Category: Business | Market | Economy

  • Nepal Clearing House Ltd. Processes Over NRs. 84 Billion on the Last Day of Poush 2080

    Nepal Clearing House Ltd. Processes Over NRs. 84 Billion on the Last Day of Poush 2080


    On the final day of Poush 2080, Nepal Clearing House Ltd. (NCHL) facilitated transactions totaling over NRs. 84 Billion through its payment systems. This marked a significant increase of 60 percent in transaction volume and 70 percent in transaction value compared to the corresponding day in the previous year. NCHL-ECC, NCHL-IPS, and RPS processed transactions amounting to NRs. 41 B, NRs. 14 B, and NRs. 29 B, respectively, on the last day of the second quarter.

    Real-time transactions within the RPS system experienced a surge, with transactions initiated from various sources such as connectIPS (App, Web, Gateway), CORPORATEPAY, bank branches, mobile banking, wallets, and NPI-integrated channels/systems. Throughout the day, both NCHL-IPS and RPS systems witnessed significant Government revenue collections surpassing NRs. 1.6 B and expenses exceeding NRs. 6.8 B, equivalent to over 1.25 lakh transactions. Government payments were facilitated through various channels, including connectIPS, CORPORATEPAY, NEPALPAY QR gateway, bank branches, mobile banking, and wallets.

    NCHL’s systems are utilized by more than 53 bank financial institutions (BFIs) as direct members and over 100 non-bank institutions as indirect or technical members. The BFIs extend payment services through their extensive network of over 7,000 branches, while indirect/technical members reach their customers through diverse channels.

  • Machhapuchchhre Bank Successfully Concludes Promoter Shares Auction.

    Machhapuchchhre Bank Successfully Concludes Promoter Shares Auction.


    The auction closing day of Machhapuchchhre Bank’s 1,12,32,492 Units Promoter Shares marked a crucial milestone in the bank’s strategic initiatives. By offering these shares, the bank aimed to enhance capital, allowing for expansion and strategic projects.

     

  • Commercial and Development Banks’ Performance in Nepal for FY 2080/81

    Commercial and Development Banks’ Performance in Nepal for FY 2080/81


    Nepal Rastra Bank has recently published data outlining the financial performance of both commercial banks and development banks for the initial five months of the ongoing fiscal year 2080/81, concluding in Mangsir.

    Concerning commercial banks, the combined net profit for the first five months of the fiscal year 2080/81 in Nepal reached Rs. 28.36 Arba. Noteworthy is Nabil Bank’s leading position, having attained the highest net profit of Rs. 2.96 Arba. Global IME Bank closely followed with earnings of Rs. 2.73 Arba, securing the second position, while NIMB claimed the third spot with a net profit of Rs. 2.6 Arba during this period. In contrast, Agricultural Development Bank reported the lowest net profit among commercial banks at Rs. 12.5 Crores.

    Turning to development banks, despite three out of the 17 banks incurring losses, the overall sector in Nepal achieved a net profit of Rs. 1.9 Arba. Muktinath Bikas Bank exhibited outstanding performance with an impressive net profit of Rs. 45.93 crore, closely followed by Garima Bikas Bank with earnings of Rs. 38.67 crore. Conversely, Corporate Development Bank and Narayani Development Bank reported the lowest profits in the sector, with earnings of Rs. 1.09 Crores and Rs. 10.7 Lakhs, respectively. Notably, Saptakoshi, Salapa, and Excel Development Bank faced challenges as they experienced net losses during the same period.

  • Kalika Laghubitta Promoter Shares Auction Begins Today

    Kalika Laghubitta Promoter Shares Auction Begins Today


    The current owners of Kalika Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Limited (KMCDB) are offering 61,000 shares for auction to existing shareholders, starting from December 27, 2080. Among them, Santosh Shrestha plans to sell 56,000 shares, Padam Pani Kafle aims to sell 1,500 shares, and Bimala Sapkota Lamichanne intends to sell 3,500 shares to other existing promoters.

    This auction is exclusively open to current promoters, and they have a 35-day window from the notice date (December 27, 2080) to submit their bids. Interested shareholders must present their bids at the company’s central office in Pokhara.

