Bangladesh

The industrial landscape of Bangladesh has witnessed a significant shift as Akij Resources Limited successfully executed a strategic takeover of Dominage Steel Building Systems. This acquisition represents a calculated maneuver by one of the country’s largest conglomerates to bridge the gap between private industrial operations and the public capital market. A Strategic Entry into the Public Sphere The cornerstone of this transaction is the acquisition of a 30.78% stake—totaling over 30 million shares—from the founding directors of Dominage Steel. For Akij Resources, spearheaded by Managing Director Sheikh Jasim Uddin and Chairman Faria Hossain, the move serves a dual purpose. Beyond expanding their industrial portfolio, it provides the group with an immediate presence on the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE). By opting for this "backdoor" entry into the public market, Akij Resources bypasses the traditional, time-consuming hurdles of an Initial Public Offering (IPO). This tra...

The partnership between Japan’s Lion Corporation and Bangladesh’s Kallol Group has reached a pivotal milestone with the launch of their advanced manufacturing plant in the Bangladesh Special Economic Zone (BSEZ). This joint venture, Lion Kallol Limited, represents a strategic fusion of Japanese innovation and local market expertise. Established with a 75% stake from Lion Corporation and 25% from Kallol Group, the collaboration combines over a century of Japanese R&D with one of Bangladesh’s most robust distribution networks. The newly inaugurated facility in Araihazar spans 3.3 hectares, utilizing cutting-edge automation to bring international production standards to the local market. The venture serves as a major boost for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), with an initial investment exceeding BDT 3,000 million. Beyond the financial injection, the project facilitates a critical technology transfer, creating high-skilled jobs and reducing the nation’s reliance on imported househo...

The distance running community is growing at an unprecedented pace, and with it, the demand for specialized gear that can handle both the heat and the hard pavement. Whether you are a seasoned athlete aiming for a personal best or a beginner preparing for your first 10K, choosing the right footwear is the most critical decision you will make. Below is a breakdown of the top 10 shoes currently leading the pack, categorized by their strengths in comfort, terrain, and value.   1. The Reliable Daily Trainer: Nike Pegasus 42 Known as "the shoe for every runner," this model is celebrated for its versatility. It features a balanced cushioning system that provides a responsive feel on asphalt. It is durable enough for months of training and comfortable enough for a half-marathon. Best for: Half Marathons and daily road sessions.   2. The Performance Hybrid: Adidas Adizero Boston 13 This shoe bridges the gap between a daily trainer and a professional racing flat. By in...

Dhaka’s fast-paced lifestyle often leaves families longing for a breath of fresh air and a quiet space to reconnect. While luxury retreats are plentiful, the real treasure lies in finding destinations that offer high-quality amenities without an exorbitant price tag. For those planning their next outing, here are five value-focused resorts near the capital that prioritize family-friendly environments and natural beauty.   1. Jol O Jongoler Kabbo (Pubail) Embracing the concept of "rustic simplicity," this resort is designed to resemble a traditional Bangladeshi village. Built primarily from sustainable materials like bamboo and jute, it offers a nostalgic escape from urban life. Amenities: Visitors can enjoy traditional boat rowing, expansive green fields for sports, and authentic earthen architecture. Value Highlight: The resort is famous for its all-inclusive day packages. The price typically covers an extensive buffet of local heritage...

As the sun rises on Pohela Boishakh , the Bengali New Year, Dhaka undergoes a sensory transformation. The city becomes a canvas of red and white, filled with the rhythmic beat of Dhol drums and the irresistible aroma of traditional spices. While this festival finds its origins in the historical tax reforms of the Mughal era, it has evolved into a magnificent celebration of identity. Today, this cultural legacy is being kept alive through a unique collaboration between history and the modern hospitality industry. For those exploring the city, the most remarkable feature of the modern New Year is the rise of the "Boishakhi Buffet." Dhaka’s luxury hotels have turned the act of dining into a cultural tour, made even more enticing by the widespread availability of Buy One Get One (B1G1) and Buy One Get Three (B1G3) offers. Bridging the Past and Present The hospitality landscape in Dhaka, featuring iconic landmarks like the InterContinental and Pan Pacific Sonargaon , serve...

The northern region of Bangladesh, historically recognized as Varendra, serves as a profound repository of the Indian subcontinent’s palimpsest history. From the dawn of urban civilization to the zenith of medieval craftsmanship, North Bengal offers a chronological journey through the rise and fall of ancient empires.   1. Mahasthangarh: The Citadel of Pundranagara Located in Bogra, Mahasthangarh stands as the earliest urban archaeological site in the region, dating back to at least the 3rd century BCE. Once the capital of the Pundra Kingdom, this fortified citadel flourished under the Mauryas, Guptas, and Palas. Archaeological findings, including the famous Brahmi inscription, reveal a sophisticated administrative center that bridged the gap between the Vedic age and the medieval era. 2. Somapura Mahavihara: The Beacon of Wisdom The Paharpur Buddhist Vihara in Naogaon is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to the Pala Dynasty's patronage of Mahayana Buddhism. Bu...

As the FY2026-27 National Budget approaches, the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) is navigating a period of intense uncertainty, balancing a fragile recovery against a tightening macroeconomic environment.   The market has been characterized by sharp fluctuations. In early April 2026, the DSEX bounced back by 1.82%, reaching 5,272 points after a prolonged 17-day downturn that erased approximately Tk 29,500 crore in market capitalization. This pre-budget uptick was largely driven by the government's intervention to stabilize domestic fuel prices amid a severe global gasoline shortage. Although this move offered a reprieve for industrial sectors, the broader economic foundation remains under pressure.   Key Economic Constraints The DSE currently faces a "triple threat" of rising costs and supply constraints: Sticky Inflation: With inflation hovering near 9.13%, the central bank has kept the policy rate at 10%, which has significantly restricted the liquidity required fo...