Mercantile Bank PLC and Mastercard launch cards with attractive benefits

Mercantile Bank PLC and Mastercard announced their collaboration to launch a comprehensive portfolio of new cards, offering unmatched convenience, benefits and financial flexibility to cardholders in Bangladesh.

In this connection, a grand launching ceremony was held today (May 17, 2025) at the Radisson Blue Water Garden, Dhaka. The event was graced by Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, Adviser, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Science and Technology, as the Chief Guest. Md. Zakir Hossain Chowdhury, Deputy Governor, Bangladesh Bank and Md. Anwarul Haque, Chairman of Mercantile Bank PLC, spoke as a Special Guest, while Mati Ul Hasan, Managing Director of Mercantile Bank, presided over the meeting. Syed Mohammad Kamal, Country Manager of Mastercard Bangladesh, D. Zahid Hossain, Deputy Managing Director and Chief Business Officer, and Tapash Chandra Paul, CFO of the Bank, also spoke. Al-Haj Akram Hossain (Humayun), Vice Chairman; M. A. Khan Belal, Chairman of Executive Committee; Mohammad Abdul Awal, Chairman of Risk Management Committee and Al-Haj Mosharref Hossain, Director and Md. Zakir Hossain and Shamim Ahmed, Deputy Managing Directors; Mostafizur Rahman, Head of Cards at Mercantile Bank PLC; and Zakia Sultana, Director at Mastercard Bangladesh, along with senior officials from the bank and Mastercard, also participated in the event.

Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, Adviser, Ministry of Finance, said, "We are committed to encouraging digital transactions as much as possible, as they ensure greater transparency and traceability, especially through platforms like Mastercard. While digital adoption is growing, it's important to address people's concerns, such as excessive questioning by banks, which often hinders broader participation. Credit cards, in particular, play a crucial role in facilitating remittance and driving financial inclusion. I extend my best wishes to both Mercantile Bank and Mastercard for their continued efforts to advance private sector development and promote digital transformation in the financial ecosystem." 
Md Zakir Hossain Chowdhury, Deputy Governor, Bangladesh Bank, said, "It is an honour and a privilege to be here today among esteemed dignitaries and representatives from Mastercard and Mercantile Bank Plc. Bangladesh's financial sector has seen significant progress, driven by mobile banking, digital platforms, and enhanced cybersecurity growth. These advancements have been instrumental in driving inclusive economic development.

I look forward to witnessing more impactful initiatives that help us move toward a more innovative, secure digital economy."

Syed Mohammad Kamal, Country Manager, Bangladesh, Mastercard, said, "This launch marks a significant milestone in expanding Mastercard's network of issuing partners in Bangladesh. It also highlights the two entities' shared commitment to delivering innovative, secure and rewarding financial solutions to consumers. These new cards enable Mastercard cardholders to enjoy a seamless, borderless payment experience, meeting their evolving needs and aspirations. Mastercard stands committed to furthering digital payments adoption among enterprises and communities nationwide." 

Mati Ul Hasan, Managing Director, Mercantile Bank PLC, stated, "We are proud to partner with Mastercard to introduce a full suite of credit, debit, and prepaid card products under our newly acquired Principal Membership. These cards reflect our ongoing commitment to providing modern and customer-centric banking solutions. With enhanced features and extensive acceptance, the cards will enable our customers to experience unmatched convenience, security, and value. This initiative aligns with our broader goal of supporting Bangladesh's transition toward a cashless, digitally empowered society."

The portfolio includes the Mastercard Titanium Credit Card, World Mastercard Credit Card, Mastercard Debit Card, Mastercard Platinum Global Debit Card, and a Mastercard Prepaid Card. Equipped with contactless technology, dual-currency support, and secured by robust two-factor authentication, these cards offer cardholders a seamless and secure payment experience for both domestic and international transactions. Cardholders can enjoy exclusive travel, lifestyle, and dining spending privileges and exciting discounts and deals at Mastercard and Mercantile Bank PLC's 9,000+ partner merchant outlets nationwide. Additionally, they can withdraw cash from domestic and international ATMS for uninterrupted access to funds. 
Mati Ul Hasan, Managing Director, Mercantile Bank PLC, stated: "We are proud to partner with Mastercard to introduce a full suite of credit, debit, and prepaid card products under our newly acquired Principal Membership. These cards reflect our ongoing commitment to providing modern and customer-centric banking solutions. With enhanced features and extensive acceptance, the cards will enable our customers to experience unmatched convenience, security, and value. This initiative aligns with our broader goal of supporting Bangladesh's transition toward a cashless, digitally empowered society."

Syed Mohammad Kamal, Country Manager, Bangladesh, Mastercard, said, "This launch marks a significant milestone in expanding Mastercard's network of issuing partners in Bangladesh. It also highlights the two entities' shared commitment to delivering innovative, secure and rewarding financial solutions to consumers. These new cards enable Mastercard cardholders to enjoy a seamless, borderless payment experience, meeting their evolving needs and aspirations. Mastercard stands committed to furthering digital payments adoption among enterprises and communities nationwide."