The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) is the primary stock exchange in Nepal, located in Kathmandu. It was established in 1985 and has since become the hub for trading in equities, debt instruments, and other financial products in the country1.
The NEPSE operates under the regulatory framework of the Securities Board of Nepal (SeB), which is responsible for overseeing the functioning of the stock market and ensuring its smooth operation. The exchange follows a computerized trading system, and its trading hours are from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Sunday to Thursday, except for holidays2.
As of August 2, 2024, the NEPSE index closed at 2,966.33, indicating a decline of 1.14% from the previous day3. The sensitive index, which tracks the performance of blue-chip companies, closed at 528.85, showing a decrease of 1.24%3. The float index, which measures the performance of freely tradable shares, was at 204.62, indicating a drop of 1.09%3. The sensitive float index, which includes both sensitive and float stocks, closed at 175.22, reflecting a 0.85% decline3.
The NEPSE has shown a mixed performance in recent years, with a slight recovery in mid-April 2024, but still significantly lower compared to its peak in 20224. The banking sub-index has seen a significant decline, reflecting the challenges faced by this sector, while the market capitalization has shown an increase compared to the previous year4.
The NEPSE has been impacted by various factors, including political instability, economic slowdown, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, the exchange continues to attract both local and foreign investors, with a growing number of companies listing their shares on the NEPSE5.
In conclusion, the NEPSE is a vital component of Nepal's financial market, providing a platform for investors to buy and sell shares in various companies. While it has faced some challenges, the exchange continues to evolve and attract new investors, reflecting the country's growing economic and financial strength.
8/21/2024 05:39am
