How to Apply for IPO in Nepal (2026) — Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Published by: SS Holdings & Investment Pvt. Ltd., Kathmandu  |  Updated: May 2026

IPO (Initial Public Offering) applications are one of the most popular ways for Nepali investors to participate in the stock market. Every year, dozens of companies list on NEPSE by offering shares to the general public for the first time. This guide walks you through exactly how to apply for an IPO in Nepal in 2026 — from opening a Demat account to checking allotment results.

💡 Good news for beginners: Applying for IPO in Nepal is completely free of brokerage charges. You only pay the share value if you get allotted shares.

What is an IPO?

An IPO (Initial Public Offering) is when a private company offers its shares to the general public for the first time and gets listed on the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE). Common IPO-issuing companies in Nepal include hydropower companies, banks, insurance companies, microfinance institutions, and manufacturing companies.

When you apply for an IPO, you are essentially requesting to buy a set number of units at the offered price. If oversubscribed (more applicants than shares), a lottery system determines who gets allotted shares.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for IPO in Nepal

1

Open a Bank Account (If you don't have one)

You need an active bank account with any "A" class commercial bank in Nepal. This account must be linked to your Demat account and will be used for ASBA (Application Supported by Blocked Amount) — the method used to apply for IPOs.

2

Open a Demat Account (BOID)

Visit any licensed NEPSE broker or depository participant (DP) to open your Demat (dematerialized) account. You will receive a 16-digit BOID number — this is your unique identity in the Nepal stock market. Required documents: citizenship copy, passport-size photo, bank account details.

3

Register on Mero Share (meroShare.cdsc.com.np)

Mero Share is the official CDSC platform for IPO applications in Nepal. After getting your BOID, register on Mero Share using your BOID number, bank account details, and DP information. This is where you will apply for all future IPOs online.

4

Link Your Bank Account to Mero Share

Log into your internet banking or visit your bank's branch to activate ASBA (Application Supported by Blocked Amount). Most major banks — NABIL, NMB, Global IME, Everest Bank, etc. — allow this through internet banking or mobile banking apps.

5

Apply for an Open IPO via Mero Share

When an IPO is open, log in to Mero Share → click "Apply IPO/FPO" → select the company → enter the number of units you want to apply for (minimum is usually 10 units = Rs 1,000 for a Rs 100 face value share) → confirm the ASBA bank → submit. Your application amount gets blocked in your bank account — not debited — until allotment.

6

Check Allotment Result

After the IPO closes, CDSC announces allotment results within a few business days. Check on Mero Share under "My Applications" or on the CDSC website. If allotted, the shares are automatically credited to your Demat account and the blocked amount is debited. If not allotted, the blocked amount is released back to your bank.

How Much Can You Apply For?

For most IPOs in Nepal, the minimum application is 10 units (Rs 1,000 for a Rs 100 par value share). The maximum for general applicants is usually 300 units per BOID. Each individual can apply once per BOID — applying multiple times with the same BOID will disqualify your application.

💡 SS Holdings Tip: Always apply for the maximum allowed units (usually 300) in oversubscribed IPOs. The lottery is random — applying for more units doesn't increase your chances of allotment, but if allotted, you receive more shares.

What Happens After Allotment?

Once shares are allotted and listed on NEPSE (usually within a few weeks), you can buy and sell them through any registered broker. You will need to open a trading account with a NEPSE broker to trade your shares. The listing price is often higher than the IPO price for popular oversubscribed issues — particularly hydropower companies.

⚠️ Important Warning: Not all IPOs are profitable after listing. Some shares list below the IPO price, especially in weak market conditions. Always research the company's financials, business model, and sector outlook before applying. SS Holdings publishes IPO analysis — follow our blog and TikTok for pre-IPO reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a minor apply for an IPO in Nepal?

Yes. A minor can have a Demat account opened by their guardian, and can apply for IPOs. The account is managed by the guardian until the minor turns 18.

How many IPOs can I apply for at once?

You can apply for multiple IPOs simultaneously, as long as you have sufficient funds in your ASBA-linked bank account. Each IPO requires a separate application.

Is there a fee to apply for an IPO?

A small service charge (usually Rs 25–50) may be charged by your DP or Mero Share for each application. There is no brokerage fee for IPO applications.

When are upcoming IPOs announced?

Check ShareSansar (sharesansar.com), Mero Share notifications, or follow SS Holdings on TikTok and this blog for real-time IPO alerts.

Upcoming IPO Alert — May 2026

Kalanga Hydro Limited is opening its IPO for general public applicants from approximately Jestha 8 (around May 22, 2026). A total of 28,70,000 units will be available. Watch this blog for our full analysis before the opening date.

SS Holdings & Investment Pvt. Ltd.
सूचित लगानीको लागि, विश्वसनीय विश्लेषण।
Follow us on TikTok for daily IPO alerts and NEPSE analysis videos.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. IPO investments carry market risk. SS Holdings & Investment Pvt. Ltd. does not guarantee returns on any investment. Please consult a licensed financial advisor for personalised investment advice.