State-owned Sonali Bank has successfully navigated the financial shocks caused by high-profile loan defaults, including those linked to the Hall-Mark Group, and has strengthened its financial foundation. The bank is now on a trajectory towards substantial profitability while increasing its use of technology to enhance transparency and expand its outreach to a wider customer base.
In its recent strategy, Sonali Bank has deliberately avoided extending large loans to high-risk corporate borrowers, focusing instead on providing credit to small and medium-sized enterprises. In 2025, the bank reported a record operating profit of BDT 8,017 crore, a near fourfold increase from BDT 2,090 crore in 2021. From this, the bank plans to cover its historical capital shortfall and achieve a net profit target of BDT 1,500 crore.
However, certain loans to groups including Hall-Mark, Beximco, Thermex, and Orion remain unrecovered, limiting reductions in non-performing loans (NPLs). Nevertheless, Sonali Bank’s NPL ratio stood at 18% in 2025, well below the national banking sector average of 35%.
Managing Director Shawkat Ali Khan told First Light that the bank is actively recovering overdue loans while incentivising smaller businesses. He added, “We are leveraging digital technology to reach underserved regions and rural areas. Everything required to ensure a strong banking foundation is being implemented. As a result, the bank is generating solid income.”
The following table summarises Sonali Bank’s key financial indicators over the past five years:
| Indicator | 2021 | 2025 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deposits (BDT crore) | 135,082 | 179,879 | +44,797 |
| Total Loans (BDT crore) | 69,060 | 104,723 | +35,663 |
| Public Sector Loans | 20,056 | 39,564 | +19,508 |
| Private Sector Loans | 49,404 | 65,159 | +15,755 |
| Operating Profit (BDT crore) | 2,090 | 8,017 | +5,927 |
| Capital Adequacy (%) | -15 | 10.10 | — |
In 2025, the bank generated BDT 9,764 crore from investments, BDT 7,483 crore from interest income, BDT 1,038 crore in commissions, and BDT 359 crore from foreign exchange operations. After accounting for deposit interest payments and salaries, the bank’s net interest income was BDT 268 crore, a significant improvement from BDT 866 crore in 2024.
By overcoming long-standing capital deficiencies and implementing a focused lending strategy, Sonali Bank has reinforced its financial stability and set a clear course for sustainable, high-value profitability in the years ahead.