KATHMANDU: The Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) has announced a major policy package for FY 2025/26 to reform, develop, and expand the capital and commodity markets.

Unveiled under seven policy headings and comprising 88 programs, the plan aims to align Nepal’s markets with international standards, boost investor protection, enhance transparency, and introduce new financial tools.

SEBON will amend key laws, including the Securities Act 2006 and Commodity Exchange Market Act 2017, to simplify issuance processes and lower costs. It also seeks to ease participation for Non-Resident Nepalis and enable secondary trading of government bonds.

Regulatory frameworks will be introduced for intra-day trading, securities lending, and commodities clearing. The board plans to inspect at least 15% of market institutions and strengthen surveillance and cybersecurity through real-time monitoring.

A four-year strategic plan will guide institutional reforms, including the restructuring of NEPSE and CDSC. The Investor Protection Fund will be enhanced, and financial literacy promoted through national campaigns, seminars, and academic collaboration.

SEBON’s comprehensive reforms aim to create a robust, transparent, and investor-friendly securities market in Nepal.