Credit Policy of Dutch Bangla Bank

The major objective of this report is to gather knowledge about credit policy of Dutch-Bangla Bank Limited. other objectives are to know about different kinds of credit facilities the bank offers and to know about General Banking policy, the credit sanctioning policy and Foreign Exchange activities of Dutch Bangla Bank. Finally draw SWOT analysis and find out some problems related on Credit Policy and give some recommendations against the major findings.

Objectives of the study/research

Broad Objectives:

The broad objective of this report is to gather knowledge about credit policy of Dutch-Bangla Bank Limited.

Specific objectives: To accomplish the main objective, it may cover the following:

1. To know about different kinds of credit facilities the bank offers.
2. To know about General Banking policy, the credit sanctioning policy and Foreign Exchange activities of DBBL.
3. To give some recommendations against the major findings.

Methodology of the Report:

Types of research:

• This is descriptive research in nature.

Source of data collection:

Both primary and secondary sources of information have been used in the research.

Primary Sources:

• In depth interview with high officials of the branch.
• Questionnaire survey on customer.

Secondary Sources:

• Different books and periodicals related to the banking sector.
• Banks annual report.
• Newspaper.
• Bangladesh Bank report.
• Internet.

Dutch-Bangla Bank Limited

About the company

Dutch-Bangla Bank Limited (DBBL) is a Bangladeshi-European private joint venture scheduled commercial bank, incorporated in Bangladesh in the year 1995. This public limited bank commenced its formal operation from June 3, 1996. The Netherlands Development Finance Company (FMO) of the Netherlands is the international co-sponsor of this bank with 30% equity holding. Out of the rest 70%, 60% equity has been provided by prominent local entrepreneurs and industrialists and the rest 10% shares is the public issue. During the initial operating year (1996-1997), the bank received skill augmentation technical assistance from the Amro Bank of the Netherlands (ABN). Starting with one branch in Dhaka, DBBL now has expanded to twenty four branches including thirteen branches outside of the capital. To provide client services all over Bangladesh, it has established a wide correspondent banking relationship with a number of local banks, and in order to facilitate international trade transactions, it has arranged correspondent relationship with large number of international banks which are active across the globe. Moreover, DBBL has introduced ATM cards and Internet banking to ensure the customer’s freedom to choose his/her own banking hours.

Dutch-Bangla Bank started operation is Bangladesh’s first joint venture bank. The bank was an effort by local shareholders spearheaded by M Sahabuddin Ahmed (founder chairman) and the Dutch company FMO.

From the onset, the focus of the bank has been financing high-growth manufacturing industries in Bangladesh. The rationale being that the manufacturing sector exports Bangladeshi products worldwide. Thereby financing and concentrating on this sector allows Bangladesh to achieve the desired growth. DBBL’s other focus is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Even though CSR is now a cliche, DBBL is the pioneer in this sector and termed the contribution simply as ‘social responsibility’. Due to its investment in this sector, DBBL has become one of the largest donors and the largest bank donor in Bangladesh. The bank has won numerous international awards because of its unique approach as a socially conscious bank.

DBBL was the first bank in Bangladesh to be fully automated. The Electronic-Banking Division was established in 2002 to undertake rapid automation and bring modern banking services into this field. Full automation was completed in 2003 and hereby introduced plastic money to the Bangladeshi masses. DBBL also operates the nation’s largest ATM fleet and in the process drastically cut consumer costs and fees by 80%. Moreover, DBBL choosing the low profitability route for this sector has surprised many critics. DBBL had pursued the mass automation in Banking as a CSR activity and never intended profitability from this sector. As a result it now provides unrivaled banking technology offerings to all its customers.

Background

Dutch-Bangla Bank Limited (DBBL) is Bangladesh’s most innovative and technologically advanced bank. DBBL stands to give the most innovative and affordable banking products to Bangladesh. An Amonst bank, DBBL is the largest donor in to social causes in Bangladesh. It stands as one of the largest private donor’s involed in imporving the country. DBBL is proud to be associated with helping Bangladesh as well as being a leader in the country’s banking sector.

Vision

Dutch-Bangla bank dreams of better Bangladesh, where arts and letters, sports and athletics, music and entertainment, science and education, health and hygiene, clean and pollution free environment and above all a society based on morality and ethics make all our lives worth living. DBBL’s essence and ethos rest on a cosmos of creativity and the marvel – magic of a charmed life that abounds with spirit of life and adventures that contributes towards human development.

Mission

Dutch-Bangla Bank engineers enterprise and creativity in business and industry with a commitment to social responsibility. Profits alone do not hold a central focus in the bank’s operation, because man does not live by bread and butter alone.

Core Objectives

Dutch-Bangla Bank believes in its uncompromising commitment to fulfill its customer needs and satisfaction and to become their first choice in banking. Taking cue form its pool esteemed clientele, Dutch-Bangla Bank intends to pave the way for a new era in banking that upholds and epitomizes its vaunted marques “Your Trusted Partne”.

Credit Rating of the Bank

In line with Bangladesh Bank’s BRPD Circular No. 06 dated July 05, 2006 and in order to improve the risk management and corporate governance system of the Bank and to safeguard the interest of investors, depositors, creditors, shareholders and the Bank Management as a whole, credit rating of the Bank for the year 2008 was done by Credit Rating Agency of Bangladesh (CRAB). The date of rating by CRAB was 29 June 2009. CRAB assigned ‘A1’ (pronounced as single A one) rating in the Long Term and ST-2 rating in the Short Term. Credit rating will be done regularly on a yearly basis and credit rating of 2009 will be completed before June 30, 2010.

Highlights on the overall activities of the Bank for the years 2011 and 2010.

