Top3 min readNepal Emphasizes the Importance of Regional Cooperation in a Changing Global LandscapeNepal Emphasizes the Importance of Regional Cooperation in a Changing Global Landscape In the context of an increasingly complex and uncertain global environment, Nepal has underscored the necessity of regional cooperation not only as a requirement but as an absolute imperative. This statement was made by the Foreign Secretary and Chairperson of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Standing Committee, Amrit Bahadur Rai, during the 62nd meeting of the SAARC Program Committee. Regional Cooperation as a Bridge Between National and Global Efforts Rai highlighted that amid today’s global challenges, regional cooperation is crucial for bridging the gap between national efforts and international processes. As nations face increasingly interconnected issues such as economic instability, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, strengthening regional collaboration within South Asia becomes essential. Rai emphasized that regional cooperation serves as a critical conduit through which countries can navigate and address common challenges effectively. He stated, "In the face of global uncertainties, regional cooperation has become not just a necessity but an obligation." This reflects Nepal's broader geopolitical strategy of fostering stronger regional ties to ensure mutual benefits and stability within South Asia. Achievements of SAARC and the Need for Action In his address, SAARC Secretary-General, Golam Sarwar, reminded the gathering of the significant achievements SAARC has made over the past four decades. He called for a shift from aspirations to actionable outcomes, stressing that the lofty goals of regional cooperation must be transformed into tangible results. Sarwar's comments emphasize the importance of not only celebrating the milestones SAARC has reached but also ensuring that these accomplishments translate into real-world, impactful initiatives.Dipesh Ghimire·12 Feb, 2026
Top3 min readNepal's IT Industry: A Growing Force with High Potential for Economic GrowthNepal's IT Industry: A Growing Force with High Potential for Economic Growth In a recent discussion organized by the Nepal Economic Journalists Society (SEJAN), stakeholders emphasized the significant foreign currency earnings generated by the IT sector in Nepal. According to their estimates, IT professionals and companies in Nepal are earning approximately NPR 1.25 trillion (about USD 1 billion) annually through foreign exports, showcasing the potential of the sector to contribute substantially to the country's economy.Dipesh Ghimire·12 Feb, 2026
Top3 min readHealth Insurance Board Faces Challenges with Rising OPD Expenses and Insufficient Funds for Critical CareHealth Insurance Board Faces Challenges with Rising OPD Expenses and Insufficient Funds for Critical Care The Health Insurance Board has recently provided clarification regarding the continued availability of up to one lakh rupees in treatment services for the insured, as per their policy. This decision, however, raises concerns about the allocation of funds, especially in light of mounting expenditures on outpatient department (OPD) services. The clarification aims to ensure that families, especially those with five members, can still access up to one lakh rupees in annual treatment benefits by contributing just 3,500 rupees. While this may seem beneficial, deeper analysis reveals the growing issue of fund allocation and its long-term impact on the health insurance system.Dipesh Ghimire·12 Feb, 2026
Top4 min readNepal Stock Exchange Announces List of Tradable Companies: A Detailed AnalysisNepal Stock Exchange Announces List of Tradable Companies: A Detailed Analysis Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) has released an updated list of 110 companies eligible for trading by stock dealers. The list includes companies from various sectors such as banking, microfinance, insurance, hydropower, and hospitality, all of which meet the criteria set out in the Stock Dealer Operational Guidelines, 2077. This list serves as a crucial resource for stock dealers in Nepal, providing them with a comprehensive guide of companies authorized for trading.Dipesh Ghimire·11 Feb, 2026
