Customers look for meaningful banking support during Ramadan and Eid

Financial Express (FE): Do you have any Ramadan-specific and Eid-centric banking products?

Alamgir Hossain (AH): Ramadan and Eid are very special times for our customers, and we see a clear shift in how people spend during these months. Keeping that in mind, Citizens Bank has introduced a Ramadan and Eid focused Credit Card proposition. Rather than launching a single product with a new name, we focused on creating a bundle of meaningful benefits, i.e. cashback, easy EMI options, and lifestyle offers across the categories where customers actually spend more during this season, such as fashion, superstores, dining, and essential purchases. Our intention is simple: to make festive spending easier, safer, and more comfortable.

FE: How will customers benefit from these offerings?

AH: During Ramadan and Eid, expenses naturally increase. Our goal is to reduce the pressure that often comes with this. Customers can enjoy cashback of up to 20 per cent at selected merchants, use 0 per cent or low-interest EMI facilities for larger purchases and rely on secure, cashless transactions instead of carrying cash. More importantly, these benefits allow customers to plan their spending better and enjoy the festivities without worrying about immediate financial strain.

FE: What motivates the bank to design Ramadan- and Eid-centric products?

AH: The motivation comes directly from our customers, whom we consider valued stakeholders in our journey. When we study transaction patterns, we see noticeably higher activity during Ramadan and Eid, particularly in retail and lifestyle segments. But beyond numbers, this reflects how people live, give, and celebrate during this special time. As a bank, we believe our role is not limited to offering products based on financial theory alone. Our solutions should reflect real life-how customers spend time with family, prepare for Eid, and share joy with loved ones. Ramadan and Eid are deeply rooted in our culture, and we believe it is important to stand beside our customers during these moments.

FE: Are there any new products planned for the near future?

AH: Yes, we are preparing to introduce our Signature Credit Card, primarily for high-income and corporate customers. This card will offer premium travel benefits, enhanced security features, stronger digital controls, and more personalised service. At the same time, we are continuously working on digital first and segment-based solutions, so that our products remain relevant as customer expectations evolve.

FE: How do you see the future of Ramadan- and Eid-focused banking products in Bangladesh?

AH: This segment is growing steadily and becoming more structured. A few years ago, festive banking offers were mostly short-term promotions. Today, customers actively look for meaningful banking support during Ramadan and Eid.We are seeing a shift toward need-based financial solutions, flexible EMI facilities for renowned brands and essential products, combined with special discounts and cashback. Another key trend is age-wise transaction behavior: younger customers prefer app-based, cashless payments, while mature and senior customers value simplicity and controlled spending.

With rising digital adoption, a growing middle class, and increasing trust in card-based payments, festive banking propositions will evolve into long-term engagement tools rather than seasonal campaigns.

Ramadan and Eid are about reflection, family, and togetherness. As a bank, our responsibility goes beyond transactions. Citizens Bank aims to give its customers peace of mind during these important moments and make their festive experiences more enjoyable and meaningful.