DHAKA, Dec 19, 2024 (BSS) - Experts at a seminar laid emphasis on
critical reforms to invigorate Bangladesh's capital market,
highlighting the need for quality IPOs, enhanced regulatory frameworks
and tax incentives for listed companies.

They observed that the capital market has a critical role in driving
economic growth and wealth creation.

They made the observation at a seminar titled "Strengthening
Governance Framework-Way Forward to a Vibrant Capital Market" on
Wednesday, at the IDEB Bhaban in the city, said a press release today.

Institute of Chartered Secretaries of Bangladesh (ICSB) has organized
the seminar.

Md Mohsin Chowdhury, Commissioner, Bangladesh Securities and Exchange
Commission (BSEC) graced the occasion as the chief guest while
Professor Abu Ahmed, Chairman, Investment Corporation of Bangladesh
(ICB) and K A M Majedur Rahman, Member of Capital Market Reform
Taskforce graced the occasion as special guests.

Saiful Islam, President, DSE Brokers Association of Bangladesh (DBA)
and Saied Mahmud Zubayer, DGM, Product and Market Development of Dhaka
Stock Exchange PLC presented the keynote papers.

AGM Sattique Ahmed Shah, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Managing
Director (Acting) Dhaka Stock Exchange PLC (DSE), M Shaifur Rahman
Mazumdar FCA, FCMA, Managing Director of Chittagong Stock Exchange PLC
(CSE) and Minhaz Mannan Emon, Director of Dhaka Stock Exchange PLC
(DSE) were the discussants of the seminar.

M Nurul Alam FCS, President-in-Charge of ICSB chaired the session and
Md Zakir Hossain, Secretary and CEO of ICSB gave an introductory
speech.

Mohsin Chowdhury highlighted the pivotal role of capital markets in
fostering economic growth, innovation and job creation.

Emphasizing the need for robust governance frameworks, he addressed
challenges posed by technological advancements and evolving investor
expectations, underscoring the importance of FinTech, blockchain and
AI in transforming the capital market.

He suggested strong regulatory systems to ensure transparency and
market stability.

Additionally, he emphasized the growing significance of sustainability
and ethical investing, urging stakeholders to prioritize ESG
considerations.

He also mentioned to follow 4Ps which are people, process, performance
and purpose and laid emphasis on creating awareness and introducing financial
literacy from the Secondary School Certificate level.

He commended ICSB for organizing the Seminar and fostering
collaboration among experts.

He hoped that BSEC and ICSB will work together and Chartered
Secretaries will play a unique role in upholding governance in
Bangladesh.

Acknowledging recent challenges, Nurul Alam highlighted the seminar's
focus on identifying barriers and proposing reforms to enhance market
efficiency, transparency and inclusivity.

He urged participants to foster innovation and collaboration,
underscoring the collective effort needed to build a resilient capital
market in Bangladesh.

Saiful Islam in his presentation outlined strategies for boosting
market confidence, promoting financial literacy and encouraging
institutional investment. It also addressed the importance of stronger
corporate governance, ESG reporting and Public Private Partnerships
(PPP).

Saied Mahmud Zubayer in his keynote presentation emphasized the need
for robust governance, transparency and regulatory oversight to
rebuild investor trust.