Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has directed the newly appointed Chairman of the Securities Board of Nepal, Dr. Gopal Prasad Bhatta, to prioritize the security of capital market investors and protect their interests above all else.
During a program organized at the Ministry of Finance on Monday, Finance Minister Wagle administered the oath of office and secrecy to the newly appointed Chairman. The Council of Ministers had appointed Dr. Bhatta to the post of SEBON Chairman during its meeting held on Ashar 5.
Focus on Investor Security and Capital Mobilization
Following the oath-taking ceremony, Finance Minister Wagle urged Chairman Bhatta to carry out his duties with utmost honesty, resisting any form of greed, external influence, or pressure. He highlighted the importance of securing investor capital, boosting market confidence, and creating a supportive environment to accelerate economic growth through capital mobilization.
“Do not fall for any greed or influence, and secure the investments of capital market investors,” Finance Minister Wagle told the new chairman. “I am with you. The government will extend all necessary support. You must build an environment that drives economic growth through capital mobilization.”
Action Plans and Zero Ministry Interference
Finance Minister Wagle instructed Chairman Bhatta to advance capital market reforms with clear, time-bound action plans. He emphasized that the regulatory body must work with daily, weekly, monthly, six-month, and annual targets.
He also stressed the need to strengthen SEBON’s regulatory role to put an end to speculative rumors that create unnecessary panic among small investors in the market. The Finance Minister advised the new head of the regulatory body to let his achievements speak instead of making public statements.
“Implement market reform plans within set timelines. Build market confidence and play your regulatory role efficiently,” the Finance Minister added. “There will be no interference of any kind from the ministry. Work for results rather than making loud statements. I want a briefing on the market situation every week.” He clarified that the ministry would fully support the board’s autonomous functioning without interfering in its duties.
Speaking at the program, newly appointed SEBON Chairman Dr. Gopal Prasad Bhatta committed to working honestly for the development of the capital market in line with the goals of the government and the finance ministry. He assured that he would dedicate his knowledge, skills, and experience to protecting the interests of investors and helping the government achieve its economic growth targets. Chairman Bhatta also pledged to continuously work toward market development by implementing past study reports and reform recommendations.