Md. Ahsan-uz Zaman
Managing Director & CEO
Midland Bank

The Daily Star (TDS): Could you provide an overview of the current savings situation at your bank?

Md. Ahsan-uz Zaman (MAZ): Midland Bank (MDB) has consistently maintained a strong savings portfolio, reflecting customers' trust in our technology-driven, secure, and value-focused banking platform. Even amid the global disruption caused by COVID-19, our commitment to growth and service remained steadfast. Post-pandemic, MDB has seen steady growth in digital savings, as more customers favour online over traditional banking. Savings deposits now comprise 8.33% of our total deposit base, indicating a stable and sustainable structure. By mid-April 2025, savings deposits grew by BDT 29 crore since December 2024, driven by our strategic focus on inclusive banking and continued investment in digital transformation.

TDS: What are the top savings schemes that you are currently offering?

MAZ: To meet diverse customer needs, Midland Bank offers a wide range of innovative savings schemes. The flagship MDB Deposit Pension Scheme is available in both conventional and Islamic formats, with flexible tenures and attractive returns, accessible manually or digitally. High-yield products such as MDB Double Benefit Plus, Kotipoti, Millionaire, and Shiksha Shanchay schemes offer rates of up to 10.75%. Digital FDRs earn an extra 0.25% interest, and customers may access secured loans up to 90% of the deposit via the Midland Online app. MDB Sathi and Saalam Savings promote inclusive, Shariah-compliant banking for women and faith-based customers.

TDS: What initiatives has your bank taken to encourage the savings habit among the general public?

MAZ: Midland Bank has taken proactive steps to promote financial literacy and savings awareness nationwide. We observed Financial Literacy Day on 3 March 2025, followed by a dedicated week of activities across branches, sub-branches, and agent banking centres. These efforts target underserved communities, highlighting the benefits of saving and responsible planning. Our inclusive DPS schemes allow monthly savings from BDT 250 to BDT 5 lakh, over periods ranging from 3 months to 20 years. Aligned with government guidance, we promote online banking for convenience and use digital reminders, ads, and app notifications to help customers build consistent saving habits.

TDS: What innovative steps have been implemented to make savings products more convenient and accessible for all kinds of customers?

MAZ: At the core of MDB's innovation is 'Midland Online', a user-friendly, free mobile banking app that empowers customers to open and manage accounts, transfer funds, pay bills, request cheque books, and monitor FDRs, DPS, and card bills—without visiting a branch. A standout feature is the ability to apply for a Digital Secured Loan against FDRs or DPS from home. The app also integrates Binimoy, a web-based platform for seamless fund transfers. We've launched MDB Super Saver Plus and MDB Super High Performance Corporate in both conventional and Islamic formats, alongside digital KYC and paperless onboarding, ensuring faster, more inclusive banking experiences.

TDS: What are your future plans regarding the enhancement and expansion of savings products?

MAZ: MDB is actively expanding its savings portfolio with a strong focus on innovation, personalisation, and financial inclusion. We plan to introduce Child DPS accounts and savings schemes bundled with insurance, offering added protection. Our women-focused offerings will be enhanced with value-added services to meet lifestyle and business needs. Looking ahead, our roadmap includes goal-based digital savings, ESG-aligned products like green savings, and AI-powered planning tools. We aim to foster a disciplined savings culture that supports retirement, education, or emergencies.