Nabil Bank Limited is a leading commercial bank in Nepal and holds the distinction of being the first private sector bank in the country, established in 1984 A.D. (2041 B.S.). Over the years, Nabil Bank has positioned itself as a pioneer in modern banking services, innovation, and financial excellence.

Overview of Nabil Bank Limited

• Full Name: Nabil Bank Limited

• Founded: July 12, 1984 (29 Ashadh 2041 B.S.)

• Headquarters: Nabil Center, Durbarmarg, Kathmandu, Nepal

• Ownership: Public limited company (listed on NEPSE)

• SWIFT Code: NARBNPKA

• Website: https://www.nabilbank.com

• Regulator: Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB)

Historical Background

Nabil Bank was established as Nepal Arab Bank Limited with foreign investment, becoming the first joint-venture bank in Nepal. It was rebranded as Nabil Bank Limited in 2002.

From the outset, the bank introduced Nepal’s financial market to international banking standards and digital services, including:

• Credit cards and ATMs

• Corporate banking facilities

• Modern retail banking services

Nabil Bank continues to set benchmarks in innovation and customer service excellence in the Nepalese banking industry.

Products and Services Offered by Nabil Bank

Nabil Bank provides a broad range of financial services to retail customers, corporate clients, SMEs, and institutional partners.

1. Retail Banking

• Savings Accounts (General, Premium, Youth, Women, Senior)

• Fixed Deposit and Recurring Deposit Accounts

• Personal, Home, Education, and Auto Loans

• Debit and Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay)

• Prepaid Cards

• Safe Deposit Locker Services

2. Corporate and SME Banking

• Business Loans and Overdrafts

• Working Capital Financing

• Loan Syndication

• Term Loans for Industrial and Infrastructure Projects

• Trade Finance Services (LCs, Guarantees, Export Finance)

3. Digital and e-Banking

• Nabil SmartBank App for mobile banking

• NabilNet (internet banking)

• QR Code payments via Fonepay

• Digital Wallet Integration (Khalti, eSewa, etc.)

• Online Utility Bill Payments and Mobile Recharge

• Virtual Debit Cards and Online Shopping Support

4. Priority and Wealth Management

• Nabil Premium Banking for HNIs

• Dedicated Relationship Managers

• Investment Advisory and Portfolio Management

• Exclusive banking lounges and customized services

Branch Network and Coverage

As of 2025, Nabil Bank operates:

• 260+ branches across Nepal

• 300+ ATMs

• More than 150 branchless banking units

• Partnerships with digital platforms for nationwide reach

This widespread coverage enables Nabil to serve urban and rural populations while promoting financial inclusion.

Digital Transformation and Innovation

Nabil Bank is known for its early adoption of technology and customer-focused innovation.

Key Digital Features:

• Instant account opening via mobile app and e-KYC

• AI-powered chat support

• Real-time transaction alerts and notifications

• Contactless card and biometric authentication

• Integration with ConnectIPS, Fonepay, and other national payment gateways

Nabil was also among the first banks to implement SWIFT and card-based ATM systems in Nepal.

Financial Performance (FY 2080/81 B.S.)

Nabil Bank consistently ranks as one of the most profitable and well-capitalized banks in the country.

• Total Assets: Over NPR 400 billion

• Net Profit: Above NPR 4 billion

• Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR): Well above NRB’s minimum requirement

• Non-Performing Loans (NPL): Among the lowest in the industry

• Earnings Per Share (EPS): Competitive and growing

The bank is listed on the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) and has a strong base of institutional and retail shareholders.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Nabil Bank is a responsible corporate citizen and contributes actively to:

• Education: Scholarship programs and school support

• Environment: Tree plantation, carbon offsetting, paperless banking

• Health: Medical camps, blood donation drives

• Entrepreneurship: Nabil School of Social Entrepreneurship (NSSE)

Its CSR strategy is aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Strategic Developments

In recent years, Nabil has made significant strategic moves:

• Acquisition of Nepal Bangladesh Bank: Strengthening market share and asset base

• Expansion into digital lending and microfinance

• Focus on sustainable banking and climate-resilient finance

• Launch of Nabil Invest and Nabil Securities for capital market participation

Challenges and Future Goals

Challenges:

• Competitive pressure from digital banks and fintech startups

• High customer expectations for seamless digital experiences

• Cybersecurity and regulatory compliance

Future Objectives:

• Becoming Nepal’s most digital and customer-centric bank

• Expanding cross-border payment solutions

• Supporting Nepal’s green and sustainable economic goals

• Enhancing financial literacy and inclusion through digital outreach

Conclusion

Nabil Bank Limited is a trailblazer in Nepal’s banking history, known for its innovation, financial stability, and customer satisfaction. As the first private commercial bank in Nepal, Nabil has led the way in introducing modern banking practices and continues to shape the future of financial services in the country.

With a strong digital presence, wide branch network, and clear strategic vision, Nabil Bank remains a top choice for individuals, businesses, and investors across Nepal.