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foreign Exchange operations of selected banks.

The data required for preparing this report


has been collected from the annual reports of most recent years.
1.2 Background of the Study
DBBL, NCC, NBL & South East Banks that perform most of the standard banking services and
investment activities on the basis not only profit sharing but also social partnership. This study
attempts to analyze the nature of modern banking activities and performance of selected banks.
Its performance was reviewed and analyzed through the annual reports, and internal records of
the bank.
This thesis report covers:

An Overview on foreign exchange operations of MBL

Financial Performance of the Bank

Export and Import Performance.

1.3 Objective of the Study


The objectives of the study are as follows:
General Objectives:
The general objective of the report is the evaluation of foreign exchange operation of selected
banks and compare with its competitor.
Specific Objective:

To apply theoretical knowledge into practical area.

To be familiar with the banking management system.

To attain practical knowledge on the foreign exchange operations performed by selected

banks.

To evaluate the performance of General Banking division.

To know the banking operational guideline of a bank.

To get a brief idea about operational procedure.

To analyze the financing systems of the bank and find out whether the bank needs any

improvement to be done and make greater contribution towards the countrys economy.

To familiarize different rules and regulations of Banks formalities.

To familiarize the working hours, values and environment of the bank.

To adopt with the everyday banking activities.

To find out the contribution of private commercial banks for the economic development of

the country.

To attain practical knowledge on the foreign exchange operations performed by MBL.

To have better direction to identify and suggest the scope of enhancement in foreign

exchange operations to fulfill the requirement of the internship program.

L/C Opening.

To learn about the benefits and incentives provides to the export proceeds.

To know the collection process of export proceeds.

To detect the problems involved and to obtain solutions.

The main objective of the study is to obtain a clear idea about the Foreign Exchange business of
our banking operation i.e. how the L/C is opened and how the import & export is done
To meet the objectives of the study, I realized that a single method would not be effective. Formal
& oral discussion, direct observation, questioning clients & printed papers of the Banks were
found useful. To collect the necessary and meaningful information, the following methods were
applied. Both primary and secondary sources were used here.
1.5.1 Research Design
Exploratory research has been conducted for gathering better information that will give a better
understanding on different financial data. Both primary and secondary sources of data collection
procedure have been used in the report. Primary data has been collected mainly through the
writers observation of the approval process and monitoring techniques, informal interviews of
executives, officers and employees of selected banks.
To make the Report more meaningful and presentable, two sources of data and information have
been used widely.
Both primary and secondary data sources were used to generate the report. The information
incorporated in this report has been gathered from primary and secondary sources. Apart from
this, a review of related circular and office circular as well as face-to-face interview of the
executives, officials and clients were carried out.
1.6.1 Primary Sources

Face to conversation with the respective officers and stuffs of the banks.

Discussing with my supervising teacher and manager.

In-depth study of selected cases.

1.6.2 Secondary Sources

Annual Report of the banks.

Website of the banks.

Several books and periodicals related to the banking sector.

Bangladesh Bank Report.

Various documentary file of the banks.

Prior research report.

2.1 Banking System of Bangladesh


The Jews in Jerusalem introduced a kind of banking in the form of money lending before the birth
of Christ. The word bank was probably derived from the word bench as during ancient time
Jews used to do money -lending business sitting on long benches.
First modern banking was introduced in 1668 in Stockholm as Svingss Pis Bank which opened
up a new era of banking activities throughout the European Mainland.
In the South Asian region, early banking system was introduced by the Afgan traders popularly
known as Kabuliwallas. Muslim businessmen from Kabul, Afganistan came to India and started
money lending business in exchange of interest sometime in 1312 A.D. They were known as
Kabuliawallas.
2.2 Number & Types of Banks
The number of banks in all now stands at 49 in Bangladesh. Out of the 49 banks, four are
Nationalised Commercial Banks (NCBs), 28 local private commercial banks, 12 foreign banks
and the rest five are Development Financial Institutions (DFIs).
Sonali Bank is the largest among the NCBs while Pubali is leading in the private ones. Among the
12 foreign banks, Standard Chartered has become the largest in the country. Besides the
scheduled banks, Samabai (Cooperative) Bank, Ansar-VDP Bank, Karmasansthan (Employment)
Bank and Grameen bank are functioning in the financial sector.The number of total branches of
all scheduled banks is 6,038 as of June 2000. Of the branches, 39.95 per cent (2,412) are
located in the urban areas and 60.05 per cent (3,626) in the rural areas. Of the branches NCBs
hold 3,616, private commercial banks 1,214, foreign banks 31 and specialized banks 1,177.
Bangladesh Bank (BB) regulates and supervises the activities of all banks. The BB is now
carrying out a reform programme to ensure quality services by the banks.
Bangladesh Bank (BB) has been working as the central bank since the countrys independence.
Its prime jobs include issuing of currency, maintaining foreign exchange reserve and providing
transaction facilities of all public monetary matters. BB is also responsible for planning the
governments monetary policy and implementing it thereby.
The BB has a governing body comprising of nine members with the Governor as its chief. Apart
from the head office in Dhaka, it has nine more branches, of which two in Dhaka and one each in
Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, Bogra, Sylhet, Rangpur and Barisal.
2.4 Commercial Bank

A commercial bank (or business bank) is a type of financial institution and intermediary. It is a
bank that provides transactional, savings, and money market accounts and that accepts time
deposits.
2.4.1 Service
Accounts, Current, FDR, PDS & Deposit Scheme

2.4.1.1 Current Account


Generally this sort of account opens for business purpose. Customers can withdraw money once
or more against their deposit. No interest can be paid to the customers in this account. If the
amount of deposit is below taka 1,000 on an average the bank has authority to cut taka 50 from
each account as incidental charge after every six months. Against this account loan facility can
be ensured. Usually one can open this account with taka 500. One can open this sort of account
through cash or check/bill. All the banks
2.4.1.2 Saving Bank Account
Usually customers open this sort of account at a low interest for only security. This is also an
initiative to create peoples savings tendency. Generally, this account is to be opened at taka 100.
Interest is to be paid in June and December after every six months. If money is withdrawn twice a
week or more than taka 10,000 is withdrawn (if 25% more compared to total deposit) then interest
is not paid. This account guarantees loan. Almost all the banks follow the same rules in the field
of savings account, except foreign banks for varying deposit. On an average, all the banks give
around six percent interest.
2.4.1.3 Special Service
Some Banks render special services to the customers attracting other banks.
2.4.1.4 Internet Banking
Customers need an Internet access service. As an Internet Banking customer, he will be given a
specific user ID and a confident password. The customer can then view his account balances
online. It is the industry-standard method used to protect communications over the Internet.
To ensure that customers personal data cannot be accessed by anyone but them, all reporting
information has been secured using Version and Secure Sockets Layer (SSL).
2.4.1.5 Home Banking
Home banking frees customers of visiting branches and most transactions will be automated to
enable them to check their account activities transfer fund and to open L/C sitting in their own
desk with the help of a PC and a telephone.
2.4.1.5 Electronic Banking Service for Windows

Electronic Banking Service for Windows (EBSW) provides a full range of reporting capabilities,
and a comprehensive range of transaction initiation options.
The customers will be able to process all payments as well as initiate L/Cs and amendments,
through EBSW. They will be able to view the balances of all accounts, whether with Standard
Chartered or with any other banks using SWIFT. Additionally, transactions may be approved by
remote authorization even if the approver is out of station.
2.4.1.6 Automated Teller Machine (ATM)
Automated Teller Machine (ATM), a new concept in modern banking, has already been
introduced to facilitate subscribers 24 hour cash access through a plastic card. The network of
ATM installations will be adequately extended to enable customers to non-branch banking
beyond banking.
2.4.1.7 Tele Banking
Tele Banking allows customers to get access into their respective banking information 24 hours a
day. Subscribers can update themselves by making a phone call. They can transfer any amount
of deposit to other accounts irrespective of location either from home or office.
2.4.1.8 SWIFT
SWIFT is a bank owned non-profit co-operative based in Belgium servicing the financial
community worldwide. It ensures secure messaging having a global reach of 6,495 Banks and
Financial Institutions in 178 countries, 24 hours a day. SWIFT global network carries an average
4 million message daily and estimated average value of payment messages is USD 2 trillion.
SWIFT is a highly secured messaging network enables Banks to send and receive Fund
Transfer, L/C related and other free format messages to and from any banks active in the
network.
Having SWIFT facility, Bank will be able to serve its customers more profitable by providing L/C,
Payment and other messages efficiently and with utmost security. Especially it will be of great
help for our clients dealing with Imports, Exports and Remittances etc.
2.5 Money and Banking sector review
2.5.1 Monetary & Credit Policy
The monetary and credit policy for the financial year that ended in June,2000 was formulated
with the objective of full utilization of domestic resources and rapid economic growth through
priorities for agriculture, industry, export, and expansion and strengthening of the private sector,
at the same time keeping inflation within tolerable limits. A modern expansionary monetary and
credit policy was adopted in order to make good the losses to agriculture, industry, and
infrastructure by the devastating floods of 1998. After the flood the economy remained sluggish in

the first quarter of 1999-2000 and the private sector demand for credit shrank. In view of this, the
Annual Development Programmed (ADP) was expanded and development activities in the private
sector were geared up. As a result, the public sector absorbed credit at an accelerated rate.
Though credit to the private sector picked up towards the end of the year, the overall annual
growth was smaller than programmed, although gross domestic credit expanded a little faster
than projected. Money supply increased by 15.3% in 1999-2000 compared to the expansion of
8.6% in the preceding year.
2.5.2 Narrow Money
Narrow Money increased by Tk. 2,631.90 crores or 15.3% to Tk.19,881.30 crores in 1999-2000.
Of the components of Narrow Money, currency outside banks went up by Tk.1,489.40 crores or
17.2% to Tk.10,176.00 crores, and demand deposits went up by Tk.1,142.50 crores or 13.3% to
Tk.9,705.30 crores.
2.5.3 Broad Money
Broad Money increased by Tk.11,735.70 crores or 18.6% to Tk. 74,762.40 crores in 1999-2000
compared to the increase of 12.8% in the preceding year. Of the components of Broad Money,
Narrow Money increased by 15.3% and time deposits rose by 19.9% compared to the increase of
8.6% in Narrow Money and 14.5% in time deposits in the preceding year. The shares of currency
outside banks, demand deposits and time deposits in Broad Money stood at 13.6%, 13.0%, and
73.4% respectively on 30th June, 2000 compared to 13.8%, 13.6% and 72.6% respectively on
30th June, 1999.Expansion of credit to the private sector, government sector (net), public sector,
and other assets (net), along with a surplus in net foreign assets contributed to the expansion of
Broad Money.
2.5.4 Reserve Money
Reserve Money increased by Tk.2, 321.80 crores or 15.7% to Tk.17,064.50 crores in 1999-2000
compared to the increase of 8.3% during the preceding year. Of the components of Reserve
Money, currency outside banks increased by Tk.1,489.40 crores or 17.1% compared to the
increase of Tk.533.30 crores or 6.5% during the preceding year. Scheduled banks balances with
the Bangladesh Bank increased by Tk.770.90 crores or 15.3% in 1999-2000 compared to the
increase of Tk.488.20 crores or 10.8% in the preceding year. Their cash in tills increased by
Tk.61.50 crores or 6.0% as against the increase of Tk.103.60 crores or 11.2% in the preceding
year. The increase in Bangladesh Banks credit to the government (net) by Tk.1,738.10 crores
and net surplus in the foreign sector by Tk.1,262.40 crores played the main role in exerting
expansionary influence on the Reserve Money. However the decline of Tk.333.60 crores and
Tk.44.90 crores in the borrowings by the scheduled banks and other financial institutions

