Kathmandu, 26 Mangsir, 2082 – More than 24% of Nepal’s population is now connected to the country’s securities market, according to recent statistics released by the Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON).
With Nepal’s total population exceeding 2.91 crore, the number of demat account holders has reached over 71.74 lakh. However, participation in the secondary market is lower, with only around 9% of the population actively trading.
For secondary market transactions, the number of TMS users stands at over 26.43 lakh.
Participation by Province
Based on active demat accounts, Bagmati Province leads with 31%, followed by:
- Koshi Province – 20%
- Madhesh Province – 14%
- Lumbini Province – 14%
- Gandaki Province – 11%
- Sudurpaschim Province – 7%
- Karnali Province – 3%
Similarly, TMS users are highest in Bagmati Province at 35%, followed by Koshi (19%), Gandaki (13%), Madhesh (12%), Lumbini (12%), Sudurpaschim (6%), and Karnali (3%).
Focus on Financial Literacy
Officials have highlighted that as market participation grows, financial literacy programs must also expand.
At the opening of World Investor Week 2082 in Kathmandu, NRB Deputy Governor Bam Bahadur Mishra emphasized that capital market awareness programs should focus not only on cities but also on rural areas, noting that the impact would be greater if such events were held in remote districts.
SEBON Executive Director Dr. Navaraj Adhikari added that the board has been running continuous training programs for investors and that week-long events during World Investor Week will further enhance financial literacy nationwide.
World Investor Week 2082 Programs
The week-long celebration, started on 25 Mangsir and continuing until 2 Poush, involves multiple stakeholders, including:
- Stock Broker Association of Nepal
- Merchant Bankers Association of Nepal
- CDS and Clearing Limited
- Nepal Stock Exchange
- Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry
The board expects that the nationwide programs will strengthen coordination and cooperation among securities market participants across all seven provinces.