Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, has called for democratic practices, integrity, prioritizing collective interests, and an end to rumor-mongering to ensure the development and reform of the stock market. He also remarked that, like Bangladesh Bank, the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) should enjoy institutional autonomy.

He made these comments on Wednesday (October 22, 2025) during the fourth monthly coordination meeting between BSEC and stakeholders of the capital market.

The meeting, held in the Multipurpose Hall of BSEC in Agargaon, Dhaka, was attended by BSEC Chairman Khandaker Rashed Maksud, commissioners, and top representatives from the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE), Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE), Investment Corporation of Bangladesh (ICB), and other key institutions.

Dr. Chowdhury said, “We need to change our mindset. We must practice democracy and honesty, and emphasize collective interest. We should not lose confidence in the stock market.” He gave strict instructions to prevent the spread of rumors and urged all stakeholders to work in coordination to understand the real situation and bring dynamism to the market.

He also directed that the registration of Central Counterparty Bangladesh Limited (CCBL) be completed by December and that it be made operational promptly.

During the meeting, BSEC Chairman Khandaker Rashed Maksud highlighted the commission’s ongoing reform and development initiatives. He informed that the work on the Margin Rules 2025, Mutual Fund Rules 2025, and Public Offer of Equity Securities Rules 2025 is in the final stage.

He expressed hope that these would be completed soon, marking a major step in the legal reforms of the capital market. Regarding the new Margin Rules, he said, “It will be implemented very soon after being published in the gazette. However, there is no cause for concern.” He assured that even after implementation, there would be a grace period of six months to one year for necessary adjustments.

The meeting also discussed in detail the progress of ongoing reforms, implementation of new regulations, modernization of surveillance systems, reduction of settlement periods, launch of commodity and futures markets, and strengthening BSEC’s independence.

Other key topics included the development of the mutual fund sector, ensuring institutional governance, addressing negative equity, expanding the scope of merchant banks, and taking effective measures against market manipulation and irregularities.

The BSEC Chairman reaffirmed that the commission is committed to ensuring the development and reform of the stock market and protecting investors’ interests.