Credit Policy

Credit Policy of Dutch-Bangla Bank Limited

A credit policy includes all rules relating to loans and advances made by the bank to the borrowers. It includes types of credit extended by banks, method of judging the credit value of borrowers, the collateral or securities that are accepted by the banks and so on. This policy guidelines refer to all credit facilities extended to customers including placement of funds on the inter bank market or other transactions with financial institutions. DBBL Credit policy contains the views of total macro-economic development of the country as a whole by way of providing financial support to the Trade, Commerce and Industry. Throughout its credit operation DBBL goes to every possible corner of the society but the bank gives more emphases on corporate sector than consumer loan. They are financing large and medium scale business house and industry. At the same time, they also takes care entrepreneur through its operation of Lease Finance and some Small Loan Scheme etc. As a part of its Credit Policy DBBL through its credit operation maintains commitment for social welfare.

• Creating healthy loan assets to ensure good interest earnings for the bank.
• Ensuring safety of invested fund through judicious selection of borrowers
• Improving discipline and skill on use of resources.

Principles of lending

The principles of lending can be considered under the following heads:

Profitability

All credit facilities granted to the Bank’s customers must produce profit, either directly or indirectly. Spreads are normally associated with the element of risk undertaken and the period and nature of the facilities. When judging a credit proposal, concerned officer should take a comprehensive view of other allied business that will be received by the branches.

Generally, the Head office will advise the rates of interest to be charged on various types of credit facilities. The branch managers would ascertain market conditions and keep the Head Office informed. Cases for charging interest lower than the stipulated rate should be supported by sound business considerations.

Source of repayment

After satisfying that the transaction will be profitable, next attention to be given to the cash flow situation of the borrower. The Bank’s advances can be classified into three main categories, as follows:

A very short-term advance which will be liquidated by funds received in the very near future: examples are advances against foreign or local bills or bridge financing where evidence of credit sanction from another financial institution is available;

Provision for current assets: this type of facility is needed for trading and /or manufacturing activities: the capacity and the potential for adjustment of the facility will depend on the nature of the borrower’s trade and the market in which he operates;

Term advance/ lending over 1 (one) year: examples of such facilities are investment in plant and machinery, building, a farm or a shop: generally, a long-term loan is repaid out of future earnings generated by the business.

Before granting a facility, it should be ensured that a reliable source of repayment exists and that the advance will be paid within the agreed period. When considering the period of repayments, required margin should be provided for unforeseen circumstances such as downward market trend, or the general economic condition of the country. Besides payment of interest and installments and other charges, the funds generated by the business should preferably leave adequate margin for meeting needs for future expansion or other business contingencies. Where the facilities are secured by fixed assets, the sale proceeds of such security should not be considered as a prime source of adjustment of the facility.

In order to ascertain the capacity of the business to meet the obligations, the cash flow projections should be examined. If such examination calls for a revision of the repayment schedule, the credit facilities should be re-examined and their viability should be determined.

Character and ability of the borrower

The branch manager should know his customer well and should be able to judge his intentions and ability to use the credit facilities to his advantage. Advance should be granted only to those borrowers in whom the branch manager has full confidence. Integrity of the borrower and his ability to conduct business are of paramount importance and take precedence over the value of the securities offered. The directors or partners of limited companies or partnerships should be men of integrity, experience and drive. Assessment of the company’s operations and information about the directors can be gained by studying the past year’s financial statements of the company, its general reputation in business circles, and by reference to the company’s bankers.

When recommending a review or extension of a limit, branch managers should verify the past performance from the branch records. The levels of maximum and minimum balances, turnover, the average debit balance, and timely receipt of the installments provide an adequate basis on which to judge the health of the account.

The borrower should possess good trade experience, business acumen, initiative and drive. He must have ability to control the finances of his business. Lack of financial control may ruin an otherwise successful business, particularly when the business faces adverse economic conditions. It is imperative that the branch manager should be able to form a favorable impression about the integrity and business ability of his prospective borrower before initiating the loan application.

Purpose of the facility

The purpose of advance should be studied with a view to understanding whether it is within the policy of the Bank. (If it is outside the Bank’s policy, the proposal should not be given further consideration).

Each proposal should be considered on its merits. Consideration should of course be given to the nature of business and certainty with which the business or the project will yield results. Branch managers should exercise their judgment and should avoid granting advances for speculative projects. The general test, which should be applied by the branch manager, is whether the Bank is called upon to finance a reasonable business project or whether the borrower will utilize the finance for speculative purposes.

In the case of corporate borrowers, the purpose of borrowing must be consistent with the objectives of the company. The objectives laid down in the Memorandum and Article of Association or by-laws of the company must be carefully examined before considering any credit facility for limited companies.

Terms of the facility

Credit facilities are broadly divided under the following categories:

• facilities needed for very short term requirements;
• facilities needed for current assets requirements;
• Facilities needed for long-term/investment requirements.

Facilities covered under category (a) above are generally required for a short period of up to three to six months. Such facilities include packing credits, advances against salaries, advances against purchase/discount of bills and bridging finance facilities. Facilities covered under category (b) are generally for a slightly longer period, say up to one year. When considering a facility of this nature, a feasibility study of the project should be made and a repayment schedule should be agreed.

Having agreed the period of repayment, the branch manager must ensure that repayment is received within stipulated period. It is prudent to take corrective action when the first default is made. Caution at an early stage prevents accumulating heavy debit balances and possible bad debts.

Safety

To safeguard Bank’s interest over the entire period of the advance a comprehensive view of the capital, capacity and integrity of the borrower adequacy and nature of security compliance with all legal formalities, completion of all documentation and finally a constant watch on the account are called for all advances will be against adequate security.,  Where advances are granted against the guarantee of a third party, that party must be subject to the same credit assessment as made for the principal borrower.

The basis of security valuations will be expert third party assessments at two levels; current market price and forced sale value. In the case of property, valuations should be done by enlisted surveyor of the Bank. Inventory valuations may be taken at the balance sheet values shown in unqualified audited accounts after the branch manager has carried out his own investigation into the composition of the inventory. Specialist values may be requested by the branch to provide other assets valuation (if required) such as machinery and equipment. The value of the debtor may be taken from the balance sheet. The cost of the valuation (if any) will be born by the borrower.

