Over half of Bangladesh’s private-sector employees — 56 percent — say financial worries are hurting their productivity, according to a new study by MetLife Bangladesh.
The country’s first-ever Employee Benefit Trends Study (EBTS) exposes how financial insecurity and limited benefits are quietly eroding morale, engagement, and overall well-being in workplaces.
The study surveyed 571 employees and 142 employers across industries including ready-made garments, banking, fast-moving consumer goods, telecom, and non-governmental organisations.
It provides an unprecedented look into how benefits, care, and communication are shaping the future of work in Bangladesh.
According to the findings, 41 percent of employees link financial stress to mental health challenges.
More than 53 percent have no retirement plan, while nearly half want employers’ help in converting savings into steady income.
Although 72 percent of employees believe their organisations care about them, many workplaces still fail to offer the level of well-being support employees expect.
Around 78 percent said wellness and insurance benefits such as mental health support make them more loyal, yet major gaps remain in providing these services.
Communication also emerged as a major weakness, with 70 percent of employees saying they would use benefits more effectively if they knew how peers utilised them.
Employers, too, are becoming increasingly aware of the link between benefits and performance.
The study shows that 56 percent of employers identify productivity as their top challenge, while 49 percent point to low engagement.
Over half — 51 percent — have already increased investments in benefits to retain talent and strengthen morale.
At the same time, 78 percent recognise that employee benefits play a critical role in shaping workplace culture, though many admit current offerings are not reducing stress or financial strain.
“Financial stress and inadequate benefits are quietly undermining productivity and morale,” said MetLife Bangladesh CEO Ala Ahmad.
“Employers have a unique opportunity to lead by offering comprehensive benefits, fostering a caring culture, and improving communication,” he said.
“Doing so will not only strengthen trust but also unlock sustainable business performance,” he added.
He further said that by prioritising care and trust, organisations can turn employee benefits into a lasting driver of productivity, loyalty, and long-term growth.
