Agent banking services are gaining popularity in Bangladesh, bringing banking services to marginalized communities and accelerating deposit collection activities. While conventional banks dominate in this sector, Shariah-based banks are struggling to collect deposits, with the majority of deposits coming through agents of Shariah-based banks. According to Bangladesh Bank data until December last year, deposits collected through agent outlets totaled Tk 35,902 crore, with 54.01%Â from Islamic style banks.
This growth is driving financial inclusion, with over 2.14 crore deposit accounts opened through 21,601 agent outlets, primarily in rural areas. Remittance distribution and loan disbursement have also seen significant growth in agent banking. Dutch-Bangla Bank leads in terms of outlets and accounts, while Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC tops deposit collection, leveraging schemes like the Rural Development Scheme. Shariah-based banks prioritize customer service, compliance, and modern technology to ensure secure transactions and boost confidence among customers.
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