Decision on Nagad’s transfer to private sector depends on govt policy: BB Governor

Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur has stated that any decision to transfer the postal department's digital financial service Nagad to the private sector will depend entirely on the new government's policy stance. 

Speaking after a meeting with the governor on Tuesday, Dhaka-14 MP Barrister Mir Ahmad bin Kashem Arman relayed this position to reporters. 

The discussion continued ongoing talks from the interim government period regarding potential foreign investment in Nagad.

Barrister Arman explained that the new government has not yet finalised its policy on Nagad. Should the authorities decide to proceed with privatisation—as contemplated under the interim administration—the subsequent steps for attracting investment would follow. 

He emphasised that he participated in the meeting not in his capacity as an MP, but as a professional lawyer and local representative for a foreign institution. 

Drawing on his prior experience advising international companies such as Dell, Microsoft, Apple, and Uber, Arman said he is currently providing legal support to foreign investors interested in Nagad.

These investors, primarily focused on Bangladesh's digital banking sector, have been exploring opportunities since the interim government era, when their interest was initially communicated to relevant authorities. 

Arman also informed the governor of their desire to conduct an audit to evaluate Nagad's profitability and viability as an investment. 

He noted that the current government appears committed to drawing foreign investment as a means to strengthen the country's fragile economy.

Bangladesh Bank Executive Director and Spokesperson Arif Hossain Khan affirmed that the central bank would proceed in line with whatever decision the new government reaches, adding that the institution remains in a strong position.

In a letter dated February 8 addressed to the governor, Barrister Arman had sought permission to perform an audit on behalf of foreign investors. 

The letter referenced information about plans to shift Nagad to new ownership and management, describing it as an honourable opportunity to explore such prospects for interested parties.