Financial Inclusion in Bangladesh

“The book demonstrates that financial inclusion is far more than a development slogan. Through rigorous analysis and practical insight, it shows how access to savings, credit, insurance, and digital finance can reduce poverty, strengthen resilience, and create pathways to sustainable growth. Bangladesh’s experience offers lessons not only for South Asia but for the entire world.”  

--- Professor Muhammad Yunus, 2006 Nobel Peace Laureate, Founder, Grameen Bank, Chairman, Yunus Centre, Bangladesh

Over the last three decades, Bangladesh has attained greater financial inclusion. Much of this was induced by financial innovations and a vast network of banks and microfinance institutions. How does this financial inclusion impact households and firms?

The book focuses on the intensity and impact of financial inclusion in Bangladesh, drawing on qualitative and empirical research. It discusses the state of financial inclusion and its determinants using both aggregate and household-level panel data. In addition, provides an analysis of the impact of financial inclusion on poverty alleviation, firm-level productivity, and economic and financial resilience. This makes the book comprehensive and unique.

M. A. Baqui Khalily is a renowned scholar and eminent researcher in Bangladesh. He taught at the Department of Finance, University of Dhaka. He was the founder Executive Director of the Institute of Microfinance. Presently, he is a Distinguished Professor at the University of Asia Pacific, Bangladesh.

Md. Sadiqul Islam is a Professor of Finance at the University of Dhaka. With extensive experience in academia and corporate governance, he has held leadership roles in academic institutions and corporations.  

Md. Abdul Khaleque is a Professor at the Department of Development Studies, University of Dhaka. His research interests include financial inclusion and macroeconomic issues.

Meherun Ahmed worked as a Professor of Economics at the Independent University, Bangladesh. Her research focuses on microeconomic analysis of household behavior.