Information requirements

To satisfy the majority, if not all, of the principles of lending detailed above, the branch should collect information on the following questions, before considering whether credit facilities should be granted to the borrower:

• Who is the borrower? Whether any special characteristics of the borrower need particular attention. For example, if the borrower is a trust, this calls for examination of the trust deed.
• Is the branch satisfied about the character, ability, integrity and experience of the borrower? Is the branch confident about the borrower?
• Is the purpose of borrowing consistent with the objectives of the company?
• Is the purpose legal? Does it contravene any law? Advances should not be considered for illegal purposes.
• What is the amount required? Is it sufficient for the purpose mentioned?
• Is the security offered acceptable and adequate? Has sufficient margin been maintained? Can a valid charge be obtained on the security?
• What is the period of advance? What are the sources of repayment? Is there reasonable certainty that the stipulated installment will be recovered?

What is the rate of interest charged? Will it be profitable to the Bank? In assessing the profitability of the account, allowance must be made for any ancillary business like foreign exchange, business of group accounts, contingent business etc. which may be available to the Bank from the borrower. Branches should also consider whether there is any onerous or difficult work involved in maintaining the account.

Types / Nature of Advances & Loan

The credit facilities granted by the bank are classified under different account heads as under :

1. Loan (like short/ mid/ long term in nature)
2. Overdrafts (allowing frequent debit/credit transactions within an agreed limit)

Trade related credit facilities (like bills port folio)

1. Short Term Advances (like continuing facilities)
2. Contingent facilities (like Letters of Credit, Letters of Guarantee etc.)
3. Others, if any.

Generally all facilities, except term loans are repayable on demand. Trade related credit facilities are self-liquidating in nature.

Cash Credit /Overdrafts are reviewed annually or at regular intervals in case a closer monitoring of the accounts is necessary.

Contingent liabilities are also self-liquidating in a broader sense. The credit worthiness of the client on whose behalf the liability is assured is very important.

Processing of Credit Proposals

• The client shall submit loan application form with necessary papers/documents as per Bank’s checklist.
• On receipt of the loan application form, branch shall scrutinize the papers to ensure the following:
• All the columns of the application form have been filled in with appropriate information and the application is signed.
• All the papers/documents containing requisite information as per checklist have been submitted.
• There is no apparent discrepancy in the application papers/documents submitted by the client.
• On scrutiny of the papers, client should be interviewed to know details about the business and find out any inconsistency in the papers.
• Credit proposals must be prepared for all credit facilities. Facilities will be renewed at the discretion of DBBL every year.

The processing of a credit proposal falls into mainly two stages as under:

• Obtaining due approval of the competent authority of DBBL
• Steps for allowing the client to avail the credit facility.

Management approval levels splits into following authority:

• Head Office Credit Committee
• Delegated authority to the Managing Director
• Executive Committee of the Board

The Credit Committee is responsible to review, and approve or reject any credit proposals on the basis of lending policy, lending criteria, sect oral exposure and/ or on other genuine grounds. Credit Committee usually sits on every week or more frequently as the need may arise. The proposals after thorough discussion/ deliberation if found suitable is recommended for approval to the Executive Committee of the Board through the Managing Director.

Under delegated lending authority to the Managing Director, credit proposals, one time or specific gets approval after scrutiny is done by Head Office Credit Division. From time to time the Managing Director may delegate the branch managers discretionary powers with due approval from the competent authority.

Head Office deals with analyzing, reviewing of proposals emanating from branches and have the following responsibilities:

• Reviewing and analyzing the proposal on the basis of merits and complying with usual norms and procedures and within the policy guidelines of DBBL.
• Processing of credit limit proposals for review by Credit Committee for approval and renewal
• Processing of full-dressed memo for sanction/ renewal/ re-structure of limits for approval of the Executive Committee of the Board.
• Monitoring of loan port-folio of branches including non-performing and classified accounts.
• Periodic review of various advances related statements.
• Identification and pursuing potential irregular advances.
• Monitoring and implementation of DBBL’s credit policy.

Credit proposal originates in the branch. Proposal after due checking, and analysis is sent with recommendation signed by the manager and the credit officer in-charge.

After the credit proposal has been finally approved by the competent authority as the case may be, the resolution /decision thereof are sent to the branch for further action as follows:

• Conveying offers to the borrower and obtain acceptance there against.
• Branch credit /loan administration perfect the security and charge documents considering the nature and the terms of the facility.
• Setting –off client file account record.

Credit Report:

The branch manager should ensure preparation of credit report on the client to determine its past record, business performances, market reputation etc. The credit report should contain the following:

• The nature of client’s business.
• The names of owners and details of their associated business concerns.
• Net worth of the individual person owing the firm /company (obtain through declaration at the time of submission of loan application).
• The financial health of the business concern.
• Assessment of managerial capability through analyzing the up to date financial statements and market report, previous bank’s transaction record.

CIB Report:

In the recent past, to stream line credit discipline in banking sector and for meticulous adherence to the treatment of delinquent borrower by the commercial banks and DFIs as per stipulation of Bank Companies Act 1991, Bangladesh Bank has introduced a credit port folio data base naming Credit Information Bureau (CIB). For processing credit proposals (both funded & non-funded) banks and DFIs need to obtain mandatory satisfactory CIB report from Bangladesh Bank. Present criteria for obtaining mandatory CIB report may be changed from time to time at the discretion of Bangladesh Bank. Any change in this regard shall be notified to the banks vide Bangladesh Bank CIB Circulars. Branch manager must obtain satisfactory CIB report prior to processing of credit proposals and mention the status of the client and its allied concerns /persons of the borrower in the credit line proposal as it is revealed in the latest CIB report.

Visiting Client:

A visit to the client’s business premises, factory can be a very useful avenue to gather information for preparation of credit proposal. This visit and meeting the client at their door-step may help to confirm the business decision reach by the manager with regard to the clients’ financial status, management efficiency and technical details about the good sense and services in which the client deals.

During the visit particularly to the factory go down, the manager can get an idea about the client’s investment, condition of the machinery and client’s stock movement. This will also help to judge its quality and acceptability as a reliable security. A set of question, which may be asked, should be prepared beforehand.