respectively along with the fall of Tk.300.20 crores in other assets (net) partly offset the
expansionary impact of those sectors.
2.5.5 Domestic Credit
Total domestic credit increased by Tk.8, 581.20 crores or 13.6% to Tk. 71,489.00 crores (
including adjustment of bonds issued by the government) in 1999-2000 as compared to the
increase of Tk.7,267.60 crores or 13.1% in the preceding year. Expansion of credit to the
government, private, and public sectors to the extent of Tk.3,524.30 crores (31.3%), Tk.4,906.10
crores (10.7%), and Tk.150.80 crores (2.5%) respectively contributed to the expansion in total
domestic credit in 1999-2000. Credit to the government and private sector had increased by
21.3% and 13.8% respectively, while credit to the public sector declined by 3.7% in the preceding
year.
2.5.6 Bank Credit
The outstanding level of bank credit (excluding foreign bills and inter-bank items) increased by
Tk.5, 123.30 crores or 10.3% to Tk.54, 646.10 crores in 1999-2000 as compared to the increase
of 12.4% in the preceding year. Of the components of bank credit, advances increased by Tk.4,
892.70 crores or 10.3% and the bills purchased and discounted went up by Tk.230.60 crores or
11.3%.
2.5.7 Bank Deposit
Bank deposits (excluding inter-bank items) increased by Tk.11,044.70 crores or 18.6% to
Tk.70,278.70 crores in 2009-2010 compared to the increase of 14.2% in the preceding year. Of
this increase , time deposits went up by Tk.9,103.80 crores or 19.9% to Tk.54,881.10 crores,
government deposits by Tk.723.60 crores or 14.8% to Tk.5,615.20 crores and demand deposits
by Tk. 1,142.50 crores or 13.3% to Tk.9,705.30 crores. On the other hand, restricted deposits
increased by Tk.74.80 crores in 2009-2010.
3.1 Profile of Southeast Bank Limited
The emergence of Southeast Bank Limited was at the juncture of liberalization of global
economic activities. The experience of the prosperous economies of the Asian countries and in
particular of South Asia has been the driving force and the strategic operational policy option of
the Bank. The company philosophy A Bank with Vision has been precisely an essence of the
legend of success in the Asian countries.
Southeast Bank Limited is a scheduled commercial bank in the private sector, which is focused
on the established and emerging markets of Bangladesh. In Dhaka, the first branch was launched
in 1995 and the bank has been growing ever since. Southeast Bank Limited has 22 branches
throughout Bangladesh and its aim is to be the leading bank in the countrys principal markets.

The bank by concentrating on the activities in its area of specialization has achieved good market
reputation with efficient customer service. The Bank is committed to providing continuous training
to its staff to keep them up to date with modern practices in their respective fields of work. The
Bank also tries to fulfill its share in community responsibilities. By such measures the Bank
intends to grow and increase shareholders earning per share. Southeast Bank Limited pledges
to maximize customer satisfaction through services and build a trusting relationship with
customers, which has stood the test of time for the last nine years.
3.1.2 Vision of Bank

To stand out as a pioneer banking institution in Bangladesh

To contribute significantly to the national economy.

3.1.3 Mission of Bank

High quality financial services with the help of latest technology.

Fast & accurate customer service.

Balanced growth strategy.

High standard business ethics.

Steady return on shareholders equity.

Innovative banking at a competitive price.

Deep commitment to the society and the growth of national economy.

Attract and retain quality human resource.

3.1.4 Social Responsibility


An organization cannot move along. Organization needs people to generate its activities & people
needs organization to get some kind of services. Southeast bank is an organization that is
concerned to maximize its profit along with maintaining some kind of social responsibilities. It is
fully devoted to fulfil the needs for its customers satisfaction as well as it is involved socioeconomic development activities. Objectives of the banks are:

Creating employment opportunities within the bank through expanding its network

Cooperating with organizations such as Gramen Bank which are helping the poor through

micro credit and other facilities.

It finances the small scale industries to help them survive.

3.1.5 Management Team


To achieve the mission, a set of efficient drivers is mandatory. Commercial banks in Bangladesh
are now in a hard competition. This is because of continuous growth of similar service oriented
local bank along with special service providing foreign bank due to globalization.

In this respect, Southeast bank enjoys a team of sound professionals. It is managed by a team of
professionals having long experience in the banking industry. While the board sets the
management objectives and policies, the management is instrumental in providing the inputs and
implementing the strategies set by the board. The bank maintains a continuous policy of
developing its human resources. It believes that, the professionals are the key forces behind the
achievement of success in banking business at the face of prevailing rigorous competitive market
situation.
3.1.6 Management Information System
South east bank uses PC Bank/M a branch banking software developed by leads
Corporation- developed on SQ: on windows platform. The head office and branches use the
software for book keeping, automatic interest calculation, daily transaction listing and audit trials,
auto maturity and auto renewal of FDRS, automatic integration of customers ledger and general
ledger, printing of general ledger position including balance of subsidiaries, monthly income and
expenditure position etc.
3.1.7 Service & Products
SEBL always try to provide best services and products to their clients to

acquire their

satisfaction. The bank provides the following the products and services to consider clients
demand
Locker Services

Yearly Charge

Small

Tk. 750/-

Medium

Tk. 1,250/-

Service Available at

Security Deposit

Tk.2, 50/-

Gulshan Branch

(Refundable)

Dhanmondi

For all types of

Branch

lockers.
Large

Tk. 2,000/Table: 3-1

Deposit Schemes

Deposit Rate (D.R.) (Effective


from April 01,1997)

Savings (SB)

7.50%

Special Notice Deposit (STD)

6.00%

Fixed Deposit
30 Days

7.00%

60 Days

7.50%

3 (Three) Months

8.25%

6 (Six) Months

8.50%

1 (One) Year

9.00%

2 (Two) Years

9.50%
10.00%

3 (Three) Years

Table: 3-2
3.1.2 Deposit
SEBL always try to collect deposits from their clients by providing high interest against the
deposits. The bank provides the following deposits to consider clients demand

Customer Friendly Deposit Schemes


Customer Friendly

Deposit Schemes

Pension Savings

Scheme (P.S.S.)

E Educa

Scheme (E.S.S)
Marriage Savings

S Scheme (M.S.S)

Table: 3-3
Savers Benefit Deposit Scheme
Deposited

Term

Size of deposited Amount with

Amount:

interest after completion of the

50,000.00

term (T.K.)
st

1 Year
2

nd

45,000.00

Year

59,000.00

rd

3 Year

65,000.00

th

4 Year

72,000.00

th

5 Year

79,500.00

th

6 Year

89,000.00

Table: 3-4
Loan Schemes:
Loan Schemes
Agricultural Scheme

Lending Categories

Lending Rates (L.R.)

12.00%

Loan to primary Producers


Loan

to

Input

agricultural
v

traders

13.00%

and

fertilizer

dealers/ distributors
Commercial Lending

Working Capital

Jute Trading
Other Commercial Lending

15.00%

Jute

14.00%

Other than Jute

15.00%
15.00%

House Building Loan


Special Programmers

15.00%

P.C. Loan Scheme for

15.00%

Educational and Other


Training Institutions
Other Loans

Educational Loan Scheme

15.00%

Consumer Credit Scheme


Small/Cottage

Term Loan

13.00%

Term Loan

15.00%

Jute Goods Exports

7.00%

Industry

Large/Medium Scale

Industry
Loan against

Table: 3-5
3.1.3 Foreign Exchange Division
Foreign Exchange Department is international department of Bank. It deals globally. It facilitates
international trade through its various modes of services. It bridges between importers and
exporters. If the branch is authorized dealer in foreign exchange market, it can remit foreign
exchange from local country to foreign country. This department mainly deals in foreign currency.
This is why this department is called foreign exchange department.
Some national and international laws regulate functions of this department. Among these,
Foreign Exchange Act, 1947 is for dealing in foreign exchange business, and Import and Export
Control Act, 1950 is for Documentary Credits (UCPDC 1993 revision & International Chamber
of Commerce Publication no 500) is also an important law for settlement of terms and
conditions between exporter and importer in international trade. Governments Import &Export
policy is another important factor for import and export operation for banks.

3.1.4

Functions

of

Department

Import Operation
Import section helps business and other people to import goods. In international environment,
buyers and sellers are often unknown to each other. So seller always seek guarantee for the
payment for his goods exported. Here is the role of bank. Bank gives export guarantee that it will
pay for the goods on behalf of the buyer. This guarantee is called Letter of Credit. Thus the
contract between importer and exporter is given a legal shape by the banker by its Letter of
Credit.
When a buyer goes to import some goods from a foreign buyer, he request his bank makes
payments to the exporter of goods. And the bank recovers the amount from the importer.
Foreign Bills

Purchased
(FBP)

This loan is given to the exporter. When local exporter gets a Usance bill of

exchange, he has to wait until the maturity of the bill for receiving
payment.
Sometimes he cannot wait until maturity and request the bank to
purchase it. If
bank decides to purchase it, then it makes payments to the exporter

against the
bill of exchange. Upon maturity, banks present it to the drawee of the
bill for
encashment. Bank purchases it at discount.
IP Loan

When L/C opener has no sufficient fund to purchase Foreign Exchange to

open L/C, then bank provides him credit to purchase necessary foreign
exchange under the WES/SEM. This loan is called Import Loan under
WES/SEM or IP loan.
Export Operation
Bangladesh exports a large quantity of goods and services to foreign households. Readymade
textile garments (both knitted and woven), Jute, Jute-made products, frozen shrimps, tea are the
main goods that Bangladeshi exporters exports to foreign countries. Garments sector is the
largest sector that exports the lion share of the countrys export. Bangladesh exports most of its
readymade garments products to U.S.A and European Community (EC) countries. Bangladesh
exports about 40% of its readymade garments products to U.S.A. Most of the exporters who
export through SBLare readymade garment exporters. They open export L/Cs here to export their
goods, which they open against the import L/Cs opened by their foreign importers.
Export L/C operation is just reverse of the import L/C operation. For exporting goods by the local
exporter, bank may act as advising banks and collecting bank (negotiable bank) for the exporter.
a. As an advising bank: It receives documents from the foreign importer and hands it over to the
exporter. Sometimes it adds confirmation on the L/C on request from the Opening Bank. By
adding confirmation, it assumes the responsibility to make payment to the exporter.
1. b.

As Negotiating Bank: It negotiates the bills and other shipping documents in favor of the

exporter. That is, it collects the proceeds of the export-bill from the drawee and credits the
exporters account for the same. Collection proceed from the export bill is deposited in the
banks NOSTRO account in the importers country. Sometimes the bank purchases the bills at
discount and waits till maturity of the bill. When the bill matures, bank presents it to the drawee to
encase it.

In our country, Export and Import operation of bank is very much related with one another
because of use of Back to Back and maturity of payment for Back-to-Back L/C is set in such that
it can be paid out of export proceeds. So export and import sections works as one unit. These
two operations can hardly be separated from one another in the branch.
Foreign Remittance Department

This bank is authorized dealer to deal in foreign exchange business. As an authorized dealer, a
bank must provide some services to the clients regarding foreign exchange and this department
provides these services. The basic function of this department are outward and inward remittance
of foreign exchange from one country to another country. In the process of providing this
remittance service, it sells and buys foreign currency. In such transactions the foreign currencies
are like any other commodities offered for sales and purchase, the cost (convention value) being
paid by the buyer in home currency, the legal tender.
Miscellaneous Services by this Department:

Student

Students who are desirous to study abroad can open file in the bank.

File

By opening this file, bank assures the remittance of funds in abroad for
study.
Non resident Investors Taka Account is account

NRIT

Account

Non-resident Bangladeshi can deposit foreign currency for investment


in security of stock exchanges. For such accountholders, 5% of
primary shares are reserved.

F.C.

Foreign Currency accounts opened in the names of Bangladeshi

Account

nationals or persons of Bangladeshi origin working or self-employed


abroad can now are maintained as long as the account holders desire.

NFCD

Stands for Non-resident Foreign Currency Deposit

Eligible persons may open such accounts even after their return to
Bangladesh, within six months of their arrival.

Table: 3-6
Analysis of this Department
Types of Account

No. Of Accounts

Amounts (In Taka.)

