Category: Business | Market | Economy

  • Analysis of Import and Export Trends in the First Nine Months of Fiscal Year 2080/81

    Analysis of Import and Export Trends in the First Nine Months of Fiscal Year 2080/81


    Nepal’s trade dynamics in the initial nine months of fiscal year 2080/81 reveal alarming patterns, raising concerns about the nation’s economic outlook. The trade deficit, representing the variance between imports and exports, has expanded by approximately 2.75 percent during this period, indicating a growing disparity between import costs and export values, posing significant challenges to Nepal’s economic stability.

    Imports

    Imports in the first nine months of the fiscal year witnessed a noticeable decline of around 2.84 percent, totaling approximately Rs. 11.67 Kharba. In comparison, the corresponding period in the previous year saw imports amounting to goods worth Rs. 12.01 Kharba.

    Key imported commodities included mineral fuels, iron/steel, electrical machinery, mechanical appliances, and vehicles. The surge in these imports reflects shifting consumer demands and evolving industrial needs within the country.

    Exports

    On the contrary, Nepal’s exports amounted to Rs. 1.13 Kharba during the nine-month period, primarily led by sectors like coffee, tea & spices, iron/steel, and man-made staple fibers, which constituted the bulk of export volumes.

    However, exports have witnessed a decline of about 3.66 percent compared to the previous year’s exports valued at Rs. 1.18 Kharba. This decline poses a significant challenge to economic growth and stability, impacting vital indicators such as GDP, exchange rates, inflation, and interest rates.

  • Nepali Banks’ Interest Rate Review: Baisakh 2081 Update

    Nepali Banks’ Interest Rate Review: Baisakh 2081 Update


    In the most recent financial update, twenty commercial banks have announced revisions to their interest rates for the month of Baisakh. Interestingly, a majority of these banks, totaling 13, have opted to decrease their interest rates. However, notable exceptions to this trend include NMB Bank (NMB) and Everest Bank (EBL), which have instead chosen to raise their interest rates. Additionally, five banks have maintained their interest rates at the same level as the previous month of Chaitra.

    NMB Bank has attracted attention by offering the highest fixed deposit (FD) rate of 7.97% for individual fixed deposits in Baisakh, marking a significant increase from the 7% rate observed in the preceding month. Similarly, the average interest rate for institutional fixed deposits has seen an uptick from 6% to 6.97% during the same period.

    A closer examination of the comparison between Baisakh and Chaitra months reveals strategic shifts among various banks. Notably, NIC Asia Bank has taken the lead in reducing FD rates across the board. The bank has successfully decreased the maximum interest rate on individual fixed deposits by 0.80% and implemented a 0.85% reduction in the maximum interest rate on institutional fixed deposits.

    While some banks have maintained consistency in their interest rates for institutional fixed deposits, such as Citizens Bank International, Rastriya Banijya Bank, and Prabhu Bank, they have chosen to decrease rates for individual fixed deposits by 0.25%, 0.45%, and 0.50%, respectively.

    Amidst these fluctuations, the Agricultural Development Bank stands out with the lowest interest rates, offering a maximum of 5.661% on individual fixed deposits and 4.01% on institutional fixed deposits.

     

  • Garima Bikas Bank Welcomes Nepali New Year 2081 with Exciting Cashback Scheme

    Garima Bikas Bank Welcomes Nepali New Year 2081 with Exciting Cashback Scheme


    As Nepal eagerly awaits the arrival of New Year 2081, Garima Bikas Bank Limited (GBBL) delights its customers with a special cashback scheme, promising enticing rewards for debit and credit card users. With the aim of promoting cashless transactions and enhancing customer satisfaction, GBBL introduces a generous cashback offer of 20.81%, allowing users to earn up to Rs. 200 in cashback.

    This exclusive scheme, scheduled to run from Baishakh 1 to Baishakh 3, 2081, offers customers the opportunity to maximize their savings while enjoying the convenience of digital banking. By incentivizing cashless payments, GBBL aims to foster a culture of financial inclusion and encourage the adoption of modern banking practices among Nepali consumers.