There are different sections covered in the credit proposal format which are:

1. Client introduction: Giving the exact name and style of the client as per registration in case of limited company. Also indicate the nature of the proposal “New” or “Renewal/ Revision”. Use figures in denomination of Taka in million. State exact nature of business/description of the project. Provide business capital /equity capital of the owner based on financial statements.

2. Particulars of owners: State whether proprietor, partners or directors Show the percentage of the shareholdings of the directors as per record. Provide declared assets / net worth as the case may be by individually.

3. Allied concerns: Provide name of allied business concern of the owners/ client, their nature of business and their investment / interest in the business.

4. Credit facility from other banks: Obtain declared statement from the client. Also refer to CIB report of Bangladesh Bank.

5. Account maintained with DBBL: State all accounts including Fixed Deposit, if any, showing average deposit/current deposit.

6. Existing credit lines(s): Give details and nature of facility. The amount of respective limit and the out standings on the date of the proposal. State validity/ maturity. State primary and collateral security in brief. In footnote, please provide overdue status of PAD/TR/Loan and whether Term Loan repayment is regular.

7. Proposed credit line(s): In case of renewal /revision, this section should be completed only after careful review of the conduct of the account. Client’s financial requirement. Managing of business affairs in terms of available facility (ies).
8. In case of fresh proposal, and after having a preliminary discussion with the client to have a clear view of client’s account, his future plans and financing requirements, the size of limit, period and proposed security to be structured.

9. Analysis of credit proposal: In this section, provide general background of the client, business profile, project details and management aspects of the business house/industry. Give views on qualification, experience and past history of the owners.

10. Third party information: Provide status of up to date CIB report. Credit checking with other sources. Previous banks account transaction.

11. Financial information: This section reflects the financial soundness of the business concern and information to be collected / prepared from spreadsheet analysis on the basis of client’s management certified financial statements or audited financial reports. Furnish comments on the liquidity, profitability and leverage position of the client. This exercise / assessment should be done carefully pinpointing the strong and weak areas.

12. Prospects: Here business prospects market outlook of the product to be given. Salient features of the products, pricing, market strategy to be provided in case of manufacturing products.

13. Assessment of financing requirement: Client’s financing requirement to be assessed on the basis of business cash flow /working capital assessment / future plans. Exact requirement to be assessed and recommended after preliminary discussion with the client.                

15. Inadequacy in the documentation: Mention non-fulfillment of any documentation / mortgage perfection etc. Also indicate audit objection on client’s account.

16. Collateral security: Give details of security in the form of land, building, machinery, it’s written down value or surveyed value. Also show nature of marketable securities, its face value and average market value.

17. Risks Analysis: Furnish comments on LRA exercise, if done, and indicate the LRA rating. Indicate possible risks in the business and its mitigation.

18. Accounts/ business performance: Give details of client’s deposit/ loan accounts performance during last 12 months. Show debit/ credit summation, minimum/ maximum balances, L/Cs opened, export documents negotiated during last 12 months.

19. Bank’s earning: Give break-up of earnings from the relationship.

20. Recommendation: Give meaningful comments, consideration of the business line with clear recommendation.

21. Proposed facility (ies): Give facility wise proposed/renewed/restructured loan/ credit limits, purpose of the facility, source of repayment, pricing of the facility, security support and validity of the facility.

Other conditions/ special conditions including requirement of Bangladesh Bank approval to be highlighted.

Supporting Documents for processing credit proposal:

The branch manager while processing a credit proposal for Head Office approval must see that the proposal recommended is based on following supporting documentation:

1. Credit report on the client
2. Financial statements

Spreadsheet analysis

1. Net worth analysis
2. Acceptable security details

Credit report on client is a prime requisite for assessing his /their creditability, managerial ability and past historical records. This report should be updated when renewal of credit facilities are considered. Third party credit report / CIB report alongwith credit report on the client should be kept in the file at the branch.

Posts sanction process:

After the credit Line Proposal has been finally approved by the appropriate sanctioning authority in the Bank’s credit organization structure it enters the post sanction processing stage. At this stage the signed credit line proposals is returned to the branch/ credit officers, following four further steps are to be taken by the branch manager before the borrower can use the credit lines that have been sanctioned to him. These steps are as follows:

1. convey offer /sanction letter to the borrower
2. Branch credit officers perfect the security and charge documents considering the nature and the terms of facility and the securities and in accordance with the laws of the land. Head Office will provide guidance to branches from time to time in this regard. Where considered necessary advice of DBBL’s panel lawyers should be obtained.
3. An account number is allocated to the new credit facility.
4. The account record is set up and borrower’s file is prepared.

When these four steps have been complied with, the post sanctioning process is completed and the borrower can draw on his account.

Disbursement

Disbursement of advance can take in the following different forms:

1. Loans: Advance mace in a lump sum repayable either on fixed installment basis or in lump sum having no subsequent debit except by way of interest, incidental charges, etc. is called a loan.
2. Overdrafts: Advance in the form of overdraft is always allowed on a current account operated upon cheques. Within the sanctioned limit, the borrower can overdue his account within a stipulated period.
3. Cash Credit: Cash credit as form of advance is a separate account by itself and is maintained in a separate ledger. The borrower may operate the account within stipulated limit as and when required.
4. Inland Bills purchased: Sometimes banks are to purchase bill of exchange to facilitate commercial transactions. In case of purchase and discounting of bills, the bankers credit the customer’s account with the amount of the bill after deducting his charges or discount.
5. Payment against documents(PAD): PAD is associated with import and import financing. The bank opening letter of credit is bound to honor its commitment to pay for import bills when these are for presented for payment provided that it is drawn strictly.
6. Loan against imported merchandise (LIM): When the importers fail to retire the documents or requests foe clearance of goods, the outstanding under PAD or B/E is transferred to LIM.
7. Trusts Receipts: Advance against a trust receipt obtained from the customers are allowed when the documents covering an import shipment are given without payment.
8. Long Term Loan: Long term loan is meant for setting up of a project/ industrial undertaking, i.e., financing for the development of the infra structural facilities including procurement of the facilities.

