HSBC Chief Asia Economist share insights on the latest global and regional macroeconomic trends and the opportunities shaping Bangladesh's next phase of growth.

The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) Limited in Bangladesh, organised an exclusive event titled “HSBC Economic Outlook 2026: The Bangladesh Perspective”, bringing together senior government officials, corporate leaders, and industry stakeholders to discuss the evolving global economic landscape and Bangladesh’s economic outlook, according to a press release.

The event featured a keynote presentation by Frederic Neumann, Chief Asia Economist and Co-Head, Global Investment Research, Asia, HSBC, who shared insights on the latest global and regional macroeconomic trends and their implications for Bangladesh. The presentation was followed by an interactive question-and-answer session, allowing participants to engage directly with the speaker on key economic issues.

The programme was graced by H.E. Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury MP, Honourable Minister, Ministry of Finance & Planning, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, as the Chief Guest. The event also featured a special address by Priya Kini, Managing Director and Head of Banking, International Markets, Asia, HSBC.

The programme commenced with welcome remarks by Md Mahbub ur Rahman, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Bangladesh followed by remarks from Priya Kini before Frederic Neumann delivered the keynote presentation on the macroeconomic outlook. 

Frederic Neumann, Chief Asia Economist and Co-Head, Global Investment Research, Asia, HSBC, said, “Bangladesh’s economy continues to impress with its resilience. With oil prices easing, the outlook for US tariffs stabilising, and global growth remaining robust, exports of garments should recover over the second half of the year. Ongoing economic reforms are also gaining traction domestically, ultimately supporting private investment and consumption. Bangladesh is, therefore, on a steady path to recovery, with growth expected to accelerate to 4.4% over the coming fiscal year.”

The event also featured an interactive fireside discussion titled “Ask the Minister”, moderated by Md Mahbub ur Rahman, where H.E. Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury MP, Honourable Minister, Ministry of Finance & Planning was asked a few questions. 

In response to a question on the government’s priority and challenges in implementing the announced budget, the minister stated that the biggest challenge will be restoring confidence while maintaining macroeconomic stability during a period of global uncertainty. The government is working to make stronger institutions with less bureaucracy. In a question on what policies can incentivise export diversification, H.E. Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury MP said, that the answer was in improving competitiveness, reducing regulatory barriers, expanding market access, and creating opportunities for new sectors through economic zones and private sector investment.

Priya Kini, Managing Director and Head of Banking, International Markets, Asia, HSBC, said, “In an era of rapidly evolving macroeconomic and geopolitical landscapes, staying ahead of market dynamics is essential for our clients. At HSBC, we are committed to empowering businesses with the insights and expertise of our HSBC Global Research team, enabling them to navigate uncertainty and capitalise on emerging opportunities with confidence and precision.”

Md Mahbub ur Rahman, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Bangladesh, said, “Next chapter of Bangladesh’s story would be defined by the quality and sustainability of the growth. Facing rising global costs and tighter liquidity, our future hinges on robust risk governance and moving up the global value chain. The goal is no longer just to grow, but to build a diversified export engine and a wider economy that is competitive, adaptive, and trusted on the global stage.”

The event concluded with a networking dinner, providing participants with an opportunity to exchange perspectives on Bangladesh’s economic trajectory, the evolving global business environment and the country’s long-term growth opportunities.