DSE, Impact Investment partner to advance Orange Movement in capital market

The Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) and Impact Investment Exchange (IIX), a global pioneer in sustainable finance, today (15 February) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on introducing and promoting Orange capital instruments in Bangladesh’s capital market.

DSE Managing Director Nuzhat Anwar and IIX Founder and Chief Executive Officer Durreen Shahnaz inked the MoU at the DSE board room, marking a significant step toward building an inclusive, gender-smart and climate-aligned market ecosystem.

The partnership combines IIX’s global leadership in impact investing and gender-lens finance with DSE’s central role in developing the country’s capital market.

Symbolising the colour of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality, the Orange Movement seeks to mobilise $10 billion at the intersection of gender equality and climate action.

Under the agreement, DSE will explore facilitating the listing of Orange Bonds and Sukuk under a dedicated thematic or sustainable finance category, subject to regulatory approvals. 

The collaboration will also focus on strengthening market readiness, raising awareness, and engaging regulators to position Orange instruments as credible thematic debt securities.

“Capital markets play a vital role in channeling long-term finance toward national development priorities,” said Nuzhat Anwar, adding that the partnership reflects DSE’s commitment to deepening the capital market while promoting sustainable financial instruments that deliver measurable social and environmental impact alongside financial returns.

Shahnaz said Bangladesh stands at a critical juncture in aligning its financial system with inclusive growth priorities. She voiced confidence that adopting global best practices would help attract international investors while reinforcing trust, transparency, and stronger global linkages.

The MoU also outlines joint advocacy, investor engagement, workshops and policy dialogues with regulators, financial institutions and development partners to advance sustainable finance innovation in Bangladesh.