Monitor/ Control of Credit Operations

Advance allowed should be very closely watched to see whether the same are being conducted in accordance with the terms and conditions under which the limits were sanctioned or not. The results of the inspection should be an effective guide in sorting out the measures to be adopted in respect either of correcting the unsatisfactory operation of the advances or recovery of the same.

In order to ensure safety of advances, advances should be kept under supervision and thereby under control. This will include supervision at the time of disbursement to ensure proper utilization of bank credit, to supervise end use during the tenure of advance and to ensure that the repayment is regular.

The control of credit operations falls into two main parts, namely:

• Regular monitoring of all accounts and review of all EOLs;

• Monitoring of delinquent accounts.

Monitoring/controlling contains the following main sections:

• Control of overdrawn accounts;
• Control of loans; &

• Control of other credit activities

Renewal of limits

While sanctioning limits, the expiry date is fixed by the Sanctioning Authority. Therefore, branch required reviewing the limit for renewal at least 60 days before expiry of the period. If the Sanctioning Authority is satisfied with the recommendation made by the branch manager, the limit shall be renewed. Otherwise, it will be renewed for adjustment purposes only, farther drawings in the accounts of the customers should not be allowed.

Recovery of Advances

Advances granted in any form are repayable either on demand or on the expiry of the validity period, or through agreed installments. When repayment is not forth coming in accordance with the repayment terms, recovery efforts should be launched.

When the repayment pattern of the advance is such that continuance of the facility is not worthwhile or while the advance allowed on installment has been defaulted or the advance allowed confronts with the following circumstance advance should be recalled:

• Borrower or the grantor dies.
• Borrower or the grantor has become insolvent.
• Borrowing Company has been liquidated.
• Partnership has been dissolved.
• Borrower does not come forward to renew the documents much before the expiry of the expiry of the period of limitation.
• Value of the security has been deteriorated.
• Financial position of the borrower has deteriorated alarmingly which is beyond restoration.
• The party commits fraud of any sort.
• Policy of the bank has under gone change in relation to certain types of advances.
• Bangladesh Bank has imposed restriction on certain type of advance and desires its adjustment etc.

For the recovery of the advances, branch should take the under mentioned steps:

• Make formal demand for repayment in writing.
• Put pressure on the borrower by utilizing the most effective and meaningful media, which can exert adequate influence on the borrower.
• Intimate the borrower about bank’s ultimate resorting to file suit in the event of non-repayment.
• Advice the guarantor if any to adjust the advance or have it adjusted by the principal debtor.
• If the borrower and his guarantor (if any) comes forward and proposes repayment arrangement and the same is considered to be an acceptable proposal, the branch should seek controlling decision in this regard and act in accordance with the instruction.

Time Limitation

Limitation refers to a period within which existing rights can be enforced in the court of Law. In other words, limitation prescribes the time Limit within which the credit shall file suit against the defaulting debtor for the realization of advance made to the latter. Limitation period cannot be extended through any agreement made by the debtor and creditor. But the period can be extended by performance of some acts by the parties. If the borrower executes fresh promissory notes or a new bond etc. even after the expiry of the limitation period, the same is extended from the date of execution of fresh documents as per section 25/3 of the contract act 1872. The documents shall however be taken much before the limitation expires because the may not be available to execute the documents immediately after the limitation period expired.

Qualitative Judgment:

If the recovery of the credit becomes uncertain resulting from change of circumstances under which credit was extended or the borrower sustains loss of capital or the value of security decreases or any adverse situation arises then the credit will be classified on the basis of Qualitative Judgment. Besides, if the credit is extended without any logical basis or the credit is frequently rescheduled or the rules of rescheduling are violated or the trends of exceeding credit limit observed frequently or a suit is filed for recovery of the credit is extended without the approval of the competent authority, then the loan will be classified on the basis of Qualitative judgment. Under this judgment the loans will be classified as under:

Substandard: Due to reasons stated above or for any other reason if in spite of possible loss of any credit, there is any probability of changing the present situation through taking proper steps.

Doubtful: Even after taking proper steps, if the full recovery is not ensured.

Bad/Loss: If the probability of recovery becomes totally nil.

If any improvement achieved in the accounts classified it will again be declassified. However, the credit once classified by inspection team of Bangladesh Bank, that will be treated as final classification and before any subsequent inspection is conducted by Bangladesh Bank or without prior approval of Bangladesh Bank the credit will not attain any merit of declassification.

Accounting Procedure of Interest of Classified Loan

Sub-standard or Doubtful: Interest will be imposed on that credit account but such interest will not be   transferred to the Income Account. Instead the interest will be kept in Interest Suspense.

Bad/Loss: Imposition of interest on Bad/Loss account will be suspended. If any suit is required to recover such credit, the suit will be filed on total amount of principal included interest calculated up to the period before the suit is filed. Such interest will be kept on interest suspense. In case of any special reason if interest is imposed on Bad/Loss account then such interest will be reserved on suspense account.

If any classified loan or part thereof is recovered i.e. actual deposit on account of recovery is

Made in the credit account, then recovery of non-imposed as well as imposed interest will be made first from such deposit.  Then original loan will be adjusted.

Reservation of Provision

Provision for reserve will be kept at the following scale:

Sub-Standard  : 20%

Doubtful           : 50%

Bad/Loss          : 100%

After adjustment of Interest Suspense and value of Eligible Securities from outstanding balance of classified credit-the reservation of provisions will be kept on the calculated balance. General provision will be kept at the rate of 1% on unclassified loans.

