Bangladesh Bank has allowed banks to renew continuous loans even after the stipulated tenure expires, provided the loan has not yet been classified as a default.

In a circular issued yesterday (2 March), the central bank directed all scheduled banks to implement the decision immediately. The facility will remain effective until 31 December 2027.

Under the new directive, if renewal of a continuous loan is not completed within the existing tenure, it may still be renewed until the loan becomes non-performing.

However, if it is classified as a default loan, renewal will no longer be permitted until the outstanding amount is adjusted.

Bankers said the move would ease pressure on both banks and clients during the current economic situation.

They noted that delays and procedural complexities in renewing short-term loans, particularly in the import-export and trade sectors, would be reduced.

A senior Bangladesh Bank official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told The Business Standard there is a risk of creating a culture where continuous loans are kept regular without actual repayment, which could pose long-term challenges for the banking sector.

The official said that in the case of large credit limits, businesses are expected to withdraw and repay funds within the approved limit and adjust the entire loan at the end of the year or keep the account within the stipulated conditions.

"According to the new circular, Bangladesh Bank has given them an extra three months; however, strict monitoring must be maintained to ensure proper implementation," the official said.

The circular also stated that the renewal process, including receipt of applications and preparation of documents, must begin at least two months before the loan tenure expires.

If renewal cannot be completed on time due to reasons beyond control, it may be finalised before the loan is classified as default, provided the cause of the delay is documented in writing.

It further said that any over-limit portion of a loan may be adjusted and renewed. However, such over-limit amounts cannot be shown as a separate new loan or transferred to another account.

Previously, continuous loans, which usually have a one-year tenure, had to be renewed within that period.

If the borrower failed to complete the renewal on time, the entire outstanding amount, including principal and interest, had to be repaid before a fresh process could begin.

Under the new rules, borrowers will get an additional three months after the expiry of the original tenure. If the outstanding interest is paid within this extended period, the loan can be renewed without being classified as default.

If the interest remains unpaid beyond that time, the loan will be treated as non-performing and cannot be renewed until the full outstanding amount is settled.

Gold prices have increased again in the country, with the rate of 22-carat gold rising by Tk3,324 per bhori (11.664 grams), the Bangladesh Jewellers Association (Bajus) said today (3 March).

Following the latest adjustment, the price of 22-carat gold has been fixed at Tk2,77,428 per bhori, according to a notification issued by Bajus.

Bajus said the new rate had been determined in view of an increase in the price of pure gold (tejabi gold) in the local market and the overall market situation.

Under the revised pricing structure, 21-carat gold will cost Tk2,64,773 per bhori, while 18-carat gold has been set at Tk2,26,981 per bhori.

The price of gold produced under the traditional method has been fixed at Tk1,85,749 per bhori.

The last adjustment had come yesterday, when Bajus raised the price of 22-carat gold by Tk5,424 per bhori to Tk2,74,104.

So far in 2026, gold prices have been adjusted 36 times in the domestic market, raised on 24 occasions and reduced 12 times.

Despite the hike in gold prices, silver rates remain unchanged.

Currently, 22-carat silver is being sold at Tk7,173 per bhori.

In 2026, silver prices have been adjusted 21 times, with rates increased 14 times and reduced seven times.

Bangladesh's power plants and factories risk fuel shortages within days after QatarEnergy invoked force majeure on its long-term LNG contract, forcing Petrobangla to scramble for costly spot cargoes in an increasingly strained global market.

QatarEnergy, the world's largest LNG producer and Bangladesh's biggest supplier, halted production following an Iranian attack earlier this week. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has instructed authorities to urgently procure LNG from the spot market to avert a nationwide energy crisis.

Officials at the Energy and Mineral Resources Division confirmed that at least four spot cargoes are being sought for delivery in March.

QatarEnergy's Force Majeure notice

On 2 March, QatarEnergy formally notified Petrobangla of a "potential event of Force Majeure" under Clause 17 of their agreement, citing "recent hostilities in the region." Petrobangla Chairman Md Arfanul Hoque acknowledged receipt of the letter and said contingency measures are already underway.

Under the contract, QatarEnergy was scheduled to deliver 40 of Bangladesh's 115 planned LNG cargoes this year. With supplies now uncertain, Petrobangla fears a sweeping gas shortage that could disrupt power generation, industrial output, exports, and daily life.

Other long-term suppliers including QatarEnergy Trading LLC, OQ Trading Ltd, and Excelerate Gas Marketing Limited may also face disruptions due to their reliance on Qatari supply, though trading firms could have limited flexibility to source alternatives.

A force majeure clause excuses liability for non-performance during certain unforeseeable, uncontrollable, and exceptional events like natural disasters, wars, or pandemics.

QatarEnergy supplies around 20% of the world's seaborne LNG.

Scramble for alternatives

Policymakers warn that if such a major supplier dries up, securing cargoes from elsewhere will become increasingly difficult due to tightening global supply.

The QatarEnergy letter states, "While the Seller is still assessing the situation, it considers it important to inform the Buyer that these circumstances may prevent it from performing its delivery obligations under the Agreement."

It added, "We will keep you updated as the situation evolves and provide further information when it becomes available."

Immediately after receiving the notice, Petrobangla wrote back to QatarEnergy seeking clarification on whether deliveries would continue, as the letter used the phrase "may prevent" – leaving room for uncertainty.
PM directs LNG procurement from spot market amid Mideast crisis

Even before the production halt, LNG supply had been under pressure following Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route.

According to the latest Petrobangla data, seven LNG cargoes are scheduled to arrive in March – six from QatarEnergy via the Strait of Hormuz and one from Angola.

Petrobangla has already secured four cargoes from QatarEnergy, while two remain uncertain.

"We wrote to QatarEnergy to confirm whether they would be able to supply or not by today (3 March)," Arfanul said.

Contingency plan activated

Amid uncertainty over long-term supplies, Petrobangla has activated contingency plans and on Monday called for quotations from enlisted suppliers for delivery windows on 15 and 18 March. These two windows were originally scheduled for QatarEnergy cargoes, which are now in question following the force majeure declaration.

Petrobangla has also reached out to other suppliers to confirm whether they can honour their contractual commitments, given their exposure to Qatari supply, the chairman added.

How Petrobangla plans to offset supply cut

With the oil and gas supply chain already fragile amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, concerns are deepening. US President Donald Trump has signalled that the war could drag on for another four to five weeks — a statement that sent shockwaves through global energy markets as oil and gas prices climbed.

Meanwhile, Iran's complete blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has left ships stranded, further complicating logistics.

Officials from the Energy Division and Petrobangla said that if hostilities persist and shipping through the Strait remains blocked, Bangladesh will have little choice but to turn to the spot market.

"We got the green light from the government to search for alternative sources like the spot market," Arfanul said. "But availability has become a major challenge following the production halt by a global giant like QatarEnergy."

Despite soaring prices, the Energy Division has instructed Petrobangla to secure spot cargoes as quickly as possible to fill the vacuum created by disrupted long-term supplies.

Before the escalation, spot LNG was trading below $9 per MMBtu. On Monday, the Asian spot LNG benchmark – the Japan-Korea Marker (JKM) – surged to $13.365 per MMBtu.

