STAR BUSINESS REPORT

More than 56 percent of private sector employees in Bangladesh say financial stress is hurting their productivity, according to a new study released by MetLife Bangladesh.

The Employee Benefit Trends Study, unveiled yesterday at a Dhaka hotel, also found that 41 percent of respondents link financial stress to mental health issues.

Conducted for the first time in Bangladesh, the study explores the priorities, challenges, and expectations of employees and employers in the private sector. It surveyed 571 employees and 142 employers across industries such as ready-made garments, banking, fast-moving consumer goods, telecom, and non-governmental organisations.

The findings show that over 53 percent of employees have no retirement plan, while nearly half want their employers’ support to convert their savings into income.

Although 72 percent believe their organisations genuinely care about them, the study highlights significant gaps in employee well-being and advocacy.

MetLife said employers who demonstrate care through better benefits and a supportive workplace culture can enhance engagement and long-term retention.

While 78 percent of employees believe that insurance and wellness benefits, like mental health support, improve loyalty, such offerings remain limited in scope. This shortfall has created a trust deficit but also presents employers with an opportunity to stand out by providing meaningful support.

The study also found that 70 percent of employees would be more likely to use available benefits if they understood how their peers utilised them, underscoring the need for personalised and year-round communication.