    In addition to the cashback scheme, Garima Bikas Bank introduces credit card installment services, further enhancing the shopping experience for its valued customers. With flexible installment options, shoppers can now make purchases conveniently and manage their expenses effectively, reflecting GBBL’s commitment to delivering innovative and customer-centric financial solutions.

    Headquartered in Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Garima Bikas Bank has established itself as a trusted provider of simple, secure, and high-quality financial services. Through its extensive network comprising 123 branch offices, 1 extension counter, and 51 ATMs nationwide, including 22 in the Kathmandu Valley, GBBL ensures accessibility and convenience for customers across the country.

  • Celebrate New Year 2081 with FD Motors: Exclusive Offer on F5 A Pro Scooter

    Celebrate New Year 2081 with FD Motors: Exclusive Offer on F5 A Pro Scooter


    As the New Year 2081 dawns upon us, FD Motors extends warm wishes to all Nepalis, spreading joy, peace, and prosperity worldwide. To mark this auspicious occasion, FD Motors is delighted to announce an exclusive offer for its esteemed customers, providing an exciting opportunity to own the highly acclaimed F5 A Pro scooter.

    This special offer is extended to the first 20 customers who purchase the F5 A Pro scooter, ensuring a rewarding start to the New Year. As an added bonus, each purchase includes a complimentary fast charger, enhancing convenience and efficiency for riders.

    The F5 A Pro model from FD Motors boasts an array of impressive features, designed to elevate the riding experience to new heights. With its Side Drive 3K (PMSM) Motor, LFP Battery, and 120 KM Range, the F5 A Pro ensures superior performance and reliability on every journey. Additionally, its sleek and sporty design, coupled with 200mm ground clearance and 16″ front & 14″ rear tires, exudes style and functionality.

    For those interested in availing this exclusive offer, Granth Electric Vehicles Pvt Ltd, the official dealer of FD Motors, is available to assist with inquiries and purchases in Kathmandu, Nepal. Customers can reach out to Granth Electric Vehicles Pvt Ltd for further details and to seize this exciting opportunity.

  • RIDI Initiates Auction of Unclaimed Right Shares: Opportunity for Public Participation

    RIDI Initiates Auction of Unclaimed Right Shares: Opportunity for Public Participation


    Ridi Power Company Limited (RIDI) has initiated the auction of the unclaimed portion of its right shares starting from the 29th of Chaitra, 2080, with the auction set to conclude on the 9th of Baisakh, 2081. The company aims to sell 11,35,657 units of ordinary right shares, representing the unclaimed segment from its recent rights offering.

    During the rights offering period, which ran from the 18th of Falgun to the 8th of Chaitra, 2080, RIDI issued shares at a ratio of 1:0.50 to its existing shareholders. However, out of the total right shares issued, only 66,08,849 units (85.34%) were allotted to eligible shareholders, indicating that 14.66% of the shares remained unclaimed.

    Therefore, the company has decided to make these unsold right shares available to the general public starting from today. Individuals and institutions alike have the opportunity to participate in the auction and bid for these shares.

    Muktinath Capital Limited has been appointed as the issue manager for this right share auction. The minimum bid rate for the auction is set at Rs. 100, with a minimum bid quantity of 100 units. While bidders have the option to bid for the entire issue, they must adhere to the regulatory board’s guidelines to ensure that the specified quantity of shares per entity is not exceeded.

  • AHPC Successfully Allots 1:1 Right Shares: Unclaimed Shares to be Auctioned Soon

    AHPC Successfully Allots 1:1 Right Shares: Unclaimed Shares to be Auctioned Soon


    Arun Valley Hydropower Development Company Limited (AHPC) recently completed the allotment of its right shares at a 1:1 ratio on the 27th of Chaitra, 2080. Following the allotment process, shares were distributed to eligible applicants, while those who were not allotted shares will receive their refunds starting from the 30th of Chaitra, 2080.

