BRAC Bank executives emphasised the need for stronger governance, strict compliance, and proactive preparedness to manage future risks in the banking sector. This call was made at the bank’s Annual Risk Conference 2025.
Held on 29 November at BRAC Bank’s headquarters in Dhaka in a hybrid format, over a thousand branch managers, branch operations managers, and sub-branch in-charges attended the day-long event. The conference was inaugurated by BRAC Bank’s Managing Director and CEO, Tarek Refat Ullah Khan. Special guest Suravi Ghosh, Additional Director of Bangladesh Bank’s Department of Off–Site Supervision, was also present.
Sessions highlighted risks in anti-money laundering and the digital banking ecosystem, as well as the rapidly changing risk landscape faced by financial institutions. Participants emphasised reviewing current risk management systems and strengthening frameworks to address future challenges.
Key sessions and speakers are summarised below:
| Session/Presentation | Presenter | Topic |
|---|---|---|
| Macroeconomic Outlook | Zahid Hossain | LDC graduation and trade tariff |
| Economic Forecasting & Banks Readiness | Meheriar M Hasan, Asif Khan, Tarek Refat Ullah Khan | Roadmap for 2026 |
| Data-Driven, People-Powered AML Framework | Saleq Ahmed Abul Masrur, Chowdhury M A Q Sarwar, Sheikh Mohammad Ashfaq | Risk identification and management |
| Strengthening Risk Management | Mahmuda Haque | Recent Bangladesh Bank initiatives |
| Risk Landscape in Retail Lending | Kazi Faruq Kamal | Risk culture and stress testing |
Kazi Faruq Kamal stated, “A strong risk culture encourages employees to identify and solve risks. Stress testing should be continuous to identify weaknesses effectively.”
Suravi Ghosh added, “Risk is inherent in banking. Bangladesh Bank is implementing new policies and supervision to address these issues.”
BRAC Bank Chairperson Meheriar M Hasan said, “Today’s programme, specially designed for frontline staff, will enhance their knowledge of risk management. They can apply this in practice and manage risks confidently.”
Saleq Ahmed Abul Masrur added, “Advanced risk management and governance are our priorities. Bangladesh Bank’s guidance is vital. Continuous training and awareness programmes will strengthen our capabilities.