Agrani Bank's Performance and Future Prospects

Author

Reads 13K

Exterior of modern bank building with arched passages
Credit: pexels.com, Exterior of modern bank building with arched passages

Agrani Bank has made significant strides in its performance over the years. The bank has expanded its network to over 800 branches across the country.

Agrani Bank has also seen a steady increase in its assets, from Tk. 1,53,661 crore in 2019 to Tk. 1,73,661 crore in 2020. This growth is a testament to the bank's ability to adapt to changing market conditions.

The bank's focus on digital banking has been a key factor in its success, with a mobile banking app that allows customers to easily manage their accounts and perform transactions.

Bank Performance

Agrani Bank has consistently demonstrated strong performance in the banking sector.

The bank's asset quality has been excellent, with a low non-performing loan (NPL) ratio. This indicates that the bank has been able to manage its loan portfolio effectively, minimizing the risk of loan defaults.

Agrani Bank's efficiency is reflected in its high return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE), which are key indicators of a bank's profitability.

The bank's strong capital adequacy ratio also underscores its ability to withstand financial shocks and maintain stability.

Defaulted Loans May Double Next Year

The sleek architecture of the Rietumu Bank building against a summer sky in Riga, Latvia.
Credit: pexels.com, The sleek architecture of the Rietumu Bank building against a summer sky in Riga, Latvia.

Agrani Bank's defaulted loans may double next year, a worrying trend that highlights the bank's increasing burden. The bank's surplus capital and provision shortfall have taken a hit, with a Tk 7,591.40 crore provision shortfall as of now.

In just five years, the bank's funded and non-funded loan facilities have increased significantly in government institutions, power producers, and private industrial groups. This rapid growth has led to a substantial increase in the bank's loan portfolio.

As of September this year, Agrani Bank's loans and advances stood at Tk 75,677 crore, up from Tk 46,583 crore in 2019. This significant increase in loan exposure has put the bank at risk.

The top 20 defaulters of the bank hold 42 percent of its total defaulted loans, amounting to Tk 21,324 crore till June this year. This is a staggering amount that highlights the bank's vulnerability to defaults.

Jakia Group's bad loans stand at Tk 1,210 crore, making them one of the top defaulters, along with Joj Bhuiya Group and Tanaka Group. These large defaulters have significant exposure to the bank's loan portfolio.

Bank of Spain Building in Madrid
Credit: pexels.com, Bank of Spain Building in Madrid

The bank's capital shortfall has also increased, with a Tk 4,450 crore capital shortfall as of December last year. This shortfall is a major concern for the bank's financial health.

Agrani Bank had 55 large borrowers, with loans to 20 of them crossing the single borrower exposure limits. This excessive exposure to a few large borrowers has put the bank at risk of significant losses.

Remittance Growth in September

Agrani Bank led the way in remittance growth in September, a notable achievement in an otherwise challenging economic landscape.

The bank's performance in this area is a testament to its efforts to improve its financial health.

However, the bank's bad loans were at 29 percent when Md Murshedul Kabir took over as managing director in August 2022, and they decreased to 12 percent when he left.

This suggests that the bank made significant progress under his leadership.

But, the defaulted loans have increased at the bank after his tenure, which is a concern for the new management team.

The current managing director, Ahmed, is working to restore the bank to good health, with loan recovery being their top priority.

Bank Awarded Crest and Certificate

Credit: youtube.com, Bank Performance Evaluation

Agrani Bank Limited was awarded a crest and acknowledgement certificate for its outstanding performance in the government's Annual Performance Agreement (APA) evaluation for fiscal year 2019-2020.

The bank secured the first position among state-owned commercial banks, a notable achievement that earned them this prestigious recognition.

Mohammad Shams-Ul-Islam, the managing director and CEO of Agrani Bank Limited, received the accolade on behalf of the bank at the 9th monthly APA meeting.

This achievement is a testament to the bank's hard work and dedication to excellence, and it's likely to inspire other banks to strive for similar success.

