On Monday, 12 January, Bangladesh Bank acquired USD 81 million from ten commercial banks through a scheduled auction, officials confirmed. Arif Hossain Khan, Executive Director and spokesperson of the central bank, stated that the transaction was executed at an exchange rate of BDT 122.30 per US dollar.
The auction was conducted in accordance with the country’s foreign exchange policy, with a cut-off rate also set at BDT 122.30. This latest purchase brings the total dollar acquisitions for January 2026 to USD 698 million, a strategic move aimed at ensuring sufficient foreign currency supply in the domestic market and stabilising the value of the taka.
Economists and market analysts emphasise that maintaining a balance between foreign currency demand and supply is crucial for the current fiscal year. Such interventions help the central bank control inflation, support a stable import-export balance, and reinforce investor confidence in the domestic financial system.
Throughout the ongoing 2025–26 fiscal year, Bangladesh Bank has conducted multiple auctions to purchase US dollars. To date, the total foreign currency acquired stands at USD 3.835 billion (383.35 crore). Analysts note that these substantial acquisitions not only strengthen the country’s foreign exchange reserves but also mitigate excessive volatility in the US dollar market, which is vital for sustaining market stability.
The table below summarises recent central bank dollar purchases:
| Purchase Date | Number of Banks | Amount Purchased (USD million) | Exchange Rate (BDT/USD) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 January 2026 | 10 | 81 | 122.30 | Auction-based purchase |
| January 2026 (Total) | — | 698 | — | Monthly cumulative total |
| 2025–26 Fiscal Year (Total) | — | 3,835 | — | Fiscal year cumulative |
Market observers suggest that the central bank’s auction strategy plays a key role in controlling dollar volatility, curbing inflationary pressures, and maintaining overall economic stability. By ensuring a steady and predictable flow of foreign currency, the central bank also supports balanced trade, encourages foreign investment, and strengthens the nation’s foreign reserves.
Regularly scheduled auctions are considered a proactive measure to safeguard the security of the financial system and maintain public confidence in the domestic currency market. Experts underline that the consistent management of foreign exchange reserves is essential to preserve economic resilience amid global financial fluctuations.