217

7968816.00

NFCD

2998707.05

RFCD

12

1554297.75

23010432.43

1.1.1.1.1.1

FCD-Foreign Currency Deposit

Export Cash Credit ECC

Table: 3-7
Number

of

Different

Accounts

Maintained

by

this

Department

3.1.5 Banks Performance


The banks overall objective is to have a higher\profitability than that of the weighted average of
other banks
Capital and Reserve
The authorized capital of the bank was Tk. 3,500.00 million and paid-up capital was Tk. 2,852.20
million as of December 31, 2008. The capital and reserve of the banks in 2008 stood at Tk.
7,657.01 million compared with Tk. 6,468.36 million of the previous year showing an increase of
18.38%
The capital and reserve position of the Bank as on 31-12-2005 is appended as:
Taka in Million

(a) CORE CAPITAL (Tier-I Capital):


Paid up Capital

2,852.20

Shares Premium A/C

485.93

Statutory Reserve

1,975.25

General Reserve

247.65

Retained Earnings

542.79

(a) Total Core Capital:

6,103.82

(b) SUPPLEMENTARY CAPITAL (Tier-II Capital):


Provision for Unclassified Advances

641.31

General Provision on off Balance

313.03

Sheet Exposures
Assets Revaluation Reserves

590.68

Revaluation Reserves of HTM Securities

3.96

Exchange Equalization A/C

4.20

(b) Total Supplementary Capital:

1,553.19

Total Capital & Reserves (Capital:) (a+b)

7,657.01

Table: 3-8
Mercantile Bank Limited, a private commercial Bank with head office at 61 Dilkusha C/A, Dhaka
Bangladesh started operation on 2nd June, 1999. The Bank has 45 branches spread all over the
country with assets of Tk. 44,940.54 million and more than 1000 employees, the bank have
diversified activities inertial banking, corporate banking and international trade.
3.2.1 World Economy
The year 2008 reminds us the worst financial meltdown since the 1930s. It is argued that the
meltdown of the financial system was made in America because it relaxes rules of providing
loans to the people with no income for buying houses, called sub-prime housing loans
amounting to about $2.1 trillion. Furthermore, US regulators did not monitor the way in which the
banks were providing loans during the housing-boom period. The regulatory bodies in the US
ignored warning signs of a financial storm since August 2007 and believed that the free market

system would take care of it. But free market could not prove its effectiveness in avoiding the
financial crisis. As a result, almost every country of the world faced the ongoing world economic
crisis.
World growth is expected to fall to 0.5% in 200, its lowest rate since World War 2. The US
economy, the worlds largest and the epicenter of the Financial Tsunami would shrink to 1.3% in
2009. Output in the advanced economies is now expected to contract by 2% in 2009, first
contraction during the post war period. Growth in emerging and developing economies is
expected to slow sharply from 6.25% in 2008 to 3.25% in 2009. China, the fastest growing
economy in the world is expected to slow down to 7.5% in 2009 from a double-digit growth rate
over the past several years, while Indias deceleration would be less steep to 5.0% from 6.2%
and the economy of Japan would shrink to 1.2% in 2009.
Sluggish real activities and lower commodity prices resulted from tiny demand caused by the
current economic meltdown have dampened inflation pressures. In the advanced economies,
headline inflation is expected to decline from 3.5% in 2008 to a record low of 0.25% in 2009,
before edging up to 0.75% in 2010. In emerging and developing economies, inflation is also
expected to subside to 5.75% in 2009 and 5% in 2010, down from 9.%% in 2008.
3.2.2 Bangladesh Economy
Bangladesh Economy recorded satisfactory growth in FY2008 in spite of experiencing two
consecutive floods and devastating cyclone Sidre, price hike of oil and other commodities in the
world market. Governments growth generating and poverty reduction programs coupled with the
prudent monetary policy of Bangladesh Bank lead to achieve 6.2% growth in FY2008, slightly
lower than 6.4% of FY2007. Nearly all sectors contributed to the GDP growth, particularly
significant were the growth of export-oriented sectors, inflow of remittances and some service
sector like transport and communication.
3.2.3 Background of MBL
Banking system occupies an important place in an economy. A banking institution is
indispensable in modern society. It plays a liberalization of economics policies in Bangladesh.
Mercantile Bank Limited emerged as a new commercial bank to provide efficient banking service
with a view to improving the socio-economic development of the country.
Mercantile Bank Limited has been incorporated on May 20, 1999 in Dhaka, Bangladesh as a
Private limited company with the permission of the Bangladesh Bank; Mercantile Bank Limited
commenced formal commercial banking operation from the June 2, 1999. The bank stood 45
branches all over the country up to December, 2008.

There are 28 sponsors involved in creating Mercantile Bank Limited. The sponsors of the bank
have a long heritage of trade; commerce and industry. They are highly regarded for their
entrepreneurial competence. The sponsors happen to be members of different professional
groups among whom are also renowned banking professionals having vast range of banking
knowledge. There are also members who are associated with other financial institutions like
insurance companies, leasing company etc.
3.2.4 Vision
Would make finest corporate citizen.
3.2.5 Mission

Will become most caring,

Focused for equitable growth based on diversified deployment of resources, and

Nevertheless would remain healthy and gainfully profitable Bank.

3.2.6 Objective
v Strategic Objectives: To achieve positive Economic Value Added (EVA) each year.
To be market leader in product innovation.
To be one of the top three Financial Institutions in Bangladesh in terms of cost efficiency.
To be one of the top five Financial Institutions in Bangladesh in terms of market share in all
significant market segments they serve.
v Financial Objective: To achieve a return on shareholders equity of 20% or more, on average.
3.2.7 Core values
v For the customers:Providing with caring services by being innovative in the development of new banking products
and services.
v For the shareholders:Maximizing wealth of the Bank.
v For the employees:Respecting worth and dignity of individual employees devoting their energies for the progress of
the Bank.
v For the community:Strengthening the corporate values and taking environment and social risks and reward into
account.

3.2.8 Hierarchy

of

Positions

in

Mercantile

Bank

Limited

3.2.9

Organ

gram

Fig. 3.5

3.2.10 Coverage of MBL


3.2.11 Function of MBL
A bank has a lot of function in different ways. A Bank means an institution, which borrows money
from the surplus unit of the society and lends money to the deficit unit for earning profit. The
deposits are mainly accepted by the banker through current and saving account that is
withdrawal by cheques. A bank includes a body of persons weather incorporated or not who
carry on business of banking. Thus a bank is a profit intuition which deals in money and credit.
The functions of Commercial banks are now wide and varied. However, the functions of
Commercial Banks may broadly be classified under the following two categories:

Primary Function

Secondary Function

3.2.11.1 Primary Function:


The Primary functions of Commercial Bank/MBL are as follows Accepts Deposits:
The first primary functions of bank are to accept deposits of money from the public
or sever group. The total deposits held by the banker are broadly classified as Demand Deposit: Demand deposits are withdrawn able on demand and thus no prior notice is
needed. Deposits in Current Account and Saving Account fall in this category.

Time Deposit: Time deposits are repayable on the expiry of a fixed period of time only. Fixes
deposit Accounts, recurring Deposit Accounts and deposit payable at specified
Lends Money:
Banking system essentially involves lending. Depending on the requirements of the borrower,
banks lend money in the forms following:
Loans: In case of loan, the entire amount is paid to the borrower in lump sump, either in cash
or way of transfer to his account. The borrower can withdraw the amount at any time. Interest is
calculated and charged on the debit balance usually with quarterly rests. A loan once repaid in
full or in part cannot be withdrawn further. Thus, no cheque book is issued against the loan
account.
Overdraft: Overdraft is usually a temporary arrangement where the customer is allowed to
withdraw money exceeding the credit balance of the current account up to an agreed limit.
Interest in charged only for the amount drawn.

Cash Credit: A cash credit is an arrangement where the customer is allowed to withdraw
money up to the sanctioned limit. Unlike overdraft this is a permanent arrangement and usually
used to meet the working capital needs of business housed, industries etc. in cash credit account
withdrawals and deposits may be effected frequently. Interest is charged on the daily balanced.

Cash credit arrangement is usually made against pledge or goods but this could also be
extended against personal security.
Bill Discounted and Purchase: Another mode of advancing money is discounting of the
issuance bill of exchange. The banks buy the bill before its maturity at a price less than the face
value. The amount, which the bank deducts from the face value of the instrument, is actually the
interest calculated up to the date of maturity of the bills.

Creates Credit: The creation of credit is one of the important functions of Commercial Bank.
The bank accepts deposits from the public and lends money to its customers. When a bank
extends loan, it does not pay the amount in the bank account of the borrower and allow
withdrawing the required amount by cheques. In this way the bank creates credit or deposit which
is regarded as money and can be used for the purchase goods and services and also for the
payment of debt just like currency notes.

Creates medium of Exchange: Commercial bank usually issues cheque which circulates like
money in the society and creates the medium of exchange.
3.2.11.2 Secondary Function
Modern commercial bank like MBL, besides performing the primary functions, cover a wide range
of financial and non-financial services to meet the growing needs of the time. Some of the
services are available only to the customer while others are available to the public in general. The
subsidiary services provided by a modern banker may be classified into the following two groups:
q Agency Services:
In many cases the Commercial Banks acts the agent of the customers. As agents the banks
provide the following services:
Collection of cheque, draft, bill of exchange, promissory note, dividends, salaries, pension, rent
etc. on behalf of the customer.
Acting as correspondent and representative of its customers, other banks, and financial
institutions.
Conducting stock exchange transaction i.e. purchase and sale of share and securities for the
customers.
Functioning as trustee, executor or administrator of estate of a customer.
q General Utility Services: Commercial banks provide a variety of general utility services to the
customers. They are given below:
Issue letter of credit (L/C)

Accepts valuables for safe custody


Conducts in foreign exchange business
Lease financing
Provides Internet banking services
Provides specialized advisory services
Issues debit and credit cards
Underwrites of share and securities
Merchant Banking
Serving as a referee as to the financial standing business reputation and respectability of their
customers
3.2.12 Foreign Exchange business

A commercial Bank/MBL is involved in financing foreign trade apart from financing internal credit
requirement in the economy. This involves handling of import business through opening L/C and
handling of export business. As banking has become very keenly competitive, banks find it
convenient to involve in foreign exchange business as a lucrative source of earning income and
profit.
Apart from financing foreign trade, Commercial Banks also provide guarantees of various types to
their clients. While these facilities clients to undertake jobs assigned to them by various
corporations and organization, this enables the bank to earn commission.
A commercial Bank also provides the facilities of remittance to its clients for transfer of funds to
various traded centers within the country and also outside the country in keeping with the foreign
restrictions of the Central Bank.
3.2.13 Lone Products
Credit Schemes
Our Various Credit Schemes:-

CONSUMERS CREDIT SCHEMES(CCS)


CAR LOAN SCHEME
DOCTORS CREDIT SCHEME
RURAL DEVELOPMENT SCHEME
LEASE FINANCING
PERSONAL LOAN
SMALL LOAN

Consumers Credit Scheme


Objectives:

Help fixed-income people for buying house hold durable.

For the amount up to Tk. 1, 00,000 the period is two years.

Interest rate will be charged quarterly rest.

Terms & Conditions:

Interest Rate 16.00%

Risk Fund 1.00%

Supervision Charge (per year on outstanding balances) 0.25%

Application Fee BDT 200.00

Special Feature:

The loan amount is directly credited to the customers account.

CAR LOAN Scheme


Objectives:-

Help fixed-income people for buying car

Interest rate will be charged quarterly rest.


Terms & Conditions:-

Maximum loan amount is BDT 25.00 lacs.

Tenure of loan is 05 (Five) years

Interest Rate 16.00%

Risk Fund 1.00%

Supervision Charge (per year on outstanding balances) 0.25%

Application Fee BDT 200.00

Special Feature

BDT 7.50 Lac for reconditioned Car/Jeeps/SUVs and BDT 25.00 Lac for new Cars/Jeeps/SUVs.

Doctors Credit Scheme

Objectives : Help new F.C.P.S. or post-graduate doctors for setting up chambers and buying medical equipment.

Help experienced doctors for refurbishing chambers and buying medical equipment.
Assist private clinics for acquiring modern medical equipment.
Interest rate will be charged at quarterly rest.