Explore further: Habib Bank Limited

Leadership and Governance

Agrani Bank has a strong leadership and governance structure in place, with a dedicated Board of Directors that oversees the bank's operations. The Chairman of the Board is Syed Abu Naser Bukhtear Ahmed.

The Board consists of seven members, including the Chairman, who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. These members are Syed Abu Naser Bukhtear Ahmed, Khondker Fazle Rashid, Mohammad Masud Rana Chowdhury, DR. Md. Fazlul Hoque, Kabirul Ezdani Khan, Mohammad Sultan Mahmud, and Md. Anwarul Islam.

At the helm of the bank is the Chief Executive Officer, Md. Anwarul Islam, who is responsible for implementing the bank's strategies and overseeing its day-to-day operations.

Chairman: Move to Improve Financial Health

Various Bangladeshi Taka notes in a flat lay pattern, showcasing the vibrant currency.
Credit: pexels.com, Various Bangladeshi Taka notes in a flat lay pattern, showcasing the vibrant currency.

As a leader, making tough decisions to improve financial health is a crucial part of effective governance. The board of directors can play a key role in this process by providing oversight and guidance.

According to the company's financial reports, the board has been actively involved in reviewing and revising the company's budget to ensure it aligns with the company's strategic goals. The board has also been working closely with management to identify areas where costs can be reduced without compromising the company's operations.

One of the key decisions made by the board was to implement a cost-saving initiative that resulted in a significant reduction in operating expenses. This initiative was led by the chairman, who worked closely with the finance team to identify areas where costs could be cut.

The chairman's leadership and vision were instrumental in driving this initiative forward. By taking a proactive approach to financial management, the company was able to improve its financial health and position itself for future growth.

On a similar theme: Bank Key

Credit: youtube.com, Leadership Series: End Of Financial Year Financial Health Check

The board's focus on financial health has also led to an increase in transparency and accountability within the company. This includes regular financial reporting and open communication with stakeholders about the company's financial performance.

The chairman's commitment to improving the company's financial health has set a positive tone for the rest of the leadership team. By prioritizing financial discipline and accountability, the company is better equipped to navigate future challenges and opportunities.

Recommended read: Doral Financial Corporation

Board of Directors

The board of directors plays a crucial role in shaping the organization's leadership and governance. They are responsible for overseeing the company's overall strategy and direction.

Syed Abu Naser Bukhtear Ahmed serves as the Chairman of the board, providing guidance and leadership to the team. He is a key figure in making important decisions that impact the organization.

The board consists of six directors: Khondker Fazle Rashid, Mohammad Masud Rana Chowdhury, DR. Md. Fazlul Hoque, Kabirul Ezdani Khan, Mohammad Sultan Mahmud, and Md. Anwarul Islam. Each of them brings their unique expertise and experience to the table.

Here is a list of the board of directors:

Bank Information

Credit: youtube.com, Agrani Bank PLC has launched a new DPS scheme named 'Agrani Amar Sonchoy Scheme in 2025

Agrani Bank offers a range of banking services to its customers.

Its head office is located at 41 Dilkusha Commercial Area, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Agrani Bank has a strong network of branches across the country, with over 900 branches in various locations.

The bank provides various types of accounts, including current accounts, savings accounts, and fixed deposit accounts.

Its customer service team is available to assist with any queries or concerns customers may have.

Agrani Bank also offers online banking services, allowing customers to manage their accounts and perform transactions from the comfort of their own homes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the owner of Agrani Bank?

Agrani Bank is fully owned by the Government of Bangladesh. It operates under the government's direct ownership and management.

What is the opening fee for Agrani Bank account?

The opening fee for an Agrani Bank account is Tk. 100. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid upfront to open the account.

Carole Veum

Junior Writer

Carole Veum is a seasoned writer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for financial journalism. Her work has appeared in several notable publications, covering a range of topics including banking and mergers and acquisitions. Veum's articles on the Banks of Kenya provide a comprehensive understanding of the local financial landscape, while her pieces on 2013 Mergers and Acquisitions offer insightful analysis of significant corporate transactions.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.