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BD Corporate Pulse, Banani, Dhaka (2026)

30/09/2026

SOUTHEAST BANK UNVEILS MFS PLATFORM 'TELECASH'

Key Summary:

TeleCash Limited, a subsidiary of Southeast Bank PLC, has commenced its commercial operations as a mobile financial services (MFS) provider, with a commitment to expanding financial inclusion and building a cashless or digital economy in Bangladesh.

The company received final approval from Bangladesh Bank on September 24, and an inauguration ceremony was held on September 29 at Southeast Bank's head office in Dhaka.

🔍 Key Highlights:

📱 TeleCash's Mission:

Expand financial inclusion across Bangladesh

Contribute to building a cashless/digital economy

Deliver safe, convenient, and innovative financial solutions

🗣️ MA Kashem, Chairman, Southeast Bank PLC:

"The commencement of TeleCash Limited's journey is a landmark step towards strengthening financial inclusion in Bangladesh and taking digital financial services to a new height. As the parent bank, Southeast Bank is committed to providing TeleCash with the necessary strategic support and guidance so that it can deliver safe, convenient and innovative financial solutions to the people."

🗣️ Nasir Uddin Ahmed, Chairman, TeleCash Limited:

"The formal launch of TeleCash marks an important milestone in our commitment to advancing digital financial services in the country. By leveraging the experience and support of Southeast Bank, we are committed to building a secure, reliable and customer-centric MFS platform that will contribute meaningfully to the sustainable growth of the country's digital economy."

🗣️ AKM Monirul Islam, Acting Managing Director, TeleCash Limited:

"TeleCash does not aspire to be merely another MFS brand in the market; rather, we aim to build a trusted platform by combining technological excellence, risk-conscious operations and sound corporate governance."

🏛️ Launch Ceremony Attendees:

MA Kashem – Chairman & Founder Chairman, Southeast Bank PLC; former President, FBCCI

Nasir Uddin Ahmed – Chairman, TeleCash Limited

Md Khalid Mahmud Khan – Managing Director & CEO, Southeast Bank PLC

AKM Monirul Islam – Acting Managing Director, TeleCash Limited

Members of the boards of directors and senior officials from both organizations

29/09/2026

DHAKA BANK & MASTERCARD LAUNCH DUAL-CURRENCY SME CREDIT CARD

Key Update:

Dhaka Bank has launched a dual-currency SME credit card with Mastercard to help small and medium-sized enterprises manage expenses, improve cash flow, and support business growth.

The card offers customised spending limits and flexible repayment options, giving business owners greater financial control over their day-to-day operations.

🔍 Key Highlights:

💳 Card Features:

Dual-currency – facilitates both domestic and international transactions

Customised spending limits and flexible repayment options

Annual FX remittance limit up to $3,000 for legitimate current/operational business expenses abroad (for eligible SMEs registered with SME Foundation, subject to Bangladesh Bank guidelines)

Added convenience for businesses involved in cross-border trade and travel

🎁 Business & Lifestyle Benefits:

Complimentary access to selected international airport lounges

Access to the Balaka Lounge at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport

Exclusive Mastercard offers at 10,000+ merchant locations across Bangladesh

International discounts

Year-round buy-one-get-one offers at participating hotels and restaurants

Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off services

Dedicated support through the Dhaka Bank Card Experience Centre

🗣️ Osman Ershad Faiz, Managing Director & CEO, Dhaka Bank:

"SMEs are at the heart of Bangladesh's economy, and Dhaka Bank remains committed to supporting their growth through innovative financial solutions. The Dhaka Bank Mastercard SME Business Credit Card is designed to provide entrepreneurs with greater financial flexibility while helping them manage their businesses more efficiently. This initiative marks a significant step forward in accelerating digital payment adoption and supporting the vision for a Cashless Bangladesh."

🗣️ Zakia Sultana, Country Manager, Mastercard Bangladesh:

"Small enterprises are central to Bangladesh's economic progress and digital transformation journey. As businesses increasingly seek smarter and more flexible ways to manage operations, access to innovative financial tools becomes essential. This collaboration reflects Mastercard's commitment to supporting the SME ecosystem through secure, convenient, and value-added payment solutions that help entrepreneurs scale their ambitions and contribute to sustainable economic growth."

