KATHMANDU: Economic Digest offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of significant business happenings in Nepal, presented in easily digestible summaries.
Nepal’s economic landscape is marked by a dynamic mix of growth, caution, and ambition, as reflected in recent developments. Despite a dip in the NEPSE index, increased trading volume and a 38% surge in margin lending indicate strong investor engagement.
Meanwhile, record-breaking gold prices and a significant IT export surplus signal both global market volatility and local innovation capacity.
Leaders like PM Oli and Foreign Minister Deuba are urging greater self-reliance amid declining foreign aid and import dependence, echoed by FNCCI’s call for more youth-focused reforms.
On the business front, companies like Bhatbhateni are scaling rapidly, while mixed performance in finance firms highlights governance challenges.
Cross-border cooperation with India and new IPOs like Pure Energy reflect ongoing structural efforts, and cultural milestones—such as LOD’s global ranking and the upcoming Nepali Festival in Dubai—underscore Nepal’s growing international presence.
NEPSE index slips by 5.57 points despite higher trade volume
On the final trading day of the week, the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) index dropped 5.57 points, settling at 2,670.70. This followed a 13.90-point gain the previous day.
Notably, trading volume rose to Rs 5.63 billion from Wednesday’s Rs 4.48 billion, suggesting increased investor participation despite a slightly bearish trend.
Gold hits record high of Rs 181,100 per tola
Gold prices in Nepal surged to an all-time high of Rs 181,100 per tola, increasing by Rs 5,700 in a single day. The sharp rise follows a Rs 2,000 jump the previous day, reversing a four-day slump. The surge reflects global market volatility and high domestic demand.
PM Oli calls for self-reliance, criticizes import dependence
During the 59th Annual General Meeting of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and Industry Day, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli urged domestic entrepreneurs to increase local production and reduce reliance on imported goods.
Highlighting Nepal’s traditional craftsmanship—especially in metalworking—he emphasized the nation’s capacity to become more self-sufficient.
Nepal’s IT exports hit Rs 14.3 billion in eight months
Nepal has earned Rs 14.30 billion from information technology exports in the first eight months of the current fiscal year, according to the Nepal Rastra Bank.
Software services accounted for Rs 10.5 billion, with telecom services contributing Rs 3.64 billion. IT imports during the same period stood at Rs 3.60 billion, giving Nepal a trade surplus in this sector.
Foreign aid to Nepal declining amid global geopolitical shifts: Arzu Deuba
Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana warned that global geopolitical trends are causing a steady reduction in international aid to Nepal. Speaking at FNCCI’s annual meeting, she emphasized the importance of developing internal funding mechanisms and strategic alliances to counter this downward trend in external assistance.
Nepal-India customs officials discuss trade efficiency and smuggling prevention
Nepal and India have launched a joint dialogue in Kathmandu to enhance bilateral trade procedures and curb illegal trade practices. Talks led by customs representatives are focusing on faster data exchange and implementing an electronic cargo tracking system to improve transparency and coordination at border checkpoints.
Margin lending soars by 38% amid rising investor confidence
Share-backed loans surged by over 38% year-on-year, totaling Rs 118.5 billion by mid-March 2025, according to the central bank. Easier lending policies and falling interest rates have encouraged large-scale borrowing, particularly loans exceeding Rs 10 million, which jumped by over 50%.
Mixed financial results for finance companies: 8 in profit, 7 in the red
Out of 15 finance companies, eight recorded profits while seven incurred significant losses during the first eight months of the fiscal year. ICFC Finance led the profit-makers with Rs 142 million, whereas Pokhara and Janaki Finance reported losses of over Rs 758 million and Rs 136 million, respectively. Governance and leadership issues were cited as key challenges.
FNCCI President: Govt reforms welcome, but fall short for youth
FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal acknowledged recent government reforms but said they don’t go far enough to meet the aspirations of Nepal’s youth. Speaking at the federation’s AGM, he stressed the need for stronger support for entrepreneurship and economic hope within the country.
Thamel’s LOD ranked 44th globally by DJ Mag
Lord of the Drinks (LOD), a prominent nightclub in Thamel, has been ranked 44th among the world’s top 100 clubs by DJ Mag. The recognition puts Nepal on the international nightlife map and is expected to boost tourism. Club director Bhupen Kunwar said the honor presents both pride and new challenges.
Govt authorized to raise Rs 350 billion in domestic borrowing next year
The federal government has received approval to raise up to Rs 350 billion in domestic debt in the next fiscal year, based on recommendations by the Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission. The ceiling includes a 0.5% GDP buffer if local governments can’t meet their own borrowing needs.
National Assembly committee continues review of ship bill
The Legislative Management Committee of the National Assembly is progressing through the Ship Bill, now reviewing Chapter 5. Lawmakers discussed the need for pre-operational surveys and a dedicated agency to conduct them. Other agreed provisions include ship operation, construction, and ownership rules.
Bhatbhateni crosses Rs 124 billion revenue mark, plans 51 stores
Bhatbhateni Supermarket has generated Rs 124.03 billion in revenue over 4.5 years and plans to expand to 51 outlets within five years. With 27 stores already operational and two more under construction, the company also aims to produce 12.75 MW of solar energy. It remains one of Nepal’s top corporate taxpayers.
381 climbers from 41 teams receive spring climbing permits
The Department of Tourism has issued climbing permits to 381 mountaineers from 41 expedition groups this spring. Among them, 134 climbers from 14 teams will attempt Mount Everest. Other peaks include Ama Dablam, Annapurna I, and Makalu. The total includes 84 women and 297 men.
Pure Energy launches IPO, public applications open until April 15
Pure Energy has opened its IPO to the general public, offering 1,195,200 shares. Investors can apply for 10 to 100,000 shares through Mero Share until April 15. The IPO follows allotments for local and foreign-based Nepalis and has drawn strong interest from retail investors.
First Nepali festival in Dubai to celebrate culture and unity
The UAE will host its first-ever Nepali Festival in Dubai, organized by the Nepali Embassy and the NRNA’s UAE chapter. Over 70 Nepali organizations are collaborating to promote Nepali culture, tourism, sports, and trade while fostering unity among the diaspora and introducing Nepal to a global audience.
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