Nabil Bank marks 42nd anniversary, announces AI-driven 'Banking & Beyond' strategy

KATHMANDU: Nabil Bank has marked its 42nd anniversary, announcing its entry into an artificial intelligence-driven era under its new 'Banking & Beyond' strategy. The private-sector commercial bank announced its commitment to expanding past traditional financial services to build an inclusive, sustainable and digital financial ecosystem for its clients, local communities and the national economy.

During an anniversary event held to mark the milestone, Bank Chairman Nirvana Kumar Chaudhary expressed gratitude to the bank's millions of customers, shareholders, regulators and employees. He emphasised that trust remains the core asset of the institution.

"This trust has been our greatest asset, and it will continue to be the foundation of our future," Chairman Chaudhary noted. "Throughout our journey, Nepal has changed dramatically. Industries have transformed, technology has evolved, and customer expectations have been completely redefined. Yet, Nabil Bank has never waited for change. We have led it."

The bank highlighted its history of financial milestones, including launching the digital platform nBank and establishing the nation's first investment bank. Today, it operates as an integrated financial group offering commercial banking, investment banking, stock brokerage, merchant banking, capital markets and digital banking under one institution. Chairman Chaudhary added, "Innovation has never been something we simply adopt. Innovation is part of Nabil’s DNA."

Looking forward, the leadership announced plans to integrate artificial intelligence into its core systems to change decision-making, risk mitigation, business operations and customer interactions.

"At Nabil Bank, we are preparing not just to participate in this transformation—but to lead it," Chaudhary declared. "The next evolution of nBank will place AI at the very centre of everything we do. This means smarter banking, highly personalised services, faster lending processes, superior risk management, intelligent customer experiences, greater financial inclusion and significantly stronger security metrics."

He stated that while the technology becomes more intelligent, the underlying purpose remains focused on supporting local entrepreneurs and family financial goals. "Banking has never been only about money. It is about enabling dreams, supporting entrepreneurs, helping families build their future, empowering businesses and contributing directly to the overall prosperity of Nepal. That is why our vision has always been 'Banking and Beyond'—beyond transactions, products, expectations and traditional banking boundaries."

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Manoj Kumar Gyawali shared details regarding the bank's operations and network growth since its inception in 1984. The bank currently serves over 2.6 million customers through a network of 264 branches and 315 ATMs, supported by 2,469 employees.

"As we celebrate this milestone, we also look ahead with confidence, innovation and a renewed commitment to creating lasting value for our customers and the nation. We are not just an institution that provides banking services; we are a reliable partner that supports you on your journey of dreams, possibilities and success. This is exactly what we mean by 'Banking & Beyond'," CEO Gyawali said.

The commercial bank has directed substantial credit financing to key sectors of the domestic economy. According to financial details released by the bank, total credit extensions include Rs 53.31 billion to the agriculture sector, Rs 51.06 billion to the energy sector, Rs 45.92 billion to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and Rs 11.10 billion to the tourism sector.

Nabil Bank's long-term financial trajectory shows a rise from a net worth of Rs 28 million and a net profit of Rs 1 million in the 1984/85 fiscal year to a net worth of Rs 70.83 billion and a net profit of Rs 6.76 billion by the third quarter of the 2025/26 fiscal year. Total deposits have reached Rs 588.85 billion, total loan disbursements stand at Rs 464.10 billion, and total assets have grown to Rs 718.42 billion.

To mark the 42-year milestone, the bank introduced a 42-day promotional campaign alongside community activities. This includes a Reconstruction Home Loan Scheme offered at a concessional rate of base rate plus a 0.5% premium for residents of Hetauda and Birgunj affected by road expansion works.

Additional promotional offers feature a 42% discount on locker security deposits for new subscribers, a 50% discount on electronic payment gateway integration fees for e-commerce merchants, lifetime fee waivers on new credit cards applied for during the window, and a four-year fee waiver on debit cards requested on the anniversary day.