KATHMANDU: Economic Digest offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of significant business happenings in Nepal, presented in easily digestible summaries.
On Thursday, the NEPSE Index experienced a 0.57% decline, closing at 2,734.93, continuing its downward trend from the previous session.
The market showed volatility, with fluctuations between 2,717.34 and 2,764.29, while trading activity remained robust, recording a turnover of Rs. 8.36 billion.
Meanwhile, gold prices saw a slight increase, reflecting a positive trend in the precious metals market.
On the diplomatic front, Nepal’s Minister for Industry met with India’s Consumer Affairs Minister to discuss trade facilitation, particularly around essential commodities and quality standards.
Additionally, two companies, Taragaon Regency Hotel and Chhimek Laghubitta Sanstha, proposed significant dividends, with Taragaon suggesting an 11% cash dividend and Chhimek announcing a 15% dividend, reflecting positive financial performance.
On a local tourism front, Arun Danda in Bhojpur is gaining popularity as a tourist destination, bolstered by improved infrastructure and cultural attractions.
This suggests both economic and tourism sectors are showing growth, despite the challenges in the stock market.
NEPSE index falls 0.57 percent to 2,734.93
The NEPSE Index on Thursday dropped by 0.57%, or 15.93 points, to close at 2,734.93, following a decline of 24.97 points in the previous session.
The market opened at 2,752.38 and experienced fluctuations, hitting a low of 2,717.34 and a high of 2,764.29 during the day.
Trading activity was strong, with a turnover of Rs. 8.36 billion through 87,476 transactions, involving 16,797,727 shares from 307 companies. Nepal Finance led the turnover.
Gold price up by Rs 300 per tola
The price of gold rose by Rs 300 per tola in the Nepali market on Thursday, reaching Rs 150,700 per tola, up from Rs 150,400 the previous day, as reported by the Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers Federation.
Additionally, silver prices also saw an increase, climbing by Rs 15 per tola to Rs 1,880.
This suggests a slight upward trend in the precious metals market, reflecting potential changes in demand, market sentiment, or global price influences.
Industry Minister Bhandari meets with Indian Minister of Consumer Affairs
Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, met with India’s Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Pralhad Joshi, in New Delhi to discuss key bilateral issues.
The meeting focused on facilitating the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification for Nepali companies, which is crucial for enhancing trade and product quality standards.
Additionally, the ministers addressed concerns regarding the import of essential food grains, including wheat, rice, and sugar, emphasizing the need for smoother trade flows to meet Nepal’s food security needs.
This meeting highlights the ongoing collaboration between Nepal and India to strengthen economic ties and streamline trade in essential commodities.
Taragaon Regency Hotel proposes 11 percent cash dividend
Taragaon Regency Hotel Limited has recommended an 11% cash dividend for the fiscal year 2080/81.
This decision was made during a recent meeting of the Board of Directors, where it was agreed to distribute the dividend (excluding tax) from the company’s paid-up capital of Rs. 1,962,120,200.
However, the dividend will only be finalized after approval at the company’s upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM). TRH’s stock closed at Rs. 1,246.00 on Wednesday.
Chhimek Laghubitta Sanstha proposes 15 percent dividend
Chhimek Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Limited has announced a proposal for a 15% dividend, amounting to Rs. 44.65 crores, for the fiscal year 2080/81.
During the 310th board meeting held on Mangsir 19, the decision was made to distribute the dividend based on the paid-up capital of Rs. 2.97 billion.
The proposed distribution includes 8% bonus shares worth Rs. 23.81 crores and a 7% cash dividend (inclusive of tax), totaling Rs. 20.84 crores.
The dividend will be distributed following approval from the central bank and confirmation at the company’s upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM).
Bhojpur’s Arun Danda becoming popular tourist destination
Arun Danda (Chhintalung), located in Rural Municipality-1 of Poudandunga in Bhojpur district, has rapidly gained popularity as a domestic tourist destination, thanks to the development of key infrastructure and amenities.
The site, situated near the district headquarters, offers a peaceful retreat with scenic views, making it an attractive escape for those looking to leave urban life behind.
The increasing visitor numbers, particularly after the installation of statues of Buddha, Shiva, and Yalambar—collaboratively funded by the rural municipality and the Koshi Province government—have further cemented Arun Danda’s appeal.
This growth in tourism underscores the region’s potential to become a significant player in Nepal’s local tourism industry.
Govt working for dynamic economy: Finance Minister
Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel has said government was for creating an investment-friendly atmosphere even by amending the laws.
The government is focused on how the national economy would be made dynamic, he added.
Inaugurating the ninth Lumbini National Festival in Bhairahawa today, Finance Minister Paudel urged the businesspersons not to be despair because economic status was gradually improving.
“Government is ready to work in a way that boosts the morale of private sector,” he informed.
(Prepared by Srija Khanal)
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