Practicing of Corporate Social Responsibility in Dhaka Bank

The main objective of this report is to analyze the practicing of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Dhaka Bank. Other focus subjects are critically synchronize the result of their performance or profit after practicing CSR and discuss how Banking organization handle the CSR activities. Finally discuss on SWOT analysis and find out some recommendation based on findings.

Introduction

Apart from the benevolent social services by some business firms, the new concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is an emerging one. Businesses are driven by government, labor unions consumer groups and above all by considering CSR as a long time investment in PR. In the context of Bangladesh, it is more relevant for the export-oriented industry, RMG sector, Banking sector etc. Globalization has made CSR practice an imperative for Bangladesh business. CSR concentrates on benefits of all stakeholders rather than just the stockholders. Awareness and sense of necessity for practicing CSR is becoming more and more pronounced as the country has to adapt itself to the process of globalization. But the overall status of CSR in Bangladesh is still very meager. Lack of Good Governance, absence of strong labor unions or consumer rights groups, and inability of the business community to perceive CSR as a survival pre-condition in export and PR investment local market constitute some of elements undermining the evolution of CSR practices. Some untoward incident like boycott from the importer has taught the local business community about the immense importance of CSR and adoption of this modern and competitive practice is gradually increasing in Bangladesh.

Companies are facing the challenges of adapting effectively to the changing environment in the context of globalization and in particular in the Banking sector. Although Consumer Rights Movement, enforcement of government  regulations and a structured view regarding the economic importance of CRS are not yet so widespread in the corporate world in Bangladesh, companies have gradually attaching more importance to CSR in the local market as well. They are increasingly aware that CSR can be of direct economic value.  Companies can contribute to social and environmental objectives, through integrating CSR as a strategic investment into their core business strategy, management instruments and operations.  This is an investment, not a cost, much like quality management. So, business organizations can thereby have an inclusive financial, commercial and social approach, leading to a long term strategy minimizing risks linked to uncertainty.

CSR in Bangladesh can also contribute a lot to community development. The corporate house can develop the community by creating employment, providing primary education, contribution to infrastructure development like road and high-ways and addressing environmental concerns. This is more relevant for a country like Bangladesh where the government interventions in these fields being augmented by corporate alliance can go a long way in developing the economy, society and environment.

CSR concepts and practices in Bangladesh have a long history of philanthropic activities from the time immemorial. These philanthropic activities included donations to different charitable organizations, poor people and religious institutions. Till now, most of the businesses in Bangladesh are family owned and first generation businesses. They are involved in the community development work in the form of charity without having any definite policy regarding the expenses or any concrete motive regarding financial gains in many instances. Moreover, most of the SMEs fall under the informal sector having low management structure and resources to address the social and environmental issues. These limitations drive the top management of local companies to think only about the profit maximization rather than doing business considering the triple bottom line: profit, planet and people (CSR definition of Lotus Holdings). The discussions on CSR practices in Bangladesh in its modern global terms, are relatively new, but not so for the concept itself. Because, being a part of the global market, it is difficult to ignore CSR standard specifically in the Banking sector.

In case of practicing CSR our selected one Bank such as Dhaka Bank always provide greater value in their running operation.

Bangladesh economy has been experiencing a rapid growth since the ’90s. Industrial and agricultural development, international trade, inflow of expatriate Bangladeshi workers’ remittance, local and foreign investments in construction, communication, power, food processing and service enterprises ushered in an era of economic activities. Urbanization and lifestyle changes concurrent with the economic development created a demand for banking products and services to support the new initiatives as well as to channelize consumer investments in a profitable manner. A group of highly acclaimed businessmen of the country grouped together to responded to this need and established Dhaka Bank Limited in the year 1995. Dhaka Bank is most widely recognized for its donations to social causes and its IT investment. However it has recently stated that it will stop expansion on its ATM network as the current numbers have exceeded demand and hence diminishing returns (if any). Although it is widely believed it is a loss-making/subsidized unit which Dhaka Bank rationalizes as quasi CSR.

Objective of the Study

In case of completing this assignment I have a broad objective. I think before involving any type of term paper or assignment there is certain goal and objective should be formulized. The study has been undertaken with the following objectives:

• To analysis¬ the pros and cons of the conventional ideas about the corporate social responsibility.
• Analyzing the selected Bank’s CSR practices.
• Critically synchronize the result of their performance or profit after practicing CSR.
• How Banking organization handle the CSR activities.
• To know are they truly responsible for the society or not?

Methodology of the Report

To prepare a report one is to depend on information to make it fruitful. I am also not exception of this. To prepare my thesis paper I have collected information from my assigned topic. The information that contains in the thesis is from both primary and secondary sources. As a requirement of analysis project my report is divided into different parts. First part contains introduction and concept of the Corporate Social Responsibility. Second part contains overview of the organization. Third part contains corporate information, management hierarchy and branches of organization. Fourth part contain about the CSR activity of Dhaka Bank. Finally last part contain about the findings, recommendation and conclusion. I have taken help of secondary source of information like annual report, catalogues, website and also different periodicals and articles which contains information about Dhaka bank Ltd.

To conduct a study properly designing of the process is essential. Because reliability and validity of the outcomes of a study is depends on the reliable data and information. In this connection some activities has been carried out collect data and information.

• Data collection method: Relevant information has been collected from the web sites of the company.
• Data type: We will use primary and secondary data in preparing in this assignment.
• Sources: The internal, external and personal information will be used as the secondary data sources.
• Approach: In preparing this assignment we will adopt the approach of internationalization process of business as mentioned in the book of “Corporate Social Responsibility, Keith Devis & blomstrong”.

Primary sources:

• Direct interview and conversation with the assistant manager of Dhaka Bank.
• Officials records, conversation with other colleagues.
• Scheduled survey and informal discussion with professionals
• The CSR Centre at the Bangladesh Enterprise Institute (BEI).