🏛️ Launch Event:

Hafia Tazrean – Additional Director, SME and Special Programmes Department, Bangladesh Bank

Zakia Sultana – Country Manager, Mastercard Bangladesh

AKM Shahnawaj – Additional Managing Director, Dhaka Bank

Md Mostaque Ahmed – Deputy Managing Director & Chief Emerging Markets Officer, Dhaka Bank

Senior officials from Dhaka Bank and Mastercard

29/09/2026

MOHAMMAD ABU JAFAR APPOINTED MANAGING DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL BANK

Key Update:

Mohammad Abu Jafar, a veteran banker with 36 years of professional experience, has joined National Bank PLC as its new Managing Director (MD).

He officially assumed his responsibilities on Sunday, September 27, 2026 .

🔍 Key Highlights:

📈 Professional Journey:

Managing Director & CEO, Premier Bank (most recent)

Additional Managing Director & Chief Business Officer (CBO) , Dhaka Bank

Managing Director, Dhaka Bank Investment

Began banking career at Uttara Bank as a Probationary Officer in 1990

Subsequently served at National Bank and Dhaka Bank

💡 Areas of Expertise:

Business development

RMG financing

Offshore banking

Corporate banking

Treasury business & operations

Credit management

Foreign trade financing

International business

Branch banking

🏛️ Specialized Experience:

Served as Manager of Authorised Dealer (AD) branches for more than 15 years at Uttara Bank and National Bank

Gained extensive experience in foreign exchange, international trade, and branch banking operations

🎓 Academic & Professional Credentials:

Graduation & Post-graduation in Economics , University of Chittagong

Diplomaed Associate , Institute of Bankers, Bangladesh (DAIBB)

Participated in numerous banking programmes, professional training, seminars, and symposiums both at home and abroad

28/09/2026

SUNSILK BANGLADESH RE-LAUNCHES WITH SUPERIOR PRODUCT & PREMIUM PACK

Summary:

Sunsilk Bangladesh has re-launched itself with a superior product and more premium pack to cater to the evolving demands of Bangladeshi consumers.

The relaunch marks a significant step for the iconic hair care brand, which has been a trusted companion for women in Bangladesh since 1982.

🔍 Key Highlights:

💇 New & Improved Formulation:

· Superior product designed for modern hair care needs
· Premium packaging reflecting the brand's elevated positioning

🇧🇩 A Legacy in Bangladesh:

· Sunsilk's journey in Bangladesh began in 1982
· Introduced modern shampoo to a market where traditional oil and herbal care was the norm
· Quickly became a symbol of confidence for young women entering university and professional life

🌟 Brand Evolution:

· Sunsilk was launched globally in 1964 by Unilever
· Now present in 80 countries worldwide
· The brand provides a complete hair care solution—cleansing, nourishing, and manageability

💪 Empowering Confidence:

· From the beginning, Sunsilk has inspired confidence through motivational advertising and relatable role models
· The brand's message: beautiful hair builds confidence, and Sunsilk is the partner in that journey

27/09/2026

PRIME BANK SECURES €20 MILLION LOAN FROM OeEB TO EXPAND MSME FINANCING

Summary:

Prime Bank has signed a €20 million term-loan agreement with OeEB, the Development Bank of Austria, to expand access to finance for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Bangladesh.

The financing will be on-lent to eligible MSMEs to support their business growth, expansion, investment, and working capital needs.

🔍 Key Highlights:

💰 Financing Details:

Amount: €20 million term loan

Lender: OeEB – Development Bank of Austria

Borrower: Prime Bank PLC

Purpose: On-lending to eligible MSMEs

📈 Expected Impact:

Strengthens Prime Bank's capacity to provide tailored financing solutions

Supports businesses vital to employment generation, entrepreneurship, and economic activity

Enhances access to finance for the MSME sector across Bangladesh

🏛️ Signing Ceremony:

Faisal Rahman – Chief Executive Officer, Prime Bank PLC

Ilka Vogel – Senior Investment Officer, OeEB

Shams Abdullah Muhaimin – Deputy Managing Director, Prime Bank PLC

Senior investment officers from both institutions

🌍 Strategic Significance:

Reflects the shared commitment of OeEB and Prime Bank to promoting sustainable economic development

Supports OeEB's mission to fund impactful investments in developing countries and emerging markets

Reinforces Prime Bank's focus on responsible and inclusive access to finance for MSMEs

Contributes to sustainable private-sector development in Bangladesh

🗣️ About OeEB:

As the Development Bank of Austria, OeEB supports sustainable and impactful investments in developing countries and emerging markets.

