A Comparative Overview of Local Mobile Financial Services Smartphone Apps Available in Bangladesh

Abstract

The rapid growth of mobile financial services (MFS) contributes toward the revolution of the financial landscape in developing economies, particularly Bangladesh. As a key player in promoting financial inclusion and the rising numbers of smartphone users, MFS smartphone apps have become increasingly popular in the country, catering to the needs of millions of unbanked and underbanked individuals. This paper aims to conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis of the various official MFS apps (n=13) available in Bangladesh, evaluating their features, functionalities, operational aspects, security measures, and overall facilities. The comprehensive exploration identified 18 distinct elements spanning four primary themes that stand out in the functionality of these apps: (1) Money Transfers and Transactions, (2) Financial Services and Bill Payments, (3) Service-related Charges, and (4) Consumer Finance. Each theme brings forth critical insights into the capabilities of these MFS apps, their user-friendliness, and their potential to effectively serve the unbanked and underbanked populations of Bangladesh. This comparative analysis is anticipated to provide valuable insights that can serve as a foundation for future advancements in MFS, fostering financial inclusion and promoting a more efficient and secure digital financial ecosystem in Bangladesh.