Top3 min readSix Months of an Economist as Finance Minister: Progress, Limits, and the Reality of ReformSix Months of an Economist as Finance Minister: Progress, Limits, and the Reality of Reform Nepal witnessed a rare moment when an economist led the Ministry of Finance for about six months, a period that provided insight into what can realistically be achieved in a short tenure. Former finance minister Rameshwor Khanal reflected on his time in office, explaining that while fundamental reforms in the economy require years of sustained policy work, a limited term can still lay the groundwork for long-term change. According to Khanal, a six-month period is not sufficient to complete structural reforms or implement large-scale economic transformations. However, such a timeframe can be used effectively to initiate policy discussions, identify areas requiring reform, and begin administrative improvements. He emphasized that building consensus on major economic policies—especially those involving legal amendments and stakeholder consultations—takes significant time and coordination. Similarly, matters involving international partnerships and foreign investment negotiations cannot be concluded quickly.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readRace Begins for Deputy Governor Posts at Nepal Rastra Bank After Term ExpiryRace Begins for Deputy Governor Posts at Nepal Rastra Bank After Term Expiry A new round of competition has begun within Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) as the terms of its two Deputy Governors have officially expired, prompting preparations for fresh appointments. The positions became vacant after the tenure of Dr. Neelam Dhungana Timsina and Bam Bahadur Mishra, who were appointed in March 2021, ended on March 8, 2026. With these influential roles now open, the upcoming appointments have drawn significant attention from the banking sector and policymakers alike.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readSix Months of an Economist as Finance Minister: Progress, Limits, and the Reality of ReformSix Months of an Economist as Finance Minister: Progress, Limits, and the Reality of Reform Nepal witnessed a rare moment when an economist led the Ministry of Finance for about six months, a period that provided insight into what can realistically be achieved in a short tenure. Former finance minister Rameshwor Khanal reflected on his time in office, explaining that while fundamental reforms in the economy require years of sustained policy work, a limited term can still lay the groundwork for long-term change. According to Khanal, a six-month period is not sufficient to complete structural reforms or implement large-scale economic transformations. However, such a timeframe can be used effectively to initiate policy discussions, identify areas requiring reform, and begin administrative improvements. He emphasized that building consensus on major economic policies—especially those involving legal amendments and stakeholder consultations—takes significant time and coordination. Similarly, matters involving international partnerships and foreign investment negotiations cannot be concluded quickly.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readRace Begins for Deputy Governor Posts at Nepal Rastra Bank After Term ExpiryRace Begins for Deputy Governor Posts at Nepal Rastra Bank After Term Expiry A new round of competition has begun within Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) as the terms of its two Deputy Governors have officially expired, prompting preparations for fresh appointments. The positions became vacant after the tenure of Dr. Neelam Dhungana Timsina and Bam Bahadur Mishra, who were appointed in March 2021, ended on March 8, 2026. With these influential roles now open, the upcoming appointments have drawn significant attention from the banking sector and policymakers alike.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top2 min readNepal Rastra Bank Reviewing Blacklisting Rules, Governor Paudel Signals Balanced Approach to Business RegulationNepal Rastra Bank Reviewing Blacklisting Rules, Governor Paudel Signals Balanced Approach to Business Regulation Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Dr. Bishwanath Paudel has said the central bank is reviewing existing provisions related to blacklisting individuals involved in financial transactions, particularly cases involving bounced cheques and loan defaults. Speaking at a program in Kathmandu, Paudel stated that the central bank is carefully studying the current system to determine whether the process of placing individuals on a financial blacklist needs reform.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readChina Tightens Refined Oil Exports as Middle East Conflict Disrupts Global Energy MarketsChina Tightens Refined Oil Exports as Middle East Conflict Disrupts Global Energy Markets As tensions escalate in the Middle East and global energy markets face growing uncertainty, China has begun tightening controls on the export of refined petroleum products in an effort to safeguard its domestic energy security. Reports from international media indicate that Chinese authorities have started restricting overseas shipments of refined fuels such as petrol, diesel, and jet fuel, signaling Beijing’s cautious approach amid rising geopolitical risks.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top2 min read Trump Administration Plans New Tariffs on Major Trading Partners Using Section 301 Trump Administration Plans New Tariffs on Major Trading Partners Using Section 301 The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to impose new tariffs on several major trading partners, including India, China, the European Union, and Mexico, under a legal provision known as Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act. The move signals a renewed push by Washington to increase pressure on countries it believes are harming American companies through unfair trade practices.