27/09/2026

DHAKA BANK RECEIVES ADB 'LEADING SME TRADE BANK' AWARD 2026

Summary:

Dhaka Bank has received the "Leading SME Trade Bank" award from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for the third consecutive year under ADB's Trade and Supply Chain Finance Programme (TSCFP).

The award recognises the bank's role in facilitating international trade and expanding access to trade finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bangladesh.

🔍 Key Highlights:

🏆 Award Details:

Award: Leading SME Trade Bank 2026

Presented at: 12th TSCFP Awards and Partners Dinner, Singapore

Received by: Akhlaqur Rahman, Deputy Managing Director, Dhaka Bank

Presented by: Steven Beck, ADB's Head of Trade and Supply Chain Finance, and Neha Noronha, Unit Head of South Asia

Attendees: Over 200 representatives from leading financial institutions worldwide

📈 Previous Recognitions:

2024: "Leading Partner Bank" in Bangladesh

2025: "Momentum Award"

2026: "Leading SME Trade Bank"

🌍 Partnership with ADB:

Dhaka Bank has been an Issuing Bank under ADB's TSCFP since 2009

The programme helps address trade finance gaps in developing economies where commercial banks may not always meet financing needs

🗣️ Akhlaqur Rahman, Deputy Managing Director, Dhaka Bank:

"This recognition is a proud moment for Dhaka Bank and a testament to our continued commitment to bridging trade finance gaps, empowering local businesses and enabling greater access to international markets. We remain deeply committed to working with global institutions such as ADB to create opportunities for businesses and contribute to sustainable economic progress in Bangladesh."

25/09/2026

US-Bangla Airlines Rises to 4th Position in Skytrax 2026 South Asia Regional Airline Ranking

US-Bangla Airlines, the largest private carrier in the country, has been ranked 4th in the ‘Best Regional Airlines in South Asia’ category at the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards 2026.

This remarkable achievement marks a major leap for the airline, which was ranked 5th in the same category in the 2024 ranking. The ascent to the 4th position highlights US-Bangla’s consistent efforts to enhance operational excellence and passenger satisfaction.

The Skytrax World Airline Awards, often referred to as the "Oscars of the aviation industry," are based on one of the largest and most widely respected airline passenger satisfaction surveys in the world. Travelers from across the globe vote in this independent survey, assessing everything from in-flight experience and cabin comfort to ground staff and check-in efficiency.

"We are incredibly honored to receive this global recognition," said Md. Kamrul Islam, General Manager of Public Relations at US-Bangla Airlines. "Rising to the 4th rank in the competitive South Asia region is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and relentless service of our entire team, from pilots and cabin crew to ground staff and maintenance. More importantly, it reflects the trust that our valued passengers place in us. This award motivates us to further elevate our service and reach even greater heights in the future."

US-Bangla Airlines has been operating for nearly 12 years and has built a formidable reputation for reliable, passenger-centric service. Its modern and diversified fleet, consisting of 24 aircraft - including Airbus 330-300, Boeing 737-800, ATR 72-600, and Dash 8-Q400—enables it to connect Bangladesh with major international hubs across Asia and the Middle East.

This latest Skytrax ranking solidifies US-Bangla Airlines' position as a key player in the South Asian aviation market and reinforces its commitment to bringing world-class service to the region.

ABOUT US-BANGLA AIRLINES
US-Bangla Airlines is the largest private airline in Bangladesh in terms of fleet size and operation. A subsidiary of the US-Bangla Group, the carrier operates extensive domestic services and international flights to major cities including Dubai, Doha, Muscat, Sharjah, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Chennai, and Kolkata.

ABOUT SKYTARX WORLD AIRLINE AWARDS
The Skytrax World Airline Awards are the most widely respected authority for comparative service ranking for airlines, based on a comprehensive passenger satisfaction survey.

22/09/2026

AKHTAR SANJIDA KASEM HONOURED WITH SAFA BEST WOMAN PRACTITIONER AWARD 2026

Summary:
Akhtar Sanjida Kasem FCA, FCMA, CFE has been selected for the Best Woman Practitioner Award under the SAFA Women Leadership Awards 2026, presented by the South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA).

The award recognizes her outstanding contributions to the accounting profession as a Woman Practitioner and highlights her commitment to professional development and excellence in the South Asian region.