     

  • Ghalemdi Hydro Allots Right Shares, Subscription Reaches 70.75%

    Ghalemdi Hydro Allots Right Shares, Subscription Reaches 70.75%


    Ghalemdi Hydro Limited (GHL) recently allocated its right shares at a 1:2 ratio on the 25th of Poush. The shares were distributed to applicants, and those who did not receive an allotment will be refunded starting from the 29th of Poush, 2080.

    During the period from the 10th of Mangsir to the 16th of Poush, 2080, the company issued 1,10,00,000 units of right shares. The book closure date for the rights offering was declared on Kartik 2, allowing investors holding shares before that day to apply for the additional shares.

    Out of the total right shares, 77,82,276 shares were allocated to 28,121 valid applicants. However, 32,17,724 shares (29.25%) remained unclaimed by eligible investors. These remaining shares are set to be auctioned soon, open to the general public and institutions.

     

  • Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower Limited Initiates Auction for Unclaimed Right Shares

    Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower Limited Initiates Auction for Unclaimed Right Shares


    Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower Limited (UPPER) is currently conducting an auction for its unclaimed right shares, which commenced on the 13th of Poush and is scheduled to conclude on the 29th of Poush, 2080. The auction involves 1,70,19,530 units of ordinary right shares, representing the remaining portion of the rights offering issued by the company. The rights offering, in a 1:1 ratio, occurred between the 18th of Bhadra and the 22nd of Ashwin, 2080, where a total of 105,900,000 shares were issued. Eligible shareholders were allotted 8,88,80,470 shares, leaving 1,70,19,530 shares unclaimed. The ongoing auction is managed by Sunrise Capital Limited.

    The minimum bid rate for the auction is set at Rs. 100, with a minimum bid quantity of 100 units and a maximum bid quantity of 5,00,000 units. After the adjustment of the proposed right share, UPPER’s paid-up capital will increase to Rs. 21.18 Arba.

    In its recent financial report for the first quarter of the fiscal year 2080/81, UPPER reported a net profit of Rs. 1.00 Arba, resulting in an annualized earnings per share of Rs. 25.20. The net worth of the company stands at Rs. 60.97, with Rs. 73.01 Arba in long-term loans and Rs. 3.04 Arba in short-term loans.

    Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower Limited closed at Rs. 198 per share on January 9th, with a 52-week high of Rs. 590 and a low of Rs. 190. Established in 2007 by the Nepal Electricity Authority, UPPER is a key player in the hydropower sector, focusing on the Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project.

    The decision to issue 100% right shares aims to strengthen UPPER’s financial position amid challenges faced during the construction of the Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project. Unforeseen circumstances and a prolonged construction period led to increased costs, prompting the issuance of right shares to address rising interest expenses. The issuance was approved during the 14th Annual General Meeting in 2079, aligning with the company’s commitment to financial restructuring and stability.

    The construction phase of the project initially had a loan-to-equity ratio of 70% to 30%, but the evolving financial landscape and increased costs necessitated a shift in this ratio. The proposed right shares will contribute to stabilizing the company’s financial health and facilitate further growth opportunities. UPPER aims to fulfill its financial requirements, ensuring it remains well-positioned to navigate future challenges and contribute significantly to Nepal’s energy sector.

    Regarding the company’s capital across fiscal years, after the adjustment of 100% right shares, UPPER’s authorized capital for 2080/81 stands at Rs. 30 Arba, with issued and paid-up capital also at Rs. 21.18 Arba. The Mathillo Tamakoshi Jalbidhyut Yojana, a run-of-river type project, is the flagship project with a maximum output of 456 MW.

    The management team, led by CEO Mr. Mohan Prasad Gautam, oversees various aspects of the company’s operations. The board of directors plays a crucial role in guiding UPPER’s strategic decisions.

    In conclusion, UPPER’s move to issue 100% right shares presents an opportunity for investors to acquire shares at a lower price. The ongoing auction of unclaimed right shares provides investors with a chance to participate and potentially enhance returns. Existing shareholders can consider averaging their cost price through this opportunity.