    During the issuance period, which ran from the 17th of Falgun to the 7th of Chaitra, 2080, a total of 1,86,79,626 units of right shares were made available. The company declared the book closure date for its rights offering on Magh 15, ensuring that investors who held shares before this date were eligible to apply for the additional shares.

    Out of the total issuance, 1,66,87,492 shares were allotted to 33,714 valid applicants. However, there were 19,92,134 (10.66%) shares that remained unclaimed by eligible investors. These unclaimed shares will soon be auctioned off to the general public and institutions.

    Overall, the completion of the right shares allotment signifies an important step for AHPC in its efforts to raise capital and further its hydropower development initiatives.

  • End of Lock-in Period: VLUCL Notifies Investors Regarding Mutual Fund Shares

    End of Lock-in Period: VLUCL Notifies Investors Regarding Mutual Fund Shares


    Vision Lumbini Urja Company Limited (VLUCL) has informed its investors and stakeholders about the impending end of the lock-in period for 95,625 unit shares held by Mutual Funds. This lock-in period, in accordance with the latest directives from the Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON), is scheduled to expire on the 4th Jestha, 2081.

    VLUCL, with a total of 19,125,000 units of shares listed on the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE), reserved 5 percent of these shares exclusively for Mutual Funds. Consequently, 95,625 unit shares were issued and are currently under the lock-in period.

    In compliance with SEBON’s directives, these 95,625 units were subjected to a lock-in period, which is set to conclude on the 4th Jestha, 2081, as communicated to investors and stakeholders.

    As of the previous trading day, VLUCL closed at Rs. 507.00.

  • Kumari Bank Limited Auctions Promoter Shares of Sagarmatha Lumbini Insurance Company Limited: Opportunity for Investors

    Kumari Bank Limited Auctions Promoter Shares of Sagarmatha Lumbini Insurance Company Limited: Opportunity for Investors


    Kumari Bank Limited (KBL) has initiated the auction of promoter shares of Sagarmatha Lumbini Insurance Company Limited (SALICO), commencing from today, 28th Chaitra, until 1st Jestha, 2080. This auction presents an opportunity for investors to acquire shares in SALICO, a prominent insurance company in Nepal.

    A total of 1,14,612 unit promoter shares of SALICO are being auctioned, with promoter shareholders eligible to participate in the bidding process. The minimum bid rate for SALICO’s auction is set at Rs. 275, with a minimum bid quantity of 1,000 units for promoter shares. While bidders have the option to bid for the entire issue, they must adhere to the regulations set by the Nepal Rastra Bank, ensuring that the specified quantity of shares per entity is not exceeded.

    The auction is managed by Kumari Capital, providing a transparent and efficient platform for investors to participate. As of the latest update, SALICO’s Last Traded Price (LTP) stands at Rs. 667.00, indicating the current market value of the company’s shares.

  • Nepal Prepares for Nepal Investment Summit 2024 to Boost Economy

    Nepal Prepares for Nepal Investment Summit 2024 to Boost Economy


    The Government of Nepal is gearing up for the highly anticipated Nepal Investment Summit 2024, set to kick off on April 28 in Kathmandu. This two-day event, themed ‘Emerging Nepal,’ aims to showcase 125 national-level projects across various sectors to attract investment and foster economic development in the country.

    Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, in discussions with development partners, emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to creating a secure and conducive investment climate. The Investment Board of Nepal (IBN) has extended invitations to over 1,100 potential investors, with more than 100 projects identified as viable for display at the summit.

    Nepal boasts promising investment prospects in sectors such as clean energy, tourism, agro-processing, mining, information and communication technology (ICT), transportation, and manufacturing. Highlighted projects include the Nepal-China Friendly Industrial Park in Jhapa, the Upper Marsyangdi-2 Hydropower Project, grid-connected solar initiatives in Banke and Kapilvastu districts, and a potential agreement with Dabur Nepal for expanding production capacity.

    The estimated cost of the Nepal-China Friendly Industrial Park is $786 million, while the Upper Marsyangdi-2 Hydropower Project seeks $647 million in Chinese investment. Grid-connected solar projects and Dabur Nepal’s expansion plan also present significant investment opportunities, showcasing Nepal’s appeal to prospective investors.