Secondary sources:

• Annual report of the organization from 2009-2010.
• Catalogues, websites, periodicals and different articles.
• Manuals and brochures of Dhaka Bank Ltd and different publications of Bangladesh Bank.

Basic concept of Corporate Social Responsibility

Social Responsibility is a concept well known in the corporate world and beyond that. Businesses all over the world have practiced only profit-making actions at past but not for long as the enterprises started to develop complexities and wideness in size and actions so was their reach getting bigger and bigger. As every person has his own social responsibilities towards the society so does the business firms. The idea that business has social obligations above and beyond making a profit is corporate social responsibility. However, it is regretful that though internationally it is being practiced widely. Bangladesh is still lagging behind. The difference between the world standard and the Practice in Bangladesh shows the lacking here and the scope for development.

What is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)?

Definitely social responsibility includes the responsibility of people, groups, societies, and business organizations. Here raises the question: Why is there more interest in, and debate about, the social responsibility of business than about the social responsibility of other institutions? It is, of course, perfectly legitimate to raise the issue of the social responsibility of business. But we hear rather less about the social responsibility of, say, the churches, the media, trade unions, the professions, universities, or even the government. When people collectively organize themselves in business organizations of one kind or another, do those impersonal legal entities really acquire social responsibilities, which differ from those of other collective entities?

Many people are uneasy about the profit motive, suspecting that profits emerge only from exploitation. They fear that free enterprise encourages greed and selfishness. They are reluctant to accept the logic of Adam Smith’s famous theory of the invisible hand, which holds that business people promote the general interest more effectively by pursuing their own interests than by directly trying to ‘do good’. I suggest that this is why we hear little about the social responsibilities of the churches, charities, and so on. Business, in contrast, is assumed to have a problem about its social responsibilities because it is driven by profit-motives.

Although no consensus about the definition of corporate social responsibility (“CSR”) exists at present, it may be said to encompass “a company’s commitment to operate in an economically and environmentally sustainable manner, while acknowledging the interests of a variety of stakeholders. An organization’s policy and continuous action in such areas as employee relations, diversity, community development, environment, international relationships, marketplace practices, fiscal responsibility and accountability.

Corporate World in Bangladesh

As similar to any other third world developing nation, Bangladesh’s economic sector is still in the infant stage. It is yet to develop fully. There are very few worthwhile industries to be named. The Bangladesh corporate world is at presents just trying to satisfy its local needs. Whatever exports are there shares a little portion of the world market. The resources available are not enough to satisfy the local needs. Hence, companies still follow the classical model of economy, trying to maximize profits and targeting short run profits. As a result, there is hardly any concern about social responsibility. But now a day this scenario is changing. Now many local companies are getting involved in CSR. It is not long since foreign investors took interest in investing in Bangladesh. Along with them, they brought the concept of social responsibility and public welfare. A list of the foreign investors in Bangladesh is as follows: Lever Brothers, British American Tobacco, Standard Chartered Bank, HSBC, Reckitt Benckiser and so on. They have contributed a lot in terms of social responsibility in Bangladesh. Along with them Dhaka Bank, Square Group, Baximco group, Acme group, Rahimafroz, NBL, those local companies have started to keep pace in CSR sector.

Promoting CSR in Bangladesh: The role of the CSR centre

An increasing number of companies and businesses in Bangladesh are engaged in corporate social responsibility (CSR), the vast majority being the multinational corporations (MNCs). Compared to these MNCs, only a handful of local companies in Bangladesh practice CSR. However, a large number of local companies are engaged in philanthropic activities, ranging from donations for religious activities, to social and community development, to setting up facilities that provide healthcare services.

In addition, the private sector plays a major part in providing relief and rehabilitation in the aftermath of natural disasters. A number of local entrepreneurs have formed their own philanthropic foundations or trusts. With more awareness of the philosophy and implementation of CSR, these local firms can find new business opportunities and expand their social impact through wider CSR adoption and practice.

The CSR Centre at BEI

In Bangladesh, the private sector often does not have the resources or the expertise necessary to act on CSR opportunities. Against this backdrop, during various consultations with key stakeholders, an expressed need was felt for an institution to champion CSR in Bangladesh. The primary role of such an institution would be to engage in CSR advocacy and in the raising of awareness and understanding of CSR among stakeholders.

With a vision to champion CSR, the CSR Centre at the Bangladesh Enterprise Institute (BEI) was established in June 2005. As envisioned, it will be a private-sector led initiative, sustaining itself through various tools and services that it will provide. It will work through networks and partnerships and provide a platform for dialogue for various stakeholders to interact and exchange views and ideas. The Centre would be both a service provider and a facilitator.

The first of the two overarching objectives of the Centre is to establish and strengthen local institutional capacity to raise CSR awareness among the stakeholders, and serve as a champion for CSR adoption and implementation. The second objective is to design and implement various CSR interventions that will lead to the development of a CSR service market in Bangladesh.

Planned activities of the Centre include formulation of voluntary principles and standards for industries that are both economically viable and operationally feasible; development of tools and applications to evaluate, implement and monitor CSR adoption and practice thus enable businesses to be more responsive to its stakeholders; providing research on policies and procedures, strategies and standards, quantifying the cost and benefits of CSR to develop a better understanding of CSR in the context of Bangladesh; and enabling informed public dialogue on all aspects of corporate social responsibility with focus on the notion of accountability to all stakeholders,through research, conferences, publications and a website that will be continuously updated withimportant information on labour practices, sustainable development, regulation and public policy.

