Category: Business | Market | Economy

  • Nepal Rastra Bank Unveils FY 2023/24 Macroeconomic Overview

    Nepal Rastra Bank Unveils FY 2023/24 Macroeconomic Overview


    Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has presented a comprehensive overview of Nepal’s current macroeconomic and financial status based on data from the first eight months ending mid-March 2023/24.

    Inflation and Trade

    • Year-on-year inflation remained stable at 4.82%.
    • Gross foreign exchange reserves reached USD 14.14 billion.
    • Total imports decreased by 2.7%, exports by 4.0%, and trade deficit by 2.5%.
    • Concessional loans extended to various sectors totaled Rs. 149.30 billion.
    • NEPSE index rose to 2108.73 from 1953.06 a year ago.

    Inflation Trends

    • Consumer price inflation moderated to 4.82%, down from 7.44%.
    • Wholesale price inflation decreased to 3.69%.
    • Merchandise exports fell by 4.0%, while imports decreased by 2.7%.
    • Remittance inflows increased by 21.0%.

    Foreign Exchange and Reserves

    • Gross foreign exchange reserves grew by 21.7% to Rs. 1872.82 billion.
    • Reserves-to-imports ratio improved to 103.1%.
    • Exchange rate depreciated by 0.73% against the USD.
    • Government expenditure increased by 2.9% to Rs. 801.58 billion.
    • Revenue mobilization rose by 9.7% to Rs. 639.05 billion.

    Banking and Credit

    • Domestic credit and claims on the private sector increased by 4.0% and 5.6% respectively.
    • Deposits at BFIs expanded by 7.6% to Rs. 435.87 billion.
    • Average base rates for commercial banks stood at 8.77%.

    Balance of Payments

    • Balance of Payments remained in surplus at Rs. 327.55 billion.

    Overall, Nepal’s economy shows resilience and positive growth indicators amidst global economic fluctuations.

  • Nepal Investment Mega Bank Initiates Auction of Promoter Shares: Exclusive Opportunity for Existing Shareholders

    Nepal Investment Mega Bank Initiates Auction of Promoter Shares: Exclusive Opportunity for Existing Shareholders


    The current promoter of Nepal Investment Mega Bank Limited (NIMB) has initiated the auction of 2,55,741 units of shares, exclusively targeting existing promoter shareholders, starting from today, the 30th of Falgun, 2080.

    In this auction process, only the existing promoters of NIMB are eligible to participate in the bidding, and they have a window of 35 days from the date of the notice publication, concluding on the 30th of Falgun, to submit their bids.

    All interested shareholders are required to submit their bids at the central office of the bank, conveniently located in Lazimpat, Kathmandu. It’s noteworthy that if no bids are received from existing founder shareholders within the specified timeframe, the shares will subsequently be made available for auction to the general public.

    As of the latest update, NIMB is listed with a Last Traded Price (LTP) of Rs. 172.90. Simultaneously, NIMBPO, another class of shares associated with the bank, closed at Rs. 140.10. These market values provide insight into the current financial standing and investor sentiment surrounding Nepal Investment Mega Bank Limited and its associated securities.

  • 3,25,000 Promoter Shares of Miteri Development Bank In Auction From Today

    3,25,000 Promoter Shares of Miteri Development Bank In Auction From Today


    Miteri Development Bank Limited (MDB) is currently undergoing a significant development as its existing promoter, Sunil Shrestha, has initiated the auction of 3,25,000 units of shares exclusively to existing promoter shareholders starting from today, the 29th of Falgun, 2080.

    In this offering, Sunil Shrestha aims to sell the specified number of promoter shares to the existing promoter shareholders, and only individuals falling under this category are eligible to participate in the bidding process. The auction window extends for a period of 35 days from the date of the notice publication, concluding on the 29th of Falgun.

    Interested shareholders are required to submit their bids either at the central office of Miteri Development Bank Limited, situated at Mahendrapath, Dharan, or at Prabhu Capital Limited, located in Kamaladi, Kathmandu. It’s important to note that if no bids are received from existing founder shareholders within the stipulated timeframe, the shares will subsequently be made available for auction to the general public.