If prices rise further, the burden on Bangladesh's energy import bill will aggravate.

Asked how Petrobangla would navigate prolonged high prices, the chairman struck a cautiously hopeful tone: "I hope the war will not last for months," he said. "To keep supply afloat, we have to bring LNG from the spot market. Otherwise, we will have no option but to cut supply to all sectors."

April supply also in question

Policymakers are now sounding alarm bells over April as well, fearing that the crisis may spill into the following month.

Officials say the supply chain has become increasingly fragile due to the complex geopolitical situation and the knock-on impact on QatarEnergy's output.

The Petrobangla chairman said the company has already reached out to all April suppliers seeking clarity.

"We have written to our April suppliers asking them to make their position clear regarding supply next month. They have been given time until 10 April to confirm," he said.

The chairman added that Petrobangla's next course of action will depend on their responses. "Based on their reply, we will decide our next steps, including securing additional LNG from the spot market, if necessary."

With uncertainty now stretching beyond March, energy officials fear that without timely confirmations, Bangladesh may have to rely even more heavily on high-priced spot cargoes to keep gas supply flowing.

Concerns over meeting electricity demand during Ramadan, as well as the upcoming summer and irrigation season, have intensified after two major coal-fired power plants reported fund shortages for coal imports due to unpaid subsidy arrears of Tk4,726.37 crore.

The Power Division yesterday wrote to the finance ministry warning that unless outstanding subsidy payments are released, the two largest coal-fired plants – Rampal's Maitree Super Thermal Power Plant and the Payra Power Plant – will be unable to import fuel and generate electricity.

The two plants together supply 2,400 megawatts of base-load power to the national grid. Subsidy payments have remained pending since August last year.

In the letter to Finance Secretary Dr Md Khairuzzaman Mozumder, the Power Division said that unless outstanding dues are released quickly, it will not be possible to ensure the additional electricity generation needed to meet demand during Ramadan, the irrigation season and the summer months.

"This could lead to load-shedding of 2,000–2,500 megawatts nationwide. As a result, irrigation activities will be disrupted, and public dissatisfaction may grow due to power cuts," the Power Division warned.

The developments come in the wake of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the Iran war, and Qatar – Bangladesh's main LNG supplier – announcing the shutdown of its plants.

Pending subsidy funds

The Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) has requested the finance secretary to release the pending subsidy funds in line with previous practice to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during the ongoing Ramadan, irrigation season and the upcoming summer.

Subsidy payments to the 1,320MW Rampal Power Plant and the 1,320MW Payra Power Plant – both established during the Awami League government – have been suspended since August last year, as their tariff rates have not been approved by the Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase.

Although the government has held discussions with the two companies to revise the tariff rates, BPDB has been unable to place the proposal before the purchase committee due to pending clearance from foreign lenders.

The letter, signed by Deputy Secretary Mohammad Solaiman of the Power Division, further stated that timely payment to the plants is essential to ensure uninterrupted supply during Ramadan, the irrigation season and the forthcoming summer.

According to BPDB data, approximately Tk700-800 crore in subsidies is required each month for the Rampal and Payra plants. From August 2025 to January this year, subsidy arrears for the two coal-fired plants have accumulated to Tk4,726.37 crore. Due to the delay in fund disbursement, bills of several power plants cannot be paid on time.

"Since foreign loans are involved in the two plants, clearance from the respective lenders is required for tariff revision. As such clearance has not yet been obtained, the revised tariff rate could not be placed before the Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase for approval," the letter said.

"However, discussions with lenders are ongoing, and the tariff review will be completed as soon as possible so that the revised proposal can be sent to the purchase committee," the Power Division added.

In the wake of the conflict across the Middle East following attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has directed authorities concerned to procure the necessary liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the spot market.

As per the PM's instructions, the Energy and Mineral Resources Division has taken the initiative to purchase at least four LNG cargoes from the spot market during March, sources in the division told The Business Standard today (3 March).

According to the sources, amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East, the Energy and Mineral Resources Division briefed the PM today regarding the overall energy situation in both the public and private sectors.

He was informed that due to the suspension of vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz and the halt in production by QatarEnergy, there is a risk that Bangladesh may not receive LNG under its long-term contract with Qatar.

However, Oman has confirmed the delivery of two LNG cargoes under the long-term agreement this month and has also pledged to provide an additional two cargoes. Still, a minimum of eight cargoes are required for the entire month.

A senior official of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, speaking on condition of anonymity, told TBS, "The prime minister has instructed that the necessary LNG be imported from the spot market. He has also directed Bangladesh Bank to remain prepared to make immediate payments for fuel imports."

"Additionally, Bangladesh Bank has been instructed to ensure the supply of required foreign currency for private-sector LPG imports," he said.

The official added that Petrobangla today invited tenders to import two LNG cargoes from the spot market, while tenders for the remaining two cargoes will be floated later.

Notably, the government had not planned to purchase LNG from the spot market this month, he said.

The government currently supplies between 2,600 and 2,900 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) of gas daily, of which 900 to 980 mmcfd comes from imported LNG.

To meet this demand, Bangladesh imports 110 to 115 LNG cargoes annually. Of these, 60 to 70 cargoes are imported under long-term agreements with Qatar and Oman, while the rest are procured from the spot market.

According to Petrobangla data, 2,662 mmcfd of gas was supplied today, including 952 mmcfd from imported LNG.

The official further said that Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) currently has 200,000 tonnes of diesel in stock, sufficient for 14 days.

"Discussions are underway with several alternative countries to import refined fuel oil, particularly Malaysia, China and Saudi Arabia," he said.

The government has also contacted India to ensure the continuation of refined fuel oil supplies. Talks have been held with Saudi Aramco, which has assured that it will supply fuel oil from its sources outside Saudi Arabia.

According to Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) sources, as of today, the country has 201,610 tonnes of diesel, 21,705 tonnes of petrol and 34,133 tonnes of octane in stock.

Padma Oil has jet fuel reserves sufficient for 20 days' demand. As flight operations have decreased, jet fuel demand is currently lower.

Energy and Mineral Resources Division sources said private-sector importers have informed the division that letters of credit opened in February are expected to bring in 194,000 tonnes of LPG throughout March.

However, due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, some LPG shipments may not arrive on time.

In response, the private sector has been advised to plan for LPG imports from alternative sources.

Business leaders have warned that unless existing public and private sector barriers to investment and exports are removed, Bangladesh will not be able to fully utilise the opportunities created by the recently signed Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with Japan. Otherwise, they said, the agreement risks remaining only on paper.

They made the remarks at a seminar titled "Export Potential Under Bangladesh-Japan EPA: Challenges and Way Forward" organised by the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) yesterday (3 March).

Dr AKM Asaduzzaman Patwary, secretary general of the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), said a study by the Japan External Trade Organization (Jetro) found that Japanese investors feel there is scope for reinvestment in Bangladesh.

"Despite that, investment has not increased significantly. Last year, only $40 million in investment came," he said.

He added, "We do not want to be complacent about the EPA. We need to identify the roadblocks and take initiatives to resolve them. If these issues are not addressed, the potential of the EPA will remain only on paper."

Mohammad Hasan Arif, vice chairman of EPB, moderated the seminar, which was attended by business leaders and experts from both countries.