Since its launch last year, the CSR Centre at BEI has organized 12 roundtables as part of a dialogue series on CSR in Action. Organized monthly, the roundtable serves as a platform for exchanges of views, hear the perspectives of key stakeholders, and raise awareness on CSR practices and implementation challenges in Bangladesh. At each roundtable, three speakers representing a local company, a multinational company and a development agency are invited to present their experience of CSR practice in Bangladesh. The BEI has been advocating CSR within the private sector, through these regular dialogues to highlight the existing CSR practices of local and multinational companies and NGOs in Bangladesh. Till date, the roundtables have attracted over 300 participants who had the opportunity to listen to over 30 speakers from various NGOs, and corporate houses, both local and MNC.

Besides organizing the roundtables, the Centre has developed case studies to showcase best CSR practices in socially responsible firms from various sectors and a short documentary to highlight these practices. In addition, the Centre has developed an environmentally and Socially Responsible Business (ESRB) practices guideline for the banking sector, Taking into account the relationships between banks and other financial institutions on one side, and private enterprises on the other. The Centre will continue to develop products and services to serve as advocacy tools for sector-wide CSR adoption, which in turn will help foster an enabling environment for private sector growth and development.

Development and Analysis

Business ethics is a form of the art of applied ethics that examines ethical principles and moral or ethical problems that can arise in a business environment.

In the increasingly conscience-focused marketplaces of the 21st century, the demand for more ethical business processes and actions (known as ethics) is increasing. Simultaneously, pressure is applied on industry to improve business ethics through new public initiatives and laws (e.g. higher UK road tax for higher-emission vehicles).

Business ethics can be both a normative and a descriptive discipline. As a corporate practice and a career specialization, the field is primarily normative. In academia descriptive approaches are also taken. The range and quantity of business ethical issues reflects the degree to which business is perceived to be at odds with non-economic social values. Historically, interest in business ethics accelerated dramatically during the 1980s and 1990s, both within major corporations and within academia. For example, today most major corporate websites lay emphasis on commitment to promoting non-economic social values under a variety of headings (e.g. ethics codes, social responsibility charters). In some cases, corporations have redefined their core values in the light of business
ethical considerations (e.g. BP’s “beyond petroleum” environmental tilt).

The term CSR itself came in to common use in the early 1970s although it was seldom abbreviated. The term stakeholder meaning those impacted by an organization’s activities was used to describe corporate owners beyond shareholders from around 1989.

Approaches to CSR

Some commentators have identified a difference between the Continental European and The Anglo-Saxon approaches to CSR.

An approach for CSR that is becoming more widely accepted is community-based development projects, such as the Shell Foundation’s involvement in the Flower Valley, South Africa. Here they have set up an Early Learning Centre to help educate the community’s children, as well as develop new skills for the adults. Marks and Spencer is also active in this community through the building of a trade network with the community – guaranteeing regular fair-trade purchases. An often alternative approach to this is the establishment of education facilities for adults, as well as HIV/AIDS education programs. The majority of these CSR projects are established in Africa. A more common approach of CSR is through the giving of aid to local organizations and impoverished communities in developing countries. Some organizations do not like this approach as it does not help build on the skills of the local people, whereas community- based development generally leads to more sustainable development.

The Responsibilities of Corporate Social Responsibility

For CSR to be accepted by a conscientious business person, it should be framed in such a way that the entire range of business responsibilities is embraced. It is suggested here that four kinds of social responsibilities constitute total CSR: economic, legal, ethical, and philanthropic. Furthermore, these four categories or components of CSR might be depicted as a pyramid. To be sure, all of these kinds of responsibilities have always existed to some extent. But it has only been in recent years that ethical and philanthropic functions have taken a significant place. Each of these four categories deserves closer consideration.

Economic Responsibilities

Historically, business organizations were created as economic entities designed to provide goods and services to societal members. The profit motive was established as the primary incentive for entrepreneurship. Before it was anything else, business organization was the basic economic unit in our society. As such, its principle role was to produce goods and services that consumer needed and wanted and to make an acceptable profit in the process. At some point the idea of the profit motive got transformed into a notion of maximum profits, and this has been an enduring value ever since. All other business responsibilities are predicted upon the economic responsibility of the firm, because without it the others become moot considerations.

Legal Responsibilities

Society has not only sanctioned business to operate according to the profit motive, at the same time business  is expected to comply with the laws and regulations promulgated by governments as the ground rules under which business must operate. As a partial fulfillment of the “social construct” between business and society firms are expected to pursue their economic missions within the framework of the law. Legal responsibilities reflect a view of “codified ethics” in the sense that they embody basic notions of fair operations as established by our lawmakers. They are depicted as the next layer on the pyramid to portray their historical development, but they are appropriately seen as coexisting with economic responsibilities as fundamental precepts of the free enterprise system.

Ethical Responsibilities

Although economic and legal responsibilities embody ethical norms about fairness and justice, ethical responsibilities embrace those activities and practices that are expected or prohibited by social members even though they are not codified into law. Ethical responsibilities embody those standards, norms, or expectations that reflect a concern for what consumers, employees, shareholders and the community regard as fair, just, or in keeping with the respect or protection of stakeholders more rights.

Philanthropic Responsibilities

Philanthropy encompasses those corporate actions that are in response to society’s expectations that business be good corporate citizens. This includes actively engaging in acts or programs to promote human welfare or goodwill. Examples of philanthropy include business contributions to financial resources or executive time, such as contributions to the arts, education, or the community. A loaned-executive program that provides leadership for a community’s United Way campaign is one illustration of philanthropy.

The pyramid of corporate social responsibility is depicted below. It portrays the four components of CSR, beginning with the basic building block notion that economic performance undergirds all else. At the same time, business is expected to obey the law because the law is society’s codification of acceptable behavior. Next is business’s responsibility to be ethical. At its most fundamental level, this is the obligation to do what is right, just, and fair, and to avoid or minimize harm to stakeholders (employees, consumers, the environment, and others). Finally, business is expected to be a good corporate citizen. This is captured in the philanthropic responsibility, where business is expected to contribute financial and human resources to the community and to improve the quality of life.

