Digital Transformation Plan

The government has taken extensive initiatives to reform and modernize the stock market in order to build a technology-driven, transparent, and investment-friendly capital market. Under the initiative of the Financial Institutions Division of the Ministry of Finance, a five-year plan has been set to transform the market into a modern digital platform-based structure. Officials believe that once implemented, these reforms will significantly enhance transparency, accountability, and investor confidence.

According to sources, the master plan includes several major initiatives such as AI-based surveillance, digital IPOs, online disclosure systems, blockchain technology, online onboarding for foreign investors, and automated BO account systems. Alongside these, the plan also focuses on implementing recommendations from the stock market reform and investigation commission, strengthening the bond and equity markets, expanding corporate bonds and sukuk markets, and introducing new regulatory frameworks.

Financial Institutions Division Secretary Nazma Mobarek told Agamir Somoy that a long-term, implementable master plan has been prepared for the development of the stock market and work is underway accordingly.

As part of the government’s electoral commitments, the plan aims to transform the stock market from a mere trading platform into a technology-driven, long-term investment-oriented economic platform.

However, economist M. Masrur Reaz told Agamir Somoy that while a roadmap for market development is necessary, it should focus not only on short-term recovery but also on long-term financing.

AI-based surveillance

An AI-driven surveillance system will be introduced at the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) to quickly detect market manipulation, insider trading, and abnormal transactions. Real-time monitoring using international-standard software will be ensured, while also making BSEC more independent and effective.

Prevention of market manipulation

Strict legal actions will be taken against market manipulation, insider trading, and abuse of power. AI-based monitoring will help quickly detect irregularities and ensure punitive measures to restore investor confidence.

Reform and investigation commission recommendations

Separate reform and investigation commissions will be formed to improve the capital market and investigate irregularities over the past 15 years. Implementing their recommendations will enhance governance, accountability, and market trust.

Strong bond and equity market

Efforts will be made to modernize laws, enable trading of government securities on stock exchanges, introduce online disclosure platforms, and increase the use of the capital market for long-term financing.

Sukuk, ETFs, and green bonds

Alongside corporate bonds, the expansion of ETFs, sukuk, and green bonds will be prioritized. A target has been set to issue a “Green Bangladesh Bond” worth Tk 500 billion by 2030. The SME board will be strengthened, and listing processes will be digitized.

Blockchain and foreign investment

Blockchain technology will be introduced in the stock market, along with an FPI onboarding portal to attract foreign investors. BO account opening, custodial services, and capital repatriation processes will be automated.

Easier investment access

A “Digital IPO Express” will be introduced, offering listing facilities for startups and SMEs within 30 days. E-KYC, mobile trading, and bank- and MFS-based transactions will be expanded to make investment easier for people across the country.

Tribunal and complaint resolution

To ensure quick investor remedies, direct access to the stock market tribunal will be introduced. A whistleblower protection system, modern grievance mechanisms, and a new securities law will also be implemented to strengthen investor confidence.

BSEC Executive Director and spokesperson Abul Kalam told Agamir Somoy that the commission is fully prepared to implement the government’s roadmap for capital market development.