Other business representatives highlighted existing challenges to expanding trade with Japan and urged prompt solutions.

Speaking to The Business Standard after the event, Dr Patwary said, "NBR- and customs-related issues, policy inconsistency and bureaucratic complexities are major obstacles to increasing Japanese investment in Bangladesh."

Maintaining product quality in line with Japanese standards is also a key challenge for exporters, speakers noted.

Other speakers echoed the importance of meeting Japanese quality standards. They said Japan offers significant export potential, but without focusing on quality, that potential cannot be realised.

Bangladesh signed the EPA with Japan on 6 February, under which around 7,379 Bangladeshi products will enjoy duty-free access to the Japanese market, while more than 1,000 Japanese products will receive duty-free access to Bangladesh in phases.

Kanchan Miah, managing director of Arot Agro, said his company exports vegetables from Bangladesh to Japan. However, due to the suspension of the direct Dhaka-Narita flight, they are facing difficulties.

He said they used to export about one tonne of vegetables per flight. They have also received orders to export mangoes, and there is potential to export carrots. But with the direct flight suspended, shipping via alternative routes is increasing costs.

He urged the government to take measures to resume the direct flight.

Business leaders also identified language barriers, technological gaps and compliance requirements as major challenges in expanding exports to Japan.

Japan is a significant market for Bangladesh's ready-made garments (RMG). Asif Ashraf, managing director of Urmi Group, a leading RMG exporter to Japan, said, "In Japan's $23 billion apparel market, we are capturing only a very small share. While there is strong demand for man-made fibre garments, we remain stronger in cotton-based products."

He said exporters must have patience to succeed in the Japanese market. "Once trust is established, they will place orders here even if prices are higher."

Tareq Rafi Bhuiyan, president of the Japan-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Hajime Suzuki, executive officer of RX Japan Ltd, presented keynote speeches.

Hajime Suzuki, executive officer (Global Relations) of RX Japan, a major Japanese trade show and exhibition organiser, advised Bangladeshi exporters to adopt a three-year strategy to expand exports to Japan.

British American Tobacco Bangladesh has recommended a 30% cash dividend for 2025, sharply lower than the 300% cash dividend it distributed in 2024.

Following the disclosure, the company's share price fell by 8.94% to Tk242.30 today (3 March) at the Dhaka Stock Exchange.

The company also reported a loss of Tk136 crore in the October–December quarter of 2025, reflecting a sharp deterioration in earnings amid declining cigarette sales and higher operating costs.

In a statement, the company reported a 67% decline in earnings per share (EPS) for the year ended 31 December 2025, as profit came under significant pressure. The significant drop was mainly due to lower turnover and increased operating expenses. Costs rose as a result of inflationary pressures and higher levels of activity in certain parts of the business.

Net operating cash flow fell by 81% compared to the previous year. The decline was largely driven by lower profit and higher cash outflows following an increase in excise duty, although some of the impact was offset by other factors.

In July 2025, the company ceased operations at its Dhaka factory and relocated the plant, machinery, and cigarette manufacturing equipment to its Savar facility. The compulsory site closure, coupled with relocation and restructuring costs, resulted in a one-off negative impact of Tk715 crore on operating profit compared to the previous year.

According to the company's financial statements approved at a board meeting held yesterday (2 March), the multinational tobacco manufacturer posted a loss per share of Tk2.53 in the fourth quarter of 2025.

For the full year ended December 2025, earnings per share stood at Tk10.81, representing a 67% decline year-on-year.

The company has scheduled its annual general meeting for 30 April to seek shareholder approval for the audited financial statements and the proposed dividend. The record date has been fixed for 1 April.

In its price-sensitive disclosure, the company did not offer detailed explanations for the sharp drop in profit and dividend payout in 2025. However, earlier disclosures indicated that business performance came under strain following the closure of its Mohakhali factory on 1 July 2025.

The Dhaka stock market suffered its sharpest single-day decline in six years today as escalating tensions in the Middle East rattled global energy markets, raising fears of higher import costs, inflation and broader economic disruption in Bangladesh.

The benchmark Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) DSEX index plunged 208 points, or 3.77%, to close at 5,325 the biggest one-day drop since 9 March 2020, when the index fell 279 points following the outbreak of Covid-19.

The blue-chip DS30 index also slumped 85 points, or 4.01%, to settle at 2,050.

Market breadth remained sharply negative, with 349 issues declining against only 31 advancing, while 11 remained unchanged.

Turnover, however, rose 13% to Tk885 crore, signalling heavy selling as investors rushed to offload holdings. The bourse's market capitalisation shrank by Tk12,800 crore in a single session.

The selloff came as global markets reeled from widening conflict in the Middle East following US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

The escalation drove up global oil and gas prices, intensifying concerns over energy supply disruptions and their potential impact on import-dependent economies such as Bangladesh.

Moniruzzaman, managing director of Prime Bank Securities, told The Business Standard that the geopolitical conflict has already pushed up global gas and oil prices, raising fears that Bangladesh's import bill could increase significantly.

He warned that any disruption in fuel imports could hamper power generation and industrial output, particularly as the country approaches peak summer demand. A slowdown in industrial activity, combined with higher energy costs, could further exacerbate inflationary pressures.

Against such uncertainty, investors opted for caution, triggering widespread selling across sectors.

He added that trading is likely to remain volatile in the coming sessions, depending on developments in the Middle East and trends in global energy markets.

According to EBL Securities, the market's brief recovery in the previous session was abruptly reversed as panic-driven selloffs swept across the trading floor. Investors were rattled by mounting concerns over the macroeconomic repercussions of prolonged Middle East tensions, particularly the risks of fuel and power supply disruptions in Bangladesh.

Speculation over a possible transition in regulatory leadership further added to the cautious mood, accelerating the market's free-fall, it said.

The turmoil was not confined to Bangladesh. A global equity selloff intensified as surging energy prices raised alarms about the broader economic outlook. Europe's benchmark STOXX 600 index fell 2.7% in early trading, following a 1.7% drop a day earlier.

In Asia, markets in South Korea, Japan, India, China and Vietnam also recorded steep losses, according to international media reports.

Energy markets experienced dramatic swings. Benchmark Asian LNG prices surged nearly 40% on Monday, while European wholesale gas prices jumped between 35% and 40%.

US natural gas futures climbed almost 6%. The spike followed reports that Qatar had halted liquefied natural gas production, prompting precautionary shutdowns of oil and gas facilities across the region. Qatari LNG accounts for roughly one-fifth of global supply.

Bangladesh, which relies heavily on imported fuel, is particularly exposed to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Industry officials compared the situation to the aftermath of Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, when LNG prices spiked sharply and supply constraints led to prolonged power outages.

Government officials and company executives said they do not expect an immediate supply shock but acknowledged that sustained price increases would strain the economy.

"The real question is where prices will go," one executive said. "Prices could rise manyfold, and frankly, we simply cannot afford that."

Oil prices surged on Monday (2 March) and shares slid as military conflict in the Middle East looked set to last weeks, sending investors flocking to the relative safety of the dollar and gold.

Brent jumped 4.5% to $76.07 a barrel, though it had briefly topped $82.00 at one stage, while US crude climbed 3.9% to $69.59 per barrel. Gold rose 1.0% to $5,327 an ounce.

