KATHMANDU — Renowned banking expert and entrepreneur Mr. Ramesh Adhikari has called for urgent reforms and innovation in Nepal’s financial sector to promote sustainable economic growth. Speaking at the recent Nepal Finance Summit, Mr. Adhikari emphasized that Nepal’s banking industry must embrace technology and digital transformation to enhance financial inclusion, especially for rural and underserved communities. “Financial inclusion is not just a goal but a necessity for equitable development,” he said, urging banks and fintech startups to collaborate for scalable solutions.
Mr. Adhikari, who has over two decades of experience leading major financial institutions in Nepal, highlighted the crucial role entrepreneurship plays in the country’s economic resilience. He pointed out that access to affordable finance remains a significant barrier for many aspiring entrepreneurs. “We must develop innovative credit models tailored for startups and small businesses to unlock Nepal’s vast entrepreneurial potential,” he added, advocating for public-private partnerships to foster an enabling environment for new ventures.
On the macroeconomic front, Mr. Adhikari stressed the importance of financial literacy and prudent regulatory frameworks to safeguard the sector’s stability amid rapid changes. He urged policymakers to balance innovation with risk management to avoid pitfalls that have affected emerging markets elsewhere. “A progressive yet cautious approach will ensure Nepal’s financial system supports growth without compromising security,” he concluded, inspiring hope for a robust, inclusive financial future.
