25/05/2026
Weekly News Flash | May 24, 2026
- The government has approved a Tk3 lakh crore annual development programme (ADP) for FY27 focused on infrastructure, social protection, energy, and reforms, with priority spending on transport, health, education, and support for low-income groups
- Bangladesh Bank has simplified stock market transactions for foreign investors by removing the need for auditor certificates on each trade, enabling faster reinvestment and easier capital movement to help attract foreign investment.
- Bangladesh Bank increased single borrower exposure limit from 15% to 25% of bank capital till June 2028, raising concerns that businesses will rely more on bank loans instead of raising funds through the capital market. Critics warn this may further pressure the already weak banking sector with over 30% NPLs and discourage large IPO listings.
- Bangladesh’s revenue shortfall widened to a record Tk1.05 lakh crore in July–April FY26 despite 10.6% YoY collection growth, highlighting weak tax administration and sluggish economic activity. Economists warn the ambitious FY27 revenue target of over Tk6 lakh crore may be difficult without major reforms and stronger business recovery.
- Bangladesh Bank barred banks with paid-up capital below Tk2,000 crore from paying cash dividends from 2026 onward, effectively leaving only BRAC Bank eligible among listed lenders. The move aims to strengthen bank capital buffers, though analysts warn it may hurt shareholder returns and negatively impact capital market sentiment.