In summary, the total corporate social responsibility of business entails the simultaneous fulfillment of the firm’s economic, legal, ethical, and philanthropic responsibilities. Stated in more pragmatic and managerial terms, the CSR firm should strive the pyramid of corporate social responsibility.

An overview of Dhaka Bank Limited (DBL)

Dhaka Bank Limited is the leading private sector bank in Bangladesh offering full range of Personal, Corporate, International Trade, Foreign Exchange, Lease Finance and Capital Market Services. Dhaka Bank Limited is the preferred choice in banking for friendly and personalized services, cutting edge technology, tailored solutions for business needs, global reach in trade and commerce and high yield on investments, assuring Excellence in Banking Services.

Background of Dhaka Bank Limited

Dhaka Bank Limited is a scheduled bank that was incorporated under the Companies Act 1994, started its operation on July 1995 with a target to play the vital role on the socio-economic development of the country. Aiming at offering commercial banking service to the customers’ door around the country, the Dhaka Bank limited established 20 branches up-to this year. This organization achieved customers’ confidence immediately after its establishment.

Within this short time the bank has been successful in positioning itself as progressive and dynamic financial institution in the country. This is now widely acclaimed by the business community, from small entrepreneur to big merchant and conglomerates, including top rated corporate and foreign investors, for modern and innovative ideas and financial solution.

Capital Base

Authorized Capital:   BDT 1000.00 million.
Paid up Capital     :   BDT 531.07 million (as on 31.12.2003)

Dhaka Bank appoints CRISL for Credit Rating

Credit Rating Agency of Bangladesh Limited (CRAB) has assigned “A₁” rating in the Long Term and “ST₂” rating in the Short Term to the Dhaka Bank Limited (DBL). Commercial Banks rated in this long-term category are adjudged to be strong banks, characterized by good financials, healthy and sustainable franchises, and a first rate-operating environment. This level of rating indicates strong capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, with low likeliness to be adversely affected by foreseeable events. Banks rated in this short- term category are characterized with commendable position in terms of internal fund generation, access to alternative source of fund and moderate level of liquidity.

Dhaka Bank Management Overview

Departments of DBL

Dhaka Bank maintains the jobs in a proper and organized considering their interrelationship that are allocated in a particular department to control the system effectively. Different departments of DBL are as follows:

Human Resources Division

Dhaka Bank Limited recognizes that a productive and motivated work force is a prerequisite to leadership with its customers, its shareholders and in the market it serves. Dhaka bank treats every employee with dignity and respect in a supportive environment of trust and openness where people of different backgrounds can reach their full potential. The bank’s human resources policy emphasize on providing job satisfaction, growth opportunities, and due recognition of superior performance. A good working environment reflects and promotes a high level of loyalty and commitment from the employees. Realizing this Dhaka Bank limited has placed the utmost importance on continuous development of its human resources, identify the strength and weakness of the employee to assess the individual training needs, they are sent for training for self-development. To orient, enhance the banking knowledge of the employees Dhaka Bank Training Institute (DBTI) organizes both in-house and external training. The major responsibilities of HR are as follows:

The major responsibilities of HR are as follows:

• Employee recruitment
• Posting
• Transfer
• Increment
• Established yearly performance bonus
• Provident fund
• Confirmation
• Training

Personal banking Division

The personal banking department deals with the consumer credit schemes such as the personal loan, car loan, education loan, tax loan, personal secured loan that are tailored to meet the demand of individual customers. The manager of DBL credit who approves and administers all the activities heads this department. The approval officer mainly rejects or approves the credit requests. After being checked by the approval officer, the credit requests go to the processing officer for further processing of the application.

Treasury Division

Their main job is to take decisions regarding purchase and sell of foreign Currency. The purpose of Treasury’s operations is to utilize the funds effectively and arrange funds at a lowest possible rate of interest, through maintaining effective relationship with other banks and following the Government rules and foreign exchange regulations.

Computer and Information Technology Division

This department gives the software and hardware supports to different departments of the bank. As Dhaka Bank is engaged in online banking, the role of IT is very crucial for the bank. This department is the most active department of DBL where employees always stand by to solve any problems in the system. The managers and executives of IT division work continuously to develop the total IT system of DBL so that it can be operated with ease, accuracy, and speed. Since its journey as commercial Bank in 1995 Dhaka Bank work continuously to develop the total IT system of DBL so that it can be operated with ease, accuracy, and speed. Since its journey as commercial Bank in 1995 Dhaka Bank Bank in 1995 Dhaka Bank Limited has been laying great emphasis on the use of improved technology. It has gone to online operation system since 2003. The main software’s that DBL uses are:

• Flex cube
• DBCube
• SWIFT Manager
• Word
• Excel
• El Dorado
• Dhaka Bank Server
• Nikash
• UNIX
• Western Union
• Dhaka Bank Foreign Trade

Credit Division

The borrowing capacity provided to an individual by the banking system, in the form of credit or a loan. The total bank credit the individual has is the sum of the borrowing capacity each lender bank provides to the individual. Credit Policy Committee is composed of the managing director, the general manager, the Chief Risk Officer and the assistant general manager responsible for credits. Committee meets every other week, evaluates the banks overall lending portfolio and determines principles and policies regarding portfolio management.

Operation Division

This is an integral and vital part of the bank. The services department ensures smooth operation and functioning within and between all the departments of DBL. It also provides continuous support to the core banking activities of DBL. The Manager of Services heads the department who formulates and manages various critical issues of the services function of DBL. He is followed by a group of executives who are the heads of various subsidiary divisions that operate within the services department. The Services various subsidiary divisions that operate within the services department. The Services various subsidiary divisions that operate within the services department. The Services Department is considered as the backbone of all other departments.