Sponsored by some dynamic and reputed entrepreneurs and eminent industrialists of the country
and also participated by the Government, UCB started its operation in mid 1983, company act
1962 and has since been able to establish the largest network of 85 branches as on 031.12.2006
among the first generation banks in the private sector.
With its firm commitment to the economic development of the country, the Bank has already
made a distinct mark in the realm of Private Sector Banking through personalized service,
innovative practices, dynamic approach and efficient Management. The Bank, aiming to play a
leading role in the economic activities of the country, is firmly engaged in the development of
trade, commerce and industry thorough a creative credit policy. It has resulted in great success in
all areas of operation with a view to improve the socio-economic development of the country. The
high profitability track record underpins value that the shareholders derive from investing in the
shares of United Commercial Bank. In doing business, United Commercial Bank follows the
fundamental

principles

of

Corporate

Governance

Accountability,

Responsibility

and

Transparency. United Commercial Bank Limited will uphold its business motto of people come
first and strive to provide the best banking products and services to its customers. In the process
of reform and development, the bank is trying to improve its management capabilities and service
standards through hard work and innovation. And such efforts have helped it gain a good
reputation from its customers.
3.3.2 Vision of the Bank
To be the best Private Commercial Bank in Bangladesh in terms of efficiency, capital adequacy,
asset quality, sound management and profitability having strong liquidity.
3.3.3 Mission of the Bank

To build United Commercial Bank Limited into an efficient, market driven, customer focused
institution with good corporate governance structure.

Continuous improvement in our business policies, procedure and efficiency through integration of
technology at all levels.

3.3.4 Strategic Statement


To have sustained growth, broaden and improve range of products and services in all areas of
banking activities with the aim to add increased value to shareholders investment and offer
highest possible benefits to our customers.
3.3.5 Objectives of the Bank
To build up strong pillar of capital, To promote trade, commerce and industry, To discover
strategies for achieving systematic growth, To improve and broaden the range of product and
services, To develop human resource by increasing employment opportunities, To enhance asset

of shareholders, To offer standard financial services to the people, To keep business morality, To
develop welfare oriented banking service, To offer highest possible benefit to customers.
3.3.6 Corporate information of UCBL
Name of the bank

: United Commercial Bank Ltd

Status

: Private Limited Company

Date of Incorporation

: June 23, 1983

Authorized Capital

: Tk.350.00 Crore

Paid-up Capital

: Tk.171.375 Crore

Numbers of Branches

: 85 (Eighty Five)

Proposed Branches

: 15 (Fifteen)

Chairman

: Mr.Md.Jahangir Alam Khan

Company Secretary

: Mr. Mahmud Rafiqur Rahman

Managing Director

: Mr. M. Shahjahan Bhuiyan

Number of Employees

: 2500

Credit Rating

: Long Term: A3 (Adequate Safety)


Short Term: ST-2

Registered Office

: Federation Bhaban (4th through 6th Floor)


60, Motijheel Commercial Area, Dhaka-1000.
Bangladesh G.P.O- Box: 2653
PABX: +88-02-955075-77, 9568690-93
Fax: +88-02-9560587
Email: iinfo@ucbl.com
Web site: WWW. Ucbl.com S.W.I.F.T: UCBLBDDH

3.3.7 Capital and Reserve


During the year under report authorized capital of the bank remained unchanged at tk.1000
million and the paid up capital stood s at tk.230million.The reserve fund of the bank increased by
33% to Tk-1045 as against Tk-783 million in the previous year. The capital fund of the bank stood
at Tk. 1943 million in 2008 against Tk.1389 million of 2007 recording an increase of Tk.39.88%.
Core capital increased by TK.492 million and stood at Tk.1735 million while supplementary
capital increased by Tk.62 million and stood at Tk.208 million. Total capital fund is equivalent to
9.72% of risk weighted Assets.
3.3.8 Risk Management
Risks involved in different operational area are under control of the management. The bank has
taken appropriate measures to enforce and follow all approved risk manuals /guidelines covering

the following risk area in order to control and minimize the business as well as financial risks at
an acceptable level.
1. Policy guidelines on asset liability management
2. Policy guidelines on credit management
3. Policy guidelines on foreign exchange risk management
4. Policy guidelines on money laundering prevention
5. Policy guidelines on internal control and compliance

The bank has formed a management committee (MANCOM) to review proper implementation
and regular monitoring of core areas of risk management.
3.3.10 District Wise Branch Distribution
Dhaka Division
1.Bangshal Branch

2.Bhulta Branch

3. Dhanmondi Branch

4.Elrphant

Road

5.Faridpur Branch

Branch
6.Foreign

Exchange

7. Gulshan Branch

8. hasnabad Branch

9.Islampur Branch

10.Kawran Bazar

11.Madhabdee

12.Malibag

13.Mirpur

14.Mohakhali

15.Mohammadpur

16.Moulvibazar

17. Mymensigh

18. Narayangonj

19. Narsingdi

20.Nawabpur

21. Nayabazar

22.North

23. Paglabazar

24.Principal Branch

25. Tangail

Branch(AD)

Brook

Hall

Road
26.Uttara Branch

27. Zinzira Branch

Chittagong Division
1. Agrabad

2. Anderkilla

3.Bahaddarhat

4.Brahmanbaria

5. Chandpur

6.Chawkbazar

7.Chowmuhani

8. Comilla

9. Coxs Bazar

10. Dhohazari

11. Fatickchari

12. Chokoria

13Feni Branch

14.Gohira

15.Jubilee Road

16. Kadamtoli

17. Kamal Bazar

18.Khatungonj

19.Lakshmipur

20.Lohagara

21. Madunaghat

22. Maizdee Court

23.Muradpur

24. Nazirhat

Rajshahi Division
1.Bogra

2.Chapainawabgonj

3. Dinajpur

4. Naogaon

5.Natore

6. Pabna

7.Rajshahi

8. Rangpur

9. Searajgonj

Khulna Division
1.Chuadanga

2. Jessore

3. Jhenaidah

4. Khan Jahan Ali Road

5.Khulna

6. Kushtia

7.Noapara Bazar

1.Amborkhana

2.Barolekha

3.Beani Bazar

4. Biswanath

5.Goala Bazar

6.Nabiggonj

7. Sherpur

8.Shibgonj

9. Sylhet

10.Zinda Bazar

11.Shahjalal Upashahar

Barisal Division
1.Barisal Branch

Sylhet Division

3.3.11 Product and Service

UCB Multi Millionaire

UCB Money Maximizer

UCB Earning Plus

UCB DPS Plus

Western Money Transfer

SMS Banking Service

Online Service

Credit Card

One Stop Service

Time Deposit Scheme

Monthly Savings scheme

Deposit Insurance Scheme

Inward & Outward Remittances

Balance Sheet as at 31st December 2010


United Commercial Bank
Balance Sheet
As at 31st December, 2010
Particulars

2010

2009

Cash

2812.472

2178.45

Cash in hand(including foreign currencies)

661.34

652.13

Property & Assets

Balance with Bangladesh Bank & Sonali Bank(including

2151.12

1526.31

Balance with others banks and financial institutions

2100.01

623.50

In Bangladesh

1841.8

253.97

Outside Bangladesh

258.17

369.53

Money at Call and short notice

100.00

1670.00

Investments

6100.77

2877.478

Govt.

5954.187

2706.89

Others

146.586

170.58

Loans and Advances

26110.09

20210.64

Loans, cash credit, overdraft etc.

24200.03

20065.17

Bills purchased and discounted

2024.77

1327.21

Fixed assets including premises, furniture and fixtures

291.20

277.54

Other assets

1123.00

974.96

Non banking assets

38547.62

28812.59

Borrowing from other banks, financial institution & agents

264.69

89.2

Deposits & others accounts

33015.84

24559.33

Currents accounts & other accounts

4876.15

4488.85

Bills payable

581.00

541.59

Saving bank deposit

7655.76

6861.99

Term deposits

19902.91

12666.88

Bearer certificates of deposits

Foreign currencies)

Total Assets
Liabilities& Capital

Other liabilities

2944.98

2509.46

36225.52

27077.72

Paid-up capital

230.15

230.15

Statutory reserve

898.79

689.89

General reserves

363.56

358.08

Surplus in profit & loss account

829.58

459.72

2322.09

1734.86

38547.62

28812.59

Total liabilities
Capital/ Shareholders equity

Total Shareholders Equity


Total Liabilities & Shareholders Equity

Source: Annul Report of UCBL during year 2010


Table: 3-9
Profit & Loss account (Income Statement) for the year ended 31st December 2010
Particulars

2010

2009

Tk.

Tk.

Operating income
Interest income

2303987311

1721378600

Interest paid on Deposits & Borrowing

(1195364906)

(971684083)

Net interest income

1108622405

749694517

Income from investment

215152384

242857269

Commission, Exchange & Brokerage

552266846

478710061

Other operating income

116577443

109185330

Total Operating Income A

1992619078

1580447177

Salary & allowance

583011961

502619152

Chief Executive salary Fees

3457500

2685000

Operating Expense

Rent, Taxes, Insurance, Lighting etc

81512694

69418169

Legal Expense

5122133

3238667

Postage, stamp, Telegram, telephone etc

23413092

20107259

Stationary, printing etc

18496793

11428313

Directors fees & other Expense

1225328

1798936

Auditors Fees

1645000

145000

Depreciation and repair of fixed assets

56899102

52750930

Other Expense

65381462

59033895

Total operating Expense B

840165065

723225321

Profit before Provision

1152154013

857221856

Provision for loans & advances

300000000

231154000

Provision for diminution in value of investments

Other Provision

Total Provision (D)

300000000

231154000

Total profit/loss before Income Tax

852454013

626067856

Provision for Income Tax

435357685

457716712

Current Tax

430702971

457716712

Deferred Tax Expense

4654714

Net profit / LOSS AFTER Income Tax

417096328

168351144

Stator Reserve

170490802

125213571

General Reserve

16447918

Dividends

Retained Surplus

230157608

43137573

Appropriations

Earning per ordinary Share(EPS)

417096328

168351144

181.22

73.15

Source: Annul Report of UCBL during year 2010


Table: 3-10
What Is Foreign Exchange
Every country has certain natural advantages and disadvantages in producing certain
commodities while they have some natural disadvantages as well in other areas. As a result we
find that some countries need to import certain commodities while others need to export their
surpluses. Foreign trade brings the fruits of the earth to the homes of the humblest among the
countries. These transactions are the basis upon which international trade is made.
As more than one currency is involved in foreign trade, it gives rise to exchange of currencies
which is known as Foreign Exchange. The term Foreign Exchange has three principal
meanings:
Firstly it is a term used referring to the currencies of other countries in terms of any single one
currency. To a Bangladeshi, Dollar, Pound Sterling, etc. are foreign currencies and as such
foreign exchanges.
Secondly, the term also commonly refer to some instruments used in international trade, such
as bill of exchange, drafts, travelers cheque and other means of international remittance.

