Who Are the Real Owners of Banks and Financial Institutions in Bangladesh?
In Bangladesh, there is a growing misconception among some directors and even staff that they “own” the banks or financial institutions (FIs) they work for. However, this perception is fundamentally flawed — both legally and ethically.
Real Ownership Lies with the Shareholders and the Public
Banks and FIs are corporate entities, and their ownership lies primarily with the shareholders — individuals or entities that invest capital and hold shares. In the case of public or state-owned banks, the ultimate owners are the citizens of Bangladesh, as these institutions are funded and backed by public money.
Moreover, these institutions are custodians of depositors’ money, not private businesses run for personal benefit. Thus, the real “owners” are:
1. Shareholders – They provide the capital and expect transparent governance and financial returns.
2. Depositors – They entrust their savings, expecting safety, reliability, and fair service.
3. Regulators (Bangladesh Bank) – They ensure that banks act responsibly, in line with laws and policies.
4. The General Public – Especially in the case of public sector banks, the public is the ultimate stakeholder.
Justification:
Banks operate under strict regulatory supervision, meaning no individual can act above the law.
Directors are trustees, not owners. They are appointed to act in the best interests of all stakeholders.
Misuse of power by directors or staff contradicts both the Bank Company Act and corporate governance principles.
Bangladesh Bank issues guidelines that clearly define roles, responsibilities, and limits of authority.
Conclusion:
Understanding the real ownership of banks and FIs is essential to ensure ethical behavior, transparency, and accountability. Institutions must serve their stakeholders — not the interests of a few powerful individuals. Reforming the mindset around ownership is the first step toward a healthier, more stable financial system in Bangladesh.