Military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran showed no sign of lessening, while Iran responded with missile barrages across the region, risking dragging its neighbours into the conflict.

President Donald Trump suggested to the Daily Mail the conflict could last for four more weeks, while posting that attacks would continue until US objectives were met.

All eyes were on the Strait of Hormuz, where around a fifth of the world's seaborne oil trade flows and 20% of its liquefied natural gas. While the vital waterway has not yet been blocked, marine tracking sites showed tankers piling up on either side of the strait wary of attack or maybe unable to get insurance for the voyage.

"The most immediate and tangible development affecting oil markets is the effective halt of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, preventing 15 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil from reaching markets," said Jorge Leon, head of geopolitical analysis at Rystad Energy.

"Unless de-escalation signals emerge swiftly, we expect a significant upward repricing of oil."

A prolonged spike in oil prices would risk reigniting inflationary pressures globally, while also acting as a tax on business and consumers that could dampen demand.

OPEC+ did agree on a modest oil output boost of 206,000 barrels per day for April on Sunday, but a lot of that product still has to get out of the Middle East by tanker.

"The nearest historical analogue in our view is the Middle East oil embargo of the 1970s, which increased oil prices by 300% to around $12/bbl in 1974," said Alan Gelder, SVP of refining, chemicals and oil markets at Wood Mackenzie.

"That is only US$90/bbl in 2026 terms. Eclipsing this in today's market concerned about significant losses of supply seems very achievable."

That would be expensive for Japan, which imports all its oil, sending the Nikkei down 1.4%, with airlines among the hardest hit. Chinese blue-chips went their own way and held steady.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan fell 1.2%.

And it's a big US data week

In the Middle East, the UAE and Kuwait temporarily closed their stock markets citing "exceptional circumstances".

For Europe, EUROSTOXX 50 futures shed 1.4% and DAX futures slid 1.3%. On Wall Street, S&P 500 futures and Nasdaq futures both lost 0.6%.

The oil shock rippled through currency markets with the dollar a main beneficiary. The US is a net energy exporter and Treasuries are still considered a liquid haven in times of stress, shoving the euro down 0.2% to $1.1788.

While the Japanese yen is often a safe harbour, the country imports all of its oil making the flows more two-way. The dollar added 0.1% to 156.25 yen, while gaining on the Australian dollar, which is often sold as a liquid proxy for global risk.

In bond markets, 10-year Treasury yields steadied at 3.970%, having briefly touched an 11-month low of 3.926%.

Bonds had gained a bid on Friday when UK mortgage lender MFS was placed into administration following allegations of financial irregularities. Its collapse stoked wider credit fears, with well-known big banks among its lenders. MFS had borrowed 2 billion pounds ($2.69 billion).

The news slugged banking stocks and combined with jitters over AI-related stocks to hit Wall Street more broadly.

Investors also have to weather a squall of US economic data this week, including the ISM survey of manufacturing, retail sales and the always vital payrolls report.

Any weakness could shake confidence in the economy after a disappointing fourth quarter, but would also likely narrow the odds on rate cuts from the Federal Reserve.

Markets currently imply a 50% chance of an easing in June and about 60 basis points of cuts this year.

Global oil and gas shipping rates soared, with supertanker costs in the Middle East hitting all-time highs, as the US-Iran conflict intensified after Tehran targeted ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, according to shipping data and industry sources on Tuesday.

Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz between Iran and Oman, which carries around one-fifth of oil consumed globally as well as large quantities of liquefied natural gas, has ground to a near halt after vessels in the area were hit as Iran retaliated to US and Israeli strikes.

The disruption and fears of prolonged closure have caused oil and European natural gas prices to jump, with Brent crude futures up nearly 10% this week as the conflict triggered multiple oil and gas shutdowns in the Middle East.

The benchmark freight rate for the very large crude carriers (VLCCs) used to ship 2 million barrels of oil from the Middle East to China, also known as TD3, rose to an all-time high of W419 on the Worldscale industry measure used to calculate freight rates, on Monday, or $423,736 per day, LSEG data showed.

The rate doubled from Friday, extending gains from a six-year high last week, after the US and Israel attacked Iran and killed its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei on Saturday.

In retaliation, Iran has struck Gulf countries, prompting precautionary shutdowns at oil and gas facilities across the Middle East.

An Iranian Revolutionary Guards senior official said on Monday that the Strait of Hormuz is closed and Iran will fire on any ship trying to pass, Iranian media reported.

The US military's Central Command said the Strait is not closed despite the Iranian statements, Fox News reported.

LNG shipping rates jump

Still, daily freight rates for LNG tankers jumped more than 40% on Monday after Qatar halted its production.

Atlantic rates rose to $61,500 per day on Monday, up 43%, or $18,750, from Friday, according to Spark Commodities, a pricing assessment agency for LNG shipping. Pacific rates rose to $41,000 per day, up 45%, or $12,750, from Friday.

Fraser Carson, principal analyst for global LNG at energy consultancy Wood Mackenzie, said spot daily LNG shipping rates could rise above $100,000 this week on tight supply.

"Vessel availability for the rest of March is considered weak as cargo operators try to work through the backlog created by weather disruptions during February," he said.

"There will be very strong competition for any available vessels," he added.

Until safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz can be assured, shipping will remain idle, Carson said.

An oil shipbroker who declined to be named due to company policy said it is very difficult to assess shipping rates in the Gulf as several shipowners have suspended operations indefinitely.

South Korean shipping firm Hyundai Glovis said on Tuesday it is preparing contingency plans including securing alternative routes and ports in response to the Middle East conflict.

South Korea's maritime ministry has issued a notice to South Korean shippers with vessels sailing in the Middle East, asking them to refrain from business operations in the region, an official told Reuters on Tuesday.

The ministry is holding a meeting to discuss further safety measures following Iran's threat to attack any ship passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the official added.

Bangladesh will face higher import and export costs if the US and Israel’s war against Iran prolongs, as shipping and airfreight charges have already started to rise, and cargo is being diverted along longer shipping and air routes.

Industry insiders say importing raw materials such as cotton and other factory inputs from the US and Europe might become more expensive, possibly driving up production costs at local mills and factories.

Since the war began on Saturday, at least six international airlines, including Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Air Arabia, have suspended cargo operations from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), according to Kabir Ahmed, former president of the Bangladesh Freight Forwarders Association.

He said airlines that are still flying from Dhaka are carrying limited cargo, leaving more than 1,200 tonnes, particularly garments, stranded at the airport.

According to Ahmed, exporters may have to reroute shipments via China, Malaysia, and Hong Kong to reach Europe and the US, which is likely to increase costs.

Bangladesh usually uses Colombo, Singapore, and Port Klang in Malaysia as feeder ports. Smaller vessels carry cargoes from Chattogram to those seaports and feed large mother vessels. Most cargo then travels to Europe and the US via the Suez Canal or around the Cape of Good Hope.

Two years ago, shipping companies reduced Suez Canal use after Houthi attacks following Israel’s Gaza offensive. Vessels taking the Cape of Good Hope must travel nearly 5,000 kilometres further and burn more fuel, prompting higher freight charges.