Card Division

DBL is the first domestic commercial bank in Bangladesh to introduce Visa Electronic and Visa Credit Card at the same time. DBL is also the only bank in Bangladesh to introduce Visa ATM Acquirer along with POS Acquire, which opened the opportunity for all the Visa Cardholders (domestic and international) to use the ATMs.

Finance & Accounts Division

This is considered as the most powerful department of DBL. It keeps tracks of each and every transaction made within DBL Bangladesh. It is headed by Manager of FCD who ensures that all the transactions are made according to rules and regulation of DBL group. Violation of such rules can bring serious consequences for the lawbreaker. The functions of FCD are briefly discussed below along with an organ gram of the department.

Audit & Risk Management Division

The Risk Management Division is responsible for measuring risks that the Bank might face in the course of its operations, developing corporate risk management policies and ensuring that risks remain within the limits in which the Bank prefers to bear such risks in line with its own strategic targets and risk appetite. The primary goal of risk management is to provide capital to businesses in line with their risks (economic capital), maximize risk-adjusted return and increase the added value. The risk management function consists of Market Risk, Credit Risk and Operational Risk Management Units. Bank Risk Committee, Asset-Liability Committee (ALCO), Credit Policy Committee, and Operational Risk Management Committee are the other risk management bodies.

Risk Management Unit

During the 3rd quarter of the year 2009 the Management of the Bank has set up a Separate Risk Management Unit (RMU) in line with Bangladeshi Bank directives. The RMU functions under direct supervision of the Managing Director, who is assigned by the Deputy Managing Director ( Risk Management). The Risk Management Unit supervises and monitors independently and consistently the management of following Main Risks:

1. Credit Risk
2. Asset- Liability Risk
3. Foreign Exchange Risk
4. Internal Control & Compliance
5. Anti Money Laundering
6. Information and Communication Technology
7. Balance Sheet Risk
8. Operational Risk
9. Market Risk
10. Liquidity Risk
11. Reputational Risk
12. Insurance Risk
13. Sustainability Risk

The main purpose for establishing the RMU is to prevent the Bank from taking too much risk and build up a Capital Adequacy, which is more risk sensitive. The RMU tends to take necessary measures and find out strategy against financial crisis, unusual market condition, and different investment vulnerabilities.

SWOT Analysis on Dhaka Bank

Strengths

Strong corporate identity

According to the customers, DBL is the leading provider of financial services identity worldwide. With its strong corporate image and identity, it has better positioned itself in the minds of the customers. This image has helped DBL grab the personal banking sector of Bangladesh very rapidly.

Strong employee bonding and belongings

DBL employees are one of the major assets of the company. The employees of DBL have a strong sense of commitment towards organization and also feel proud and a sense of belonging towards DBL. The strong organizational culture of DBL is the main reason behind its strength.

Efficient Performance

It has been seen from customers’ opinion that DBL provides hassle-free customer  services to its client comparing to other financial institutions of Bangladesh. Personalized approach to the needs of customers is its motto.

Young enthusiastic workforce

The selection & recruitment of DBL emphasizes on having the skilled graduates & postgraduates who have little or no previous work experience. The logic behind is that DBL wants to avoid the problem of ‘garbage in & garbage out’. And this type of young & fresh workforce stimulates the whole working environment of DBL.

Empowered Work force

The human resource of DBL is extremely well thought & perfectly managed. As from the very first, the top management believed in empowering employees, where they refused to put their finger in every part of the pie. This empowered environment makes DBL a better place for the employees. The employees are not suffocated with authority but are able to grow as the organization matures.

Hospitable Working Environment

All office walls in DBL are only shoulder high partitions & there is no executive dining room. Any of the executives is likely to plop down at a table in its cafeteria & join in a lunch, chat with whoever is there.

Strong Financial Position      

It has been seen that the net profit has been gradually rising over the years. Furthermore, DBL is not just sitting on its previous year’s success, but also taking initiatives to improve.

Weaknesses

High charges of L/C

Presently DBL charges same rates for all types of import L/C. But for import L/C of exports-oriented industry, DBL should reduce the charge of L/C. As a result, exporter will be benefited and the country will earn more foreign exchange. The commission often even rises up to 30%.

Discouraging small entrepreneurs

DBL provides clean Import Loan to most of its solvent clients. But they usually do not want to finance small entrepreneurs whose financial standing is not clean to them.

Absence of strong marketing activities

DBL currently don’t have any strong marketing activities through mass media e.g. Television. TV ads play vital role in awareness building. DBL has no such TV ad campaign. Although they do a lot of CSR activities compared to other banks.

Not enough innovative products

In order to be more competitive in the market, DBL should come up with more new attractive and innovative products. This is one of the weaknesses that DBL is currently passing through but plans to get rid of by 2010.

Diversification

DBL can pursue a diversification strategy in expanding its current line of business. The management can consider options of starting merchant banking or diversify it to leasing and insurance. As DBL is one of the leading providers of all financial services, in Bangladesh it can also offer these services.

Lack of Proper Motivation

The salary at DBL is very decent, but it lacks other sorts of motivation. Incentives such as bonuses are given for acquiring a particular figure, but all in all these are the only motivational factors

High Cost for maintaining account

The account maintenance cost for DBL is comparatively high. Other banks very often highlight this. In the long run, this might turn out to be a negative issue for DBL

Opportunities

Distinct operating procedures

Repayment capacity as assessed by DBL of individual client helps to decide how much one can borrow. As the whole lending process is based on a client’s repayment capacity, the recovery rate of DBL is close to 100%. This provides DBL financial stability & gears up DBL to be remaining in the business for the long run.

Country wide network                               

The ultimate goal of DBL is to expand its operations to whole Bangladesh. Nurturing this type of vision & mission & to act as required, will not only increase DBL’s profitability but also will secure its existence in the log run.

Experienced Managers

One of the key opportunities for DBL is its efficient managers. DBL has employed experienced managers to facilitate its operation. These managers have already triggered the business for DBL as being new in the market.