    Despite past investment summits in 2017 and 2019 aimed at boosting Nepal’s attractiveness to investors, challenges remain in translating summit outcomes into tangible results. The government has undertaken pre-event activities abroad and streamlined preparations, but delays in amending relevant legislation persist, hindering progress towards creating a more investor-friendly regulatory environment.

    Pre-Seminar on Nepal Investment Summit held in Zhejiang Province of China - Click Nepal

  • Devastating Fire at Bharat Furniture: A Costly Setback for the Industry

    Devastating Fire at Bharat Furniture: A Costly Setback for the Industry


    A devastating fire broke out at Bharat Furniture, located in Matihani-8 of the district, causing extensive damage estimated at over Rs 3.5 million. Owned by Dukhmochan Thakur, the furniture industry fell victim to the blaze, which ignited around 10:00 pm on Monday, as reported by the District Police Office, Mahottari. The inferno swiftly engulfed the premises, consuming furniture and raw materials stored within the establishment.

    Efforts to combat the fire involved teams comprising the Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, and local residents, supported by a fire engine. Despite their collaborative endeavors, the true extent of the damage inflicted by the fire is currently under assessment, highlighting the substantial setback experienced by Bharat Furniture and its proprietor, Dukhmochan Thakur.

  • Global IME Ltd. Debenture Delisting: Implications and Refund Process

    Global IME Ltd. Debenture Delisting: Implications and Refund Process


    In a significant development, 1,500,000 units of the “10.25% Global IME Ltd. Debenture 2080/81” have been removed from trading on the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE). This move holds implications for investors and marks the culmination of the debenture’s tenure.

    The “10.25% Global IME Ltd. Debenture 2080/81” reached its maturity date in Chaitra, 2080, offering a lucrative 10.25% annual return to unitholders throughout its term. With its delisting, Global IME Ltd. is now set to initiate the process of refunding the seed fund and distributing the accrued interest to its unitholders. This step signifies the completion of the debenture’s cycle and highlights the company’s commitment to its investors.

    For unitholders seeking detailed information on the refund process and interest distribution, Global IME Bank Limited stands ready to assist. Unitholders are encouraged to reach out to or visit the nearest branches of Global IME Bank Limited, conveniently located in Kamaladi, Kathmandu, Nepal.

     

  • ADBL Introduces Digital Loan Facility on ADBL Smart Plus App to Enhance Financial Inclusion

    ADBL Introduces Digital Loan Facility on ADBL Smart Plus App to Enhance Financial Inclusion


    The Agricultural Development Bank Limited (ADBL) has launched a novel loan facility via the ADBL Smart Plus App, responding to the increasing demand for digital services and aiming to bolster financial access and inclusivity. This initiative enables eligible customers holding salary accounts with the bank to access instant loans of up to Rs. 2 lakhs directly through their mobile banking application, devoid of the necessity for collateral, paperwork, or physical visits to the bank.

    The repayment tenure for these loans can be selected as 3, 6, 9, or 12 months, structured on an Equated Monthly Installment (EMI) basis, with provisions for pre-payment. Additionally, eligible customers can avail themselves of the Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) feature for credit payments at Fonepay merchants via QR codes, facilitating purchases with the flexibility to pay in monthly installments.

    Moreover, customers have the option to utilize the “Convert to EMI” functionality to transform significant transactions into loans payable through installments. The registration process for this service is straightforward through the mobile banking app, and loan eligibility is determined based on a variety of criteria. Agricultural Development Bank aims to enhance customer convenience by introducing digital loans through the Foneloan service, marking itself as the first government bank to do so.

    Sagar Sharma, the CEO of Foneloan, underscores the objective of maximizing customer convenience, while Govinda Gurung, the CEO of Agricultural Development Bank, emphasizes the bank’s dedication to providing convenient facilities and expanding its array of digital banking services. Agricultural Development Bank operates via numerous branches and ATMs nationwide, catering to various sectors, including agriculture and personal loans, and offers comprehensive digital banking services.