“This time too, shipping companies have begun raising rates. International buyers may pass these costs onto local suppliers through discounts or cost-sharing requests,” said Ahmed.

He added that exports and imports are unlikely to face a full stoppage, though transportation costs will rise.

A more serious concern is energy supply.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have declared the Strait of Hormuz closed and vowed to fire on any ship attempting to pass, threatening a critical maritime artery through which about one‑fifth of the world’s oil flows.

Reports say around 150 vessels were stranded near the strait yesterday, and at least four tankers had been damaged, as insurers cancel war risk cover for Gulf transits.

About 90 percent of Bangladesh’s imported oil passes through this strait.

The closure has already contributed to a double-digit rise in global oil prices, and government agencies are evaluating alternative energy sources amid concern about fuel supply and inflationary pressures.

Mahmud Hasan Khan, president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), said Bangladesh’s trade flow may manage to keep moving thanks to alternative channels and continued Suez Canal access.

“But freight costs will rise as shipping lines increase vessel fares. Rising liquefied natural gas prices will also push up production costs,” he added.

Meanwhile, Masrur Reaz, chairman of Policy Exchange, said insurance premiums have already increased, and rerouted freight is likely to push up the cost of international trade.

Abdullah Al Mamun, spokesperson for the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), said supply chain disruptions during conflict inevitably raise business costs, though alternative sourcing from Asian markets such as China and India can reduce risks.

Taslim Shahriar, deputy general manager of Meghna Group of Industries, said freight rates and global edible oil prices have already been affected.

“Freight for palm oil imports from Malaysia and Indonesia has risen by $8 to $10 per tonne. Soybean oil prices have increased by $30 to $40 per tonne, while palm oil is up $10 to $20 per tonne since the escalation,” he said.

Biswajit Saha, director of corporate and regulatory affairs at City Group, added that prolonged closure of the Hormuz Strait could cause problems, but short-term disruptions of a week or ten days are unlikely to create major difficulties.

Mohammed Monsur, general secretary of the Bangladesh Fruits, Vegetables and Allied Products Exporters Association, said regional instability is a concern ahead of the summer season, when Bangladesh’s vegetable exports to the Middle East can quadruple.

Anup Kumar Saha, executive director of Akij Insaf Group, said the country currently holds sufficient wheat stock to meet domestic demand for at least two months, providing some short-term relief.

While it’s tempting to assume the dollar’s long-lost “safety” bid has returned since the weekend Iran attacks, it’s not as clear-cut as it seems and owes more to relative energy plays. Yet the implications of the market response may be just as powerful.

Ever since Donald Trump’s return to the White House last year, the dollar has waned even during periods of market anxiety and volatility, due in ​large part to US economic policy uncertainty and both domestic and geopolitical upheaval.

Reversing years of dollar over-valuation is a key tenet of the Trump administration’s economic plan. But the greenback’s diminished haven role in times of ‌global political or financial stress suggests foreign investors - already up to their eyeballs in US assets - have changed their behaviour.

So it was remarkable that the dollar jumped across the board after last weekend’s extraordinary bombing campaign by US and Israeli forces against Iranian targets, including the assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the wave of regional violence that’s followed.

The crux of the move hinged more on the inevitable energy price dynamics rather than any dash for dollars per se. In fact, it was more a default move out of the currencies of economies ​worst hit by an outsized and protracted energy price squeeze.

DOLLARS BY DEFAULT

With the US now a net exporter of total petroleum and energy products in general, the initial 10 percent surge in world oil prices on Monday hurt other ​major currencies much more due to fears of a major demand hit if the supply hiatus persists for several weeks or even months.

That’s why other traditional havens such as Japan’s yen , caught no safety bid this time around and plunged over 1 percent against the dollar on Monday given Japan’s big energy import bill and the fact that about a third of its energy imports comes through the Strait ​of Hormuz.

China too is a big consumer of oil now stuck in those contentious waterways, particularly deeply discounted Iranian crude that’s sanctioned in the West and now also in limbo. The recently high-flying yuan turned tail on Monday and dropped 0.8 percent as the ​situation unfolded.

“This isn’t a friendly outcome for the Northern Asian currencies,” said Societe Generale currency strategist Kit Juckes, adding that the most important indication from Trump so far has been that the US action will take weeks, not days.

For Europe, the calculation is compounded by its exposure to natural gas after the shipping attacks effectively closed the Hormuz route, a conduit for 20 percent of worldwide liquefied natural gas shipments and up to 30 percent of crude oil.

Benchmark European gas prices surged by almost 50 percent at one point on Monday to their highest in more than ​a year, closing up 35 percent and prompting the European Union’s gas supply group to schedule an emergency meeting for Wednesday.

A line chart of the price of the European gas benchmark contract in euros per megawatt hours (MWh) since October 1, showing increasing volatility since January.

A line chart of the price of the European gas benchmark contract in euros per megawatt hours (MWh) since October 1, showing increasing volatility since January.

The US supplied 58 percent of the European Union’s LNG last year. Qatar, which accounted for 6 percent of the bloc’s imports, shut down its ​production plants on Monday after attacks from Iran.

The euro fell 1 percent against the dollar to its lowest in more than a month.

The Swiss franc’s long-standing and often unwelcome haven status remains in play - but it’s complicated by the Swiss National Bank’s battle against deflation ‌and its restated commitment to intervene to sell francs to cap the unit.

READY RECKONERS?

As to the overall economic hit from an oil spike worldwide, Barclays economists assume every sustained $10 per barrel rise in crude prices takes up to 0.2 percentage point off global growth. And if a wave of forecasts of $100-plus per barrel were to prove accurate, then that could well bite.

As it stands, however, Monday’s net Brent crude price rise of $5 to $77 per barrel will be a much more modest blow - and the moves so far would barely have any significant demand impacts on the US itself.

Calculations then turn to whether oil price pressure becomes an economic depressant or inflation aggravator. With US core inflation running above 3 percent, ​that could argue for more focus on the latter and ​for keeping US interest rates high through the year - another support for the dollar.

But, as so often with Middle East conflicts, the initial ready-reckoners on global economic hits all hinge on duration of conflict and the energy supply disruption.

Trump has indicated the military campaign will run for four or five weeks and, likely riffing off that, prediction markets such as Polymarket see a 63 percent chance Trump will ​call a halt by the end of this month.

And yet most of the thinking on currency reactions is not strictly calculations of dollar hoarding or cross-border dash ​for safety - rather they seem ⁠just like relative economic assessments emanating from energy exposure.

But for all that, it can have a powerful and looping effect.

Barclays’ rule of thumb for the dollar, for example, is that it gains between 0.5 percent and 1.0 percent for every $10 increase in oil.

If dollar‑denominated energy prices rise and stay high, pushing the exchange rate up with them, that would both worsen the energy shock for overseas economies and drive the dollar even higher in a self‑reinforcing loop.

No one would want that scenario - least of ⁠all Washington.

Bangladesh's garment exporters' body has instructed its members to suspend new business dealings with an Indian company linked to the Aditya Birla Group after it allegedly failed to clear export dues of $426,830 owed to a Bangladeshi manufacturer.

In a letter to members last month, the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) said no new transactions should be undertaken with Styleverse Lifestyle Pvt Ltd and its related entities until the outstanding payment to Ducati Apparels Ltd is settled.