Huge Population

Bangladesh is a developing country to satisfy the needs of the huge population, a large amount of investment is required. On the other hand, building EPZ areas and some Govt. policies easing foreign investment in our country made it attractive to the foreigners to invest in our country. So, DBL has a large opportunity here.

El Dorado Program

It is software which enables customers to deposit and withdraw money from any bank with the cheque or deposit of any other bank. Although a select few has implemented this program, this poses as an opportunity for DBL as the number of transactions would drastically increase.

Bigger Market

Although the GDP per head decreased a bit in 2009 from 2008, there is a huge untapped market that requires loans and intends to deposit also.

BASEL II

Implementation of BASEL II would definitely provide benefits. But it requires a lot of monitoring. For this DBL has formed BIU (BASELL II Implementation Unit). BASEL II is basically a framework set forth by Bangladesh Bank to reduce credit risk, operational risk and market risk. This would definitely aid DBL if it is stringently followed.

Threats

Upcoming Banks/Branches

The upcoming private, local, & multinational banks posse’s serious threats to the existing banking network of DBL: it is expected that in the next few years more commercial banks will emerge. If that happens the intensity of competition will rise further and banks will have to develop strategies to compete against and win the battle of banks.

Similar products are offered by other banks

Now-a-days different foreign and private banks are also offering similar type of products with an almost similar profit margin. So, if all competitors fight with the same weapon, the natural result is declining profit.

Default Loans

The problem of non-performing loans or default loans is very minimum or insignificant. However, this problem may rise in the future thus; DBL has to remain vigilant about this problem so that proactive strategies are taken to minimize this problem.

Industrial Downturn

Bangladesh is economically and political unstable country. Flood, draught, cyclone, and newly added terrorism have become an identity of our country. Along with inflation, unemployment also creates industry wide recession. These caused downward pressure on the capital demand for investment.

Financial Crisis

Although people have recovered a bit from the shock, it may still pose as a threat. People are still hesitant to take loans or even deposit them.

Dhaka Bank receives CSR Award 2006

Dhaka Bank Limited, one of the leading private commercial banks of the country, has recently received The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Award 2006, for their active participation in the various philanthropic activities. It may be noted that in line with motto of Dhaka Bank Limited towards rendering the best and quality services, Dhaka Bank Foundation was established on November 24, 2002 to act as a solid foundation, which would act as a catalyst in creating awareness on development issues. Managing Director of Dhaka Bank Limited Mr. Shahed Noman receive the award from Dr. Salehuddin Ahamed, Governor, Bangladesh Bank, at a function organized by the Bankers’ Forum at the CIRDAP Auditorium on Saturday April 26, 2008.
Among Dhaka Bank’s contribution towards corporate social responsibility few initiatives may be mentioned like donation to Asiatic Society of Dhaka, Prime Minister’s Relief Fund & Chief Adviser’s Relief Fund to mitigate the sufferings of devastated flood affected people of the country, donated passenger lift to BIRDEM Hospital at a cost of Tk 2.6 million, donated two haemodialysis machines to BIRDEM Hospital at cost of Tk 1.8 million, provided Tk 10 million to Center for Women and Child Health Hospital as donation for setting up pathological laboratory and imaging units, sponsored a 10- bed ward of the proposed Ahsania Mission Cancer & General Hospital by donating Taka 3 million, Installation of Donation Boxes for Ahsania Mission Cancer & General Hospital, Relief Operation for Flood Victims at the cost of Tk 5 Million, Sponsor of Jubo Mela, Support Society for the Welfare of Autistic Children (SWAC), extended support to the Tsunami affected victims of Sri Lanka by donating a cheque of US$ 10,000, renovate the Auditorium of Dhaka Reporters Unity, Donation of Tk 5 Million for Shaheed Ziaur Rahman Shishu Hospital, Bogra, Sponsored Uttara Sporting Club in Premier Division Cricket League and Inter Club Tennis Tournament in Gulshan Club, Sponsor of 6^th Bonsai Exhibition & Competition, Financial Assistance for Chaayanaut Cultural Complex, Sponsor of 20^th Bangladesh International Junior Tennis Championships, Sponsor of Bangladesh Under 19 Cricket Team, Sponsor of Chittagong Club Cricket Team in Twenty Cup Cricket Tournament in Kolkata, India, Sponsor of Anti Drug Debate Festival, Distribution of Winter Cloths by the Employees, Sponsorship for Bangladesh Eye Hospital, Sponsorship for SHEID Trust, Sponsorship for BADC School, Donation of Tk 1.2 Million to Center for Women & Child Health Hospital per year from 2006, Donation of Tk 1.2 Million to BIRDEM Hospital per year from 2006, Assistance to Educational Trust of Scholastica, Sponsor Dhaka Bank 21^st Bangladesh International Junior Tennis Championship, Sponsor 2^nd Dhaka Bank Independence Day Inter Club Tennis, Sponsor ICC World Cup Fact Book, Sponsor of Dhaka Bank Victory Day Hockey 2007, Sponsor of 1st Dhaka Bank Cup Golf Tournament 2008, Sponsor of Dhaka Bank Shaheed Smrity Hockey 2008, Sponsor of 22^nd Bangladesh International Junior Tennis Championship in 2008 and Sponsor of Dhaka Bank Independence Day Hockey Tournament 2008.