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top4 min readMiddle East War Escalates: Rising Casualties, Surging Oil Prices and Growing Global Economic ConcernsMiddle East War Escalates: Rising Casualties, Surging Oil Prices and Growing Global Economic Concerns The war that began on February 28, 2026 in Iran, involving Iran, Israel and the United States, has rapidly escalated into one of the most serious geopolitical crises in recent years. According to international media reports, including coverage published by Al Jazeera on March 9, the conflict has already claimed the lives of more than 1,250 people. What initially appeared to be a direct confrontation between Iran and Israel has now expanded beyond those two countries, spreading tensions across several nations in the Persian Gulf region.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readNepal’s Trade Deficit Widens: Exports Increase While Imports SurgeNepal’s Trade Deficit Widens: Exports Increase While Imports Surge Nepal’s trade deficit has shown a significant rise during the first seven months of the current fiscal year, reflecting an increasing gap between exports and imports. According to the latest report from Nepal Rastra Bank, the total trade deficit has risen by 10.9%, reaching NPR 955.34 billion, compared to a 6.2% increase during the same period last year. The growing trade deficit signals a continuing imbalance in the country’s foreign trade.Dipesh Ghimire·12 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readDecline in Bank Loan Interest Rates Amid Increased LiquidityDecline in Bank Loan Interest Rates Amid Increased Liquidity Nepal's banking sector has seen a noticeable decline in loan interest rates, with the average interest rate on loans dropping to 7% in the month of Magh (January) of the current fiscal year. This marks a significant reduction from 8.55% during the same period last year, reflecting a downward trend in borrowing costs.Dipesh Ghimire·12 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readNepal's Economic Indicators: Inflation Rises Amidst Slow Economic ActivityNepal's Economic Indicators: Inflation Rises Amidst Slow Economic Activity Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has reported an increase in the consumer price inflation for the month of Magh in the current fiscal year, which ended in January 2023. The rise in inflation typically signals higher economic activity or a rise in overall market demand. However, based on indicators such as the financial sector’s lending rates, imports and exports, liquidity in the financial sector, and interest rates, NRB finds no substantial increase in economic activity.Dipesh Ghimire·12 Mar, 2026
Top2 min readSEBON Imposes Fines on Three Brokerage Firms for Anti-Money Laundering ViolationsSEBON Imposes Fines on Three Brokerage Firms for Anti-Money Laundering Violations The Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) has taken strict action against three brokerage firms for violating anti-money laundering regulations. The board imposed fines on the companies for failing to adhere to the provisions of the Money Laundering Prevention Act, 2008. The affected brokerage firms include Sipla Securities Limited in Gyaneshwor, Shri Krishna Securities Limited in Dillibazar, and Hatemalo Financial Services Pvt. Ltd. in Naxal, Kathmandu.Dipesh Ghimire·12 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readSix Months of an Economist as Finance Minister: Progress, Limits, and the Reality of ReformSix Months of an Economist as Finance Minister: Progress, Limits, and the Reality of Reform Nepal witnessed a rare moment when an economist led the Ministry of Finance for about six months, a period that provided insight into what can realistically be achieved in a short tenure. Former finance minister Rameshwor Khanal reflected on his time in office, explaining that while fundamental reforms in the economy require years of sustained policy work, a limited term can still lay the groundwork for long-term change. According to Khanal, a six-month period is not sufficient to complete structural reforms or implement large-scale economic transformations. However, such a timeframe can be used effectively to initiate policy discussions, identify areas requiring reform, and begin administrative improvements. He emphasized that building consensus on major economic policies—especially those involving legal amendments and stakeholder consultations—takes significant time and coordination. Similarly, matters involving international partnerships and foreign investment negotiations cannot be concluded quickly.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readRace Begins for Deputy Governor Posts at Nepal Rastra Bank After Term ExpiryRace Begins for Deputy Governor Posts at Nepal Rastra Bank After Term Expiry A new round of competition has begun within Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) as the terms of its two Deputy Governors have officially expired, prompting preparations for fresh appointments. The positions became vacant after the tenure of Dr. Neelam Dhungana Timsina and Bam Bahadur Mishra, who were appointed in March 2021, ended on March 8, 2026. With these influential roles now open, the upcoming appointments have drawn significant attention from the banking sector and policymakers alike.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top2 min readNepal Rastra Bank Reviewing Blacklisting Rules, Governor Paudel Signals Balanced Approach to Business RegulationNepal Rastra Bank Reviewing Blacklisting Rules, Governor Paudel Signals Balanced Approach to Business Regulation Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Dr. Bishwanath Paudel has said the central bank is reviewing existing provisions related to blacklisting individuals involved in financial transactions, particularly cases involving bounced cheques and loan defaults. Speaking at a program in Kathmandu, Paudel stated that the central bank is carefully studying the current system to determine whether the process of placing individuals on a financial blacklist needs reform.