Bangladesh, Sept. 5 -- Five of Bangladesh's struggling lenders have taken the initiative to merge and form a large, Shariah-compliant bank. But will that be enough to overcome the liquidity crunch?

Bangladesh Bank Governor Ahsan H Mansur says the government-controlled bank will be strong, customers will be able to withdraw their money promptly, and existing bank employees will not have to lose their jobs.

Many in the financial sector have expressed relief that, even if the initiative fails to reach its final goal, customers will still be able to get their money back. Currently, all five banks are facing a liquidity crisis, unable to give money to their customers as needed.

Some economists have said that if the government initiative is ...