Data from Standard Chartered Bangladesh鈥檚 global research has showed that macroeconomic conditions in the country were showing early signs of improvement following a period of turbulence.
According to a press release, Standard Chartered Bangladesh on Wednesday hosted its flagship 鈥楪lobal Research Briefing,鈥� bringing together leaders from private sector, government stakeholders and the bank鈥檚 clients for an insightful discussion on the outlook for Bangladesh鈥檚 economy.
Lutfey Siddiqi, chief adviser鈥檚 envoy for international affairs, attended as chief guest
The briefing featured key insights from the bank鈥檚 global research team and presented a cautiously optimistic picture. Inflation has likely peaked, foreign exchange reserves have stabilised, the taka has regained some footing and exports are beginning to pick up, the bank鈥檚 research said. It also estimated that in the 2025-26 financial year, GDP growth will be at 5.0 per cent.
Naser Ezaz Bijoy, chief executive officer of Standard Chartered Bangladesh, said, 鈥楢lthough short-term indicators point to a potential turning point, our confidence is rooted in the strength of long-term fundamentals. We believe the current stabilisation presents an opportunity for sustained growth 鈥� but achieving this will depend on coordinated policy measures, ongoing external support and structural reforms to revitalise growth drivers amid persistent global geopolitical uncertainties.鈥�
Lutfey Siddiqi said, 鈥業n today鈥檚 volatile global environment, it is critical that we embed sound risk management practices to manage foreign exchange and interest rate uncertainties. The government remains fully committed to reform efforts aimed at improving the ease of doing business and attracting foreign direct investment.鈥�
The research also highlighted key structural challenges that require sustained attention. Private sector credit growth has moderated, and non-performing assets remain elevated. While external debt repayments remain manageable, caution is needed, particularly as revenue growth show signs of slowing. Fiscal consolidation and policy reforms 鈥� particularly in areas of revenue mobilisation and subsidy rationalisation 鈥� will be essential for unlocking long-term growth.
Among others, Standard Chartered Economist Saurav Anand was present.