B Mirror Report:  The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has requested the latest data on Bangladesh’s small and medium enterprise (SME) sector in the stock market for its upcoming flagship publication, Asia Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Monitor (ASM) 2026.

In this regard, the ADB recently sent an official letter to Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) Chairman Khondoker Rashed Maqsood seeking updated and verified information on listed SME companies.

Following the request, the BSEC has initiated steps to collect and update data related to SME-listed firms in the country’s capital market. According to sources, the commission has already begun the verification process to ensure the accuracy of the information.

ADB said the annual knowledge-based publication aims to support policymaking for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across 26 developing member countries in Asia and the Pacific. The report focuses on improving access to finance and strengthening SME development frameworks.

In its letter, the ADB expressed appreciation for Bangladesh’s support and data contributions to the 2025 edition of the report and requested similar cooperation for the upcoming edition to ensure reliable and accurate analysis.

According to the development lender, high quality data from relevant institutions are essential for producing a strong knowledge product that can help shape effective SME financing policies and promote inclusive economic growth.

BSEC sources said the commission has already issued directives to the country’s two stock exchanges the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) and Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) asking them to update and submit required SME sector information.

Under the directive, the exchanges have been instructed to provide the latest fiscal year data in a prescribed Excel format. After verification, BSEC is expected to send the compiled information to the ADB by May 15.

Meanwhile, the ADB plans to officially launch the ASM 2026 report in mid-November next year through a high-profile event in one of the participating countries. Representatives from central banks, senior government officials, economists and private-sector stakeholders are expected to attend the event.

Experts believe the initiative will help strengthen the importance of Bangladesh’s SME platform in the capital market and enhance the country’s visibility in the international financial arena.