Weak banking sector contributing to economic risk

Fuel traders and workers in the Khulna division have initiated an indefinite strike to push for various demands, including an increase in commission rates for fuel sales. This strike has disrupted fuel oil extraction and transportation to 15 districts from Khulna's Padma, Meghna, and Jamuna oil depots.

Following an unusual hike in prices in July 2023, green chilli prices in Bangladesh have once again surged, reaching Tk250 per kilogram. This represents a significant increase of Tk100 to Tk120 per kilogram in a short period. Alongside green chillies, onions, certain vegetables, and fish prices have seen upward trends, while egg prices have witnessed a decline over some time.

The 2nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Citizens Bank PLC took place at the bank's Head Office, and it was a significant event for the organization. The Chairperson of the Board of Directors, presided over the meeting.

In Bangladesh, there has been a significant divergence in remittance inflows among banks. Some banks have witnessed a drastic drop in remittances, while others have experienced substantial growth. Dutch-Bangla Bank, once a top remittance handler, saw an 80% reduction in remittances, with only $38 million in August compared to the usual $220-230 million per month.

In the first half of this year, corporate social responsibility (CSR) spending by Bangladesh's 61 banks decreased by 9.22% compared to the same period last year, falling from Tk 629 crore to Tk 571 crore, according to Bangladesh Bank (BB) data

Former ready-made garment (RMG) workers in Dhaka are increasingly finding employment as fitting tailors, utilizing the skills acquired in the RMG factories. The number of such fitting tailors is growing rapidly, with dozens of shops in major marketplaces in Dhaka.