Masud Khan outlines digital, investor-focused roadmap for capital market regulator

Staff Correspondent: Newly appointed chairman of the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC), Masud Khan, has pledged to introduce real-time enforcement measures against stock market manipulation, while unveiling an ambitious reform agenda centred on smart regulation, digitalisation and investor protection.

Speaking to journalists shortly after assuming office on Thursday, Khan said the newly formed commission would reshape the regulatory framework by strengthening oversight where necessary and simplifying procedures where possible.

“We want to build a technology-driven commission that ensures faster, more efficient and stakeholder-friendly services,” he said at a press briefing held at the BSEC headquarters in Agargaon.

The new chairman stressed that investor protection would remain at the heart of all regulatory activities. He warned that market manipulators would face stricter and more immediate penalties than ever before, with the commission aiming to take action in real time against irregular trading activities.

He also said companies listed under the Z category, often considered financially distressed or non-compliant, would come under enhanced surveillance to curb potential market abuse at an early stage.

Khan outlined a broader vision for the capital market, describing “smart regulation” and digital transformation as the commission’s top priorities.

He said the regulator would gradually move towards a fully digital operating environment to improve efficiency, transparency and service delivery. The commission also plans to facilitate the listing of quality companies, increase institutional participation in the market, attract foreign investment and strengthen corporate governance standards.

According to Khan, the regulator will avoid artificial measures aimed at controlling share prices or preventing market fluctuations. Instead, it will focus on ensuring that stock prices reflect market fundamentals and fair value.

The new BSEC leadership is also considering a revised framework for direct listing to attract fundamentally strong companies to the capital market.

Khan said the commission would work to create a more attractive investment environment while ensuring transparency, accountability and sustainable market development.

New commission takes office

The Financial Institutions Division of the Ministry of Finance issued a notification earlier in the day appointing Khan as BSEC chairman for a four-year term.

The former group chief executive officer of Crown Cement and chairman of Unilever Consumer Care Bangladesh was appointed alongside three new commissioners—Nahid Mahtab, Tanvir Habib Rahman and Nafiz Al Tariq. All were appointed on the condition that they sever professional ties with their existing organisations.

The appointments came hours after the resignation of the commission led by Khondoker Rashed Maqsood. The Financial Institutions Division completed the formation of the new commission on the same day, ensuring a swift leadership transition at the country's capital market regulator.

The new chairman’s remarks are likely to be welcomed by investors seeking stronger oversight, improved governance and greater confidence in Bangladesh’s capital market.