Brac Business School of Brac University organized a policy dialogue titled ‘Policy Dialogue on Financial and Economic Reforms in Bangladesh’ on Saturday at its Merul Badda campus. The event gathered policymakers, financial leaders, industry experts, and academics to discuss critical reforms needed for Bangladesh's financial and economic development.
The dialogue featured a plenary session, four panel discussions, and around 15 poster presentations, addressing issues like banking, capital markets, financial crime, and economic policies.
Key discussions included modernizing banking systems, enhancing capital market transparency, and tackling anti-money laundering (AML), combating financing of terrorism (CFT), and capital flight.
The event began with an opening session titled *“Actionable Financial and Economic Policies for an Inclusive, Equitable, and Prosperous Bangladesh.”* Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Adviser for Finance and Science & Technology to the Interim Government, delivered the keynote address.
Special guests included Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, Distinguished Fellow of CPD; Selim RF Hussain, CEO of Brac Bank PLC; Farzana Lalarukh, Commissioner of the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission; and Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor of Brac University.
Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed emphasized the urgency of financial reforms, stating they must benefit grassroots communities to stabilize and advance the economy. Dr. Bhattacharya highlighted the need for integrity among policymakers and warned against reforms without market stability.
Farzana Lalarukh addressed the trust deficit in the capital market and stressed financial literacy's importance, while Selim RF Hussain emphasized the central bank's role in enforcing reforms.
The event’s outcomes aim to foster a transparent and inclusive financial system. Key recommendations will be published in a white paper to promote broader impact and global engagement.
Brac University's initiative highlights its commitment to driving meaningful reform for sustainable economic growth.