It also warned that no UD or UP certificates should be issued in favour of the company without prior approval from the association.
According to BGMEA sources, Styleverse Lifestyle Pvt Ltd is a sister concern of the Aditya Birla Group, with the Indian conglomerate holding a 51% stake in the company.

Md Khayer Mia, managing director of Ducati Apparels Ltd, told The Business Standard that the Indian buyer had been sourcing products from his company for about two and a half years, initially in small quantities.

In December 2024, Styleverse placed an order for 94,000 pieces of men's joggers and cargo trousers. The goods were manufactured accordingly, and a representative from Mumbai inspected and accepted the shipment. The products were then exported to India through the Benapole-Petrapole land port.

"According to the agreement, acceptance was supposed to be given within five working days after customs clearance, but they did not provide it," Khayer said.

He added that when contacted, the company later raised complaints about product quality. "I offered to visit India and conduct a quality check, but they did not agree."

Styleverse then proposed selling the goods to another customer. "Based on that [proposal], I arranged for resale, but they did not release the products, citing issues related to their brand tags," he said. "Eventually, I decided to take back the goods, but when the company failed to return them, I filed a complaint with the BGMEA after returning to Bangladesh."

"I did so because if the export proceeds do not come into the country, I could face allegations of money laundering, and it may also lead to a violation of the conditions of my bonded licence," he added.

Arbitration call ignored

Following this, the BGMEA sent letters to the company, as well as to the commerce and foreign ministries, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, and the Bangladesh High Commission in Delhi.

The association invited Styleverse to Dhaka for arbitration, but the company did not participate and instead sent a legal notice to BGMEA.

Later, the BGMEA issued a letter to all its member factories, instructing them to obtain approval from the association before entering into any new business agreements with the company.

In its letter to members, the garment exporters' body said it had also contacted The Indian Garage Co, Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd, and Grasim Industries Limited and their representatives, but no progress had been made. Despite repeated requests to join arbitration proceedings, the Indian buyer had not responded positively.

As a result, Ducati Apparels Ltd has fallen into financial difficulty, BGMEA said.

The association advised its members not to enter into fresh contracts with the company or its related entities. It warned that any member ignoring the directive would bear responsibility for potential complications.

Speaking to TBS on the issue, a senior official at the commerce ministry said they have written to concerned officials on the Indian side and were trying to resolve the dispute as soon as possible.

The Aditya Birla Group is one of India's largest multinational industrial groups, with operations spanning metals, cement, textiles, carbon black, financial services, and retail. Its fashion and retail business is managed by Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd, which markets several international and in-house clothing brands.

BGMEA said it was seeking cooperation from all concerned to ensure swift recovery of the outstanding dues, describing the matter as urgent.

Ducati Apparels is a concern of the Hyacinth Group and manufactures denim trousers, woven bottoms, and T-shirts for global brands.

Bangladesh has demonstrated notable resilience in navigating recent economic headwinds, with growth expected to strengthen gradually over the next few years, according to Frederic Neumann, chief Asia economist and co-head of Global Research Asia at HSBC Global Research.

Speaking at an event organised by the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited (HSBC) in Bangladesh on Monday, Neumann said the bank projects Bangladesh's gross domestic product (GDP) growth at 5.0 per cent in 2026, rising to 5.5 per cent in 2027.

Export value growth is forecast at 4.1 per cent for the 2026 calendar year, reflecting a moderate recovery amid a challenging global environment, he said.

The event, titled "Bangladesh and the World: Economic Prospects for 2026 and Beyond", brought together senior finance professionals, corporate leaders and policymakers to discuss global and regional economic trends and their implications for Bangladesh.

In his keynote address, delivered via Zoom, Neumann observed that Bangladesh has emerged with resilience from the shocks of recent years, including global inflationary pressures, tighter financial conditions and volatility in external demand.

He noted that remittance inflows continue to increase year on year, reflecting growing trust in formal transfer channels. Combined with easing inflation, these trends are expected to support private consumption, which remains a key driver of economic activity.

However, he cautioned that while domestic and foreign investment could pick up modestly following the recent general election, any meaningful acceleration would depend heavily on the new government's ability to restore and sustain investor confidence.

Strengthening law and order, ensuring policy predictability and maintaining macroeconomic stability would be critical in this regard, he said.

Looking ahead, Neumann highlighted Bangladesh's impending graduation from least developed country (LDC) status in November 2026 as a major milestone that also brings fresh challenges.

He stressed that the transition would require renewed efforts to enhance export competitiveness through expanded market access, improved governance and stronger infrastructure.

"LDC graduation underscores the urgency of reforms," he said, adding that Bangladesh would need to move swiftly to secure favourable trade arrangements and diversify its export base beyond traditional products.

He identified a slowdown in global consumer demand as the principal external risk facing the economy, noting that this has been partly driven by tariff measures imposed by the United States.

Such developments, he warned, could weigh on export-oriented sectors, particularly readymade garments.

Against this backdrop, Neumann emphasised the need for Bangladesh to accelerate trade negotiations with the European Union, its largest garment export market.

Ensuring continued preferential or near-preferential market access after LDC graduation would be crucial to sustaining export growth and employment, he said.

With the formation of a new government following what he described as a largely peaceful election, Neumann said the administration now holds a clear political mandate to pursue reforms and deliver the stability sought by citizens and investors alike.

"Facing an extensive reform agenda, the government must demonstrate its commitment to promises made and address the aspirations of the country's young generation," he remarked.

The keynote session was followed by an interactive question-and-answer segment, during which participants raised issues ranging from exchange rate management to investment climate reforms and global financial market trends.

At the event, Jignesh Ruparel, chief financial officer of HSBC Bangladesh, delivered a presentation outlining the HSBC Group's latest global financial results and its international capabilities.

He noted that the group's 161-year history is rooted in its founding mission to facilitate local and international trade.

With a presence in 56 countries and territories, including Bangladesh, HSBC continues to connect customers to opportunities worldwide, Ruparel said.

Kausar Alam, president of the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Bangladesh, described the CFO connect event as a timely initiative that offered valuable insights into Bangladesh's evolving macroeconomic landscape within a global context.

He said the economy holds significant latent potential, supported by favourable demographic trends and a resilient private sector.

He added that the private sector remains a key driver in Bangladesh's ambition to become a trillion-dollar economy by 2040, provided that structural bottlenecks are addressed and reforms are implemented effectively.

Speaking at the gathering, Md Mahbub ur Rahman, chief executive officer of HSBC Bangladesh, said the bank's strong performance in 2025 reflects the strength of its global network and the trust placed in it by clients.

As Bangladesh enters a pivotal phase of reform and growth, he said, HSBC's role is to connect local ambition with global opportunity.

Through initiatives such as CFO connect, Rahman added, the bank aims to provide a platform for senior finance professionals in Bangladesh to exchange insights, deepen engagement with global trends and strengthen their preparedness for an increasingly dynamic and uncertain economic environment.

The event was attended by chief financial officers, senior executives and stakeholders from both local and multinational companies operating in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh's export earnings remained in negative territory for the seventh consecutive month, as February shipments fell sharply due to weak global demand and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.

