BRAC Bank invests in the future of digital banking for youth

The role of financial institutions has evolved far beyond traditional banking. It now encompasses empowering communities, driving innovation, and preparing the next generation to face tomorrow's challenges.

BRAC Bank is at the forefront of this movement with a wide range of initiatives, products, and programs specifically designed for youth, young professionals, and aspiring entrepreneurs.

BRAC Bank has introduced various innovative financial products and services for this mobile-first, digital-native generation. These offerings meet young people's basic banking needs and promote financial literacy, independence, and innovation.

The bank's flagship digital app, 'Astha', offers unparalleled convenience to tech-savvy users. Through Astha, young customers can pay university tuition fees, purchase gadgets such as mobile phones and laptops, transfer funds to bank accounts and MFS wallets, apply for loans, and top up mobile balances—all from their smartphones.

'Astha Lifestyle' provides access to OTT entertainment, music, e-papers, e-books, career advice, and academic guidance.

For students, BRAC Bank offers 'Agami Student Banking Services' — a comprehensive financial solution tailored to school, college, and university students. This includes savings accounts, FDs, DPS schemes, study-abroad credit cards, student files, and student loans.

The 'Agami Savers Account' provides unique benefits, such as zero maintenance fees, a free multi-currency debit card, and double reward points, helping students pursue their higher education dreams in international institutions.

Recognising the rapid growth of Bangladesh's freelancing sector, BRAC Bank introduced the 'Freelancer Matrix Account', the first of its kind in the country.

This dedicated banking solution supports freelancers by offering seamless foreign currency management and an International Debit Card for cross-border transactions.

It provides a secure way for freelancers to manage their earnings and conduct international business, such as YouTube channels, F-commerce, and Google services.

 In a first for Bangladesh, BRAC Bank launched a credit card exclusively for millennials. The Mastercard Millennial Titanium Card offers unique, personalised solutions that meet the lifestyle needs of millennials as the digital-first generation hits its prime spending years. The Titanium Credit Card has contactless technology that enables intelligent, seamless, and touch-free transactions without needing a PIN.

Meanwhile, the VISA Platinum Flexi Credit Card offers young professionals lifestyle benefits such as discounts on travel, dining, and shopping and flexible EMI options. These products cater to the financial needs of tech-savvy youth, aligning with their fast-paced, modern lifestyles.

With these credit and multi-currency debit cards, customers can subscribe to global services like Netflix and Spotify or shop on platforms like Amazon, Aliexpress, Daraz, and Apple.

Beyond financial products, BRAC Bank has implemented numerous programs to empower young people through education, leadership development, and entrepreneurship.

The Young Leaders Program is a standout recruitment initiative. It offers fresh graduates classroom training, mentorship, and hands-on experience across various banking functions. Designed to cultivate future leaders, the YLP reflects BRAC Bank's commitment to governance, transparency, innovation, and dedication to investing in human capital even in challenging times.

Furthering its commitment to youth empowerment, BRAC Bank partnered with BRAC Kumon to enhance educational opportunities and provide high-quality instruction in Mathematics and English. This partnership is a step towards building an enlightened and empowered next generation.

Additionally, the bank's 'Uddokta 101' program, part of its TARA Women Banking Services, is an innovative accelerator program offering training and mentorship to women entrepreneurs. It is a testament to BRAC Bank's commitment to gender equality and its support for women in business.

Many young entrepreneurs gain essential business skills, market knowledge, and networking opportunities through this start-up builder initiative.

BRAC Bank's commitment to youth empowerment extends to its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives – through the Aporajeyo TARA Scholarship programme. The bank invests heavily in this for students from low-income families to ensure they have access to quality education and opportunities for a better future.

The bank's CSR programs also focus on environmental sustainability, healthcare, and financial inclusion, driving positive societal change.

Selim R. F. Hussain, Managing Director and CEO of BRAC Bank, said, "At BRAC Bank, we always believe in the potential of the country's youth. We have introduced many firsts in the banking sector tailored exclusively for young people. We believe it is time to engage the youth with the economy and empower them to realise their full potential. Our services will complement the unique lifestyle needs of the future generation and help them advance in their personal and professional fields."

BRAC Bank is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and responsible citizens.

By empowering today's youth, BRAC Bank is shaping a future where innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability are at the forefront of national progress.