Written by The Banking Post
The Bangladesh Bank (BB) has instructed all banks to display two banners per branch encouraging a ‘Yes’ vote in the upcoming referendum, part of broader efforts to raise public awareness and maintain confidence in the financial sector.
The directive was issued following a meeting on January 11, presided over by Governor Ahsan H Mansur, attended by four deputy governors and managing directors of all private banks. Sources said the Chief Adviser’s Office had already issued instructions regarding the banners.
In addition to physical banners, banks have been asked to use Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds to support NGO-led public awareness programmes focused on the referendum.
Governor Mansur also stressed careful management of microloans and digital nano loans, cautioning banks to avoid creating potential default risks through new lending. School banking initiatives will be strengthened, with branch managers required to visit schools at least twice a year to promote student accounts.
The meeting also highlighted rising foreign exchange reserves and anticipated remittance flows ahead of Ramadan and Eid-ul-Adha, with ongoing efforts to attract foreign investment and simplify approvals for opening offices abroad. Reforms to the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act are also underway.
On interest rates, Bangladesh Bank noted that reductions are not feasible at present due to inflation but said officials are exploring options for future easing.
City Bank Managing Director Mashrur Arifin said, “With the referendum approaching, the stability of the banking sector and public confidence are paramount. Bangladesh Bank has provided clear instructions to continue reducing non-performing loans and prevent new risks. We are committed to implementing these measures.”
The move marks a proactive effort by BB to combine public awareness campaigns with continued oversight of lending practices and financial sector stability.
