The Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) has introduced a new Private Investor (PI) category on its Electronic Subscription System (ESS), expanding access to primary market investment opportunities for general investors.

Under the new category, individual investors will be able to subscribe to privately issued bonds, open-end mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and other regulatory-approved equity instruments through the ESS platform. Previously, the platform was accessible only to Eligible Investors and Qualified Investors.

The announcement was made during an online awareness workshop held via Zoom on Sunday (July 27), attended by representatives from merchant banks, asset management companies, and brokerage houses.

According to DSE officials, any individual or registered institution can register under the new PI category. Individual investors need only a valid National Identity Card (NID) and a bank account to complete registration, while institutions and funds are required to submit their registration certificate along with bank account details.

DSE also confirmed that no registration fee has been set for the Private Investor category, allowing retail investors to access the platform free of charge.

During the workshop, DSE officials demonstrated the registration and subscription process, outlined the required documentation, and explained the technical features of the ESS platform.

The stock exchange believes the initiative will broaden investment opportunities beyond traditional equities by enabling retail investors to participate in a wider range of financial instruments. DSE also said the move will help foster a more transparent, modern, and digital investment ecosystem while paving the way for the introduction of more diversified financial products in Bangladesh’s capital market.