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readChina Tightens Refined Oil Exports as Middle East Conflict Disrupts Global Energy MarketsChina Tightens Refined Oil Exports as Middle East Conflict Disrupts Global Energy Markets As tensions escalate in the Middle East and global energy markets face growing uncertainty, China has begun tightening controls on the export of refined petroleum products in an effort to safeguard its domestic energy security. Reports from international media indicate that Chinese authorities have started restricting overseas shipments of refined fuels such as petrol, diesel, and jet fuel, signaling Beijing’s cautious approach amid rising geopolitical risks.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top2 min read Trump Administration Plans New Tariffs on Major Trading Partners Using Section 301 Trump Administration Plans New Tariffs on Major Trading Partners Using Section 301 The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to impose new tariffs on several major trading partners, including India, China, the European Union, and Mexico, under a legal provision known as Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act. The move signals a renewed push by Washington to increase pressure on countries it believes are harming American companies through unfair trade practices.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top4 min readMiddle East War Escalates: Rising Casualties, Surging Oil Prices and Growing Global Economic ConcernsMiddle East War Escalates: Rising Casualties, Surging Oil Prices and Growing Global Economic Concerns The war that began on February 28, 2026 in Iran, involving Iran, Israel and the United States, has rapidly escalated into one of the most serious geopolitical crises in recent years. According to international media reports, including coverage published by Al Jazeera on March 9, the conflict has already claimed the lives of more than 1,250 people. What initially appeared to be a direct confrontation between Iran and Israel has now expanded beyond those two countries, spreading tensions across several nations in the Persian Gulf region.Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readNepal’s Trade Deficit Widens: Exports Increase While Imports SurgeNepal’s Trade Deficit Widens: Exports Increase While Imports Surge Nepal’s trade deficit has shown a significant rise during the first seven months of the current fiscal year, reflecting an increasing gap between exports and imports. According to the latest report from Nepal Rastra Bank, the total trade deficit has risen by 10.9%, reaching NPR 955.34 billion, compared to a 6.2% increase during the same period last year. The growing trade deficit signals a continuing imbalance in the country’s foreign trade.Dipesh Ghimire·12 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readDecline in Bank Loan Interest Rates Amid Increased LiquidityDecline in Bank Loan Interest Rates Amid Increased Liquidity Nepal's banking sector has seen a noticeable decline in loan interest rates, with the average interest rate on loans dropping to 7% in the month of Magh (January) of the current fiscal year. This marks a significant reduction from 8.55% during the same period last year, reflecting a downward trend in borrowing costs.Dipesh Ghimire·12 Mar, 2026
Top3 min readNepal's Economic Indicators: Inflation Rises Amidst Slow Economic ActivityNepal's Economic Indicators: Inflation Rises Amidst Slow Economic Activity Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has reported an increase in the consumer price inflation for the month of Magh in the current fiscal year, which ended in January 2023. The rise in inflation typically signals higher economic activity or a rise in overall market demand. However, based on indicators such as the financial sector’s lending rates, imports and exports, liquidity in the financial sector, and interest rates, NRB finds no substantial increase in economic activity.Dipesh Ghimire·12 Mar, 2026
Top2 min readSEBON Imposes Fines on Three Brokerage Firms for Anti-Money Laundering ViolationsSEBON Imposes Fines on Three Brokerage Firms for Anti-Money Laundering Violations The Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) has taken strict action against three brokerage firms for violating anti-money laundering regulations. The board imposed fines on the companies for failing to adhere to the provisions of the Money Laundering Prevention Act, 2008. The affected brokerage firms include Sipla Securities Limited in Gyaneshwor, Shri Krishna Securities Limited in Dillibazar, and Hatemalo Financial Services Pvt. Ltd. in Naxal, Kathmandu.Dipesh Ghimire·12 Mar, 2026
Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026Six Months of an Economist as Finance Minister: Progress, Limits, and the Reality of ReformSix Months of an Economist as Finance Minister: Progress, Limits, and the Reality of Reform Nepal witnessed a rare moment when an economist led the Ministry of Finance for about six months, a period that provided insight into what can realistically be achieved in a short tenure. Former finance minister Rameshwor Khanal reflected on his time in office, explaining that while fundamental reforms in the economy require years of sustained policy work, a limited term can still lay the groundwork for long-term change. According to Khanal, a six-month period is not sufficient to complete structural reforms or implement large-scale economic transformations. However, such a timeframe can be used effectively to initiate policy discussions, identify areas requiring reform, and begin administrative improvements. He emphasized that building consensus on major economic policies—especially those involving legal amendments and stakeholder consultations—takes significant time and coordination. Similarly, matters involving international partnerships and foreign investment negotiations cannot be concluded quickly.Top3 min read
Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026Race Begins for Deputy Governor Posts at Nepal Rastra Bank After Term ExpiryRace Begins for Deputy Governor Posts at Nepal Rastra Bank After Term Expiry A new round of competition has begun within Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) as the terms of its two Deputy Governors have officially expired, prompting preparations for fresh appointments. The positions became vacant after the tenure of Dr. Neelam Dhungana Timsina and Bam Bahadur Mishra, who were appointed in March 2021, ended on March 8, 2026. With these influential roles now open, the upcoming appointments have drawn significant attention from the banking sector and policymakers alike.Top3 min read
Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026Nepal Rastra Bank Reviewing Blacklisting Rules, Governor Paudel Signals Balanced Approach to Business RegulationNepal Rastra Bank Reviewing Blacklisting Rules, Governor Paudel Signals Balanced Approach to Business Regulation Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Dr. Bishwanath Paudel has said the central bank is reviewing existing provisions related to blacklisting individuals involved in financial transactions, particularly cases involving bounced cheques and loan defaults. Speaking at a program in Kathmandu, Paudel stated that the central bank is carefully studying the current system to determine whether the process of placing individuals on a financial blacklist needs reform.Top2 min read
Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026China Tightens Refined Oil Exports as Middle East Conflict Disrupts Global Energy MarketsChina Tightens Refined Oil Exports as Middle East Conflict Disrupts Global Energy Markets As tensions escalate in the Middle East and global energy markets face growing uncertainty, China has begun tightening controls on the export of refined petroleum products in an effort to safeguard its domestic energy security. Reports from international media indicate that Chinese authorities have started restricting overseas shipments of refined fuels such as petrol, diesel, and jet fuel, signaling Beijing’s cautious approach amid rising geopolitical risks.Top3 min read
Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026 Trump Administration Plans New Tariffs on Major Trading Partners Using Section 301 Trump Administration Plans New Tariffs on Major Trading Partners Using Section 301 The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to impose new tariffs on several major trading partners, including India, China, the European Union, and Mexico, under a legal provision known as Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act. The move signals a renewed push by Washington to increase pressure on countries it believes are harming American companies through unfair trade practices.Top2 min read
Dipesh Ghimire·13 Mar, 2026Middle East War Escalates: Rising Casualties, Surging Oil Prices and Growing Global Economic ConcernsMiddle East War Escalates: Rising Casualties, Surging Oil Prices and Growing Global Economic Concerns The war that began on February 28, 2026 in Iran, involving Iran, Israel and the United States, has rapidly escalated into one of the most serious geopolitical crises in recent years. According to international media reports, including coverage published by Al Jazeera on March 9, the conflict has already claimed the lives of more than 1,250 people. What initially appeared to be a direct confrontation between Iran and Israel has now expanded beyond those two countries, spreading tensions across several nations in the Persian Gulf region.Top4 min read
Dipesh Ghimire·12 Mar, 2026Nepal’s Trade Deficit Widens: Exports Increase While Imports SurgeNepal’s Trade Deficit Widens: Exports Increase While Imports Surge Nepal’s trade deficit has shown a significant rise during the first seven months of the current fiscal year, reflecting an increasing gap between exports and imports. According to the latest report from Nepal Rastra Bank, the total trade deficit has risen by 10.9%, reaching NPR 955.34 billion, compared to a 6.2% increase during the same period last year. The growing trade deficit signals a continuing imbalance in the country’s foreign trade.Top3 min read
Dipesh Ghimire·12 Mar, 2026Decline in Bank Loan Interest Rates Amid Increased LiquidityDecline in Bank Loan Interest Rates Amid Increased Liquidity Nepal's banking sector has seen a noticeable decline in loan interest rates, with the average interest rate on loans dropping to 7% in the month of Magh (January) of the current fiscal year. This marks a significant reduction from 8.55% during the same period last year, reflecting a downward trend in borrowing costs.Top3 min read
Dipesh Ghimire·12 Mar, 2026Nepal's Economic Indicators: Inflation Rises Amidst Slow Economic ActivityNepal's Economic Indicators: Inflation Rises Amidst Slow Economic Activity Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has reported an increase in the consumer price inflation for the month of Magh in the current fiscal year, which ended in January 2023. The rise in inflation typically signals higher economic activity or a rise in overall market demand. However, based on indicators such as the financial sector’s lending rates, imports and exports, liquidity in the financial sector, and interest rates, NRB finds no substantial increase in economic activity.Top3 min read
Dipesh Ghimire·12 Mar, 2026SEBON Imposes Fines on Three Brokerage Firms for Anti-Money Laundering ViolationsSEBON Imposes Fines on Three Brokerage Firms for Anti-Money Laundering Violations The Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) has taken strict action against three brokerage firms for violating anti-money laundering regulations. The board imposed fines on the companies for failing to adhere to the provisions of the Money Laundering Prevention Act, 2008. The affected brokerage firms include Sipla Securities Limited in Gyaneshwor, Shri Krishna Securities Limited in Dillibazar, and Hatemalo Financial Services Pvt. Ltd. in Naxal, Kathmandu.Top2 min read