Ali Reza Iftekhar, Managing Director and CEO, 
Eastern Bank

The Daily Star (TDS): What is the current level of women's engagement as employees and customers in the banking sector?

Ali Reza Iftekhar (ARI): Women's participation in banking, both as employees and customers, is gradually increasing but remains lower than expected.

According to EBL's Annual Report 2023, women represent 18.56% of the total workforce at the bank.

On the customer side, EBL Women Banking has achieved a 15% growth in women's deposit portfolio and an 18% growth in women's retail loans. In 2023 alone, EBL disbursed BDT 947.37 million in loans to 265 women entrepreneurs. The introduction of agent banking services, digital banking platforms, and SME loans has contributed to increasing women's access to financial services.

TDS: What special banking features or tailored services does your bank offer for women?
ARI: EBL Women Banking provides a wide range of specialized financial products and services designed exclusively for women, including:

Deposit Products

EBL Women Savings Account – Special savings account with preferential rates.

EBL Women Millionaire DPS – Long-term savings plan to ensure financial security.

EBL Women Confidence DPS – Encourages disciplined savings.

EBL Ovilashi Current Account – A business-focused current account designed for women entrepreneurs.

Loan Products

EBL Women's Loan – Collateral-free loans for personal needs.

EBL Mukti Loan – SME loans tailored for women entrepreneurs.

EBL Home Loan, Home Credit & Auto Loan – Exclusive financing options for housing, renovation, and vehicles.

Women-Centric Cards

EBL Visa Women Platinum Debit & Credit Cards – Offering discounts and benefits at lifestyle stores.

EBL Women Signature Credit Card – Premium benefits for high-value customers.

Non-Financial Services

Women Banking Help Desk – Dedicated service points across branches.

Entrepreneurial Training – Business and financial literacy programs in collaboration with 16 top women's associations.

Digital Marketing Support – Assistance in e-commerce, social media branding, and business growth.

TDS: How can women's access to banking services be increased?
ARI: To enhance financial inclusion for women, the following approaches can be implemented:

1. Expanding Digital Banking Solutions: EBL's all-inclusive Women Banking Portal allows women to open accounts, apply for secured loans, and complete online business training from home. Increasing digital outreach can help rural women overcome mobility challenges.

2. Strengthening Agent Banking Networks: By deploying agent banking services in rural areas, EBL has provided banking access to underserved women. Strengthening these networks will help bring more women into the formal banking sector.

3. Providing Tailored Financial Literacy Programs: Many women entrepreneurs lack knowledge about managing business finances. EBL's financial literacy workshops, business boot camps, and online learning resources help bridge this gap.

4. Offering More Collateral-Free Loans: Women often face challenges in securing loans due to a lack of assets. Expanding collateral-free loan programs such as EBL Mukti Loan can significantly improve financial accessibility.

5. Enhancing Workplace Gender Diversity: With only 18.56% female representation among employees, EBL can implement targeted hiring programs, leadership development initiatives, and workplace flexibility policies to encourage more women to join the banking workforce.