will provide an insightful platform for informed decision-making, comparative analysis, and strategic planning. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the editorial team, the Project Implementation Committee, and all stakeholders who have worked untiringly to make this publication a reality. 

I wholeheartedly wish the Banking Almanac every success and hope it will meet and exceed the expectations of its diverse readership.