In terms of section 2(d) of the Foreign Exchange Regulations-1947, as adopted in


Bangladesh foreign exchangemeans foreign currency and includes any instrument drawn,
accepted, made or issued under clause 13 of article 16 of the Bangladesh Bank Order, 1972, all
deposits, credits and balances payable in any foreign currency and draft, travelers cheque, letter
of credit and bill of exchange expressed or drawn in Bangladesh currency but payable in any
foreign currencies.
In exercise of the powers conferred by sec. 3 of the Foreign Exchange Regulations-1947,
Bangladesh Bank issues license to scheduled banks to deal with foreign exchange. These banks
are known as AuthorizedDealers (AD). Licenses are also issued by Bangladesh Bank to persons
or firms to exchange foreign currency instruments such as T.C., Currency notes and coins. They
are known as Authorized Money Changers.
4.1 International Trade and Foreign Exchange of MBL
International Trade forms the major business actively undertaken by Mercantile Bank Limited.
The Bank with its worldwide network of correspondents and close relationship with key

financial institutions provides an extensive trade services network to handle the transactions
efficiently. International trade is an important constituent of the business portfolio of the Bank.
The import business of the Bank decreased to Tk. 40,380.10 million in 2007 from Tk. 42,442.80
million in 2006 and export bills decreased to Tk.32, 670.10 million in 2007 from Tk.34, 592.10
million in 2006. Remittances handled by the Bank increased and reached Tk. 3,510.40 million
and Tk. 2,989.10 million respectively in 2007 and 2006 It was tk. 679.10 million in 2005.
The number of foreign correspondents is 584 as of December 31, 2007. Efforts are being
continued to further expand the Correspondent Relationship to facilitate Banks growing foreign
trade transactions. The Bank is using SWIFT communication system for fast and accurate
handling for foreign trade. The Bank is connected to REUTERS also for up-to-date information on
the foreign exchange markets.
To have crystal clear idea about the Foreign Exchange of MBL Critical analysis of the following
are essential
Credit policy of the Bank
Credit sanctioning Authority of MBL and
Credit Monitoring / Supervision of Cell
Import section helps business and other people to import goods. In international environment,
buyers and sellers are often unknown to each other. So seller always seek guarantee for the
payment for his goods exported. Here is the role of bank. Bank gives export guarantee that it will
pay for the goods on behalf of the buyer. This guarantee is called Letter of Credit. Thus the
contract between importer and exporter is given a legal shape by the banker by its Letter of
Credit.
When a buyer goes to import some goods from a foreign buyer, he request his bank makes
payments to the exporter of goods. And the bank recovers the amount from the importer.
Sections:
Foreign exchange department of MBL, Main Branch is divided into two sections:
L/C Operation
Foreign Remittance

4.1.2 L/C OPERATION


Letter of Credit (L/C) can be defined as a Credit Contract whereby the buyers bank is
committed (on behalf of the buyers) to place an agreed amount of money at the sellers disposal
under some agreed conditions. Since the agreed conditions include amongst other things, the

presentation of some specified documents, the letter of credit is called Documentary letter of
credit.
The Uniform Customs and Practices for Documentary Credit (UCPDC) published by International
Chamber of Commerce (1993) publication no 500 define Documentary Credit:
a)

Any arrangement however named or described whereby a bank (the issuing bank) acting

at the request and on the instructions of a customs (the Applicant) or on its own behalf,
b)

Is to make a payment to or to the order of a third party(the beneficiary) or is to accept and

pay bills of exchange(Drafts)drawn by the beneficiary or


c)

Authorize another bank to effect such payment or to accept and pay such bills of

exchange (Drafts).
d)

Authorize another bank to negotiate against stipulated documents provide that terms and

conditions are complied with.


4.1.3 Types of Documentary Letter of Credit
Documentary letter of credit, basically, can be classified into two segments:
a)

Revocable letter of credit

b)

Irrevocable letter of credit

a) Revocable Letter of Credit:


This type of letter of credit can be revoked or cancelled at any time without consent of, or notice
to the beneficiary. As per article 8 (a) of UCPDC-500 A revocable credit may be amended or
cancelled by the issuing bank at any moment and without prior notice to the beneficiary.
In case of seller (beneficiary), revocable credit involves risk, as the credit may be amended or
cancelled while the goods are in transit and before the documents are presented, or although
presented before payments has been made. The seller would then face the problem of obtaining
payment on the other hand revocable credit gives the buyer maximum flexibility, as it can be
amended or cancelled without prior notice to the seller up to the moment of payment buy the
issuing bank at which the issuing bank has made the credit available. In the modern banking the
use of revocable credit is not widespread.
b)

Irrevocable Letter of Credit:

An irrevocable credit is a documentary credit, which cannot be revoked, varied or


changed/amended or cancelled without the consent of all parties- buyer (Applicant), seller
(Beneficiary), Issuing Bank, and Confirming Bank (in case of confirmed L/C).
As per Article 9(a) of UCPDC 500, an irrevocable credit constitutes a definite undertaking of the
Issuing Bank, provided that the stipulated documents are presented to the Nominated Bank or to

the Issuing Bank and that the terms and conditions of the credit are complied with. Irrevocable
Credit gives the seller greater assurance of payments, but he/she remains dependent on an
undertaking of a foreign bank.
4.1.4

Classification

of

Letter

Form of L/C:
4.1.5 Documents Used in L/C Operation
The most commonly used documents in foreign exchange are:
1.

i.

2.

ii.

Bill of Exchange
Bill of Lading

3.

iii.

Commercial invoice

4.

iv.

Certificate of origin

5.
6.
7.
8.

v.
vi.
vii.
viii.

BILL OF EXCHANGE:

Inspection certificate
Packing list
Insurance document
Pro Forma Invoice (PI)/Indent

of

Credit

(L/C)

Bill of exchange is one of the important negotiable instruments in the mercantile world and used
as a vital document facilitating settlement of payments between buyer/importer and
seller/exporter at home and abroad. A bill when accepted by the drawee, gives evidence of the
claim as made by the drawer as well as testimony to the acceptance of the debt by the drawee.
The payment is done either in accordance with the terms of sale contract or under a L/C opened
by the buyer/importer in favor of the seller/exporter.

BILL OF LADING:
A bill of lading is a document that is usually stipulated in a credit when the goods are dispatched
by sea. It is evidence of a contract of carriage, is a receipt for the goods, and is a document of
title to the goods. It also constitutes a document that is, or may be, needed to support an
insurance claim.
The details on the bill of lading should include
A description of the goods in general terms not inconsistent with that in the credit.
Identifying marks and numbers.
The name of the carrying vessel.
Evidence that the goods have been loaded on board.
The ports of shipment and discharge.
COMMERCIAL INVOICE:
A commercial invoice is the accounting document by which the seller charges the goods to the
buyer. A commercial invoice normally includes the following information:
Date
Name and address of buyer and seller
Order or contract number, quantity and description of the goods, unit price and the total
Price
Weight of the goods, number of packages, and shipping marks and numbers
Terms of delivery and payment
Shipment details
CERTIFICATE OF ORIGIN:
A certificate of origin is a signed statement providing evidence of the origin of the goods.

INSPECTION CERTIFICATE:
This is usually issued by an independent inspection company located in the exporting country
certifying or describing the quality, specification or other aspects of the goods, as called for in the

contract and/or the L/C. The buyer who also indicates the type of inspection he wishes the
company to undertake usually nominates the inspection company.
PACKING LIST:
This is a unique document and not combined with other document. This is a listing of the contents
of each package, cartoon etc. and other relevant information.

INSURANCE DOCUMENT:
Insurance is a contract whereby the insurer is undertaking to indemnify the assured to the agreed
manner and extent against fortuitous losses. Insurance document generally contains the following
information:

The name of the insurer or his agent

The name of the ship/carrier

The name of assured

The subject matter of insurance

4.2 Functions of Foreign Exchange Department of (UCBL):


Foreign Exchange Department performs many functions to facilitate the foreign exchange
transactions. These are:
v Facilitating Import Trade
v Facilitating Export Trade
v Providing Funded and Non-funded Credit Facility.
v Provide Non Commercial Remittance
v Foreign Currency Accounts
v Selling of Foreign Currency Bond
v Preparation and Submission of Statements
The International Division placed at the United Commercial Banks head office at Motijheel is the
backbone of all international transaction that is conducted through the various branches of the
bank. A total of 85 branches of United Commercial Bank have the license to carry out
international trade functions. Each of these AD branches have foreign exchange department
whose sole purpose is to carry out cross border transaction demanded by the customers. The
functions of such Foreign Exchange Department can be divided into three sections:
v Import Section
Import is the flow of goods and services purchased by economic agent staying in the country
from economic agent staying abroad.

We can simplify Import as a means purchase of goods and services from the foreign countries
into Bangladesh. Normally consumers, firms and Government of Bangladesh import foreign
goods to meet their various necessities. Import section of the Foreign Exchange Department
helps business and other people to import goods. So seller always seeks guarantee for the
payment for his goods exported. Here is the role of bank. Bank gives export guarantee that it will
pay for the goods on behalf of the buyer. This guarantee is called Letter of Credit. Thus the
contract between importer and exporter is given a legal shape by the banker by its Letter of
Credit. When a buyer goes to import some goods from a foreign buyer, he request his bank
makes payments to the exporter of goods. And the bank recovers the amount from the importer.
4.2.1 Letter of Credit:
Letter of Credit is a guarantee or undertaking or commitment to the beneficiary/exporter for
making payment issued by the issuing bank on behalf of the importer upon fulfillment of some
conditions. Central Banks, therefore assure these things to happen simultaneously by opening
Letter of Credit guaranteeing payments to seller and goods to buyer. By opening a Letter of
Credit on behalf of buyer in favor of seller, commercial banks undertake to make payments to a
seller subject to submission of documents drawn on in strictly compliance with Letter of Credit
terms giving title of goods to the buyer. It is a conditional guarantee. The Letter of Credit thus
constitutes one of the most important methods of financing foreign trade. In the Import Policy
Order 2003-2008 Letter of Credit denoted as Letter of Credit means a letter of credit opened
for the purpose of import under this Order The expression Documentary Credit(s) and Standby
Letter(s) means any arrangements, however named or described, whereby a bank (the issuing
bank) acting at the request and on the instruction of a customer (the Applicant) or on its own
behalf,
v Is to make a payment to or the order of a third party (the Beneficiary), or is to accept and pay
bills of exchange (Drafts) drawn by the Beneficiary, Or
v authorizes another bank to effect such payment, or to accept and pay such bills of exchange
(Draft(s)),Or
v authorizes another bank to negotiate,
v Against stipulated document(s), provided that the terms and conditions of the Credit and
complied with.
On the other hand Letter of credit can be defined as a Credit Contract whereby the buyers bank
is committed (on behalf of the buyers) to place an agreed amount of money at the sellers
disposal under some agreed conditions. Since the agreed conditions include amongst other
things, the presentation of some specified documents, the letter of credit is called Documentary

letter of credit. The uniform customs and practices for documentary Credit (UCPDC) published by
international Chamber of Commerce (1993) revision, publication no 500 define Documentary
Credit:
v Any arrangement however named or described whereby a bank (the issuing bank) acting at the
request and on the instructions of a customs (the Applicant) or on its own behalf,
v Authorize another bank to effect such payment or to accept and pay such bills of exchange
(Drafts)
v

Authorize another bank to negotiate against stipulated documents provide that terms and

conditions are complied with.


4.2.2 Types of Letter of Credit:
There are many types of Letter of Credits that are used in different countries of the world. But
International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) vides their UCPDC- 500, which denotes only two
types of LETTER OF Credits; mentioned:

Revocable Letter of Credit

A revocable credit may be amended or cancelled by the issuing bank at any moment and without
prior notice to the beneficiary. That is to say, this type of letter of credit can be revoked or
cancelled at any time without consent of, or notice to the beneficiary.
In case of seller (beneficiary), revocable credit involves risk, as the credit may be amended or
cancelled while the goods are in transit and before the documents are presented, or although
presented before payments has been made. The seller would then face the problem of obtaining
payment on the other hand revocable credit gives the buyer maximum flexibility, as it can be
amended or cancelled without prior notice to the seller up to the moment of payment buy the
issuing bank at which the issuing bank has made the credit available. In the modern banking the
use of revocable credit is not widespread.
In this case the issuing banks must perform the following two roles:
Reimburse another bank with which a revocable Credit has been made available for sight
payment, acceptance or negotiation for any payment, acceptance or negotiation made by such
prior to receipt by it of notice of amendment or cancellation, against documents which appear
on their face to be in compliance with the terms and conditions of the Credit;
Reimburse another bank with which a revocable Credit has been made available for deferred
payment, if such a bank has, prior to receipt by it of notice of amendment or cancellation, take up
documents which appear on their face to be in compliance with the terms and conditions of the
Credit.

Irrevocable Letter of Credit

An irrevocable credit is a documentary credit, which cannot be revoked, varied or


changed/amended or cancelled without the consent of all parties- buyer (Applicant), seller
(Beneficiary), Issuing Bank, and Confirming Bank (in case of confirmed Letter of Credit).
Irrevocable Credit gives the seller greater assurance of payments, but he/she remains dependent
on an undertaking of a foreign bank. In the issuance of Irrevocable Letter of Credit both the
Issuing and Conforming Bank have some liability, mentioned bellow, as per UCPDC -500: The
following types of Letter of Credits are used in the UCBL, Mohammadpur Branch:

Cash Letter of Credit

Payment made form cash foreign exchange not from export proceeds; there is not export L.C.
which backs the import Letter of Credit Payment term is at sight.