Exports in February fell sharply to $3.50 billion, down 20.81% from January and 12.03% year-on-year, according to data released by the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) today (2 March).

Total exports in the first eight months of FY26 (July-February) declined 3.15% year-on-year to $31.9 billion.

Ready-made garments (RMG), which account for over 80% of the country's export earnings, dropped 3.73% year-on-year to $25.80 billion during the period.
February alone saw RMG earnings fall 22.1% month-on-month and 13.21% year-on-year, reflecting weaker order flows and shipment volatility. Within the sector, knitwear exports fell 4.56%, while woven garments declined 2.79%.

Experts blame falling US imports on President Trump's tariffs, while aggressive Chinese and Indian exports are undercutting prices in Europe. Weak demand in several countries adds to the strain.

Export analysts warn that the recent US-Israel strikes on Iran and rising geopolitical uncertainties could prolong the export slowdown.

However, exporters also cited multiple challenges behind the contraction.

Inamul Haque Khan Bablu, senior vice president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), told The Business Standard, "Due to Trump's tariffs, US buyers have reduced clothing imports because of uncertainty. Meanwhile, China and India are selling products at lower prices in Europe and other markets, intensifying competition outside the US."

Bablu added that hopes of improvement after Bangladesh's elections have dimmed due to renewed geopolitical tensions, including joint strikes on Iran by the US and Israel.

Khondaker Golam Moazzem, research director of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), emphasised the need for long-term competitiveness. "Bangladesh must increase productivity, reduce interest rates, stabilise energy prices, and maintain competitive exchange rates to remain relevant in global trade," he said.

He also urged initiatives to boost exports in non-traditional markets but noted that current war-related uncertainties may continue to weigh on shipments.

Despite the overall slowdown, several non-garment sectors posted positive growth, signalling gradual export diversification.

According to EPB, Engineering products rose 23.42%, led by electrical products (25.91%) and bicycles (27.40%). Ores, slag and ash exports increased 45.40%, pharmaceuticals grew 6.32%, leather products excluding footwear rose 18.32%, and home textiles posted 2.67% growth. Exports of frozen and live fish edged up 3.62% year-on-year.

However, these gains were not large enough in value terms to offset the contraction in garments, leaving overall export growth in negative territory.

Bangladesh Bank (BB) Governor Mostaqur Rahman has directed officials to accelerate efforts to recover laundered assets and place the process under a fast-track mechanism.

The instruction was issued at a meeting held at the central bank yesterday, where the newly appointed governor met the consultant of the Stolen Asset Recovery Task Force, according to Arief Hossain Khan, executive director and spokesperson of BB.

The meeting discussed strengthening the recovery process and ensuring that efforts to retrieve stolen assets from abroad produce tangible results, Khan added.

During the discussion, the governor urged the relevant authorities to quickly take necessary steps to identify, trace and repatriate assets siphoned overseas. To prioritise this effort, Rahman ordered all recovery activities to be placed on a “fast-track” status.

The fast-track mandate aims to speed up the return of national wealth through a more coordinated and focused approach, the spokesperson said.

The initiative also seeks to improve ongoing recovery efforts to ensure they are effective and aligned with bringing laundered assets back to the country.

The governor issued the directive as part of the interim government’s continuing efforts to prioritise the recovery of stolen assets from abroad.

Earlier, the Muhammad Yunus-led government appointed the BB governor as chairman of the task force. Its members include representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Financial Institutions Division, Law and Justice Division, Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, and the Anti-Corruption Commission.

The task force also includes the Criminal Investigation Department of Bangladesh Police, the Attorney General’s Office, the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Directorate and the Central Intelligence Cell of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit.

It has taken steps to recover allegedly laundered money linked to 10 major business groups and family members of the ousted prime minister, Sheikh Hasina.

The groups are S Alam Group, Beximco Group, Summit Group, Bashundhara Group, Gemcon Group, Orion Group, Nabil Group, Nassa Group, Sikder Group and Aramit Group, which is owned by the family of former land minister Saifuzzaman Chowdhury.

In August last year, the NBR said it had identified assets worth nearly Tk 40,000 crore in five countries. Based on its internal estimates, the total amount involved, including tax and penalties, is about Tk 16,000 crore, according to the NBR.

India has expressed its willingness to work closely with the new government of Bangladesh to expand bilateral business, economic and investment ties.

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma made the comments after a meeting with Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir at his office in Dhaka yesterday.

Speaking to journalists, Verma said the meeting covered a broad range of issues, including the resumption of trade through land ports, transhipment, investment opportunities and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

He emphasised that the discussions were not limited to a single topic but spanned a wide range of sectors.

“The land ports are key to expanding trade between our countries,” Verma said, adding that several land ports have remained closed over the past year, except for Benapole.

He added that India is keen to engage closely with the new government of Bangladesh to strengthen trade, economic ties and people-focused cooperation.

“We aim to work together in a positive, constructive and forward-looking manner based on mutual interest and mutual benefit. We have a very strong trade, economic and business relationship between our two countries,” said the high commissioner.

Minister Muktadir also said the meeting addressed the suspension of trade through some land ports over the last 18 months and discussed ways to increase bilateral trade.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed several trade-related issues and explored a roadmap for future cooperation.

According to state-owned news agency Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), Muktadir described India as a major economic partner with a GDP exceeding $4 trillion.

He added that bilateral trade currently totals about $11 billion, with Bangladesh importing roughly $9.5 billion and exporting $1.5 billion worth of goods.

While talking to journalists, Muktadir said the government is closely monitoring the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.

He said that while the strait is a crucial global trade route, there is no immediate threat to the supply of essential commodities or fuel.

The Strait of Hormuz is vital, as around one-fifth of global maritime trade passes through it, the minister said.

“If the strait were to remain closed for an extended period, it would have a major impact on global shipping. However, it is too early to be overly alarmed. The situation may be resolved within a few days.”

He added that the government has applied for a deferment of Bangladesh’s graduation from the group of Least Developed Countries, which will be assessed by the United Nations.

The Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) has removed LR Global Bangladesh Asset Management Company Limited as the asset manager of six mutual funds over regulatory violations and alleged mismanagement.

The decision was approved at a recent board meeting of the commission, according to a disclosure published by the Dhaka Stock Exchange today (2 March).

In a statement, the regulator said the action was taken in the interest of investors and to safeguard public funds after its investigation found breaches of securities laws, violations of the Mutual Fund Rules, 2001, and failure to fulfil fiduciary responsibilities.
The affected funds are DBH First Mutual Fund, Green Delta Mutual Fund, AIBL First Islamic Mutual Fund, LR Global Bangladesh Mutual Fund-1, NCCBL Mutual Fund-1, and MBL First Mutual Fund.

Trustees of the respective funds have been directed to initiate necessary legal and administrative measures. Meanwhile, the process to cancel LR Global's registration as an asset manager is underway.

According to the BSEC investigation, funds from the six mutual funds were invested in Padma Printers & Colors Limited, later renamed Quest BDC Limited, at prices higher than the approved rate and without adequate financial analysis.

The commission said the investments violated applicable rules and exposed unit holders to significant financial risks.

The regulator also identified a conflict of interest, noting that a related entity purchased shares of the same company at a lower price, depriving mutual fund investors of potential benefits. In one instance, more than 15% of a single company's paid-up capital was acquired from one fund, exceeding regulatory limits.

