Nepal News Evening Economic Brief – January 19, 2026
Summary
Nepal Rastra Bank shortens loan upgrade period to three months, SEBON lowers mutual fund seed capital requirements, and the Ministry replaces the PM Employment Program. Paddy production forecasted to decline by 4.20%.
Key Points
- Nepal Rastra Bank reduces loan upgrade period for defaulters from six to three months to aid debtors and improve bank balance sheets.
- Securities Board of Nepal lowers mutual fund seed capital requirements to encourage market participation and mandates risk management policies.
- The Ministry of Labor replaces the Prime Minister Employment Program with a National Employment Promotion Program focused on skill development and entrepreneurship.
- Paddy production projected to fall by 4.20 percent due to drought, youth migration, and land conversion despite adequate fertilizer and seed availability.