Deferred Letter of Credit

The only difference between cash Letter of Credit and deferred Letter of Credit lied in the terms of
payment. Payment under deferred Letter of Credit is made after certain days of presentation of
the export bill. Letter of Credit the differed payment basis may be opened for the following cases:

Items Period

Back to Back Imports Maximum 180 days


Agricultural Industrial Raw Materials (For own use) Maximum 180 days
Implements & Chemical Fertilizer Maximum 180 days
Capital Machinery Maximum 360 days
Coastal Vessel Maximum 360 days
Life Saving Drugs Maximum 90 Day

Back to Back Letter of Credit

The back to back credit is a new credit opened on the basis of an original credit in favor or
another beneficiary. Under back to back concept, the seller as the beneficiary of the first credit
offers it as security to the advising bank for the issuance of the second credit. The beneficiary of
the back to back credit may be located inside or the out side the original beneficiarys country.

Anticipatory Credit

The anticipatory credits make provision for pre-shipment payment to the beneficiary in
anticipation of his effecting the shipment as per L/C conditions.
4.2.3 General Conditions of Import of Goods:

Import Trade Control Schedule Number For import purpose, use of ITC Number (H.S. Code) with
at least six digits corresponding to the classification of goods as given in the Import Trade Control
Schedule 1988, based on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, shall be
mandatory. The seven Digit H.S. Code published by Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics may also be
mentioned in the Letter of Credit. Form, Letter of Credit and other relevant paper within a bracket
in addition to normal H. S. Code as mentioned above. No bank shall issue Letter of Credit

Authorization form or open Letter of Credit without properly mentioning I. T. C. number (H. S.
Code) thereon.

4.2.4 Parties of a Letter of Credit:

APPLICANT FOR THE CREDIT: The importer or buyer on whose request and on whose behalf
the letter of credit is opened is called the applicant.

ISSUING BANK/ OPENING BANK: The bank that opens a Letter of Credit, at the request of the
importer, is known as Issuing Bank. The Issuing Bank is the buyers bank and is also called
opening bank.

BENEFICIARY: The party, normally the supplier of the goods, in whose favor the Letter of Credit
is opened is called beneficiary. The seller, after shipping the goods as per terms of the credit,
presents the documents to negotiating bank/conforming bank for negotiation.

ADVISING BANK: The bank is the exporters country, usually the foreign correspondent of the
importers bank; through which Letter of Credit is advised to the supplier is called the advising
bank.

CONFORMING BANK: If the advising bank also adds its own undertaking to honor the credit
while advising the same to the beneficiary, it becomes the conforming bank. The conforming bank,
in addition, becomes liable to pay for documents in conformity with the Letter of Credit terms and
conditions.

NEGOTIATING BANK: The Bank, which negotiates the bill (draft) of the exporter drawn under the
credit, is known as negotiating bank. If the advising bank is also authorized to negotiate the bill
(draft) drawn by the exporter it itself becomes the negotiating bank.

ACCEPTING BANK: A bank that (as specified in the Letter of Credit) accepts time or usance
drafts on behalf of the importer is called the accepting bank. The Letter of Credit issuing bank can
also take on the responsibility of an accepting bank.

PAYING BANK: The bank that effects payment to the beneficiary (as named in the Letter of
Credit) is known as paying bank/drawee bank.

REIMBURSING BANK: If the issuing bank does not maintain any account with THE

NEGOTIATING bank an alternate arrangement is made to reimburse it for the amount payable
under a credit form some other bank. The later bank is termed as reimbursing bank. An authority
to debit his account is sent to the bank with whom the account is maintained to honor the claims
placed by a negotiating bank.

4.2.5 Preparation of Proposal and submitting it to the Competent Authority for Obtaining
Permission of Opening Letter Of Credit:
Before opening Letter of Credit the applicant must take permission from the competent authority.
Whether the authority has to be taken form the Branch or from the Head Office depends on the
amount of Letter of Credit and the percentage of margin. A proposal for obtaining permission for
opening Letter of Credit generally contains the following points:

Name and address of the importer;

Name and address of the Guarantor if any;

Particular of Merchandise to be imported along with name of the item Harmonized

System

(H.S.) Code, country of origin, quantity, unit price and purpose of import.

Particulars/ Terms of LC along with name and address of the beneficiary, tenor of payment, port
of loading and discharge, shipment validity and expiry date etc.;

Landed cost of the goods;

Market price of the goods at Dhaka and Chittagong (if applicable);

Name of the previous banker with outstanding liability (if any);

Number of CD accounts and transaction performance through this account;

Present liability position with the bank;

Present liability position of allied/sister concerns with the bank

Letter of Credit performance of the party during the year/previous year;

4.2.6 Steps for Import L/C operation:


Step 1: Registration with CCI & E:

For engaging in international trade, every trader must be first registered with the chief Controller of
Import and Export.

By paying specified registration fees to the CCI & E. the trader will get IRC/ERC to open L/C with
Bank, this IRC is must.

Steps 2- Determination terms of credit:


The terms of the letter of credit are depending upon the contract between the importer and
exporter. The term of the credit specify the amount of credit, name and address of the beneficiary
and opener, tenor of the bill of exchange, period and mode of shipment and of destination, nature
of credit, expiry date, name and number of sets of shipping documents etc
Steps 3- Proposal for opening of L/C:
To have an import LC limit an importer submits an application to department to united commercial
bank ltd. The proposal contains the following particular:

Full particulars of the bank account.

Nature of business

Required amount of limit

Payment terms and conditions

Goods to be imported

Offered security

Repayment schedule

Step 4-Application by importer to the banker to open letter of credit:

For opening LC, the importer is required to fill up a prescribed application form provided by the
banker along with the following documents:
1. L/C application form

7. authority to debit account

1. Filled up LC form

8. filled up amendment request form

1. Demand promissory note

9. IMP form

1. Pro-forma invoice

10. insurance cover note and money receipt

1. Tax identification number

11. membership certificate

1. Import registration certificate

12. rate fluctuation undertaking

Step 5- Opening of L/C by the bank for the opener:

Taking filled up application form the importer

Collects credit report of exporter from exporters country through his foreign correspondence there.

Opening bank then issues credit by air mail/ TELEX/SWIFT followed by L/C advice as asked by
the opener through his foreign correspondent or branch as the case may be, at the place of
beneficiary. The advising bank advises the L/C to the beneficiary on his own from where it is
addressed to him or merely hand over the original L/C to the beneficiary if it is so addressed.

Step 6- Shipment of goods and lodgment of documents by exporter:

Then exporter ships the goods to the destination of the importer country

Sends the documents to the L/C opening bank through his negotiating bank. Generally the
following documents are sent to the opening banker with L/C:
Bill of exchange

Packing list

Bill of lading

Advice details

Commercial invoice

Vessel particular

Certification of origin

Pre shipment Inspection certificate

A certificate stating that each packet contains the description of

shipment certificate

goods over the packet.

Step 7- Lodgment of document by the opening bank from the negotiating bank:
After receiving the document, the opening banker scrutinizes the documents. If any discrepancy
found, it inform the importer. If importer accepts the fault, then opening bankers call importer
retiring the document. At this time many thing can happen. These are indicated in the following:

Discrepancy found but the importer accepts- no problem occurs in lodgment.

Discrepancy found but the importer not agreed to accept- in this case, importer protest and send
back all the documents to the exporter and request his to make in the specified manner. Here
banker is not bound to pay because the documents send by exporter is not in accordance with the
terms of L/C.

Documents are ok but importer is willing to retire the documents- in this case bank is obligated to
pay the price of exported goods. Since importer did not pay for bill of exchange, this payment by
bank is one kind of credit to the importer and this credit in banking is known as PAD.

Everything is ok but importer is failed to clear goods from the port and request bank to clear- in this
case banks clear the clear the goods and takes delivery of the same by paying custom duty and
sales tax etc. so, this expenditure is debited to the importer account and in banking it is called LIM.

The above mentioned description could be pointed out as under:


a. The seller being satisfied with the terms and the conditions of the credit makes shipment of the
goods as per Letter of Credit terms.
b. After making the shipment of the goods in favor of the importer the exporter submits the
documents to the negotiating bank.
c. After receiving all the documents, the negotiating bank then checks the documents against the
credit. If the documents are found in order, the bank will pay, accept or negotiate to Prime
Bank
d. Branch & Bank received seal to be affixed on the forwarding schedule
e. The Bill of Exchange & transport documents must immediately be crossed to protect loss or
fraudulent.
Step 8- Retirement:
On receipt of cost memo/lodgment voucher the importer pays the necessary amount. This stage
of the documentary credit operation is known as Retirement of Import Bills. The branch will
prepare the retirement voucher to reflect the amount of cost and other charges to be collected
from the importer, adjustments of margin and PAD Account. Thereafter the documents may be
handed over to the importer against proper acknowledgement after certification and
endorsement. The certifications by authorized personnel of the bank are as follows:
The invoice is certified by the authorized officer of the bank with the exchange rate as applied in
lodgment;
The bill of Exchange received from negotiating bank on issuing bank by the beneficiary;
The Transport Documents evidencing the carrying of goods as per Letter of Credit term has to
the endorsed by the AD branch.
On receipt of intimation, the importer is given necessary instructions with regard to retirement of
the bill, disposal of the shipping documents and clearance of the goods from the customs
authorities. The importer may ask the bank to retire the bill by debiting his account or may
request for the providing LIM or LTR facility, if arranged earlier. On intimation the importer
approaches with a letter for retirement of the document against full payment with up to date

interest and charges payable. Bank prepares cost memo in printed form on account of the
concerned party giving details head of charges payable.

4.2.6 Financing Related with Import:


Advances against Import Bill are originated for the lodgment of shipping documents received from
foreign correspondents against Letter of Credit estimated by the Bank on behalf of its customers.
Threes bills of lodged by debiting PAD account and crediting HO account. To Create PAD, the
documents received form the negotiating bank is to be scrutinized thoroughly whether they are in
order as per L/C terms. If on scrutiny, the documents are found in order, lodgment of the same is
done as PAD, after converting the foreign currency into Taka at the conversion rate.
4.3 About Export Policy of Mercantile Bank Limited.
Export policies formulated by the Ministry of Commerce, which provide the overall guideline and
incentives for promotion of exports in Bangladesh. Export policies also set out commodity-wise
annual target.
It has been decided to formulate these policies to cover a five-year period to make them
contemporaneous with the five-year plans and to provide the policy regime.
The export-oriented private sector, through their representative bodies and chambers are
consulted in the formulation of export policies and are also represented in the various export
promotion bodies set up by the government.

4.3.1 Export Incentives:


Different incentives are:
Financial Incentives:
q Restructuring of Export Credit Guarantee Scheme;
q Convertibility of Taka in current account;
q Exporters can deposit 40% of FOB value of their export earnings in own accounts in dollar and
pound sterling;
q Export Development Fund;
q Expansion of export credit period from 180 days to 270 days;
q 50% tax rebate on export earnings;
q Duty draw back;
q Bonded warehouse facilities to 100% export oriented firms;
q Duty free import of capital equipment for 100% export oriented firms;

General Incentives:
q National Export Trophy to successful exporters;
q Training course on external trade;
q Arrangement of international trade fairs, commodity-based exhibitions in the country and
participation in foreign trade fairs.

