Over half of private employees say financial stress hurts productivity: study

More than 56 percent of private sector employees in Bangladesh say financial stress is hurting their productivity, according to a new study released by MetLife Bangladesh.

The Employee Benefit Trends Study, unveiled today at a Dhaka hotel, also found that 41 percent of respondents link financial stress to mental health issues, while 67 percent feel confident about their current financial situation.

Conducted for the first time in Bangladesh, the study explores the priorities, challenges, and expectations of employees and employers in the private sector. It surveyed 571 employees and 142 employers across industries such as ready-made garments, banking, fast-moving consumer goods, telecom, and non-governmental organisations.

The findings show that over 53 percent of employees have no retirement plan, while nearly half want their employers' support to convert their savings into income.

Although 72 percent believe their organisation genuinely cares about them, the study highlights significant gaps in employee well-being and advocacy.

MetLife said employers who demonstrate care through better benefits and supportive workplace culture can enhance engagement and long-term retention.

While 78 percent of employees believe that insurance and wellness benefits, like mental health support and improve loyalty, such offerings remain limited in scope. This shortfall has created a trust deficit but also presents employers with an opportunity to stand out by providing meaningful support.

The study also found that 70 percent of employees would be more likely to use available benefits if they understood how their peers utilised them, underscoring the need for personalised and year-round communication.

It further revealed that 56 percent of employees identified productivity and 49 percent cited engagement as their biggest workplace challenges. In response, 51 percent of employers have increased investment in employee benefits over the past year to retain talent and boost morale.

Although 78 percent of respondents agreed that benefits play a vital role in shaping workplace culture, many admitted that current offerings fall short in easing financial stress.

"Financial wellness is no longer a luxury, it is essential for better performance," the report said.

"Our research reveals a stark reality: financial stress and inadequate benefits are quietly undermining productivity and morale," said Ala Ahmad, chief executive officer of MetLife Bangladesh.

"Employers have a unique opportunity to lead by offering comprehensive benefits, fostering a caring culture, and improving communication," he added. "Doing so will not only strengthen trust but also unlock sustainable business performance."