Habib Bank to Divest Over 28 Million Promoter Shares in Himalayan Bank
Habib Bank Limited is set to sell over 28 million promoter shares in Himalayan Bank at a minimum price of NPR 112.80 per share. The offer is open to existing promoters for 35 days, after which it may be extended to the public if unclaimed.
In a significant move within Nepal’s banking sector, Habib Bank Limited, one of the founding stakeholders of Himalayan Bank, has announced the sale of its entire promoter shareholding. The bank is set to divest 28,012,447.45 units of its promoter shares in Himalayan Bank Limited (HBL), providing a strategic opportunity for existing promoters and potentially for the public if unclaimed.
According to the official notice, the offer is currently open only to existing promoter shareholders of Himalayan Bank. Interested promoters are required to submit their applications by disclosing the quantity of shares they wish to purchase. Applications must be submitted within 35 days from Jestha 30, 2082 (June 13, 2025) at Heritage Plaza, Kamaladi, Kathmandu.
Habib Bank has set the minimum price per share at NPR 112.80. This floor price serves as the base for bids, allowing promoters to compete or negotiate for the acquisition. If no promoter expresses interest within the given period, the shares may be offered to the general public, which could have a notable impact on the bank’s ownership structure.
This move could signal a shift in the long-term strategic focus of Habib Bank in Nepal. The sale might lead to changes in the shareholding structure and possibly influence board-level control or policy decisions at Himalayan Bank. Furthermore, if released to the public, such a large volume of shares entering the market could affect market liquidity and investor sentiment.
Himalayan Bank, a leading commercial bank in Nepal, has long been regarded for its stability and consistent performance. Any reshuffling in its promoter base is likely to be closely watched by market analysts, investors, and regulatory authorities.