Other Incentives:
q Assistance in improvement of quality and packaging of exportable items;
q Simplification of export procedures;
4.3.2 Export Procedure:
The import and export trade in our country are regulated by the Import and Export (Control) Act,
1950.
Under the export policy of Bangladesh the exporter has to get valid Export registration Certificate
(ERC) from Chief Controller of Import & Export (CCI&E). The ERC is required to renew every
year. The ERC number is to incorporate on EXP forms and other papers connected with exports.
4.3.3 Registration of Exporters:
For obtaining ERC, intending Bangladeshi exporters are required to apply to the controller/ Joint
Controller/ Deputy Controller/ Assistant Controller of Imports and Exports, Dhaka/ Chittagong/
Rajshahi/ Mymensingh/ Sylhet/ Comilla/ Barisal/ Bogra/ Rangpur/ Dinajpur in the prescribed form
along with the following documents:
q Nationality and Assets Certificate;
q Memorandum and Article of Association and Certificate of Incorporation in case of Limited
Company;
q Bank Certificate;
q Income Tax Certificate;
q Trade License etc.
Signing the Contract:
After communicating buyer, exporter has to get contracted (writing or oral) for exporting
exportable items from Bangladesh detailing commodity, quantity, price, shipment, insurance and
marks, inspection and arbitration etc.
4.3.4 Receiving the Letter of credit:
After getting contract for sale, exporter should ask the buyer for Letter of Credit (L/C) clearly
stating terms and conditions of export and payment.

The following are the main points to be looked into for receiving/ collecting export proceeds by
means of Documentary Credit:
(1) The terms of the L/C are in conformity with those of the contract;
(2) The L/C is an irrevocable one, preferably confirmed by the advising bank;
(3) The L/C allows sufficient time for shipment and negotiation.
(Here the regulatory framework is UCPDC-500, ICC publication)
Terms and conditions should be stated in the contract clearly in case of other mode of payment:

Cash in advance;

Open account;

Collection basis (Documentary/ Clean)

(Here the regulatory framework is URC-525, ICC publication)


Procuring the Materials:
After making the deal and on having the L/C opened in his favor, the next step for the exporter is
to set about the task of procuring or manufacturing the contracted merchandise.
Shipment of Goods:
Then the exporter should take the preparation for export arrangement for delivery of goods as per
L/C and Inco terms, prepare and submit shipping documents for Payment/ Acceptance/
Negotiation in due time.
Documents for shipment:
q EXP form,
q ERC (valid),
q L/C copy,
q Customer Duty Certificate,
q Shipping Instruction,
q Transport Documents,
q Insurance Documents,
q Invoice,
q Other Documents,
q Bills of Exchange (if required)
q Certificate of Origin,
q Inspection Certificate,
q Quality Control Certificate,
q G.S.P. Certificate,
Final Steps:
Submission of the documents to the Bank for negotiation.

4.3.5 Export Financing:


Financing exports constitutes an important part of a banks activities. Exporters require financial
services at four different stages of their export operation. During each of these phases exporters
need different types of financial assistance depending on the nature of the export contract.
Pre-shipment credit
Post-shipment credit
Pre-shipment credit
Pre-shipment credit, as the name suggests, is given to finance the activities of an exporter prior
to the actual shipment of the goods for export. The purpose of such credit is to meet working
capital needs starting from the point of purchasing of raw materials to final shipment of goods for
export to foreign country. Before allowing such credit to the exporters the bank takes into
consideration about the credit worthiness, export performance of the exporters, together with all
other necessary information required for sanctioning the credit in accordance with the existing
rules and regulations. Pre-shipment credit is given for the following purposes:
q Cash for local procurement and meeting related expenses.
q Procuring and processing of goods for export.
q Packing and transporting of goods for export.
q Payment of insurance premium.
q Inspection fees.
q Freight charges etc.
q An exporter can obtain credit facilities against lien on the irrevocable, confirmed and
unrestricted export letter of credit in form of the followings:
q Export cash credit (Hypothecation)
q Export cash credit against trust receipt.
q Packing credit.
q Back to back letter of credit.
Post-shipment credit
This type of credit refers to the credit facilities extended to the exporters by the banks after
shipment of the goods against export documents. Necessity for such credit arises as the exporter
cannot afford to wait for a long time for without paying manufacturers/suppliers. Before extending
such credit, it is necessary on the part of banks to look into carefully the financial soundness of
exporters and buyers as well as other relevant documents connected with the export in
accordance with the rules and regulations in force. Banks in our country extend post shipment
credit to the exporters through:

1. Negotiation of documents under L/C;


2. Foreign Documentary Bill Purchase (FDBP):
3. Advances against Export Bills surrendered for collection;

4.3.6 Packing Credit (P.C):


Packing Credit is essentially a short-term advance granted by a Bank to an exporter for assisting
him to buy, process, manufacture, pack and ships the goods. Generally for movement of goods
from the hinterland areas to the ports of shipment the Banks provide interim facilities by way of
Packing Credit. This type of credit is sanctioned for the transitional period starting from dispatch
of goods till the negotiation of the export documents.
Practically except for single transaction, most of the pre-shipment credits are allowed in the form
of limits duly sanctioned by Bank in favor of regular exporters for a particular period. The
drawings are required to be adjusted fully once within a period of 3 to 6 months. Suiting to the
breed and nature of export, sometimes an exporter may also be allowed to avail a combined
Cash Credit and Packing Credit limit with fixed ceiling on revolving basis. But in no case the
borrower would be allowed to exceed individual credit limit fixed for the purpose. The drawings
under Export Cash Credit limits are generally adjusted by the drawing in packing credit limit,
which is, in turn liquidated by the negotiation of export documents.
4.3.7 Foreign documentary bill purchase (FDBP):
Sometimes the client submits the bill of export to bank for collection and payment of the BTB L/C.
In that case, bank purchases the bill and collects the money from the exporter. PBL subtracts the
amount of bill from BTB and gives the rest amount to the client in cash or by crediting his account
or by the pay order.
For this purpose, PBL maintains a separate register named FDBP Register. This register
contains the following information:
q Date
q Reference number (FDBP)
q Name of the drawee
q Name of the collecting bank
q Conversion rate
q Bill amount both in figure & in Taka.
q Export form number

4.4 About Export Policy of United Commercial Bank Limited

The goods and service sold by Bangladesh to foreign households, businessmen and government
are called Export. The export trade of the country is regulated by the imports and export Act,
1950. There are a number of formalities, which an exporter has to fulfill before and after shipment
of goods. The exporters from Bangladesh are subject to export trade control exercised by the
ministry of Commerce through Chief Controller of import and export. No exporter is allowed to
export any commodity permissible for export from Bangladesh unless he is registered with CCI &
E and holds valid export registration Certificate. The ERC is required to be renewed every year.
The ERC number is to be incorporated on EXP forms and other documents connected with
exports.
4.4.1 Type of Export:
Export must be done as under:
1. Export against L/C or firm contract
2. Export against advance payment
3. Export under consignment basis.

The formalities and procedure are enumerated as follows:


1. Obtaining exports L/C: To get export LC form exporter issued by the importer.
2. Submission of export documents: Exporter has to submit all necessary documents to the collecting
bank after shipping of goods.
3. Checking of export documents: After getting the documents banker used to check the documents
as per LC terms.
4. Negotiation of export documents: If the bank accepts the bank document and pay the value draft to
the exporter and forward the document to issuing bank that is called a negotiating bank. If the bank
does by the LC then the bank normally acts as collecting bank.
1. Realization of proceeds: This is the period when the issuing bank has realized the payment.
2. Reporting to the Bangladesh bank: As per instruction by Bangladesh bank the bank has to
report to respective department of Bangladesh bank by monitoring latest payment.
3. Issue to proceeds realization certificate (PRC): Bank has to issue proceed realization
certificate of export LC to the supplier for getting cash assistance.

4.4.2 Export Operation:


Bangladesh exports a large quantity of goods and services to foreign households. Readymade
textile garments, jute, jute made products, frozen shrimps, tea re the main goods that
Bangladeshi exporter exports to foreign countries. Garment sector is the largest sector thats
exports lion share of the countrys export. Bangladesh exports most of its readymade garments
product to U.S.A and European Community (EC) countries. Bangladesh exports about 40% of its
readymade garments products to U.S.A. Most of the exporters who export through UNITED

COMMERCIAL BANK are readymade garments exporters. They open export L/C here to export
their goods, which are open against the import L/Cs opened by their foreign importer.
As an advising bank:
It receives documents from the foreign importer and hands it over to the exporter. Sometimes it
adds confirmation on the L/C on request from the opening bank. By adding confirmation, it
assumes the responsibility to make payment to the exporter.
As Negotiating Bank:
It negotiates the bills and other shipping documents in favor of the exporter. That is, it collect the
proceeds of the export bill from the drawee and credit the exporter account for the same.
Collection proceeds from the export bill are deposited in the bank NOSTRO account in the
importers country. Sometimes the bank purchases the bills at discount and waits till maturity of
the bill. When the bill matures, bank presents it to the drawee to encash it.

4.4.3 Back To Back L/C:


It is simply issues to the clients against an import L/C. Back To Back mechanism involves two
separate L/Cs. One is master export L/C and another is Back to Back L/C. on the strength of
master export L/C bank issued bank Back L/C. Back to Back L/C is commonly known as buying
L/C. on the contrary, Master export L/C is known as selling L/C.
L/C number Formation:
When an L/C number are crated in that case the following items are arrange in a sequence.
These are:
1. Specific code of Bangladesh bank.
2. Branch code
3. Year
4. Category
5. Serial number

Features of Back-To-Back L/C:

An import L/C to procedure goods for further processing.

It is opened based on export L/C.

It is a kind of export finance.

No margin is required to open back to back L/C.

Application is registered with CCI &E.

Application has bonded warehouse license.

Usance period will be up to 180 days.

The import L/C is opened for 75% of the value of export L/C.

Here L/C issued against the lien of export L/C.

Documents required for opening a Back-To Back L/C:

In united commercial bank, following papers/ documents are required for opening a back to back
L/C1. Master L/C
2. Valid Import Registration Certificate (IRC) and Export Registration Certificate (ERC).
3. L/C Application and LCAF duly filled in and signed
4. Proforma Invoice or Indent
5. Insurance Cover Note with money receipt
6. IMP from duly signed
7. Textile permission
8. Valid Boned Warehouse License

Checklist of exports L/C:


Following defective points are usually found in master L/C. So, the bank officials so much
carefully check these points. These are:
1. Name of the advising bank
2. Name of the transferring bank
3. From of document. Credit:

Name of issuing bank

Documentary credit No. and issuing date

Date of shipment

Expiry date and place

1. On account
2. Beneficiary / Favoring
3. Amount
4. Availability of credit
5. Partial shipment
6. Payment condition
7. Category
8. Description of goods:

Item

Total Quantity

Unit price

1. B/L Clause
2. Reimbursement clause
3. UCPDC clause
4. Net FOB value.

4.4.4 Payment of back-to-back L/C:


In case back to back as 60-90-120-180 days of maturity period, deferred payment is made.
Payment is given after utilizing export proceeds from the L/C issuing bank.
L/C under EDF:

Exporter development fund is created by Bangladesh bank to give encourages to exporter in


Bangladesh.

Generally back to- back L/C is that is here bill of exchange is payable after some maturity date
say 90 or 120 days after the date of acceptance. But some foreign seller may require sight
payment. Here import L/C matures first. In that case Bangladesh gives the fund to the bank to pay
the price of imported goods in favor of the local purchaser of raw materials. When export proceeds
come, first Bangladesh bank loan to the importer is adjusted and remaining part goes to the
importer of raw materials.

Negotiation of exports documents:


The most common method of financing exporters is negotiation of documents under L/C. it is a
post shipment credit. Here the bank acts as a negotiating bank. After the shipment of the goods,
the exporters submit the relative documents to the branch for negotiation. The documents are to
submit within the period mentioned in the L/C, after approval of negotiation of the bill the full
particulars of the documents are entered in to the foreign bill purchased register. The documents
are sent to the L/C opening branch with a forwarding letter. The branch claim reimbursement
from the issuing bank, giving clear instruction to credit the proceeds of the bill to the United
Commercial Bank head office NOSTRO A/C maintained with the named correspondent bank
abroad under telex intimation to the principal branch and head office.
4.4.5 Foreign documentary bills for collection (FDBC)

United commercial bank forwards the documents for collection due to the following reasons

If the documents have discrepancies

If the exporter is a new client.

FDBC signifies that the exporter will receive payment only when the issuing bank gives payment.
UCB make regular follow up with the L/C opening bank in case of any delay in getting payment.

