Banking & loans
Stories, explainers and debates about banking & loans in Dhaka, told through the people living it.
What It Really Takes to Get an SME Loan in Bangladesh: Documents, Collateral, and Why Many Owners Give Up
Bangladesh Bank wants a quarter of all loans to go to small businesses. The real share is under 16%. Here is what banks actually ask for, what an SME loan costs, why so many owners give up, and how to improve your chances.
The Real Cost of a Credit Card in Bangladesh
Minimum payments, the interest-free period and annual fees, followed for a full year on one real Tk 50,000 balance.
Why Your FDR Interest Is Lower Than You Think
The bank says 8 percent. Source tax, excise duty and inflation say otherwise. We work it out on one real Tk 5 lakh FDR.
How to Read the Fine Print on a Personal Loan
Processing fees, early settlement charges and the interest rate that matters. What Bangladesh Bank allows banks to charge, and a worked example on a Tk 3 lakh loan.
Digital Banks Are Coming: What Changes for the Average Customer
Bangladesh Bank has approved five new digital banks, including bKash, Banglalink-Square and Robi's Boost. None will have a branch. Here is what that means for your savings, loans, cards and cash.
Personal Loan Checklist in Bangladesh: 20 Things to Check Before, During and After You Borrow
Do you really need the loan? Can you afford the EMI? Which documents, which rules, which fees? A step-by-step personal loan checklist for Bangladesh, updated for the 2026 limits.
