NCC Bank launches ‘TakaPay’ card to boost digital self-reliance

NCC Bank PLC has launched a debit card, branded "TakaPay", initiated by the Bangladesh Bank and operated entirely through domestic infrastructure, for its customers.

According to a press release, the card is designed to serve as a local alternative to international payment networks such as Visa, Mastercard and American Express.

Md Nurun Newaz Salim, chairman of NCC Bank PLC, unveiled the card as chief guest at a business review meeting of the bank's Dhaka regional branches, recently held at a hotel in the capital.

Commenting on the launch, Salim said, "TakaPay" debit card would be available to all types of NCC Bank savings account holders, including both conventional and Islamic accounts. It will operate alongside the bank's existing Visa debit cards."

M Shamsul Arefin, managing director of the bank, observed that "With this initiative, Bangladesh has taken another step towards self-reliance in digital transactions."

He further noted that, with its wide range of features, the card would enable cardholders to conduct safer and more convenient domestic transactions. Reducing dependence on international payment networks would also conserve foreign currency and contribute to strengthening the nation's economic self-sufficiency.

Issued under the National Payment Switch Bangladesh (NPSB), the card has been launched to facilitate local transactions in Bangladeshi Taka in a more affordable, secure and efficient manner.

Among its notable features are free cash withdrawals from NCC Bank's extensive ATM network, as well as Q-cash and other ATMs under NPSB. In addition, it offers seamless nationwide POS (Point of Sale) transactions, together with year-round attractive discounts and privileges at more than 1,000 partner merchant outlets.

Abdus Salam, vice-chairman of the bank; Khairul Alam Chaklader, chairman of the executive committee; M Khurshed Alam, additional managing director; Md Zakir Anam, Md Mahbub Alam, Md Monirul Alam and Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, deputy managing directors; attended the programme.

Among others, Md Sajjadul Islam, senior vice-president and head of ICT division; Mohammad Aminul Islam, head of cards; and Md Shaiful Islam, head of DFS business; were also present.