Investors in Nepal are seeing positive signs as the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) increased by 1.85 points to 1953.06 points on the 30th of Falgun 2079. The share turnover was reported to be at 1.135 billion rupees, with a total traded share of 3,318,108. Among the listed companies, 126 advanced, 78 declined, and 10 remained unchanged. The top gainer company of the day was Unique Nepal Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Limited (UNLB), which saw its last traded price increase by 10% to 1,325.90. However, NIC Asia Balanced Fund (NICBF) was the top loser of the day, with its last traded price decreasing by 5.64% to 8.20.
Meanwhile, the Nepal Bankers Association announced a reduction in interest rates on loans and deposits from the 1st of Chait. The premium rate on deposits will be reduced to 0.4%, while the rate on loans will be reduced to 1%. This move is expected to boost the investment climate in the country.
However, not all news was positive as there were demonstrations by victims of microfinance institutions and metered usury at Maitighar in Kathmandu. The protesters, representing victims from 50 districts, demanded the waiving of loans and the provision of free loans to farmers, among other things. It remains to be seen how the government will respond to these demands.