  • Machhapuchchhre Bank Limited Promoter Initiates Auction of Significant Shares

    Machhapuchchhre Bank Limited Promoter Initiates Auction of Significant Shares


    The current promoter of Machhapuchchhre Bank Limited (MBL) has initiated the auction of 1,12,32,492 units of shares, commencing today. Surendra Mahato, the promoter, is set to sell this significant portion, representing approximately 18.95% of the total promoter shares or 51% ownership in MBL. In the context of the total 11.62 Crore units of shares listed on the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE), the shares being auctioned constitute around 9.66% of the total shares. This auction is anticipated to draw the interest of investors and could potentially impact the ownership structure of MBL.

    Eligibility for participation in the auction is limited to qualified interested promoter shareholders, the general public, and institutions. The bidding period spans from the 25th of Poush to the 2nd of Magh, 2080. The minimum bid rate set for this auction is Rs. 115, with a minimum bid quantity of 10,00,000 units for promoter shares. Interested shareholders are required to submit their bids at Machhapuchchhre Capital Limited, situated at Baghdurbar, JDA Complex, Kathmandu.

    As of the most recent data, MBL closed at Rs. 197.80 on the preceding day. Additionally, MBLPO (Machhapuchchhre Bank Limited Promoter Share) has a Last Traded Price (LTP) of Rs. 136.00 as of May 10, 2023.

  • Vishal Group Limited Initiates Auction of 15,00,000 Promoter Shares of Nepal Reinsurance Company Limited (NRIC) with NIC Asia Capital as Auction Manager

    Vishal Group Limited Initiates Auction of 15,00,000 Promoter Shares of Nepal Reinsurance Company Limited (NRIC) with NIC Asia Capital as Auction Manager


    Vishal Group Limited has initiated the auction of 15,00,000 units of promoter shares belonging to Nepal Reinsurance Company Limited (NRIC). The auction, which commenced today on the 24th of Poush, is set to continue until the 29th of Magh, 2080.

    The auction specifically involves 15,00,000 units of promoter shares from Nepal Reinsurance Company Limited, and it is open to interested promoter shareholders who are eligible to participate in the bidding process. The minimum bid rate for these shares is set at Rs. 325. Participants in the auction must bid for a minimum quantity of 2,00,000 units, with the maximum bid capped at 15,00,000 units.

    NIC Asia Capital Limited has been appointed as the auction manager overseeing the entire process.

    As of the latest available information, Nepal Reinsurance Company Limited (NRIC) is currently trading at a Last Traded Price (LTP) of Rs. 682.90.

  • NMB Bank and HIDCL to Invest 7.40 Arba Rupees in Upper Modi A Hydropower Project

    NMB Bank and HIDCL to Invest 7.40 Arba Rupees in Upper Modi A Hydropower Project


    NMB Bank and the Hydroelectricity Investment and Development (HIDCL) Company have jointly committed a substantial investment of 7.40 Arba rupees towards the Upper Modi A hydropower project. In this collaboration, NMB Bank will contribute 4.40 Arba rupees, while HIDCL will invest 3 Arba rupees. The signing of a tripartite loan agreement formalized this partnership, witnessed by Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Minister Shakti Bahadur Basnet, involving the project promoters Modi Hydropower Company, NMB Bank, and HIDCL.

    The comprehensive cost of the entire project, inclusive of interest during construction, is estimated to be 10.57 Arba rupees. Financing for the project will comprise 70% from debt and the remaining 30% from equity, sourced from the project authority and the public. The objective is to complete the Upper Modi A hydroelectric initiative within a four-year timeframe, currently in the preparatory stages with evaluations ongoing for civil and hydromechanical aspects under Phase 1. Simultaneously, construction is underway for essential infrastructure such as project site offices and residences.

    Crucial approvals for land acquisition, including forested areas, have been secured, and NEA Engineering Company is slated to oversee construction. This company will also supervise the 18.2 MW Upper Modi Hydroelectric Project. Financial management for the 42 MW Upper Modi A hydroelectric project, situated in the Annapurna Rural Municipality of Kaski, will be handled through a subsidiary company of the Nepal Electricity Authority.

