Standard Chartered Bangladesh has unveiled the Freelancer Account, a specialized banking solution tailored for the growing community of freelancers in Bangladesh. This initiative underscores the Bank’s commitment to supporting the digital economy by addressing the unique financial needs of independent professionals.
The Freelancer Account simplifies the process of receiving overseas payments, offering features such as zero account maintenance fees, free inward remittance services, and a foreign currency remittance certificate. Account holders will also benefit from an international debit card and waivers on processing and annual fees for personal loans and selected credit cards, reads a press release.
For added convenience, freelancers can open accounts entirely online from any location, whether a home office, university dorm, or coworking space. The account also enables the submission of Form C via the Bank’s internet banking app, ensuring faster remittance crediting.
Speaking about the launch, Lutful Habib, Head of Wealth and Retail Banking at Standard Chartered Bangladesh, said, “The Freelancer Account is more than just a banking product; it’s a complete solution designed to empower freelancers to seamlessly connect with global platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. We are proud to stand by the bold and innovative individuals shaping our digital economy.”
Dr. Tanjiba Rahman, Chairman of the Bangladesh Freelancers Development Society (BFDS), applauded the initiative, stating, “Freelancing offers a transformative pathway for the unemployed to become skilled contributors to a knowledge-driven digital economy. This user-friendly account will greatly benefit freelancers and enhance the flow of foreign remittances into Bangladesh.”
As the oldest international bank in Bangladesh, Standard Chartered has been serving the nation since 1905. The introduction of the Freelancer Account reaffirms the Bank’s dedication to advancing financial inclusion, facilitating trade, and supporting entrepreneurs in an increasingly dynamic economy.