Mohammad Ali 
Managing Director & CEO, Pubali Bank

The world is evolving at a rapid pace. Over the years, we have witnessed remarkable transformations, from the days of Windows 95 to today's realities of AI, data mining, robotisation, and digital banking. The future of the financial sector belongs to those who embrace these advancements. Additionally, VIP customers from Bangladesh, who are well-travelled, add a unique dimension to the industry. A financial world that is paperless and branchless is no longer a distant dream. Our motto is simple: Banking anywhere, anytime. Corporate and retail banking, along with international trade, are poised to evolve with these technological advancements.

Recent discussions in the Bangladeshi media have emphasised that good corporate governance is essential for trust-building, a factor that has significantly impacted certain institutions. At Pubali Bank, we are committed to conducting business while maintaining the trust of our customers. Upholding good governance is not optional—it is integral to our operations. Over the decades, our board, management, and workforce have consistently prioritised this principle.

Our Triple A rating underscores the positive impact we have made on communities nationwide. Mastercard has also officially recognised our achievements. Good governance, coupled with strong media presence, has bolstered our reputation over time. Customers view us as one of the nation's leading institutions, and our dedication to community-building continues to earn their trust.

In 2009, as we marked our 50th anniversary, we faced significant financial challenges. However, in the past three years, our performance has been exceptional, with the 2020s proving to be our most financially rewarding decade yet.

Looking ahead, we must adapt to further enhance our accumulated assets. We envision a future where digital media will play a pivotal role in attracting new customers. Currently, many in the country have yet to adopt credit and debit cards. To address this, one of our upcoming projects will enable individuals to apply for credit cards from the comfort of their homes—a service we aim to launch by the end of this year.

Our institution is also preparing to offer loans to customers who apply via telephone, eliminating the need to visit branches. Each applicant will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, made possible through robust information databases. We are optimistic about serving customers across Bangladesh, demonstrating that branch-based interactions are no longer the only option. Additionally, proposals from bank officials offer customers an opportunity to explore financing solutions, and a dynamic role reversal in this process will further benefit the growing middle class.

Transformations in corporate banking, retail banking, international trade, correspondent banking, and offshore operations are now undeniable realities. We are committed to embracing these changes and ensuring that our institution remains a trusted leader in the financial sector.