Here’s a breakdown of leading private banks by different measures:

The banking landscape in Bangladesh is currently witnessing its most transformative phase in decades. With the recent consolidation of several Shariah-based banks into a single mega-entity and the aggressive digital shift of traditional private commercial banks (PCBs), choosing where to keep your money has never been more critical.

Whether you are an entrepreneur, a freelancer, or a retail saver, this Arthik Alap Guide ranks the top 10 private banks based on the latest sustainability ratings from Bangladesh Bank, deposit growth, and digital innovation.

The “Big Shift”: Private Banking in Bangladesh

As of late 2024 and throughout 2025, customer confidence has shifted toward banks with high transparency and strong capital adequacy. While state-owned banks like Sonali Bank offer traditional security, private banks are leading the charge in Freelancer Solutions (USD Accounts) and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) banking.

1. BRAC Bank PLC – The Overall Market Leader

Ranked #1 in the Top Banks index, BRAC Bank has maintained its crown in It recorded a staggering 52% growth in Net Profit in the first nine months

• Best For: SMEs, Entrepreneurs, and Tech-savvy individuals.
• Key Advantage: Its “Astha” app is currently the gold standard for digital banking in Bangladesh.
• 2025 Status: Highest credit rating (AA1/A+) in the private sector.

2. The City Bank PLC – The Sustainability Champion

For the first time, the Central Bank officially ranked City Bank as the No. 1 Sustainable Bank in Bangladesh

• Best For: Premium services, Freelancers, and Sustainability.
• Key Advantage: Specialized Freelancer ERQ accounts with seamless USD retention and no maintenance fees.
• Highlight: Recently awarded “CEO of the Year” for its digital-first management.

3. Eastern Bank PLC (EBL) – Best Corporate & Profitability

EBL remains the most efficient bank in terms of Return on Assets (ROA). It is widely favored by corporate giants and international traders.

• Best For: Corporate banking and smooth international trade.
• Key Advantage: Fastest processing for credit cards and high-value loan disbursements.

4. Dutch-Bangla Bank PLC (DBBL) – The Retail & ATM Giant

With the largest network of ATMs and CRMs (Cash Recycler Machines) in the country, DBBL is the bank of the “masses.”

• Best For: Salary accounts and student banking.
• 2025 Update: Significant focus on its “Rocket” mobile financial service integration.

5. Prime Bank PLC – Leading in ESG & Green Finance

Prime Bank has secured a top spot in the 2025 Sustainability Index due to its massive investment in green ceramic and eco-friendly industrial projects.

• Best For: Sustainable investments and high-yield DPS schemes.

6. United Commercial Bank (UCB) – Strong Deposit Growth

UCB recorded an 18% growth in deposits in early 2025, proving that public trust remains high despite market volatility.

• Best For: Freelancers via the UCB Swadhin Account.
• Highlight: Offers a Dual-Currency Debit Card with the Swadhin account for 1st-year free.

7. Mutual Trust Bank PLC (MTB) – Best for Customer Service

MTB consistently wins awards for diversity and inclusion. It is often cited as the most “customer-friendly” private commercial bank.

• Best For: Personal loans and wealth management.

8. Pubali Bank PLC – The Resilient Veteran

As a first-generation bank, Pubali Bank has successfully modernized. It ranks high in Net Asset Value (NAV) and rural branch density.

• Best For: Long-term security and rural business owners.

9. Bank Asia PLC – Pioneer in Agent Banking

Bank Asia continues to dominate the “Agent Banking” sector, bringing formal banking to the doorstep of unbanked populations in remote areas.

• Best For: Remittance collection and rural savers.

10. Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC (IBBL) – The Shariah Powerhouse

Though often categorized separately, IBBL remains a private entity. It is the largest bank in terms of deposit volume and branch count (550+).

• Best For: Shariah-compliant personal and business banking.

Choosing the Right Bank: A Quick Checklist

Before opening an account in , check these three factors:

1. NPL Ratio: Ensure the bank has low Non-Performing Loans (ideally below 5%).
2. App Utility: Does their app allow for transfer to MFS (bKash/Nagad) and utility bill payments?
3. Customer Support: Check if they have a 24/7 call center or AI-chat support.

Document Requirements

• Retail: NID/Passport, 2 photos, utility bill (proof of address).
• Freelancers: Valid Freelancer ID (BSDS) or marketplace profile screenshot.
• Business: Trade License, TIN, and Bin certificates.

Conclusion

The “Best Bank” depends on your intent. For Digital Ease, go with BRAC or City Bank. For Security & Reach, DBBL or Pubali Bank are excellent choices. For Islamic Ethics, IBBL remains the leader.