🔍 Key Highlights:

🏆 The Award:

Best Woman Practitioner Award – SAFA Women Leadership Awards 2026

Recognizes outstanding contributions to the accounting profession

One of eight categories honouring women professionals across South Asia

👩‍💼 Professional Credentials:

- Fellow, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB)

- Fellow, Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Bangladesh (ICMAB)

- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)

🌟 A Legacy of Excellence:

Following in the footsteps of her late father, Mr. Abul Qasem FCA – the revered first President of ICAB

Continues to uphold and advance a magnificent legacy of service to the accountancy profession

A phenomenal role model for women professionals everywhere

🌍 About SAFA:

The South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA) is a regional body representing accountancy profession in South Asia, working to promote professional excellence and collaboration across member countries.

21/09/2026

METLIFE BANGLADESH LAUNCHES HEALTH SAVINGS PLAN WITH CRITICAL ILLNESS PROTECTION

Summary:

MetLife Bangladesh has launched the MetLife Health Savings Plan (MHSP), combining protection against major illnesses, health-focused savings, and access to healthcare funds under a single plan.

The company described MHSP as a first-of-its-kind solution in Bangladesh's life insurance industry, aimed at helping customers prepare financially for future healthcare needs.

🔍 Key Highlights:

💡 What Makes MHSP Unique:

- Combines health protection, health savings, and access to healthcare funds in one plan

- Enables policyholders to build a dedicated fund for medical expenses while maintaining insurance coverage

- Designed to help customers prepare for future healthcare needs before they arise

🛡️ Critical Illness Protection:

The plan provides protection against a range of critical illnesses, including:

- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Kidney failure
- Major organ transplantation
- Other covered conditions as specified in policy terms

💳 MetLife Health Wallet & Health Card:

- Access eligible accumulated value throughout the policy term
- Cover healthcare-related expenses through a dedicated Health Card
- Exclusive discounts and privileges across the designated medical network
- Helps policyholders manage healthcare expenses more effectively and affordably

🗣️ Ala Ahmad, CEO, MetLife Bangladesh:

"Healthcare expenses are one of the biggest financial concerns for families today. MHSP is designed to help people prepare for those expenses before they arise."

📊 MetLife Bangladesh at a Glance:

- 1 million+ individual customers
- 900+ corporate clients
- Tk 1,384 crore in claims settled in H1 2026
- Tk 2,853 crore in claims settled in 2025 (highest among all life insurers)
- 98%+ claims settlement ratio

18/09/2026

CITY BANK LAUNCHES AMERICAN EXPRESS ULTRAMARINE CREDIT CARD

Key Summary:

City Bank has launched the City Bank American Express Ultramarine Credit Card, a premium card offering travel, lifestyle, and everyday spending benefits to customers in Bangladesh.

The card was unveiled at a ceremony at City Bank's head office in Dhaka.

The card will be available in secured and unsecured variants and support both local and international transactions. Applications will open on October 1.

🔍 Key Highlights:

💳 Card Features:

· Available in secured and unsecured variants
· Supports both local and international transactions
· Earn 3 Membership Rewards points for every Tk 100 or $1 spent
· Points redeemable for gift vouchers, annual fee waivers, and purchases with points

✈️ Travel Benefits:

· Complimentary access to City Bank American Express international and domestic lounges at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (cardholder + up to 2 companions)
· 12 complimentary Priority Pass lounge visits annually at selected airports worldwide
· No cash withdrawal fee on international ATM transactions
· Complimentary Meet & Greet service at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (cardholder + up to 2 guests)
· Savings on international air tickets and domestic hotels

🎁 Welcome Benefits:

· Choose between 5% cashback on eligible spending during the first 3 months (capped at Tk 10,000) OR a travel luggage voucher worth Tk 5,000

🍽️ Lifestyle & Dining:

· Buy-one-get-one complimentary buffet dining offer at selected international hotel chains in Bangladesh on weekends
· Other dining, retail, lifestyle, and travel offers

🗣️ Hossain Khaled, Chairman, City Bank:

"At City Bank, we remain focused on bringing thoughtfully designed financial solutions that support the evolving needs of our customers."

🗣️ Anurag Gupta, Vice-President, Global Network & Partner Services, Asia & South Pacific Markets, American Express:

"The partnership would bring distinctive benefits and American Express's service experience to Bangladesh."

BD Corporate Pulse

30/09/2026

29/09/2026

29/09/2026

28/09/2026

27/09/2026

27/09/2026

25/09/2026

22/09/2026

21/09/2026

18/09/2026

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