Eligible Securities as stated above will include the following securities:

Security in respect of lien against loan: 100%

Security in respect of gold or gold ornaments kept in the bank as per present market value: 100%

Security against value of Govt. Bond/Sanchaya patra under lien: 100%

Guarantee made by the Govt. or Bangladesh Bank: 100%

Market value of easily marketable goods preserved under the custody of Bank: 50%

Market value of the Mortgaged Land & Buildings: Maximum 50%

Definition of Foreign Exchange:

Foreign Exchange means foreign currency and it includes any instrument drawn, accepted, made or issued under clause (13), Article 16 of the Bangladesh Bank Order, 1972. All deposits, credits and balances payable in any foreign currency and draft, travelers cheque, letter of credit and bill of exchange expressed or drawn in Bangladeshi currency but payable in any foreign currencies. Foreign Exchange Act. 1947 defines foreign exchange as “foreign currency and includes deposits, credits, and balances payable in foreign currency as well as drafts, travelers cheques, letter of credit, bills of exchange drawn in local currency but, payable in foreign currency”. According to Dr. Paul Einzig, “Foreign exchange is the system or process of converting one national currency into another and   transferring money from the country to another.” Foreign exchange deals with foreign trade and foreign currency.

Definition of Foreign Trade

No country is self-sufficient in all the goods. Some countries have special advantage to produce some items. Bangladesh can manufacture readymade garments easily due to lower cost of labor. So Bangladesh is exporting readymade garments to USA where as USA is exporting machinery to Bangladesh due to their favorable transaction to that item. These kinds of cross border transaction or exchange of goods are called foreign trade.

For conducting these foreign dealings the respective banks need authorization of the central bank. The respective Banks need “Authorized Dealer License” for conducting this foreign correspondence. The bank which holds this license is called authorized dealer. Bangladesh Bank issues this license by seeing the bank’s performance and also the parties that deals with.

Authorized Dealers:

Authorized Dealer means a Bank, Authorized by Bangladesh Bank to deal in Foreign Exchange under the Foreign Exchange Regulation (FER) Act 1947. But there are some persons or firms, authorized by Bangladesh Bank to deal in Foreign Exchange with limited scope are called Authorized Money Changers. To get a license for authorization a bank will apply the General Manager, Foreign Exchange Policy Department, Bangladesh Bank, Head Office, Dhaka complying the subsequent conditions:

• The Bank must have adequate manpower trained in Foreign Exchange.
• Prospect to attract reasonable volume of Foreign Exchange business in the desired location.
• The bank meticulously complies with the instruction of Bangladesh Bank.
• The bank will commit to deal in Foreign Exchange within the limit & will submit periodical returns as instructed by Bangladesh Bank.

Functions of Authorized Dealer:

Authorized Dealer can handle all kinds of Foreign Exchange transaction as per Foreign Exchange Regulation (FER) Act 1947 under the instruction of Bangladesh Bank. Following are the main function of an Authorized Dealer:

• Exchange of Foreign Currencies.

• To make arrangement with Foreign Correspondent.
• Buying & Selling Foreign currencies.
• Handling of Inward & Outward Remittance
• Opening of L/C & Settlement of Payment.
• Investment in Foreign Trade.
• Opening & Maintenance of Accounts with Foreign Banks under intimation to Bangladesh Bank
• Export Documents handling.

Wings of Foreign Exchange:

A Bank’s Foreign exchange department has three definite wings through which foreign exchange transactions are conducted.

Foreign Exchange

Import Section            Export Section        Remittance Section

The key products of Financial Institution Department are divided into two categories:

Risk Products

• L/C Confirmation
• Negotiations
• Inter and intra Bank Guarantee
• Local Bill Discounting

Non-Risk Products

• L/C Advising
• L/C Transfer
• L/C amendment advising
• Reimbursement Undertaking and Authorities
• Fund Transfers
• Export proceeds
• BDT Draft Drawing
• International Payments (T T’s)
• Account Services (Vostro Account Management)

Import Department

Introduction:

Import trade of Bangladesh is controlled under the import & Export control Act (IEC) 1950. Authorized Dealer Banks will import the goods into Bangladesh following import policy, public notice, F, E circular & other instructions from competent authorities from time to time.

Definition on Import:

Buying of goods & services form foreign countries for sales is considered as import. The person or organization who import the goods & services form foreign countries is known Importer and from which goods & services are imported is known as Exporter. In case of Import, the importers are asked by their Exporters to open a Letter of Credit (L/C). So that there payment against goods & services is ensured.

General Provision for Import:

Regulation of Import – Import of goods under this order shall be regulated as under:

Banned list:

Banned goods are not allowed to import through the foreign exchange transaction. Such as Live Swine, Eggs of shrimps and prawns etc.

Restricted list:  Any item, which is restricted by the “Import Policy Order 1997-2002” in Annexure –1(b) shall be importable only on fulfillment of the conditions (b) specified therein against the item.

Free Importable Items: 

The items which are not included either in the Banned list or restricted list shall be freely importable:

In addition to the conditions mentioned in the Restricted and Banned Lists the conditions restrictions and procedures for import of various items mentioned in the test portion of this Order, shall as usual apply in case of import of those items.

General conditions of Import Goods:

Import Trade Control Schedule Numbers- For import purpose use of new ITC Numbers with at least six digits corresponding to the classification of goods as given in the Import Trade Control Schedule 1998, based on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System shall be mandatory.

NOC on the basis of ROR (Right of Refusal):

No objection Certificate on the basis of right of Refusal form any authority shall not be required for import of any freely importable item by any Public Sector Agency. However, in cases where a public sector agency is required to import banned or restricted items included in the control list prior permission of the Ministry of Commerce shall have to be obtained on the basis of ROR issued by the ministry of Industries or by the Sponsoring Ministry/Division or by both as the case may be.

Restriction regarding source of procurement of goods:

(a) Goods from Israel or goods originating form that country shall not be importable. Goods shall also not be importable in the flag vessels of that country.

(b) All kinds of import from and export to Serbia and Montenegro, fragments of former Socialist Republic of Yugoslavia shall be banned.

Pre- Shipment Inspection:

Unless otherwise specified pre-shipment inspection of imported goods shall not be obligatory in case of import be the private sector importers.

Shipment of Bangladesh Flag Vessels:

Subject to waiver specified below shipment of goods shall normally be made on Bangladesh flag vessels.