Dhaka Bank Foundation donated Taka 1.2 Million to BIRDEM

As a part of the corporate social responsibility Dhaka Bank Foundation has provided Taka 1.2 Million as donation in the year 2007 to Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders (BIRDEM) as a gesture of humanitarian consideration for the dialysis treatment of the financially needy persons. Mr. Mohammed Hanif, Vice Chairman, Dhaka Bank Limited formally handed over this donation to Professor A. K. Azad Khan, President, Diabetic Association of Bangladesh on July 8, 2008 at BIRDEM Conference Center. Among others, Mr. Shahed Noman, Managing Director, Dhaka Bank Limited, Major General (Retired) Professor Ziauddin Ahmed, Director General BIRDEM, Professor Nazmun Nahar, Director, Clinical Services, BIRDEM, Dr. Abul Mansur, Project Director, Kidney Transplant Unit, Mr. Farid Kabir, Deputy Director, Publication & Public Relations, Mr. Azam Khan, Assistant Vice President, Dhaka Bank Limited were also present on the occasion.

Dhaka Bank Foundation donated Taka 1.2 Million to CWCH

As a part of the corporate social responsibility and to mitigate sufferings of the poor women and children of the country, Dhaka Bank Foundation has provided Taka 1.2 Million in the year 2006 to Center for Woman and Child Health (CWCH) as donation to bear their operational cost. This donation was formally handed over to Professor M. Q. K. Talukder, Chairman of CWCH by Mr. Shahed Noman, Managing Director, Dhaka Bank Limited on December 27, 2006 at the CWCH Dhaka City Center.

Dhaka Bank signed Money Transfer Agreement with Trans Fast

Recently Dhaka Bank Limited signed a Money Transfer agreement with Trans-Fast Remittance LLC, USA at the Board Room of the bank. Under the agreement, Dhaka Bank Limited will disburse Inward Foreign Remittance channeled by Trans-Fast Remittance LLC, USA. Mr. Khondker Fazle Rashid, Managing Director, Dhaka Bank Limited and Mr. Nasim Ali, Managing Director-South Asia, Trans-Fast Remittance LLC, USA signed the agreement on behalf of their respective organizations. Mr. Tanweer Rahim, Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Kaiser Tamiz Amin, Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Syed Faisal Omar, In-Charge Global Trade Services.

Dhaka Bank welcomes Bangladesh Hockey Team

Dhaka Bank Limited warmly received Bangladesh National Hockey Team at Zia International Airport yesterday night. The team was reached Dhaka from Singapore after winning 3^rd AHF Cup. The total nine teams were participated in the 3^rd AHF Cup.

It may be noted that Dhaka Bank Limited came forward as the partners in progress of Bangladesh Hockey Federation for next one year by donating Tk 25, 00,000/ as sponsor. In addition the Bank will continue its financial support for the development of the game and try to find more sponsors for the federation.

Dhaka Bank donated Tk 2.4 Million to Kidney Transplant Unit of BIRDEM

As a part of the corporate social responsibility Dhaka Bank has provided Taka 2.4 Million as donation in the year 2009 to Kidney Transplant Unit of Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders (BIRDEM) as a gesture of humanitarian consideration for the treatment of the financially needy persons. Mr. Altaf Hossain Sarker, Chairman, Dhaka Bank Limited formally handed over this donation to Professor A. K. Azad Khan, President, and Diabetic Association of Bangladesh (DAB) on July 12, 209 at BIRDEM Conference Center. Among others, Mr. Reshadur Rahman, Director, Dhaka Bank Limited and Chairman, Executive Committee, Dhaka Bank Foundation, Mr. Khondker Fazle Rashid, Managing Director, Mr. Arham Masudul Huq, Company Secretary, Mr. Azam Khan, First Assistant Vice President, Dhaka Bank Limited, Mr. Md. Saifuddin, Secretary General, DAB, Dr. Abul Mansur, Project Director, Kidney Transplant Unit, BIRDEM and Mr. Farid Kabir, Deputy Director, Publication & Public Relations, DA.

Dhaka Bank participated in Career Fair

Photograph shows Dhaka Bank Stall in the recently concluded Career Fair 2007 at Bangladesh China Friendship Conference Center (BCFCC).

Dhaka Bank Foundation assistance for Bangladesh Eye Hospital

As a part of Corporate Social Responsibility, Dhaka Bank Foundation recently provides financial assistance to Bangladesh Eye Hospital. Bangladesh Eye Hospital Limited is the first sub- specialty based eye hospital in private sector within Bangladesh. This hospital began its journey just over 1 (one) year with the aim of providing the best eye care in Bangladesh, which will be at par with the modern world and technology.
Presently they have a charitable project for the poor congenitally blind children (blind by birth). These children are identified from the villages all over Bangladesh and brought over to the said hospital for the best possible surgery with implantation on Intra Ocular Lens (IOL). Now they are planning to start a new project for the under privileged adults suffering from cataract. Mr. Shahed Noman, Managing Director of Dhaka Bank Limited handed over Payment Order to Dr. Mahbubur Rahman Chowdhury, Chairman, Bangladesh Eye Hospital recently at a simple ceremony held at the later Office. Among others, Dr. Niaz Rahman, Managing Director, Bangladesh Eye Hospital, Mr. Azam Khan, Assistant Vice President (PR), Dhaka Bank Limited were present on the occasion.

Dhaka Bank donates Tk 10 Lac to Prime Minister’s Relief Fund for Cyclone Aila Victim

As a part of Corporate Social Responsibility, Dhaka Bank Limited donated Tk. 10,00,000/- (Ten Lac) only to prime Minister’s Relief Fund for post cyclone rehabitation program for Cyclone Aila victim. Mr. Reshadur Rahman, Director, Dhaka Bank Limited and Chairman, Executive Committee of Dhaka Bank Foundation handing over a payment order amounting Tk 10,00,000/- (Ten Lac) only to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina recently at Dhaka. Among others, Mr. Khondker Fazle Rashid, Managing Director, Dhaka Bank Limited was present on the occasion.

Dhaka Bank donates Tk 50 Lac to Bangladesh Army Relief Fund

As a part of Corporate Social Responsibility, Dhaka Bank Limited has donated Tk 50,00,000/- (Fifty Lac) only to Bangladesh Army Relief Fund for post flood rehabilitation program.

