KATHMANDU: Nepal’s stock market witnessed moderate growth in the fiscal year 2082, with the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) index rising by nearly 200 points despite political turbulence throughout the year.
The benchmark index, which closed at 2,662.08 points on the last trading day of Chaitra 2081, increased by 171.52 points during the year that began on Baisakh 2, 2082.
However, on the final trading day of the year, NEPSE slipped by 4.18 points. In that session, share prices of 105 companies increased, while 153 companies saw declines, and 12 companies remained unchanged.
Sector-wise performance showed mixed trends throughout the year. The life insurance group recorded a decline, falling by 349.78 points from its previous closing of 13,190.31 to settle at 12,840.53 by the end of the year.
In contrast, the manufacturing and processing sector posted a remarkable surge. The index, which stood at 7,015.13 points at the end of the previous year, jumped by 4,674.76 points to reach 11,689.89 by the final trading day of 2082.
The non-life insurance group also experienced a downturn, declining by 1,028.19 points over the year to close at 11,245.96 points.
Meanwhile, the hotel and tourism sector saw notable growth, rising by 1,506.07 points from 6,447.17 to reach 7,953.24 by year-end.
Other sectors, including commercial banks, development banks, hydropower, trading, and mutual funds, recorded gains during the year, while microfinance showed only a marginal increase. However, finance, investment, and other groups posted slight declines.
The stock market’s performance unfolded against a backdrop of major political developments. The Gen-Z movement of Bhadra 23–24 and the House of Representatives election held on Falgun 21 significantly reshaped Nepal’s political balance.
The election brought to power a new government led by Balendra Shah, widely known as Balen, with a near two-thirds majority. The government has pledged to promote good governance and accelerate development.
In the early days of the new administration, the capital market appeared cautious, closely observing the policies and decisions of the Balen-led government. Analysts suggest that the future direction of the stock market will largely depend on the government’s upcoming policy measures and economic strategies.
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