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Corporate social responsibility (CSR) spending by banks rose sharply in the second half of 2025, reflecting stronger earnings and a growing focus on social impact.

According to data from Bangladesh Bank, scheduled banks spent Tk 1.98 billion on CSR activities during July–December 2025—up 34.42 per cent from Tk 1.47 billion in the previous six months. The increase amounts to an additional Tk 506.6 million in social spending.

Education remained the top priority, receiving Tk 642.4 million, or 32.47 per cent of total CSR outlays. Funds were mainly used for scholarships, educational materials and infrastructure development.

Healthcare ranked second, with Tk 575.2 million allocated—accounting for 29.07 per cent of total spending.

In contrast, spending on environment and climate-related initiatives remained relatively low at Tk 292.9 million, or 14.81 per cent. Other sectors combined received Tk 468 million.

Private commercial banks dominated CSR activities, contributing over 79 per cent of total spending. Of 43 such banks, 36 collectively spent Tk 1.57 billion during the period.

Foreign banks also maintained a notable presence, accounting for 16.69 per cent of CSR expenditure with Tk 330.2 million. Meanwhile, state-owned banks lagged behind, with only three institutions participating and contributing just over 4 per cent of the total.

Islamic banks also took part, with seven institutions spending Tk 296.5 million, or nearly 15 per cent of total CSR funds, primarily from post-tax profits.

Bankers say the rise in CSR spending reflects improved financial performance and a strategic push to build public trust. “Private banks are focusing more on areas like education and healthcare where the impact is immediate and visible,” said a sector insider.

However, they acknowledged that climate and environmental initiatives remain underfunded. Going forward, banks are expected to adopt more structured and impact-driven CSR programmes, particularly in areas such as climate resilience and sustainable development.