Types of Importer:

Goods are imported for personal use, commercial or industrial purpose. So there are three kinds of importer such as:

• Personal Importer.
• Commercial Importer.
• Industrial Importer.

Letter of Credit (L/C):

Letter of Credit (L/C) is a payment guarantee to the seller by the issuing bank on be half of the importer. In other words, it is a letter of the Issuing Bank to the beneficiary undertaking to effect payment under some agreed conditions. L/C is called documentary Letter of Credit, because the undertaking of the Issuing Bank is subject to presentation of some specified documents. Through the L/C Buyers & Sellers enter into a contract for buying and selling goods/ services and the buyer instructs his bank to issue L/C in favour of the seller. Here bank assumes fiduciary function between the buyer and seller.

Classification of L/C:

There are many kinds of L/C. Few of them are briefly discussed below:

Irrevocable L/C:

Irrevocable L/C cannot be amended or cancelled without the consent of the beneficiary or any other interested parties.

Revocable L/C:

It can be amended or cancelled by the Issuing Bank, without the consent of the Beneficiary or any other interested parties. If it is not indicated in the L/C whether it is Revocable or Irrevocable then the L/C to be treated as Irrevocable.

Add-Confirmed L/C:

When a third Bank provide guarantee to the beneficiary to make payment, if Issuing Bank fail to make payment, the L/C a third Bank adds their confirmation to the beneficiary, to make payment, in addition to that of Issuing Bank. Confirmed L/C gives the beneficiary a double assurance of payment.

Clean Clause L/C:

It is a Normal Caused L/C without third Bank’s confirmation.

Revolving L\C:

It is an L\C, where the original amount restores after it has been utilized. How many times and how long, the amount will restore must be specified in L\C.

For example, an L\C opened for USD 10,000,000 and shipment effected for USD 5,000,000, now the L\C restored for full value i.e. there is scope to effect full value i.e. there is scope to effect further shipment of USD 10,000,000. Revolving L/C may be opened to avoid difficulties of opining new L/C. This L/C is not allowed in our present import policy.

Transferable L/C:

If the word “Transferable” incorporated in an L/C, then the L/C is transferable. Transferable L/C can be transferred by the 1^st beneficiary to the 2^nd beneficiary. But 2^nd beneficiary cannot transfer it further to another beneficiary. Transfer may be done to more than one beneficiary partially, if not prohibited in the L/C

Clean Letter of Credit:

This is a commercial letter of credit wherein the Issuing Bank does not ask any documents as evidence of execution of the deal under the L/C. Under the said L/C only Bill of Exchange may be negotiated or may be paid without any supporting documents. Clean letter of Credit is not permissible in our import policy.

Documentary Letter of Credit:

All the commercial letter of credits, where export related documents such as invoice, B/L etc are required to present with the bill of exchange, is called Documentary Credit. Under this L/C, bill of exchange will not be honored without other required documents.

Other Classification of L/C:

On the basis of fund L/C may be classified as follows:

Back to Back L/C:

Back to Back L/C is backed by another Export L/C. Where Import of the goods to be made to execute the export L/C & payment of Back to Back bills to be made normally from related export proceeds, the import L/C is called Back to Back L/C.

Cash L/C:

Where payment of import bill under L/C is being made form (i) Foreign Currency reserve in Bangladesh Bank or (ii) F.C account with Authorized Dealer the L/C is called Cash L/C.

Barter L/C:

Where final settlement is being made through commodity Exchange between the nations, the L/C is called Barter L/C.

L\C under Commodity Aid, Loan, Credit or Grant: Where final settlement of import payment are made through Commodity Aid, Loan, Credit or Grant

Different Parties to a Documentary Credit:

Normally the subsequent parties are related to a documentary credit. Such as

The Issuing Bank:

This is the bank who issues Documentary credit on account of its client.

The advising Bank:

This is a Bank acting as Agent of the Issuing Bank, to advise the L/C to the beneficiary.

The confirming Bank:

This Bank gives the beneficiary a double assurance of payment. This is a third Bank undertake to make payment, to the beneficiary, if the Issuing Bank fail to make Payment.

Negotiating Bank:

This Bank provides value to the beneficiary against presentation of documents complying credit terms. Usually this is exporter’s Bank who purchases the export documents.

Reimbursing Bank:

This is a Bank acting as Agent of the Issuing Bank Authorized to make payment or to honor reimbursing claim of the Negotiating Bank.

The Transferring Bank:

If the L/C is transferable then the 1^st beneficiary through a bank nominated by the Issuing Bank this bank is called the Transferring Bank.

The Applicant: Importer or buyer is the applicant of a Letter of Credit. Applicant must be the client of the Issuing Bank.

The beneficiary:

Exporter or Seller of the goods is the Beneficiary of a Letter of Credit.

Notify Party:

The Party / Bank to whom the arrival of shipment has to be notified or to be informed is called notify party.

Financial Highlights

Financial information is much more sophisticated and sensitive than any other information. Because from the financial information only, we can grasp the core theme of any topic, particularly the financial position of a particular institution. So, to know about many important issues like capital, reserve fund, deposits, advances, investment, foreign exchange, operating profit, profit before tax, profit after tax, total assets, total liabilities, net assets per value, Earning per share etc. we normally use to make focus on financial highlights. Here also I use this Financial Highlights of DBBL to know the above-mentioned important issues.

Analysis

Respondent customer by types of account

Source: Questionnaire Survey

The above graphical presentation shows that out of 30 respondent 50% of customers have savings accounts, 40% have current account and also 6.67% have FDR accounts 3.33% have others accounts. So, majority of the respondent have savings account. Customers willingly want open savings account because customers try to deposit their money for future and they think that savings account is the best way (In-depth interview)

Customer perception on Interest rate provided for deposit A/C of DBBL

Source: Questionnaire Survey

Graph: Customer perception on Interest rate provided for deposit A/C of DBBL

The above graphical presentation shows customer perception about different interest rate provided for deposit A/C of DBBL, 20% respondents said attractive, 53.33% competitive, 20% good and 6.67% fair. So majority respondent think that the interest rate for A/C is competitive.

