KATHMANDU: Economic Digest offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of significant business and economic developments in Nepal, presented in easily digestible summaries.
Finance Minister Bishnu Poudel promises a pro-growth budget amid signs of economic recovery, while the National Planning Commission estimates a staggering Rs 21.165 trillion is required to meet the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Nepal’s stock market dipped, and beekeeping numbers rose even as production faltered. Meanwhile, the NEA faces criticism over persistent power disruptions.
NEPSE drops by 16.68 points, turnover exceeds Rs 8.43 billion
The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) index fell by 16.68 points to close at 2,706.04. Over 21.32 million shares from 328 companies were traded 74,450 times, generating a total turnover of Rs 8.43 billion. Market sentiment remained cautious amid mixed earnings results.
Finance Minister aims for strong economy in upcoming budget
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Poudel announced that the budget for FY 2082/83 will focus on strengthening the economy. He cited signs of macroeconomic normalization and stressed long-term recovery during a policy review meeting with the National Planning Commission.
Rs 21.165 trillion needed to meet SDGs by 2030
The National Planning Commission released a report estimating Nepal will need Rs 21.165 trillion to meet its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The largest allocation—24%—is required for SDG-9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure). Clean energy (SDG-7) and poverty eradication (SDG-1) follow at 12% and 11%, respectively.
NIC Asia Bank profit plummets by 92%, Nepal Bank surges 2032%
NIC Asia Bank reported a steep 91.8% decline in net profit, while Nepal Bank posted a massive 2032% profit growth. Nabil Bank remained the top earner, recording Rs 5.05 billion in net profit. The results reflect a varied banking landscape in a recovering economy.
Beekeeping up, honey output down
Despite an increase in the number of beekeepers, Nepal has seen a decrease in honey production. Experts point to poor flowering conditions and climate-related factors affecting bee activity and nectar availability.
Consumers hit by repeated power outages
Electricity service disruptions continue to frustrate consumers across Nepal. The Nepal Electricity Authority has yet to provide a concrete plan for consistent power delivery, raising concerns about infrastructure resilience.
Transport Office collects Rs 230 million more revenue in 9 months
The Department of Transport Management collected Rs 230 million more in revenue over the first nine months of the fiscal year compared to the same period last year, driven by higher registration and renewal rates.
NRNs urged to invest in Nepal
FNCCI Chairman Chandra Prasad Dhakal appealed to non-resident Nepalis to invest a portion of their income back home, highlighting investment opportunities with promising returns in infrastructure, tourism, and energy sectors.
Kavre begins damage assessment seven months after floods
Local authorities in Kavre have initiated household damage assessments nearly seven months after devastating floods and landslides, prompting criticism over delayed disaster response mechanisms.
China’s electricity capacity surges 14.6%
China’s total electricity generation capacity rose to 3.43 billion kilowatts by the end of March 2025, marking a 14.6% year-on-year increase. Solar power led the expansion, growing by 43.4% to 950 million kilowatts.
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