Dhaka Bank PLC.  in collaboration with Mastercard, has officially launched Bangladesh’s first-ever youth-centric dual currency prepaid card, branded as “Spark”, at a grand launching ceremony held at a hotel at Gulshan on Monday, 24 November 2025.

The Spark Card of Dhaka Bank designed exclusively to empower the young and digitally active generation of Bangladesh, which combines advanced financial capabilities with premium lifestyle benefits covering travel, dining, education, fashion, and technology privileges both at home and abroad. This card is deliberate to complement the dynamic lifestyle and global aspirations of young consumers, offering them seamless digital payment solutions alongside exclusive benefits and experiences.

The event was graced by distinguished guests, including:
Mr. Md. Mostaque Ahmed, Deputy Managing Director, Dhaka Bank PLC; Mr. H.M. Mostafizur Rahaman, SEVP & Head of Retail Business Division, Dhaka Bank PLC. ; Professor Dr. Abdur Rab, Vice Chancellor, IUBAT; Professor Dr. Saiful Islam, Vice Chancellor, AIUB; Professor Daniel W. Lund, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Independent University Bangladesh (IUB); Dr. Ahmed Tazmeen, Registrar, North South University (NSU); Professor Sarwar Uddin Ahmed, Dean, ULAB School of Business; Mr. Gautam Aggarwal, President – South Asia, Mastercard; Mr. Syed Mohammad Kamal, Country Manager, Mastercard Bangladesh;

Ms. Zakia Sultana, Director, Mastercard Bangladesh; along with senior officials of Dhaka Bank PLC. and Mastercard.

Over 100 students from seven leading private universities: NSU, IUB, IUBAT, UIU, AIUB, BRAC University and ULAB attended the ceremony.

The launch ceremony also featured a special panel discussion with the student representatives of seven leading private universities on the theme of national significance: “Digital Inclusion for the Youth of Bangladesh.”

The discussion highlighted the challenges and opportunities of the country’s evolving digital ecosystem, as well as the need for increased digital access, education financing, and secure financial innovation to support young people nationwide.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Md. Mostaque Ahmed, Deputy Managing Director, Dhaka Bank PLC., said, “At Dhaka Bank, we are constantly expanding our financial solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers. With ‘Spark’, we are delighted to introduce a product that resonates with the energy, aspirations, and global outlook of Bangladesh’s youth. We are pleased to join hands with Mastercard to launch Spark – the first prepaid card exclusively designed for the youth. This reflects Dhaka Bank’s commitment to expanding financial access and enhancing lifestyle convenience for the next generation, both at home and abroad.”

Syed Mohammad Kamal, Country Manager, Bangladesh, Mastercard, said, “Mastercard is proud to support the launch of ‘Spark’—our first prepaid card with Dhaka Bank, tailored specifically for the dynamic and ambitious youth of Bangladesh. This generation is digital-native, globally aware, and driven by experiences that shape their identity and aspirations. With this product, we aim to offer more than just a payment solution; we’re delivering a gateway to convenience, empowerment, and meaningful rewards. Whether they’re exploring opportunities at home or abroad, this card is designed to support their journey with seamless, secure, and enriching financial experiences.”

The dual currency functionality ensures that young cardholders can transact seamlessly, whether at home or abroad. To make everyday spending more rewarding, the card offers up to 5% cashback across categories that matter most to youth—online streaming platforms, Star Cineplex, food delivery services, and ride-sharing apps. Recognizing their global ambitions, the Spark card also provides exclusive discounts on registration fees for international exams, such as IELTS, SAT, GMAT, and TOEFL.

Beyond academics, cardholders can unlock special privileges at leading lifestyle brands, gadget stores, restaurants, hotels, and resorts, while enjoying access to over 9,500 merchant partner locations across Bangladesh (Both Dhaka Bank and MC). With this launch, Dhaka Bank and Mastercard are aiming to empowering young consumers to embrace smarter, more rewarding financial journeys every day.