In addition, the appointment of a managing director at Quest BDC Limited without prior approval from the trustee or the commission was found to be in violation of the rules.

Since 2022, the investment in Quest BDC has yielded no returns. As the company is listed on the OTC market, the shares are illiquid, making it difficult for the closed-end funds to exit the investment.

Trustees are now assessing options to appoint a new asset manager following the completion of required audits.

The price of gold in Bangladesh has been increased by Tk5,424 per bhori, with the rate of 22-carat gold set at Tk274,104 per bhori from today (2 March), according to the Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS).

In a statement issued in the morning, BAJUS said the new rates were fixed considering the overall market situation following a rise in the price of pure gold (tejabi gold) in the local market. The revised prices have come into effect immediately.

Under the new rates, 22-carat gold will cost Tk274,104 per bhori (11.664 grams), while 21-carat gold has been priced at Tk261,682 per bhori.
The price of 18-carat gold has been set at Tk224,299 per bhori, and gold of traditional method at Tk183,533 per bhori.

Buyers will have to pay an additional 5 percent government-fixed VAT and a minimum 6% making charge set by BAJUS on the sale price.

However, the making charge may vary depending on the design and quality of jewellery.

The last adjustment to gold prices was made on the night of 28 February, when BAJUS raised the price of 22-carat gold by Tk3,266 per bhori to Tk268,680.

So far in 2026, gold prices have been adjusted 35 times in the country, with rates increased on 23 occasions and reduced 12 times.

Silver prices have also been raised this time. The price of 22-carat silver has been increased by Tk175 per bhori to Tk7,173.

Meanwhile, 21-carat silver has been set at Tk6,882 per bhori, 18-carat silver at Tk5,890 per bhori, and traditional-method silver at Tk4,432 per bhori.

So far this year, silver prices have been adjusted 21 times, including 14 hikes and seven reductions.

Financing new government's flagship schemes family card and farm-loan waiver cost the exchequer Tk 11.4 billion immediately that has to be managed with from the current national budget.

The government has already allocated a lump-sum Tk 400 million from the country's revenue budget for payouts under the newly evolved "family card" programme during the remaining four months of the current fiscal year.

Meanwhile, the Finance Division is set to allocate some Tk 11 billion for the waiver of agriculture loans along with cumulated interest of some 1.287 million borrowers as the new government's election pledge is going materialise in no time, officials say.

A study by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) estimates that providing family cards to five million rural families with monthly support of Tk 2,000-2,500 would cost the exchequer between Tk 96 billion and Tk 120 billion annually - equivalent to 0.15-0.20 per cent of GDP.

The CPD has recommended adopting a poverty-scorecard method with strong transparency and accountability mechanisms in selecting beneficiaries.

The organisation has also cautioned that fiscal constraints could pose a significant challenge to scaling up the programme.

Dr Fahmida Khatun, Executive Director of the CPD, says the family- card concept is appreciable as it is universal in nature.

"The government needs to make the selection process transparent and must ensure the actual beneficiaries for this safety-net scheme," she adds.

Dr Fahmida suggests proceeding with the family-card initiative in phases being fully prepared to list genuine beneficiaries and digitise the database.

Distribution of family card needs good governance.

If the government wants to give family card worth Tk 2000 each to 50 million beneficiaries as it targets, it would need around Tk 120 billion in a year, she says about their estimate.

"The government has to increase tax, cut unnecessary project expenditures, check corruption to ease fiscal pressure," she suggests.

The flagship initiative is scheduled to be launched on a pilot basis on March 10, covering 6,500 families across 14 upazilas. Each selected family will receive directly Tk 2,500 per month through mobile financial services or bank accounts.

As the expenditure was not included in the national budget for FY2025-26 announced by the interim government, the Ministry of Finance has allocated the funds from the "unexpected expenditure" head, says a senior official of the Ministry of Social Welfare.

The allocated amount would cover all expenditures, including data collection and administrative costs, along with family card's Tk 2500 each.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is expected to inaugurate the pilot programme on March 10, 2026.

The Ministry of Social Welfare has already collected data on nearly 50,000 households as part of preparation to issue family cards in phase.

Beneficiaries will be selected using the Proxy Means Test (PMT), a scientific poverty-assessment method used to categorise households from extreme poor to ultra-rich.

Under the pilot phase, priority will be given to households ranging from ultra-poor to lower-middle-class groups.

Officials have said the number of eligible households identified during field data collection is 60-70-percent higher than the figures in the Household Income and Expenditure Survey conducted by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS).Bangladesh economic trends

Talking to The Financial Express on Monday, Secretary of the Ministry of Social Welfare Dr Mohammad Abu Yusuf said teams comprising primary and secondary schoolteachers, deputy commissioners and other officials are working relentlessly to complete data collection in the 14 upazilas by March 8.

"In many areas, survey teams had to visit households two to three times, particularly in slum areas where residents could not immediately provide national ID cards or other necessary documents for enlistment," he said.

He added that densely populated slums presented different socio-economic realities compared to BBS survey data.

The pilot programme will cover Dhaka's Banani Korail and Sattala slums, Mirpur Bhashantek, Begunbari, Olimiatek, Pangsha of Rajbari, Patenga, Bancharampur, and Lama in Chattogram, Khalishpur in Khulna, Charfassion in Barishal, Dirai in Sylhet, Bhairab in Mymensingh, Bogura Sadar, Lalpur in Rajshahi, Thakurgaon Sadar and Nabaganj in Rangpur.

Currently, 95 social-safety-net programmes are being implemented by 23 ministries. The total allocation for these programmes in the current fiscal year stands at Tk 1.26 trillion, accounting for 1.87 per cent of GDP.Financial news subscription

Under the family-card scheme, cards will be issued under the name of the mother or the female head of the household.

About financing the farm-loan waivers a senior official of the finance division told The Financial Express Monday that they would make the budgetary allocation this week.

The division's high-ups held a meeting with top officials of 15 banks on the day to check the nitty-gritty of the waiver process, sources say.

According to the officials concerned, the majority of the 1.287 million borrowers set to get the loan and interest waivers are from Bangladesh Krishi Bank, Rajshahi Krishi Unnayan Bank, and Sonali Bank.

The waiver is planned on a one-farmer-one-loan-interest-waiver basis, meaning a farmer will not get the facility for more than one loan.

State reimbursement of funds in favour of the banks waiving the farm loans of up to Tk 10,000 each and interest thereof will begin after Eid-ul-Fitr.

The banks will be asked to withdraw the certificate cases filed against the borrowers once the payments are made by the government.City & Local Guides

Another senior Finance Division official told The Financial Express they initially calculated that some Tk 15 billion would be needed for the farm-loan- waiver programme.

But, after scrutinising the information forwarded by the banks concerned, they found that around Tk 11 billion would be required.

In line with the electoral pledges of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the government on February 26 in its first cabinet meeting decided to waive farm loans of up to Tk 10,000 for each farmer.

The initiative was hailed by many as it would free over 1.2 million farmers from longstanding debts.

The money the farmers would have spent to pay loan instalments can now be invested in better-quality seeds or modern irrigation technology, which will increase production, officials say.