    Minister Basnet highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing domestic electricity consumption and exporting surplus power to neighboring countries like India and Bangladesh. He emphasized a shift in perspective, noting that hydropower is now recognized not just as infrastructure but also for its economic potential through electricity consumption.

  • Closure and Distribution: NIBL Pragati Fund Nearing Maturity on Poush 26, 2080

    Closure and Distribution: NIBL Pragati Fund Nearing Maturity on Poush 26, 2080


    The NIBL Pragati Fund (NIBLPF), a closed-end 7-year mutual fund scheme with a total size of Rs. 75 Crore, is set to reach maturity on the 26th of Poush, 2080. Managed by NIMB Ace Capital Limited, with NIMB Bank Limited as the fund sponsor, the scheme is scheduled to issue its delisting notice on the 24th of Poush, 2080. It is noteworthy that the fund has consistently provided dividends to investors over the past three fiscal years.

    Upon the conclusion of the maturity period, the trading of the mutual fund shares will be suspended, and investors will receive their share of the investment after the mutual fund sells all its holdings. As part of the maturity process, the fund is required to sell all its shares, debentures, and non-listed shares, distributing the proceeds proportionally among the unit holders. The latest Net Asset Value (NAV) is recorded at Rs. 9.68 as of Mangsir.

    The last traded price of the mutual fund is Rs. 9.32 as of January 8, 2024

  • Life Insurance Companies in Nepal Achieve Remarkable Premium Collection of Rs. 61.75 Arba in the First Five Months of FY 2080/81

    Life Insurance Companies in Nepal Achieve Remarkable Premium Collection of Rs. 61.75 Arba in the First Five Months of FY 2080/81


    During the first fifth month of the fiscal year 2080/81, life insurance companies in Nepal achieved an impressive milestone by collecting a substantial amount of premiums totaling Rs. 61.75 Arba. This significant premium collection resulted from a cumulative total of 13,754,483 active insurance policies held by policyholders until the month of Mangsir.

    A report published by the Nepal Insurance Authority reveals that Reliable Nepal Life Insurance Company stands out with the highest number of active policies, boasting 3,264,677 policies. Following closely is National Life Insurance Company with 1,579,259 policies, while Prabhu Mahalaxmi Life Insurance Ltd holds the lowest number of active insurance policies with 168,986 policies.

    In terms of total insurance charges, Nepal Life Insurance Company Limited takes the lead with charges amounting to Rs. 16.76 Arba. National Life Insurance Company follows closely with charges of Rs. 7.16 Arba, and Life Insurance Corporation Limited with Rs. 6.92 Arba.

  • Madhesh Province’s Financial Sector Witnesses Robust Growth: 13.25% Surge in Deposits and 4.68% Rise in Loans

    Madhesh Province’s Financial Sector Witnesses Robust Growth: 13.25% Surge in Deposits and 4.68% Rise in Loans


    The financial sector in Madhesh province is undergoing a notable expansion, as evidenced by the annual report on regional economic activity presented by the Nepal Rastra Bank for the fiscal year 2079/80. The report discloses a substantial 13.25% surge in total deposits and a 4.68% increase in loans, reflecting a positive trend in the banking landscape.

    According to the report, banks and financial institutions in Madhesh province have witnessed a significant rise in total deposits, reaching Rs. 2 kharba 96 arba 50 crore. This marks a noteworthy increase of 13.25% compared to the previous fiscal year. In contrast, the corresponding period in the preceding year saw a 5.35% growth, amounting to Rs. 2 kharba 61 arba 81 crore.

    The fiscal year’s review also indicates a 4.68% growth in loans extended by banks and financial institutions in Madhesh province, totaling Rs. 4 kharba 50 arba 21 crores. Although this represents a positive trajectory, the growth in loans during the same period of the previous year was more substantial at 16.70%, totaling Rs. 4 kharba, 30 arba, and 9 crore.

    Furthermore, the report highlights an increase in the total number of branches of banks and financial institutions, including microfinance entities, licensed by Nepal Rastra Bank in Madhesh Province. The current count stands at 1,745 branches during the year under review, reflecting growth from the 1,607 branches that were operational in the province during the corresponding period in the previous year.