Agrani Bank has long played a vital role in Bangladesh’s economy, agriculture, industry, trade, and remittance management.
As a state-owned commercial bank, its contribution to delivering banking services to the remotest corners of the country is immense. Due to its extensive branch network, public trust, and decades of experience, Agrani Bank has become an integral part of the nation’s economic framework.
An analysis of the provisional financial statements as of December 31, 2025, provides a realistic picture of the bank’s current standing. According to the data, the bank’s total deposits stand at Tk 113,029.29 crore, proving that the general public still maintains deep confidence in the institution. Simultaneously, total loans and advances amount to Tk 80,573.35 crore, which is a significant testament to Agrani Bank’s economic participation across various sectors.
Currently, the bank operates with 979 branches and a workforce of 10,595 employees. This vast network is instrumental in reaching the rural populace. If proper planning, training, and the integration of technology are ensured, this human resource can be transformed into an even more effective force.
The bank earned an operating profit of Tk 1,129.74 crore, highlighting its positive business capacity. However, there are significant challenges to address. Currently, the total amount of classified (non-performing) loans is Tk 28,615.64 crore, which accounts for 35.52% of total loans. Out of this, Tk 16,991.38 crore is stuck in litigation. Recovering these long-pending funds could lead to a substantial improvement in the bank’s financial health.
Against the required provision of Tk 15,919.83 crore, the bank has currently maintained Tk 6,945.77 crore, resulting in a provision shortfall of approximately Tk 8,974 crore. Addressing this shortfall gradually will strengthen the bank’s financial foundation. Similarly, the Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) currently stands at 2.23%, which needs to be progressively improved to meet international standards.
Eligible collateral coverage against regular loans is currently 50.36%. This can be improved by implementing modern risk management, robust supervision, data-driven loan approvals, and technology-based monitoring. In particular, regular evaluation of large loans, rapid recovery initiatives, and the introduction of an Early Warning System (EWS) are the needs of the hour.
Agrani Bank’s greatest strengths are its heritage, public trust, wide customer base, and experienced workforce. Therefore, the current situation should be viewed not as a crisis, but as an opportunity for a fresh start.
In the current context, the most crucial task for Agrani Bank is to prioritize deposit mobilization. Since deposits are the lifeblood of a bank, the foundation can be strengthened through customer-friendly services, new deposit schemes, digital banking, and special initiatives for expatriate customers.
At the same time, more caution, efficiency, and professionalism are required in loan disbursement. Special attention must be paid to ensure that every loan contributes to production, employment, and economic development. By ensuring strong credit appraisal, regular monitoring, and adequate collateral, the risk of future defaults can be significantly reduced.
There is also immense potential for Agrani Bank in remittances, offshore banking, and foreign trade. By introducing fast and modern services, international partnerships, and tech-driven transaction systems, the bank can establish a stronger position in these sectors.
In this era, the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Fintech, and digital banking is growing rapidly. Agrani Bank must place greater emphasis on technology-driven banking. AI-based risk analysis, digital customer service, smart monitoring, and the enhancement of cybersecurity can make the bank’s operations more modern and effective.
The most critical factor, however, is the collective effort of Agrani Bank’s officers and employees. If everyone works with sincerity toward loan recovery, customer service, deposit mobilization, and achieving branch-level business targets, the bank’s overall condition will improve rapidly.
In conclusion, by prioritizing deposits as the “lifeblood,” exercising prudence in lending, launching innovative initiatives in remittance and foreign trade, modernizing through AI and Fintech, and making an all-out effort in loan recovery—Agrani Bank will surely turn around with renewed strength.
If all “Agranian” employees work with determination, integrity, skill, and a sense of responsibility to achieve their business targets, Agrani Bank will undoubtedly overcome all obstacles and shine in its own glory once again.
A strong Agrani Bank means a stronger Bangladesh.
writer: Agha Azizul Islam Chowdhury President, Bankers’ Association of Bangladesh (BAB)