Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur, Governor of Bangladesh Bank, on Monday called on state-owned Sonali Bank Limited to adopt a more proactive role in expanding its lending portfolio. Speaking at the bank’s Annual Conference 2026, held at the International Convention Centre, he emphasised that the institution must operate fully as a commercial bank and actively contribute to the nation’s economic development.
Dr. Mansur noted that while Sonali Bank has long been successful in mobilising substantial deposits, its cautious approach to lending has limited its impact on social and economic progress. “Sonali Bank is, first and foremost, a commercial lender. Excessive caution in credit approval is inconsistent with the fundamental principles of commercial banking,” he stated. “A bank cannot remain sustainable by relying solely on deposit accumulation; it must actively provide productive loans to foster economic growth.”
The governor acknowledged that the bank has recorded significant growth in operational profits in recent years. However, he warned that financial performance alone is insufficient if profits are not reinvested in the economy. “A deposit-heavy but loan-deficient model is unsustainable in the long term,” he cautioned.
Highlighting the strategic role of state-owned banks, Dr. Mansur observed that institutions like Sonali are critical in financing agriculture, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), industry, and infrastructure projects. Delays in lending could impede national development initiatives. He recommended modernising risk assessment procedures, diversifying the loan portfolio, and introducing innovative credit products.
The governor’s key observations are summarised in the table below:
| Aspect | Observation | Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Deposits | Large and growing | Positive, but underutilised |
| Lending | Highly cautious | Limited social and economic impact |
| Profitability | Significant operational profit growth | Unsustainable without expanded lending |
| Role | Commercial bank | Needs to actively lend for economic development |
| Recommendation | Expand lending, diversify loan products | Aligns with commercial banking principles |
Dr. Mansur’s call comes amid rising expectations that state-owned banks should maintain financial stability while actively supporting national development. Concluding his address, he stressed, “If Sonali Bank adopts a more assertive lending policy, it will not only enhance its commercial value but also serve as a strong catalyst for the country’s economic growth.”