BTCL Fails to Recover Tk 316 Crore in Dues

In August, Bangladesh's mobile internet subscribers fell by nearly one crore, reaching 12.69 crore, marking a second consecutive month of decline. The trend is linked to a shift in mobile data package offerings, particularly the discontinuation of short-term, three-day packages, which led many users to reduce or discontinue secondary SIM usage.

S Alam Refined Sugar Industry illegally sold 60,500 tons of raw sugar in the open market without paying customs duties, violating regulations. The Chattogram Customs Bond Commissionerate has issued a claim of Tk 246.26 crore against the company, along with a Tk 3 lakh fine. Additionally, S Alam Group has evaded Tk 755 crore in VAT, making it the leading company for VAT evasion among its affiliates. An audit on their sales and production activities has been completed, resulting in a preliminary report.

The central bank is investigating Keya Cosmetics Ltd. for failing to deposit $49 million (5880 crore BDT) in export earnings into its foreign currency account. The company has raised concerns against Pubali, Southeast, and National banks, citing negligence in handling its finances.

The Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) rebounded today after reaching a four-year low, with the DSEX index rising by 118.8 points (2.42%) to close at 5,017. Key sectors such as banking, pharmaceuticals, and telecommunications contributed to the gains, led by Islami Bank Bangladesh and BRAC Bank. Turnover decreased by 2.98% to Tk 347 crore, with banking dominating trading volume. Non-bank financial institutions saw the largest sector gain at 4.30%, while the fuel and power sector declined by 0.72%.

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has drafted guidelines allowing wholly foreign-owned companies, like Elon Musk's Starlink, to provide satellite internet services in the country. The guidelines permit 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) for non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellite operators, with licenses valid for five years.

Celebrating 25 years, Mutual Trust Bank PLC (MTB) differentiates itself through trust and innovation, says CEO Syed Mahbubur Rahman. Originally focused on wholesale banking, MTB now provides diverse, inclusive services backed by strong governance and skilled employees.