Sammilito Islami Bank recorded withdrawals of Tk 107.77 crore and fresh deposits of Tk 44 crore in the first two days after starting full-scale operations, with Bangladesh Bank saying there was no unusual pressure from customers and overall confidence remained intact.

Bangladesh Bank Governor Ahsan H Mansur disclosed the figures at a press conference at the Jahangir Alam Conference Room on Monday, January 5.

He said the transactions reflected customer trust rather than panic.

“Bangladesh Bank had prepared in advance for any pressure that might arise once the bank opened for full operations. Alhamdulillah, activities are progressing smoothly and in a stable manner,” the governor said. He credited the chairman of the new bank, administrators of the five merged banks and relevant officials for efficiently handling the transition over the past several months.

According to Bangladesh Bank, a total of 13,314 withdrawal transactions took place on January 1 and 4. Of these, Exim Bank customers accounted for the highest number, with 6,265 clients withdrawing Tk 66 crore. At the same time, the bank received Tk 44 crore in new deposits, leaving the overall situation “satisfactory on a net basis,” the governor said.

He also noted that in several branches deposits exceeded withdrawals, which he described as a clear sign of public confidence in the new bank and in the government and central bank’s initiatives.

Governor Mansur said setting up a new bank usually takes considerable time, but Sammilito Islami Bank completed key steps, including obtaining the letter of intent, capitalisation, installation of signboards and commencement of transactions, within just two months. The process was carried out step by step under the newly enacted Bank Resolution Ordinance.

Bangladesh Bank has already issued a resolution scheme under the ordinance, under which depositor transactions are continuing. The process of forming a new board is also underway. Initially, the board has been constituted with government representatives, and a full board will soon be formed by adding an independent director, a chartered accountant, a banker and a legal expert.

Looking ahead, the governor identified two major challenges. One is the launch of an integrated IT system, currently being developed by the Bangladesh Bank IT team. The other is a forensic audit to investigate past irregularities in the five merged banks. At the same time, he said, emphasis will be placed on ensuring a safe and transparent environment for skilled and honest officials.

He added that the Shariah-based profit rate has been set in line with market rates and that new Shariah-compliant products will be introduced by integrating existing and new offerings. Initiatives are also being taken to boost investment.

The formal inauguration of Sammilito Islami Bank will be held on January 19, with media representatives invited to attend.

“We do not want to lay off anyone. But those involved in irregularities will not be spared. These five banks will be brought under forensic scrutiny,” the governor said.