Kathmandu. Currently, there are 104 companies awaiting IPO issuance approval at the Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON).

These companies have applied for the issue of 47,28,94,163 units of shares worth a total of Rs 69.30 billion.

Most of the companies that have applied for IPOs are in the hydropower sector. At the same time, companies in the production and processing, hotel and tourism sectors have a significant presence.

The manufacturing and processing group has emerged as the frontrunner in the IPO pipeline. The 30 companies of the group have applied for the issue of 16,64,25,083 units of shares worth Rs 35.35 billion.

This sector accounts for the largest share of the total pipeline amount. Under the group, Saurya Cement, Jagadamba Steel, Maruti Cement, Riddhisiddhi Cement, Ambe Steel, Hulas Infra and Bhagwati Steel Industries have proposed to issue IPOs at a premium price.

On the basis of number of companies, the hydropower sector is in the top position. A total of 34 hydropower companies have applied to the board for the issuance of 17,14,83,736 units of shares worth Rs 17.50 billion.

A total of 18 hotel and tourism companies have sought permission to issue 5,82,13,930 units of shares worth Rs 6.45 billion. Shree Airlines, a subsidiary of Shree Airlines, has proposed to issue an IPO of Rs 200 with an additional premium of Rs 100 on the face value of Rs 100 per share.

The five sub-group companies have applied for the issuance of 2,14,375 units of shares worth Rs 3.41 billion. Shiva Shankar Hydro Investment Company has proposed to issue IPO at Rs 210 with a premium of Rs 110 added at Rs 100 per share.

The 14 sub-group companies are set to issue 4,86,21,069 units of shares worth Rs 5.90 billion. Kailash Helicopter Service has proposed an IPO at Rs 327 per unit, Chhayadevi Complex at Rs 400 and Hulas Finners Hire Purchase Company at Rs 358.85 per share.

Similarly, 3 micro insurance companies have applied to the board for the issuance of 67,50,000 units of shares worth Rs 675 million.