    As of the current update, MDB is listed with a Last Traded Price (LTP) of Rs. 397.10. Simultaneously, MDBPO, another class of shares associated with the bank, has an LTP of Rs. 217.00. These market values provide a snapshot of the current financial standing and investor sentiment surrounding Miteri Development Bank Limited and its associated securities.

  • NLBBL and MMFDB Merger Finalized: NEPSE Issues Circular on Share Transaction Suspension

    NLBBL and MMFDB Merger Finalized: NEPSE Issues Circular on Share Transaction Suspension


    The final steps for the merger between Nerude Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Limited (NLBBL) and Mirmire Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Limited (MMFDB) have recently been concluded. In accordance with Section 9 (3) of the Merger and Acquisition Directive 2079 Act, the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) has issued a circular, officially suspending share transactions of the company as outlined in Section 9 (3) of the Directory 2079.

    The merger agreement between NLBBL and MMFDB, sealed at a swap ratio of 1:1, has determined the formation of a new entity named “Nerude Mirmire Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Limited.” This new company is slated to commence joint operations on Falgun 30, marking the beginning of a consolidated business approach.

    Currently, NLBBL holds a paid-up capital of Rs. 73.20 Crores, while MMFDB’s paid-up capital stands at Rs. 66.57 Crores. The merger signifies a strategic combination of financial strengths and resources from both entities, aiming to enhance their overall market position and operational capabilities.

    In the current scenario, NLBBL and MMFDB are valued at Rs. 595.00 and Rs. 580.00, respectively, based on their Last Traded Prices (LTP). This reflects the market’s anticipation and response to the forthcoming merger, showcasing potential implications for the stock values of the involved entities.

  • NEPSE Index Surges 2.85%: Finance Ministry’s Commitment Boosts Confidence in Nepalese Stock Market

    NEPSE Index Surges 2.85%: Finance Ministry’s Commitment Boosts Confidence in Nepalese Stock Market


    The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) Index demonstrated a noteworthy surge, gaining 58.58 points or 2.85% compared to the previous day’s closing, concluding at 2,111.24 points. In the preceding trading session, the index had also experienced a positive trend, accumulating a gain of 22.10 points. The day’s trading activities commenced with the index opening at 2,065.63, touching an intraday low of 2,064.08, and reaching an intraday high of 2,111.24, ultimately settling at this peak as the closing figure.

    Acknowledging the pivotal role of the stock market in the nation’s economic development, the Finance Ministry emphasized the necessity for a collective effort to address prevailing issues and expedite initiatives. The unwavering commitment of the finance minister towards enhancing the stock market has created a positive atmosphere, fostering growth and confidence within the sector.

    In the course of today’s trading, a total of 305 different stocks were exchanged through 82,746 transactions. The volume of shares traded amounted to 10,609,597 with a total turnover of Rs. 4.55 Arba. The market capitalization stood at Rs. 33.18 Kharba, with a float market capitalization of Rs. 11.30 Kharba.

    SHIVAM CEMENTS LTD (SHIVM) emerged as the top performer in terms of turnover, reaching Rs. 37.19 crores and closing at a market price of Rs. 554.

    Five companies experienced a positive circuit today, contributing to the overall optimistic market sentiment. On the contrary, Himalayan 80-20 (H8020) recorded the highest loss of 2.57%, followed by Molung Hydropower Company Limited (MHCL) with a loss of 2.53%.

    Notably, all sector indices concluded in the green, with the “Life Insurance Index” leading the pack with the highest gain of 5.44%, while the “HydroPower Index” recorded the least gain at 0.99%. This robust performance across various sectors reflects a positive trajectory in the Nepalese stock market.

  • Nepal’s Macroeconomic Snapshot: Resilient Remittances, Forex Stability, and Balanced Trade Dynamics in the First Seven Months of 2023/24

    Nepal’s Macroeconomic Snapshot: Resilient Remittances, Forex Stability, and Balanced Trade Dynamics in the First Seven Months of 2023/24


    The Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), the central bank of Nepal, has presented an overview of the country’s macroeconomic and financial situation based on data from the first seven months, ending mid-February of 2023/24.

    Overall

    According to NRB, the inflation rate was estimated at 5.01% on a year-on-year basis. The gross foreign exchange reserves reached USD 13.89 billion. Total imports decreased by 2.3%, exports by 7.1%, and the trade deficit by 1.8%. The NEPSE index stood at 2101.16.

