Mobile Banking in Bangladesh: A Necessity in the Digital Era
Author: TBS Report
Date: 30 November, 2025
The Transformation of Banking Services
Over the last five years, Bangladesh’s banking landscape has experienced a remarkable shift. Mobile applications now provide easy access to nearly all banking services, enabling customers to conduct financial transactions without ever stepping foot in a physical bank branch. This has led to a significant surge in digital banking activity, transforming customer behavior and enhancing convenience.
Growth in Digital Transactions
According to data from Bangladesh Bank, more than 40% of all banking transactions in July were conducted via internet banking, primarily through mobile apps. This resulted in over Tk1.13 lakh crore in transactions, a hefty increase compared to Tk1.57 lakh crore processed through traditional cheque clearing methods. The rise in mobile app usage has been coupled with a growing digital payment ecosystem, particularly appealing to younger users.
Convenience at Your Fingertips
Mobile banking has streamlined numerous financial activities, from bill payments and money transfers to account management and mobile recharges. Customers can now complete financial tasks in just a few taps, eliminating the need for time-consuming visits to bank branches. This convenience is reshaping how people interact with their finances.
The Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic
The pandemic has acted as a catalyst for digital banking adoption. For example, City Bank’s Citytouch platform experienced substantial growth during this period, increasing its user base from 72,000 to 8.82 lakh within a few years, thanks to heightened demand for digital services. Daily transactions on Citytouch skyrocketed from Tk27 crore in 2020 to an impressive Tk400 crore in July 2025, underscoring the rapid acceptance of digital banking solutions by consumers.
Success Stories of Leading Apps
BRAC Bank’s Astha and Dutch-Bangla Bank’s NexusPay are other success stories in this digital banking revolution. With over 12 lakh users, the Astha app now facilitates Tk20,000 crore in transactions each month. Similarly, NexusPay has amassed nearly 70 lakh users, making it a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s digital payment ecosystem. Both platforms have demonstrated how mobile banking can enhance financial inclusion by reaching users who would traditionally have limited access to banking services.
Building Trust Through Enhanced Features
The design and functionality of these apps play a crucial role in their widespread adoption. bKash, for instance, focuses on user-friendly design to make financial services accessible to everyone. This approach has garnered 8.2 crore customers, who appreciate the intuitive navigation that simplifies digital transactions.
Looking Ahead: A Cash-light Society
The evolution of mobile banking in Bangladesh indicates a promising shift towards a cash-light economy. As digital transactions increasingly support everyday commerce—from micro-merchants to large corporations—financial management is becoming more efficient and user-oriented. App-based solutions empower individuals at all economic levels, creating a more inclusive financial landscape that prioritizes convenience and accessibility.
