B Mirror Report: In a landmark move aimed at promoting women’s empowerment and gender equality, the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) has approved the country’s first-ever “Orange Bond.”

Valued at Tk 158.50 crore, the bond will be issued by Sajida Foundation and is being seen as a significant addition to Bangladesh’s capital market. According to a press release from BRAC EPL Investments Limited, the bond is structured as a zero-coupon instrument, meaning investors will not receive periodic interest. Instead, it will be issued at a discount and redeemed at full face value upon maturity.

The initiative is being implemented in partnership with BRAC EPL Investments Limited and Singapore-based Impact Investment Exchange. The Orange Bond is a specialized financial instrument designed to mobilize funds for women, girls, and gender minorities, while also addressing climate change challenges.

Officials say the bond will contribute to making the country’s capital market more inclusive and sustainable, while opening new avenues in impact investing—investments aimed at generating measurable social benefits alongside financial returns.

Proceeds from the bond will be allocated across key sectors: 48 percent to food security and agriculture, 32 percent to women-led small and medium enterprises, and the remaining 20 percent to climate-resilient housing projects across 36 districts.

Investors in the bond will enjoy tax-free financial benefits while also contributing directly to social development and women’s economic participation.

The press release further noted that the impact of the investment will be independently assessed in line with international standards, with annual reports to be published to ensure transparency and highlight the bond’s real-world outcomes in advancing gender equality.