[Dhaka, October 29, 2025] MetLife Bangladesh has released its first-ever Employee Benefit Trends Study (EBTS), offering unprecedented insights into the priorities, challenges, and expectations of private-sector employees and employers. The findings reveal that financial insecurity and inadequate benefits are silently eroding productivity, engagement, and overall well-being—posing a challenge for organizations striving to build resilient, high-performing workplaces.

The EBTS surveyed 571 employees and 142 employers across industries including RMG, banking, FMCG, telecom, and NGOs It is the first comprehensive study of its kind in Bangladesh, designed to help organizations align benefits strategies with employee expectations.

Key Highlights from the Study

• Financial Stress Is a Hidden Productivity Killer :  Over 56% of employees admit financial worries reduce their productivity,   while 41% link financial stress to mental health issues. 67% feel confident  about their current financial state.      
• Retirement Planning Is Alarmingly Absent : More than 53% of employees have no retirement plan, and nearly half want employer support to convert savings into income. 
• Employee Care Is Non-Negotiable : 72% of employees believe their organization cares about them, yet gap persist in well-being and advocacy. Employers that demonstrate care through benefits and culture can significantly boost engagement and retention.
• Benefits Drive Loyalty—But Provision Falls Short :  While 78% of employees say insurance and wellness benefits such as mental health support make them more loyal, there are large gap in offering these services. This disconnect creates a trust deficit and by offering these benefits an opportunity for employers to differentiate.
• Communication Is the Missing Link : 70% of employees would use benefits more if they knew how peers utilized them, highlighting the need for personalized, year-round communication strategies.

Employers in Bangladesh are increasingly aware of the link between benefits and business performance. Employers in Bangladesh are increasingly aware of the link between benefits and business performance. Nearly 56% identify productivity and 49% cite engagement as their biggest challenges, while 51% have already increased investments in benefits over the past year to retain talent and boost morale. Furthermore, 78% acknowledge that benefits play a critical role in shaping workplace culture, yet many admit current offerings are not effectively reducing stress or financial burden. This signals a pivotal moment for employers: investing in comprehensive benefits and transparent communication is no longer optional—it is a strategic imperative for building trust, improving well-being, and driving sustainable growth.

Bangladesh’s private sector is at a turning point. With rising costs, increased job competition, and mental health challenges, employees expect more than just salaries—they want full support for their well-being. The study shows financial wellness isn’t a luxury anymore; it’s essential for better performance.

“Our research reveals a stark reality: financial stress and inadequate benefits are quietly undermining productivity and morale,” said Ala Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer, MetLife Bangladesh. “Employers have a unique opportunity to lead by offering comprehensive benefits, fostering a caring culture, and improving communication. Doing so will not only strengthen trust but also unlock sustainable business performance.”

“By prioritizing care and trust, organizations can make benefits a powerful driver of productivity, loyalty, and long-term growth’, he added.

About MetLife

MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET), through its subsidiaries and affiliates (“MetLife”), is one of the world’s leading financial services companies, providing insurance, annuities, employee benefits, and asset management to help its individual and institutional customers navigate their changing world. Founded in 1868, MetLife has operations in more than 40 markets globally and holds leading positions in the United States, Japan, Latin America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. For more information, visit www.metlife.com

MetLife Bangladesh is the leading international life insurer in the country, serving over a million customers in Bangladesh. To learn more, please visit: www.metlife.com.bd

Contact:

Saifur Rahman
Director & Head of Communications
MetLife Bangladesh
Cell: +880 1313089065
Email: md-saifur.rahman@metlife.com.bd