NRB approves merger of IME Pay, Khalti

KATHMANDU: Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has approved merger of IME Pay and Khalti, two leading licensed digital-wallet providers. This is the first time such a consolidation has occurred in Nepal.

The merged company will be named IME Khalti, with its registered office in Panipokhari, Kathmandu. The unified app will retain the name Khalti and incorporate every feature from both original platforms.

With more than five million users, the merged wallet becomes Nepal’s largest. The move aims to extend digital payment services, particularly into rural areas.

Over the next three months, user accounts will be merged while both apps continue operating side by side. Balances and loyalty points from each service will be combined. Customers with both apps can consolidate their accounts in a single step; IME Pay-only users will join Khalti after giving their consent.

IME Khalti has said the new app will offer faster, safer and more convenient payments. New features will include international remittances, in-app bank account opening and Visa card issuance. Access to loans and other financial services will follow.

The merger supports the central bank’s goals of expanding fintech access, reducing cash transactions and improving transparency in payments from urban centres to villages.

IME Khalti expects ongoing support from regulators, partners and users.