Banking News— Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has administered the oath of office and secrecy to the newly appointed Chairman of the Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON), Dr. Gopal Prasad Bhatta, while directing him to work with integrity to protect investors’ interests and strengthen Nepal’s capital market.

The oath-taking ceremony was held at the Ministry of Finance on Monday following the Cabinet’s decision on Asar 5 to appoint Dr. Bhatta as the new chairman of the securities market regulator.

Following the ceremony, Finance Minister Wagle instructed the newly appointed chairman to prioritize the security of investors’ investments and carry out his responsibilities with honesty, transparency, and professionalism.

He also urged Dr. Bhatta to remain free from all forms of personal interest, pressure, and undue influence while carrying out his regulatory duties.

“Protect the investments of capital market participants without being influenced by any temptation or external pressure,” the Finance Minister said. “I am with you, and the government will provide every necessary support. Create an environment where capital mobilization contributes to sustainable economic growth.”

Dr. Wagle further directed the SEBON chairman to submit a clear action plan outlining reforms to be implemented on a daily, weekly, monthly, six-month, and annual basis to improve Nepal’s capital market.

Expressing concern over the spread of unnecessary rumors that have created fear among retail investors, the Finance Minister instructed the regulator to take effective measures to restore confidence in the market.

He emphasized that success should be measured through performance rather than public statements.

“Implement capital market reform plans within a defined timeline. Strengthen investor confidence while ensuring effective market regulation,” he said. “There will be no interference from the Ministry. Let your work speak through results, not words. I expect a weekly market briefing.”

Speaking at the event, newly appointed SEBON Chairman Dr. Gopal Prasad Bhatta pledged to work honestly and diligently in line with the government’s vision for developing Nepal’s capital market.

He said he would utilize his knowledge, professional experience, and expertise to safeguard investors’ interests while supporting the government’s broader objective of achieving sustainable economic growth.

Dr. Bhatta also committed to implementing various recommendations and reform proposals prepared over the years to modernize and strengthen Nepal’s capital market, with the goal of creating a more transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly regulatory environment.