Just a few years ago, cash dominated every corner of Bangladesh’s economy. Today, QR codes from bKash, Nagad, and banks are visible in tea stalls, grocery shops, and pharmacies. This shift is not just about convenience—it is transforming how small businesses operate.
Digital payments allow shop owners to receive money instantly without worrying about change, fake notes, or end-of-day cash handling. More importantly, every transaction creates a digital record. These records help businesses understand their sales patterns, peak hours, and customer behavior.
This data is becoming extremely valuable. Fintech companies and banks now use digital payment histories to offer small businesses working capital loans. A shop that processes regular QR payments can prove its revenue even without formal accounting. That opens doors to financing that was once impossible.
Digital payments also make businesses more visible. Customers are more likely to trust shops that accept digital wallets, especially younger and urban consumers. This increases footfall and sales.
While challenges remain, such as connectivity issues and transaction fees, the overall impact is positive. QR-based payments are turning informal businesses into financially trackable enterprises. In the long run, this digital trail will help millions of small merchants grow, borrow, and scale in ways cash never allowed.