Regulatory Sandbox for Fintech: Nepal Rastra Bank drafted Regulatory Sandbox Guidelines to let banks, payment providers and licensed fintech test new products in a supervised live environment, with no testing fees, aiming to speed innovation while protecting consumers and the financial system. FDI Corporate Reshuffle: The government proposed amendments to the Companies Act that would force FDI-based firms with stakes of Rs 500 million+ to convert into public limited companies within two years, with delay fees for non-compliance—potentially reshaping major foreign-invested manufacturers and consumer brands. Capital Markets Move: Nepal is also considering lowering the IPO face value floor below Rs 100, while credit rating agency ICRN placed 18 firms linked to Deepak Bhatta and others under “Credit Watch with Negative Implications.” Tea Export Fix: A new task force has been formed to tackle Nepal’s tea export problems to India after Indian Tea Board standards disrupted production in Ilam and Jhapa; it must submit recommendations within two weeks. Economic Census Push: NSO reported 1.35M establishments covered in the Second National Economic Census by June 21, with district offices open until July 16 for missed or partial entries. Agribusiness & Livestock Pressure: Illegal male buffalo exports to India are rising, squeezing local meat and dried-meat producers; meanwhile, Chitwan farmers reclaimed decades-old flood-ruined land through irrigation and bio-embankments. Food Prices Update: Kalimati set wholesale prices for fruits and vegetables for the day, reflecting ongoing market volatility. Aviation Safety: EU–South Asia Aviation Partnership activities in Kathmandu include a CAAN module on crew training and operational standards to strengthen flight safety across the region. Energy/Industry Risk Abroad: Qatar’s Ras Laffan LNG blast killed 12 Indians and injured others; leaders exchanged condolences, underscoring safety concerns for industrial operations.