    Inflation

    Year-on-year consumer price inflation moderated to 5.01% in mid-February 2024, compared to 7.88% a year ago. Wholesale price inflation stood at 2.82% in mid-February 2024.

    Import and Export

    Merchandise exports decreased by 7.1% to Rs. 86.83 billion, while merchandise imports decreased by 2.3% to Rs. 897.94 billion. The total trade deficit decreased by 1.8% to Rs. 811.11 billion.

    Services and Remittance

    Net services income remained at a deficit of Rs. 37.26 billion, while remittance inflows increased by 21.6% to Rs. 839 billion.

    Inter-bank Transaction

    BFIs inter-bank transactions amounted to Rs. 2872.44 billion. The price of oil decreased to USD 83.88 per barrel, and the price of gold increased to USD 2015.20 per ounce.

    Foreign Exchange Reserves

    Gross foreign exchange reserves increased to Rs. 1844.94 billion. Reserves held by NRB and other institutions increased, and the Indian currency’s share in total reserves stood at 22.6%.

    Exchange Rate

    The Nepalese currency depreciated by 1.05% against the US dollar.

    Nepal Government Expenditure and Revenue

    Total government expenditure stood at Rs. 686.75 billion, with revenue mobilization reaching Rs. 567.40 billion.

    Cash Balance of Government

    The cash balance at various accounts of the Government of Nepal (GoN) maintained with NRB stood at Rs. 215.26 billion.

    Banking

    Domestic credit increased by 3.2%, deposits at Banks and Financial Institutions (BFIs) increased by 7.0%, and private sector credit from BFIs increased by 4.1%.

    Interest Rates

    Average base rates of commercial banks, development banks, and finance companies stood at 9.06%, 11.13%, and 12.70%, respectively.

    Balance of Payments

    The Balance of Payments (BOP) remained at a surplus of Rs. 297.72 billion.

  • Barahi Hydropower Receives Final Approval for 1:1 Right Share Issuance to Fund Key Projects

    Barahi Hydropower Receives Final Approval for 1:1 Right Share Issuance to Fund Key Projects


    The final approval from the Electricity Regulatory Commission has been granted to Barahi Hydropower Public Limited (BHPL) for the issuance of right shares in a 1:1 ratio for its shareholders. The hydropower company had proposed to issue 100% right shares based on its paid-up capital of Rs. 25 Crores. Following the adjustment of the proposed right shares, totaling 2,500,000 units, the company’s paid-up capital is set to double to Rs. 50 Crores.

    The primary purpose behind the issuance of these right shares is to fund the construction of two hydropower projects owned by BHPL – the Simkosh Khola Hydroelectric Project (3.45 MW) and Lower Theule Khola Hydropower Project (0.75 MW).

    It’s important to note that the company will proceed with the issuance of right shares to its shareholders only upon receiving approval from the Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON). As of the latest update, BHPL closed at Rs. 479.00.

  • Khani Khola Hydropower Company’s Rs. 46.57 Crore Right Share Issue Under SEBON Review

    Khani Khola Hydropower Company’s Rs. 46.57 Crore Right Share Issue Under SEBON Review


    The Securities Exchange Board of Nepal (SEBON) has included the right shares of Khani Khola Hydropower Company Limited (KKHC) in its preliminary review process. The company submitted the application to the board on Falgun 17, 2080.

    Khani Khola Hydropower Company Limited plans to issue 100% right shares, amounting to Rs. 46.57 Crores. This will involve the issuance of 4,657,143 (1:1) units of right shares to its existing shareholders. Currently, the company’s paid-up capital stands at Rs. 46.57 Crore. With the proposed right share adjustment, the paid-up capital is set to increase to Rs. 93.14 Crore.

    Citizens Capital Limited has been appointed as the issue manager for this process.

  • Hathway Investment Nepal Limited to Conclude Lock-In Period for 36,512 Mutual Fund Shares on March 1, 2080

    Hathway Investment Nepal Limited to Conclude Lock-In Period for 36,512 Mutual Fund Shares on March 1, 2080


    Hathway Investment Nepal Limited (HATHY) has notified its investors and stakeholders regarding the impending expiration of the lock-in period for 36,512 unit shares held by Mutual Funds. The Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) has directed that this lock-in period will conclude on 1st Chaitra, 2080.

