Nepal stock market demat accounts reach 8.1 million

The number of dematerialized (demat) accounts in Nepal has reached approximately 8.1 million, as investors increasingly turn to the stock market amid economic uncertainty. Factors such as political instability, rising import costs, and disruptions to agriculture, livestock, and hydropower sectors have driven interest in the market as an alternative investment avenue.

According to CDS and Clearing Limited (CDSC), 7.19 million people have registered for Mero Share, the online platform used for initial public offerings (IPOs) and share transfers, with 5.12 million active users. The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) currently lists 348 companies, with a total investment value of Rs 4.53 trillion.

Demographic data shows significant participation from women, who account for 42.67 percent of all demat account holders. The largest age group of investors is young adults aged 19 to 30, representing 30.12 percent of holders. Geographically, Bagmati Province holds the largest share of accounts at 33.85 percent, followed by Koshi at 18.94 percent.