Eastern Bank PLC (EBL) in collaboration with Mastercard introduces the world's first biometric metal credit card in Bangladesh, marking a significant leap forward in the country's payment technology landscape.
Dr Ahsan H Mansur, Governor of Bangladesh Bank, unveiled the world's first biometric metal card at a gala night held at Radisson Blu Water Garden Dhaka recently, says a press release.
Park Young Sik, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Fredrik Karlsrud, Chargé d'affaires, Embassy of Norway in Bangladesh, Ali Reza Iftekhar, Managing Director and CEO, Eastern Bank PLC and Syed Mohammad Kamal, Country Manager, Bangladesh, Mastercard were present on the occasion.
As part of the ultra-premium World Elite Mastercard portfolio, this innovative card combines cutting-edge biometric authentication with the sophistication of a metal design, offering both enhanced security and premium user experience. The launching of the card was co-powered by IDEX Biometrics, Kona I, and Infineon Technologies.
The new card will empower Mastercard cardholders to authenticate in-store purchases effortlessly using just their fingerprint-eliminating the need for PINs or signatures. Leveraging advanced biometric technology, it'll ensure that only the authorized user can complete the transaction, safeguarding sensitive financial data and setting a new benchmark for secure, premium payment experiences.
With cardholder data securely stored directly on the card, transactions will be authenticated through the user's fingerprint-adding a powerful layer of protection against fraud. One of the most user-friendly features of the new card will be its seamless enrollment process-cardholders can conveniently register their fingerprint from the comfort of home using a kit provided by the bank.
Enhancing its security credentials further, the card will be equipped with Mastercard Identity Theft Protection, a robust feature that continuously scans the web for signs of identity fraud, offering cardholders proactive and comprehensive protection.
This exclusive World Elite Mastercard credit card will also unlock a host of premium privileges through Mastercard's Priceless Specials platform, such as: a complimentary one-night stay at luxury hotels; A free gourmet meal at top restaurants across Asia Pacific; Exclusive rooftop dining at CÉ LA VI, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, plus a SG$100 voucher; Access to over 46 premium golf clubs, including TPC® courses operated by the PGA TOUR.
The new card will also enable additional perks for cardholders, including: Global data roaming with Flexiroam; Discounted car rentals from Hertz; USD 1,000 off Uniworld river cruises; Fast-track elite memberships with hotel loyalty programs like GHA DISCOVERY, HoteLux, Wyndham Rewards, and I Prefer.
Ali Reza Iftekhar, Managing Director and CEO, Eastern Bank PLC, said, "Eastern Bank PLC is proud to lead this global milestone from Bangladesh. The launch of the world's first biometric metal credit card highlights our commitment to innovation and excellence. This breakthrough will deliver an unmatched, secure, and seamless payment experience to our valued customers."
Syed Mohammad Kamal, Country Manager, Bangladesh, Mastercard, said, Mastercard is delighted to mark the global debut of its biometric metal credit card in Bangladesh, in collaboration with Eastern Bank PLC. This groundbreaking innovation reaffirms Mastercard's leadership in redefining the future of payments-where cutting-edge security meets sophisticated design. Beyond its advanced technology, the World Elite Mastercard credit card will unlock a host of exclusive privileges, delivering an elevated experience that reflects the evolving expectations of today's discerning consumers."
