Daily Remittance Inflows Reach 1,500 Crore BDT

Bangladesh is witnessing an extraordinary surge in inward remittances, with daily inflows averaging a staggering 1,500 crore BDT (approximately $121.6 million). As the national election approaches, the volume of funds sent home by the Bangladeshi diaspora has reached unprecedented levels, providing a significant cushion to the nation’s foreign exchange reserves and overall economic stability.

A Record-Breaking Start to the Year

According to the latest data released by the central bank, Bangladesh Bank, the first 14 days of January 2026 saw an influx of $1.703 billion in remittances. This represents a remarkable 69.8% increase compared to the same period last year. On 14 January alone, the country received $113 million.

This momentum is part of a broader upward trend observed throughout the 2025-26 fiscal year. From July 2025 to mid-January 2026, total remittances reached $17.96 billion, marking a 21.6% growth over the $14.78 billion recorded during the corresponding period in the previous fiscal year.

The "Election Effect" on Capital Inflow

Financial analysts and senior banking officials suggest that the upcoming elections are a primary catalyst for this financial spike. It is widely understood within the banking sector that a substantial portion of these funds is being directed toward election-related expenditures.

Key observations include:

Campaign Funding: Supporters and associates of various candidates are reportedly mobilising funds abroad, which are then funnelled back into the country as formal remittances.

Geographic Concentration: The highest growth in transfers has been noted from countries with the largest concentrations of Bangladeshi expatriates.

Seasonal Expectations: Experts predict that this influx will remain robust through March, driven by the dual influence of the general election and the upcoming holy month of Ramadan.

Comparative Analysis of Remittance and Reserves

The following table illustrates the recent trajectory of remittance inflows and the subsequent recovery of national reserves:

Impact on Currency Stability and Reserves

The consistent flow of dollars has allowed the central bank to intervene effectively in the market. Throughout 2025, Bangladesh Bank actively purchased dollars from commercial banks to maintain exchange rate stability. Consequently, the severe dollar shortage experienced in 2024—which saw the greenback trade as high as 128 BDT—has eased. Currently, the exchange rate has stabilised between 122 and 123 BDT.

Moreover, the total remittance for the calendar year 2025 stood at $32.82 billion, a figure nearly equivalent to the country's current total foreign exchange reserves. This liquidity has not only bolstered the national balance sheet but has also restored confidence within the import-export sector.