Top2 min readMarket Analysis: Political Optimism and New Listings Propel NEPSE Valuation Toward Unprecedented HeightsMarket Analysis: Political Optimism and New Listings Propel NEPSE Valuation Toward Unprecedented Heights KATHMANDU – In a definitive signal of returning investor confidence, Nepal’s stock market (NEPSE) capitalization has scaled a historic psychological peak, surpassing the Rs 5 trillion mark. The surge reflects a market reacting positively to the promise of political stability and the anticipation of capital market-friendly reforms under a newly formed government. Data provided by the Nepal Stock Exchange confirms that as of Tuesday, the total market capitalization stood at Rs 5.002 trillion, a figure now teetering on the edge of the absolute historical record of Rs 5.009 trillion set in August.Dipesh Ghimire·25 Mar, 2026
Top2 min readOver 10,000 Youth Apply for Startup Loan Scheme, Government Pushes AI-Driven SelectionOver 10,000 Youth Apply for Startup Loan Scheme, Government Pushes AI-Driven Selection Nepal’s government-backed startup loan program has attracted an overwhelming response this fiscal year, with more than 10,000 young entrepreneurs submitting project proposals from across the country. The surge in applications reflects a growing interest among youth in entrepreneurship, even as traditional job opportunities remain limited.Dipesh Ghimire·24 Mar, 2026
Top2 min readInsurance Regulator Penalizes Firms Over Hilton Reinsurance IrregularitiesInsurance Regulator Penalizes Firms Over Hilton Reinsurance Irregularities Nepal’s insurance regulator has taken disciplinary action against several companies after identifying irregularities in the reinsurance arrangement related to the Hilton Hotel damage claim. The Nepal Insurance Authority has imposed fines of Rs 200,000 each on Nepal Re’s CEO, Himalayan Reinsurance, and The Oriental Insurance Company, citing violations of regulatory provisions. In a related move, the Authority has suspended the license of Alliant Insurance Brokers for three months, signaling a broader crackdown on procedural lapses within the reinsurance chain. The actions follow an investigation into how risk related to riot and terrorism coverage was handled in the aftermath of damages to the Hilton Hotel during the Gen-Z movement protests.Dipesh Ghimire·24 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readMiddle East Tensions Hit Nepal’s Tourism Hard, Sauraha Sees Sharp Decline in VisitorsMiddle East Tensions Hit Nepal’s Tourism Hard, Sauraha Sees Sharp Decline in Visitors The escalating military tensions in the Middle East have begun to cast a visible shadow over Nepal’s tourism sector, with one of the country’s key destinations, Sauraha in Chitwan, witnessing a sharp drop in tourist arrivals. Industry stakeholders report that rising airfare costs and concerns over travel safety have forced many international visitors to cancel their trips, disrupting what is typically the peak tourist season.Dipesh Ghimire·24 Mar, 2026
Top2 min readExport Sector Urges Government to Prioritize Investment Promotion in Upcoming BudgetExport Sector Urges Government to Prioritize Investment Promotion in Upcoming Budget A coalition of 35 industry and business associations engaged in Nepal’s export sector has called on the government to incorporate targeted investment promotion and collaboration programs in the upcoming fiscal budget. The demand comes at a time when the country continues to struggle with a widening trade deficit and limited export diversification, prompting stakeholders to push for more structured policy support. The joint appeal focuses on attracting foreign direct investment, strengthening domestic industries, and accelerating export growth. Representatives from various sectors presented detailed insights into the opportunities and constraints within their respective industries, along with recommendations for policy reforms. Their proposals collectively underline the need for a more coordinated and export-oriented economic strategy.Dipesh Ghimire·24 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readCapital Pressure Mounts on Eight Commercial Banks Despite Excess LiquidityCapital Pressure Mounts on Eight Commercial Banks Despite Excess Liquidity Nepal’s banking sector is facing a growing capital adequacy challenge, even as liquidity remains abundant across the system. According to the Nepal Rastra Bank’s (NRB) financial report up to mid-January (Poush), eight commercial banks are currently under pressure due to weakening capital buffers, limiting their ability to expand lending despite having sufficient funds.Dipesh Ghimire·24 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readBudget Proposals Deadline Set for Mid-April as Nepal Pushes Ahead Despite Political UncertaintyBudget Proposals Deadline Set for Mid-April as Nepal Pushes Ahead Despite Political Uncertainty Nepal has accelerated preparations for the upcoming fiscal year 2083/84 budget, setting a firm deadline for all line ministries to submit their plans and programs by mid-April (Chaitra 15). According to the government’s budget calendar, ministries are required to upload their proposals through the Line Ministry Budget Information System (LMBIS), ensuring that the foundational phase of budget formulation proceeds on time.Dipesh Ghimire·24 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readNatural Resources Commission Caps Internal Borrowing Ahead of Budget, Stresses Fiscal DisciplineNatural Resources Commission Caps Internal Borrowing Ahead of Budget, Stresses Fiscal Discipline As preparations for the fiscal year 2083–84 budget gather pace, the National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission has recommended a ceiling on internal borrowing for all three tiers of government. The proposed limits, based on macroeconomic conditions, revenue-expenditure projections, and market capacity, aim to maintain fiscal stability while allowing room for necessary public investment.Dipesh Ghimire·19 Mar, 2026
NEPSE3 min readMiddle East Conflict Disrupts Global Supply Chains, Triggers Oil Shock and Inflation FearsMiddle East Conflict Disrupts Global Supply Chains, Triggers Oil Shock and Inflation Fears Escalating tensions involving the United States and Israel in the Middle East have begun to ripple across the global economy, triggering disruptions in supply chains, energy markets, and trade routes. Since early 2026, the conflict has intensified uncertainty in critical maritime corridors, raising concerns among policymakers and businesses about a potential global economic slowdown.Dipesh Ghimire·19 Mar, 2026
Top2 min readBanking Offences Surge in Kathmandu Amid Economic SlowdownBanking Offences Surge in Kathmandu Amid Economic Slowdown Incidents of banking offences are on the rise in Kathmandu, with police reporting a noticeable increase in cases related to cheque dishonour and financial fraud. Authorities attribute the trend largely to the slowdown in the real estate sector, which has created financial stress across cooperatives, businesses, and the broader banking system. According to data released by the District Police Office, Kathmandu, a total of 37 individuals were arrested in connection with banking offences during the month of Falgun alone. Among these, a significant number of cases were linked to bounced cheques, which continue to dominate banking-related crimes. Police officials say that complaints involving forged cheques and cheque dishonour have become increasingly common, reflecting growing liquidity constraints and repayment difficulties among borrowers.Dipesh Ghimire·19 Mar, 2026