Settlement of Local Bills:

The settlement of local bills is done in the following ways1. The consumer submits the L/C to United Commercial Bank Ltd. Along with the documents to
negotiate
2. United Commercial Bank Ltd. Official scrutinizes the documents to ensure the conformity with the
term and conditions
3. The documents are then forwards to the L/C opening bank
4. The L/C issuing bank gives the acceptance and forwards an acceptance letter
5. Payment is given to the customer on either by collection basis or by purchasing the documents.

4.4.6 Foreign remittance:

Foreign remittance is the transfer of foreign currency from one country to another country. In
another word, foreign remittance means, remittance in foreign currency that are received in and
made out abroad. Actually, foreign remittance is purchase and sale of freely convertible foreign
currencies as permissible under exchange control regulations of the country. Foreign remittance
is very important for the country as valuable foreign exchange is involved in the transfer
mechanism. Foreign remittance takes place in two ways4.4.7 Foreign Process Remittance:
Fund transfer from one country to another country goes through a process which is known as
remitting process.

Suppose a local bank has 200 domestic branches.

The bank has

corresponding relationship with a foreign bank say-X, and maintaining Nostro Account in US $
with the bank. Bangladeshi expatriates are sending foreign remittances to their local beneficiary,
through that account. Now, when the Bangladeshi expatriates through other banks of different
countries remit the fund to their Nostro Account with X, then the local banks Head Office
international division will receive telex message and the remittance section will record the advice
and generate the advice letter to the respective branch of the bank. The branch will first decode
the test, verify signature and check the account number and name of the beneficiary. After full
satisfaction, the branches transfer the amount to the account of the beneficiary and intimate the
beneficiary accordingly. But some times the complexity arises, if the respective local bank has no
branch where the beneficiary maintains his account. Then the local bank has to take help of a
third bank who has branch there.
Inward Remittance:
Remittance comes from foreign countries to our country is called inward remittance. To the
bankers or ADs inward remittance means purchase of foreign currency by authorized
dealers. Generally, inward remittances are received by draft, mail transfer, TT, purchase of
foreign bills & travelers Cheque, export bills. Basically, these are the formal channels of receiving
inward remittance. A local bank also receives indenting commission of local firm also comes
under purview of inward remittance.

Outward Remittance:
Remittance from our country to foreign countries is called outward foreign remittance. On the
other word, sales of foreign currency by the authorized dealer or formal channels may be
addressed as outward remittance. The authorized dealers must utmost caution to ensure that
foreign currencies remitted or released by them are used only for the purposes for which they are

released. Out ward remittance may be made by appropriate method to the country to which
remittance is authorized. Most outward remittance is approved by the authorized dealer on
behalf of Bangladesh Bank.
Outward remittance may be made for following purposes

Travel

Medical treatment

Educational purpose

Attending seminar etc.

Balance amount of F.C account.

Profit of foreign companies.

Technical assistance

New exporters up to USD 6,000/- for business promotion

F.C. remittance can be made for fare, exhibition from export retention quota.

Outward remittance in favor of beneficiaries outside Bangladesh may be made in any of the
following manners-

Figure: Modes of Outward Remittance


Formal Channel:
Fund transfer from one country to another country through official channels, i.e. banking channel,
post office, and other private service channels, such as Western money order, Neno money
order etc.

Informal Channel:
Fund transfer from one country to another country through hand by hand or over telephone in an
unofficial channel like as Hundy. Haque (1992) comments, that remittance collected by informal
Hundi rings operating in Middle East countries and UK are also used to finance illegal trade and
transactions.
Islam (2000) observes that as informal channel is needed for illegal trade of goods, as well as
gold and drugs into Bangladesh, and therefore, helping the ever-present problem of capital flight
out of Bangladesh.

Figure: Forms of Informal channel


Criminals use informal channel for moving money abroad because of

Dealing in arms & ammunition

Drug trafficking

Financing terrorist activities

Evasion of exchange regulations/ control

Evasion of taxation

Disguise or remove proceeds of threat/ fraud/ bribe.

Making blackmail payments

Paying random for kidnapper.Most common techniques for the performance evaluation of a
financial institution are:

5.1 Comparison with the selected banks


The comparison is based on the basis of Foreign Exchange Departments activities of
South East Bank LTD. With some other commercial banks. Almost all of the banks have
the same Foreign Exchange Policy though there are some differences in their
performance. To compare Foreign Exchange sections performance I have choose three
other banks. These are:
o

Southeast Bank Limited

Mercantile Bank Limited

United commercial Bank Limited

5.1.1 Import Position of the selected banks

Tk. In Million

Sl. No

Particulars

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

Southeast Bank Limited

14090

13363

11577

11791

13482

Mercantile Bank Limited

28325

33271

42442

40380

56528

United commercial Bank


Limited

13133

14975

18488

24386

29408

Table: 5.1
The above graph showed the total amount of import transaction of the selected banks. The SEBL
are continually stable in 5 years but the MTB are continuously improved the several years, In
2009 UCBL highly import.
5.1.2 Export Position of the selected banks

Tk. In Million
Particulars

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

Southeast Bank Limited

15125

22418

31285

46235

55790

Mercantile Bank Limited

17411

24108

34592

32670

43108

Sl. No

United commercial Bank Limited

15309

15621

17492

20470

34785

Table: 5.2

5.1.3 Foreign Remittance of the selected banks

Tk. In Million
Particulars

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

Southeast Bank Limited

348

123

356

355

290

Mercantile Bank Limited

671

679

298

351

472

United commercial Bank Limited

193

256

295

322

329

Sl. No

Table: 5.3

Findings from financial performance analysis


After analyzing the financial and overall performance of MBL, I have identified some sort of
issues which are given in below:

The Bank is too much centralized. For each and every work branch office has to get

permission from the head office. The head office tightly controls each and every branch office.
This dependency on head office causes slow down their activities.

Interest rate on deposit is much higher than other banks, which increase their cost of fund

and it diminish the opportunity to provide loan at a lower interest rate. It makes high demand on
short term deposit and manages these liabilities with loan they might need to borrow from call
money market.

Mercantile Bank Limited has committed to their prospective customers to honor its of

cheque with in 30 second after submission but unfortunately they are not able to fulfill this.

MBL is 3rd generation bank of our country. The liquidity level of the bank is fluctuating year

to year and always below the standard limit.

The banks operating cost to income ratio is increasing year by year which is not desirable.

The banks net profit margin is decreasing yearly which indicates that the bank is run in a

worst situation.

The bank has financed on an average of above 93% of its total assets with debt in every

year. So the bank should more emphasize on equity capital than the debt capital.

PC bank is not comprehensive banking software. It is desirable that a more comprehensive

banking should replace PC bank system.


Findings from foreign exchange operations analysis
General foreign exchange service portfolio: Foreign Exchange operations mainly include L/C,
Import and export procedures. As an Authorized Dealer, MBL, Main Branch is always committed
to facilitate import of different goods into Bangladesh from the foreign countries. Import Section,
which is under Foreign Exchange Department of the branch.
Different Means of Payment: The bank provide different means of payment for the importers
and exporters whereas they prefer. The clients make their payment by Cash in advance, Open
Account, Collection Method, Letter of credit
Concentrate on Export Incentives: The bank is currently concentrated on different types of
export incentives to attract the actual and potential customers. They are Financial Incentives,
General Incentives, and Other Incentives. Most of them are already implemented.
Growing fastest Correspondent Relationship: The number of foreign correspondents is 584
as of December 31, 2009. Efforts are being continued to further expand the Correspondent
Relationship

to

facilitate

Banks

growing

foreign

trade

transactions.

The

Bank

is

using SWIFT communication system for fast and accurate handling for foreign trade. The Bank is
connected to REUTERS also for up-to-date information.
Recommendations of MBL:
Mercantile Bank Limited has been able to operate its all issues proficiently and more competently
in the operations of foreign Exchange and other related perspective around the Bank. To improve
the management culture and foreign exchange departments performance in future, MBL should
adopt some of the industry best practices currently. This are

The bank should give close attention on its interest expense. This cost is rising over year to

year. It has an affect on interest income. The bank should try to handle it on strictly and close
monitoring system have been maintained.

Amount of import and export was turn down last year but it is a concerning issue to have

direct monitoring system. Foreign Exchange departments main function is to handle export and
import procedures and there is a direct relationship between amount of Export & Import and
Exchange gain which is charged to customers on letter of credit and letter of guarantee are
credited to income at the time of effecting the transactions. The direct monitoring and supervision
process should develop where branch manager and head / in charge of the related department
are hold responsible

Total foreign remittance in a single year, in 2007 made a record high to the tune of BDT

3510.40 million. So the bank has deepened its step on the foreign soils further by establishing
more and more remittance arrangements with overseas exchange companies where Bangladeshi
expatriates are working.
Moreover for prompt & safe delivery of this hard earned money to their near and dear ones in
every corner of the country, the bank can established agency arrangements with some big banks.

Shortage of skilled human resource in foreign exchange department is a major problem In

MBL. Vacancies should fill up with qualified and experienced personnel by offering attractive
incentives. The bank should provide training facility for its existing employer for their betterment.

The procedure related with Export and Import and other formalities of foreign Exchange is

so lengthy that it would take more time to finalize one transaction. The bank and Foreign
Exchange department should take initiative to trim down the official formalities as possible

For proper documentation and keeping the record, it is essential to update Management

Information System (MIS). But currently they have PC Bank 2000, which is not enough for the
bank.

.At present the ATM, debit card, credit card etc services are so much popular. So the bank

should try to make this service available for each and every client.
Recommendations of UCBL:

The bank should try to arrange more training programs for their officials. Quality training will help
the officials to enrich them more recent knowledge of international trade financing. With more
professional base employees can better satisfy the customers. They should be taught about how
to deal with problem customer and how to deal problematic situations.

Margin and commission on L/C varies from customer to customer. A few customers are allowed to
open L/C even with nil margin and fees commission. I think the bank should review the customer
transaction behavior for a period of time and should develop a certain polity in this regard.

In many cases, the foreign banks want confirmation from other foreign banks with which this bank
has correspondence. This proves the poor financial condition of our country. Bank should try to
improve this situation.

Over burden of work and ill defined assignment unable to employee to discharge their duties in
cool manner.

To ensure efficient and timely credit flow it is important to ensure effective work and output from all
the subsections of credit department. Right now, there are four approval officers, four operation
stuffs to assist them where there is only one MIS officer. This MIS officer has to do a lot of
miscellaneous works along with giving loan in put to the database.

New investment scheme should be introduced to meet customer demands. Other banks have high
amount of investment schemes and services. New personal savings, future investment products
should be launched to sty ahead of competition and better satisfy customer requirements.

UCB is now facing image crisis problem. In stock market their share transaction stopped since 1
year. They do not call their AGM on time. The devaluation of their share price creates a negative
impact on the people mind. So I think now very first they should solve this problem.

Conclusion
All Departments are important tool used in international trade. They provide security for both
Customer and banker where conditions may be uncertain or there is little or no previous trading
relationship between the parties. As a student before thesis I have learned about the corporate
world through books and analysis. This program also taught me the differences between bookish
and Analytical knowledge.
I have truly enjoyed my work from the learning and experience viewpoint. I am confident that this
program at the selected banks will definitely help me to realize my further carrier in the job
market.
United Commercial Bank Limited is a first generation bank. it is provide high quality financial
service to contribute to the growth of GDP of the country through stimulating trade and
commerce, accelerating the pace of industrialization, boosting up export creating employment
opportunity for the educated youth, poverty alleviation, raising standard of living of limited income
group and overall sustainable socio economic development of the country. Already United
Commercial Bank Limited makes a strong position through it varies activities. Its number of
clients, amount of deposit and investment money increases day by day. This bank already has
shown impressive performance in investment. The bank now should think to start new services
and take different types of marketing strategy to get customer in this competition market of
banking and also the overall performance of despite some Mercantile Bank Limited criticism is
above the average of present banking industry. Solid revenue growth together with strict
discipline on expenses and a culture of sound risk management have upgraded the Bank to a
level of excellence. In its pursuit of excellence, the Bank constantly reviews its systems, policies,
process and prices of its products and services in line with the changing market reality. Thus,
MBL intends to pave the way for a new era in banking

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