Top3 min readNEPSE Market Analysis: Stable Index and Margin Trading Guidelines ImpactNEPSE Market Analysis: Stable Index and Margin Trading Guidelines Impact The Nepal Securities Board (NEPSE) has recently approved the "Margin Trading Guidelines 2082," which allows stock investors to borrow margin loans from brokers to buy shares. However, despite the introduction of this new system, its implementation has had little impact on the market so far. On Wednesday, the NEPSE index remained relatively stable. After three consecutive days of decline, the index closed at 2662.09, down by just 0.04 points. The trading volume, however, showed a moderate increase, with a total transaction value of NPR 8.69 billion, compared to NPR 8.61 billion on the previous trading day. This indicates a slight upward trend in trading activity.Dipesh Ghimire·11 Feb, 2026
Top2 min readThe Leverage Game: Why Margin Trading is a Breakthrough for Nepal’s Stock MarketThe Leverage Game: Why Margin Trading is a Breakthrough for Nepal’s Stock Market For years, the Nepali stock market felt like a "cash-and-carry" system. If you had Rs. 10,000, you bought shares worth Rs. 10,000. But with the new 'Margin Trading Facility Directive, 2082' coming into effect this February, the rules have changed. If you are wondering, "Is margin trading actually beneficial in the Nepali context?"—the answer is a resounding yes, but with a side of caution. Here is a breakdown of the key benefits for investors and the market.Dipesh Ghimire·11 Feb, 2026
Top2 min readUnderstanding Margin Trading: A New Era for Nepal’s Stock Market (NEPSE)Understanding Margin Trading: A New Era for Nepal’s Stock Market (NEPSE) The Nepali capital market is undergoing a significant transformation. With the Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) introducing the 'Margin Trading Facility Directive, 2082,' investors now have a powerful tool at their disposal. But what exactly is margin trading, and how does it change the game for a retail investor? What is Margin Trading? In simple terms, margin trading is the process of buying more shares than you can afford with your existing cash. It is essentially a "Buy Now, Pay Later" model for the stock market. Instead of going to a bank for a formal share loan, you provide a portion of the total cost (the Initial Margin) to your broker, and the broker lends you the remaining amount to complete the purchase. Your newly bought shares serve as collateral for that loan.Dipesh Ghimire·11 Feb, 2026
Top2 min readNew Margin Trading Directive: A Strategic Shift Toward Market MaturityNew Margin Trading Directive: A Strategic Shift Toward Market Maturity KATHMANDU – The Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) has formally institutionalized the margin trading system by approving the 'Margin Trading Facility Directive, 2082.' Scheduled to go into effect on February 13 (Falgun 1), this new regulatory framework is set to replace the stagnant 2017 guidelines, marking a major turning point for the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE).Dipesh Ghimire·11 Feb, 2026
Top2 min readStrategic Overhaul: SEBON’s New Margin Directive to Reshape Market Liquidity and Broker RolesStrategic Overhaul: SEBON’s New Margin Directive to Reshape Market Liquidity and Broker Roles KATHMANDU – In a move to modernize the trading architecture of the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE), the Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) has greenlit the ‘Margin Trading Facility Directive, 2082.’ Effective from February 13, this directive is not just a procedural update; it represents a fundamental shift in how leverage is managed in the secondary market, moving the power of credit from commercial banks to specialized brokerage firms.Dipesh Ghimire·11 Feb, 2026
Top4 min readPolitical Uncertainty Keeps Nepal’s Stock Market in Sideways Trend, Investors Remain CautiousPolitical Uncertainty Keeps Nepal’s Stock Market in Sideways Trend, Investors Remain Cautious Nepal’s stock market has been moving within a narrow range in recent weeks, reflecting growing uncertainty among investors. Market indicators show repeated small gains followed by minor declines, a pattern commonly described as “sideways movement” in trading terminology. Analysts say the trend highlights hesitation among investors who are struggling to interpret the country’s shifting political environment. According to brokers, the dominant factor influencing current market behavior is uncertainty over whether parliamentary elections will take place in the coming months. “When investors feel elections are likely, the market starts rising,” said one broker. “But when doubts emerge, prices fall again.” This tug-of-war between optimism and fear has kept the market locked in a limited range.Dipesh Ghimire·10 Feb, 2026