    HATHY, with a total of 25,740,000 units of shares listed on the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE), had allocated 5 percent of 29,25,000 shares exclusively for Mutual Funds, resulting in the issuance of 146,250 unit shares. However, only 36,512 units are currently subject to the lock-in period.

    In compliance with SEBON’s directives issued on Mangsir 25, a portion of these shares, precisely 36,512 units, were placed under a lock-in period. Stakeholders and investors are now informed that the lock-in period for these 36,512 unit shares concluded on Chaitra 1.

    The closing market price for HATHY stood at Rs. 863.90 as of the previous trading day.

  • Sabottam Cement IPO Allotment: Awaiting Lucky Winners through Friday’s Lottery System

    Sabottam Cement IPO Allotment: Awaiting Lucky Winners through Friday’s Lottery System


    The IPO allotment process for Sabottam Cement, a prominent cement company, is set to conclude on Friday. Lucky applicants who successfully secure shares will receive an allotment of 50 units each through a lottery system. This eagerly anticipated event marks a significant step in the company’s public offering, providing an opportunity for investors to become part of Sabottam Cement’s ownership. The lottery system ensures a fair and unbiased distribution of shares among eligible applicants, contributing to transparency in the IPO allotment process. Stakeholders and potential investors eagerly await the outcome, hoping to be among the fortunate individuals who secure shares in Sabottam Cement through this highly anticipated public offering.

  • Citizens Bank Introduces 9.99% Fixed-Rate Home Loan Scheme for 7 Years

    Citizens Bank Introduces 9.99% Fixed-Rate Home Loan Scheme for 7 Years


    Citizens Bank International Limited (CZBIL) is launching a home loan scheme featuring a fixed interest rate of 9.99% for the initial seven years, providing customers with an opportunity to realize their dream homes. Following this initial period, a premium rate, 1% higher than the bank’s average monthly base rate, will be applicable.

    The home loan package encompasses a 0.50% management fee and offers additional benefits, including a complimentary credit card, debit card, and a 50% discount on locker facility fees for the first year. This initiative is aimed at facilitating and encouraging individuals in acquiring housing loans with favorable terms.

    CZBIL, with a widespread presence of 190 branches and 152 ATMs across the nation, serves a significant customer base of 17 lakh 26 thousand through 97 branchless banking units, providing modern banking services to meet diverse financial needs.

  • Auction Alerts: CORBL, ILBS, and UAIL Promoter Shares Up for Bidding

    Auction Alerts: CORBL, ILBS, and UAIL Promoter Shares Up for Bidding


    Corporate Development Bank Limited (CORBL) is set to auction 3,08,500 shares to existing promoter shareholders, beginning today. The interested parties are invited to submit their bids within 35 days from the publication date of this notice, i.e., by the 20th of Falgun, 2080. Bids should be submitted at the company’s central office located in Birgunj, Parsa. CORBL closed at Rs. 410.00 on the last trading day.

    In another auction notice, the existing promoters of Infinity Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Limited (ILBS) are offering 15,000 units of shares for auction, open to both existing promoter shareholders and the general public/institutions, starting from today. Interested individuals and promoter shareholders can bid for these shares within 15 days at the company’s central office in Gaidakot, Nawalparasi.

    Furthermore, ILBS promoters are also auctioning 60,050 units of shares exclusively for existing promoter shareholders, starting from today. If no bids are received within the stipulated 35-day timeframe, the shares will be open for auction to the general public. ILBS has a last traded price (LTP) of Rs. 675.00, while ILBSP has an LTP of Rs. 361.00.

    Similarly, the existing promoter of United Ajod Insurance Limited (UAIL), Sushila Goyal, is auctioning 52,593 units of shares to interested existing promoter shareholders, starting from today. Eligible shareholders are requested to submit their bids within 35 days from the publication date of this notice, i.e., by the 20th of Falgun, 2080, at the corporate office located at CTC Mall, Sundhara, Kathmandu. If no bids are received within the specified timeframe, the shares will be later auctioned to the general public. UAIL closed at Rs. 515.20.

    These auctions present opportunities for existing promoters to acquire shares within their respective institutions and contribute to the dynamic nature of the stock market