Mr. Khondoker Monir Uddin, Chairman, Dhaka Bank Limited handing over a payment order amounting Tk 50,00,000/- (Fifty Lac) only to General Moyeen U Ahmed, Chief of Army Staff on October 4, 2007 at Old Officers’ Mess, Dhaka Cantonment.

Dhaka Bank employees donate one day’s salary to help flood victims

As a part of corporate social responsibility, Dhaka Bank Limited has donated Taka 4,31,100/= only equivalent to one day’s basic salary of its employees to the rehabilitation program of Dhaka Ahsania Mission for flood affected people. In this connection a simple ceremony was held on August 21 at boardroom of the bank. Mr. Shahed Noman, Managing Director handed over the payment order to Mr. Kazi Rafiqul Alam, President, and Dhaka Ahsania Mission.

Dhaka Bank distributed relief in Araihazar

Dhaka Bank distributed 60 metric ton relief among 5,000 families in Araihazar thana, Narayanganj on 18 August 2007. As a part of Corporate Social Responsibility and ongoing relief program Dhaka Bank distributed 10 KG rice, 1 KG pulse and 1 KG salt to 5,000 families of 14 union of Araihazar thana of Narayanganj district.

Mr. ATM Hayatuzzaman Khan former Chairman of Dhaka Bank, Mr. Md. Hanif and Mr. Altaf Hossain Sarkar, Directors, Mr. Shahed Noman Managing Director distributed relief on behalf of Dhaka Bank.

Dhaka Bank Presents Umbrella to Bangladesh Police 

As a part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Dhaka Bank presented 500 pieces of Umbrella to Bangladesh Police on July 19, 2007. Mr. Shahed Noman, Managing Director, Dhaka Bank Limited handed over the umbrellas to Mr. Nur Mohammad, Inspector General of Police in a simple ceremony held on July 19, 2007. Among others, Mr. Md. Matiur Rahman, Assistant Inspector General (Training), , Assistant Vice President (PR) were present on the occasion.

Findings

After analyzing all the information, the following findings are originated:

1. Dhaka Bank has been participating in our society by their CSR activities.
2. Dhaka Bank Foundation donated Taka 1.2 Million to BIRDEM.
3. Dhaka Bank Foundation donated Taka 1.2 Million to CWCH.
4. Dhaka Bank participated in Career Fair
5. Dhaka Bank heavily serious for maintaining and representing the Bangladeshi culture (customs, values, belief etc).
6. Dhaka Bank arrange different traditional occasion such as shoto borsher Gaan, little poet, making different monument, traditional fair etc.
7. Dhaka Bank emphasises on basically public welfare such as donated money for kidney transplant, eye hospital etc.
8. Dhaka Bank largely emphasises on social culture and environment.
9. Dhaka Bank sometimes taking steps for beautification in our city.
10. Dhaka Bank also aranging a concert party in our different occasion.
11. Dhaka Bank Presents Umbrella to Bangladesh Police.
12. Dhaka Bank employees donate one day’s salary to help flood Victims.
13. Dhaka Bank donates Tk 50 Lac toBangladesh Army Relief Fund.
14. Dhaka Bank donates Tk 10 Lac to Prime Minister’s Relief Fund for Cyclone Aila Victim.
15. Dhaka Bank welcomes Bangladesh Hockey Team.
16. Dhaka Bank maximized their profit due to the CSR activity.

Recommendations

From the analyzing whole assignment we have understand that in modern age for long term survival every company should involve in CSR activities. In where they are operating every company should liable for developing that country’s employment, infrastructure, culture etc. Our selected Bank’s are already involve those activities for long term survival as well as get them free from social liability. To improve Dhaka Bank Corporate Social Responsibility activity the following suggestions are to be followed:

1. Dhaka Bank should increase their social activity.
2. If Dhaka Bank increases number of employee they can provide more satisfactory service.
3. Dhaka Bank should increase the number of PCs with updated hardware and software.
4. To create better client the bank should increase the social service activity.
5. Whenever people notice that the Dhaka Bank contributes and participate all social welfare activities than people become impress on that Dhaka Bank Ltd. As a result their profit obviously becomes increase because of (high share price, employee loyalty, Govt. favor, social assistant etc).
6. Dhaka Bank Limited should participate in our local festivals.
7. Dhaka Bank can helps to our government for the development of roads and highways.
8. Dhaka Bank should take some necessary steps for the tree plantation.
9. Dhaka Bank can setup some primary school in the rural area.
10. Dhaka Bank can sponsor in our local festivals.
11. Dhaka Bank should providing support and assistance to the poor people who cannot work in the field.
12. Dhaka Bank can try keeping our city neat and clean.
13. In our areas people sometimes arranging festivals where Dhaka Bank should participate.
14. Finally, Dhaka Bank can reducing unemployment problem by their social welfare activities.

Conclusion

In general, it is true that in Bangladesh, the status of labor rights practices, environmental management and transparency in corporate governance are not satisfactory, largely due to poor enforcement of existing laws and inadequate pressure from civil society and interest groups like Consumer Forums.  Globally, as CSR practices are gradually being integrated into international business practices and hence is becoming one of the determining factors for market accesses, it is becoming equally instrumental for local acceptability. A focus on CSR in Bangladesh would be useful, not only for improving corporate governance, labor rights, work place safety, fair treatment of workers, community development and environment management, but also for industrialization and ensuring global market access.  Since, CSR entails working with stakeholders it is important to work from within and diagnose the stakeholders; concerns so that CSR is truly embedded in the companies.  By now, many CSR dimensions are practiced in Bangladesh. Because of global competitiveness and demand, the CSR practices and standards are being implemented in Bangladesh. But we are yet go a long way. There are challenges to implement CSR properly in Bangladesh. Ultimately CSR practices should be better practiced in Bangladesh for better and enhanced performance.