DBBL’s principle of lending 

Source: Questionnaire Survey

 Graph: DBBL’s principle of lending

The above graphical presentation shows, 6.67% strongly agree, 16.67% agree, 26.67% neutral, 40% disagree and 10% are highly disagree about DBBL takes conservative decision to this policy. So, majority respondent disagree about DBBL.

The bank gives more emphasis on corporate sector than consumer loans.

 Source: Questionnaire Survey 

 Graph: The bank gives more emphasis on corporate sector than consumer loans.

The above graphical presentation shows, 16.67% strongly agree, 50% agree, 33.33% neutral, 6.67% disagree and 0% are highly disagree. They are fully committed to provide corporate lone. So, about half percent of the respondent are agree.

Customer perception with the local remittance (PO/DD/TT) service

Source: Questionnaire Survey

Graph: Customer perception with the local remittance (PO/DD/TT) service

The above graphical presentation shows customer perception with the local remittance (PO/DD/TT) services. 10% delight, 33.33% satisfied, 43.33% moderate, 6.67% dissatisfied, 6.67% highly dissatisfied. So, the majority respondent’s perception is moderate.

DBBL contingent facilities

 Source: Questionnaire Survey

 Graph: DBBL contingent facilities

The above graphical presentation shows customer perception with the DBBL contingent facilities. 10% delight, 33.33% satisfied, 43.33% moderate, 6.67% dissatisfied, 6.67% highly dissatisfied. So, the majority respondent’s perception is moderate.

DBBL’s loan against import merchandise is available

Source: Questionnaire Survey

Graph: DBBL’s loan against import merchandise is available

The above graphical presentation shows that, 6.66% strongly believe, 23.33% believe, 36.66% neither believe nor disbelieve, 23% are disbelieve and 10% are strongly disbelieve. So, the majority respondent’s perception is neither believes nor disbelieve.

DBBL’s L/C facility is available

Source: Questionnaire Survey

Graph: The bank gives more emphasis on L/C facility.

The above graphical presentation shows, 16.67% strongly agree, 50% agree, 33.33% neutral, 6.67% disagree and 0% are highly disagree. So, about half percent of the respondent are agree.

 DBBL use modern technology

 Source: Questionnaire Survey

Graph: Customer perception about DBBL’s modern technology

 The above graphical presentation shows, 6.67% respondent strongly agree, 40% agree, 26.66% neutral, 16.67% disagree and 10% are highly disagree. So, the majority respondent’s perception is agree that DBBL use modern technology.

Customer perception about money transfer of DBBL.

 Source: Questionnaire Survey

Graph: Customer perception about money transfer of DBBL.

The above graphical presentation shows customer perception about transfer of DBBL.3.33% customer said excellent, 33.33% competitive, 60% good, 3.33% fair and 3.33 % poor. So the majority respondent’s perception about money transfer is good.

Major Findings of DBBL

Major Findings:

• Most of the customer have savings account. Customer tries to deposit their money for future and they think that savings account is the best way.
• Most of the customers think that the interest rate for A/C is competitive.
• Customer perception is not positive enough on principles of lending.
• The bank gives more emphasis on corporate sector than consumer loans
• The service of DBBL is satisfactory.
• Most of the respondent said quality of money transfer facilities is satisfactory.
• L/C facilities have some problem.
• The perception of DBBL’s loan against import merchandise is neither believes nor disbelieve.
• The perception of DBBL’s contingent facilities is moderate.
• DBBL takes conservative decision to the principle of lending.

Conclusions & Recommendations Of DBBL

Conclusion:

Dutch-Bangla Bank is one of the leading private commercial banks in Bangladesh. The time period of this bank is very little although DBBL has already made a good position as a private bank and create an image in the clients mind. Dutch-Bangla Bank Ltd. Believes that building strong relationship with all particular customers, stakeholders, is crucial for growth and prosperity.

In retrospect of the marvelous growth of FI revenue over the previous years and contemplating the intensity of competition yet to come, it is crucial for DBBl to rethink its strategies and marketing plan to sustain the growth of FI revenue. Corporate banking service providers domiciled in Bangladesh are expected to be fighting for a bigger pie, as the growth prospect of the country’s corporate banking business is limited. One of the ways to achieve that objective is to maximize FI revenue generated from local clients and introduces more local products. Because, there is a huge potentials for inbound revenue.

However, export growth dropped while import soared in 2004/2005, putting pressure on trade deficit. Although special incentives were extended to the garment, jute, and leather sectors in the national budget, export income has been affected due to flood damage, which has disrupted transport and communications and lowered industrial output and distribution. Increase in import payments was due to drastic surge in imports of food grains and capital machinery. Foreign exchange reserve position will remain stable.

Recommendations:

• To sustain in a competitive market, every company needs to create some innovative products that can attract customers.

• DBBL requires to fulfill the need at least it should develop some consumer products like Residential Real Estate loans, Vehicle loans, Personal Loan, Festival loans, Pension Scheme, Marriage loan, Health care loan etc.

• As a FI DBBL’s motto should be that we could meet up every financial needs of customer so that the customer can not leave us for any reason.

• I have already mentioned that DBBL does not offer competitive interest rates for fixed deposit so, if it fails to be competitive it fails to get huge deposit from FDR as well as it could loose some customers who could do any other transaction.

• DBBL can segment its target market for filing loans. Now a days different commercial banks offer SME (Small & Medium Enterprise) banking, DBBL can also provide special loan for specific customers. It can follow SME banking or it can introduce different types of short term loans like monthly loan, weekly loan etc.

• Charges on various services should be flexible.

• It should take creative activities to overcome any charging situation.

• DBBL should take customer oriented decision.

•  The bank gives more emphasis on corporate sector than consumer loans. So it should also emphasis to consumer loans.

• Most of the customers think that the interest rate for A/C is competitive. It should be changed.

• DBBL should provide easy terms and condition for any kind of transaction.