"With the recent rise in security concerns, I've made it a point to avoid carrying large amounts of cash. For my Eid shopping, I now rely on bKash – it's not only safer but also comes with the added bonus of discounts! It's a win-win for me," says Ripa Sharmin, a school teacher based in Dhaka.

Like Sharmin, bKash has become synonymous with convenience, security, and accessibility for countless people. Whether it's paying for daily essentials at a local store, or settling utility bills, bKash has transformed the way people transact. And when it comes to Eid, bKash makes things easier by eliminating the hassle of carrying cash, ensuring seamless payments at malls, superstores, and even small neighbourhood shops. With exciting discounts and cashback offers, shopping for Eid has never been more rewarding.

As the largest Mobile Financial Services (MFS) provider in the country, bKash is paving the way for a cashless economy, making digital transactions simple and inclusive.

Shamsuddin Haider Dalim, EVP and Head of Corporate Communications and PR at bKash, highlights this transformation, stating, "bKash has been playing an important role in developing the digital payment ecosystem in Bangladesh. Through innovative technology and integrations with other institutions, bKash is continuously empowering its customers. Cashless transactions create convenience for both customers and businesses because they are secure, fast, and reliable."

Smarter shopping, bigger savings

With Ramadan and Eid bringing a surge in shopping, bKash users get exciting discounts and cashback offers across superstores, online platforms, fashion outlets, restaurants, and more.

"Last Ramadan, I saved almost Tk 2,000 just by using bKash payments," says Rafiqul Islam, a businessman. "The cashback really adds up when you're buying in bulk for the whole family."

These deals make it even more appealing to go cashless – offering savings while eliminating the hassle of handling change or carrying large amounts of cash.

One of bKash's biggest strengths is its reach across Bangladesh, with 350,000 agents and nearly a million merchants ensuring that digital payments are available in both urban centres and remote villages.

This accessibility is especially crucial for rural populations, where digital literacy can be limited. bKash has designed its platform to be as simple as possible, ensuring that even those with basic mobile phones can transact effortlessly.

According to Dalim, "bKash started with the vision of greater financial inclusion of the unbanked, underserved, and even the banked population of Bangladesh by taking basic financial services to the grassroots. More than 13 years have passed, and bKash has become a family of nearly 80 million customers as well as the country's most loved and trusted brand."

Instant money transfers from banks and cards

One of the standout features of bKash is its seamless integration with banks and card services, allowing users to add money instantly whenever needed. Gone are the days when people had to withdraw cash from ATMs or stand in long queues at banks to access their funds. With bKash, users can transfer money from their bank accounts or linked cards directly into their bKash wallet, ensuring uninterrupted digital transactions anytime, anywhere.

bKash has established direct partnerships with 49 commercial banks in Bangladesh, enabling customers to instantly transfer money from their bank accounts to their bKash wallets. This means users no longer need to rely solely on their bKash balance – they can add money on the go.

For professionals, students, and homemakers alike, this feature has made digital transactions more accessible and efficient, eliminating the need to visit physical bank branches or handle cash.

'Pay Later': Emergency shopping made simple

Imagine this scenario: it's late at night, and you suddenly need to buy emergency medicine for a family member. You rush to the nearest pharmacy, but you realise your bKash balance is low, and your salary isn't due for another few days. In such situations, bKash's 'Pay Later' feature comes as a lifesaver, allowing users to borrow money instantly and complete their purchase without financial stress.

This first-of-its-kind digital collateral-free loan service, introduced by bKash in partnership with City Bank, enables customers to make essential purchases even when they don't have immediate funds. It is a game-changer in financial flexibility, ensuring that no one has to postpone urgent transactions just because of a temporary cash crunch.

With loan limits from Tk 500 to Tk 30,000, this service offers financial flexibility. If repaid within seven days, there's no interest – and longer repayment options of three or six months are available.

A cashless future is here

With digital payments becoming the preferred choice for millions, bKash continues to innovate and expand its services. "bKash has been promoting a cashless lifestyle by offering digital services such as mobile recharge, utility bill payments, e-ticketing, educational fees, and government service payments," informs Dalim.

"Besides, customers can avail themselves of services like savings and loans from banks and non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) through the bKash app. The convenience of finding all necessary financial services in one place is driving the shift toward cashless transactions."

By integrating more services and ensuring wider acceptance, bKash is solidifying its role as Bangladesh's leading mobile financial service.

The benefits of going cashless extend beyond mere convenience. It reduces the risks associated with carrying physical cash, eliminates counterfeit currency issues, and enhances financial transparency. Therefore, for those looking to maximise their savings and enjoy a seamless shopping experience, bKash would definitely be the go-to choice.