Scoping study on cashless Bangladesh

• Jul 30, 2025
• 1 min

MSC conducted a scoping study to provide the Bangladesh Bank with relevant insights to support the cashless agenda and build strategies to achieve targets in the Smart Bangladesh Plan 2041. 

MSC used the Payment-Ecosystem Profile Framework (PEFP) to assess Bangladesh’s economic and digital activities thoroughly, through the lens of the country as a microcosm in terms of digital readiness, inclusivity, infrastructure, literacy levels, and the availability of digital channels. We used rigorous secondary data analysis and qualitative methods to identify and profile distinct customer segments within the microcosm. 

We conducted stakeholder consultations, including workshops and focused group discussions, which played a pivotal role to shape pilot initiatives tailored to the Bangladesh Bank’s solutions. We facilitated a pilot on the microcosm to test and refine the identified solutions. We identified detailed insights and actionable recommendations derived from user segmentation, qualitative insights, and pilot testing, all of which contributed to Smart Bangladesh initiatives in Singair.

Based on the pilot result, the Bangladesh Bank can revise or adopt draft policy guidelines, run concept tests, work with relevant departments, and guide the Government of Bangladesh to achieve different aspects of the Smart Bangladesh agenda.

The Gates Foundation commissioned the project.