Foreign direct investment (FDI) commitments in Nepal have fallen to Rs 5.53 billion in the first nine months of the current fiscal year compared with Rs 7.96 billion for the same period last year. Load shedding and unrest in the Tarai are considered to be the chief reasons for the decline.

Senior savings
Nabil Bank has launched a savings scheme, 'Nabil Jestha Bachat', aimed at the over 50s. The scheme offers a five per cent yearly interest rate.

Fresh chews
Sujal Foods has launched two new flavours of gum - orange and strawberry which are being marketed under the campaign "Jhuma Orange Ra Strawberry ko Shwadma".

Lighting up
CG has launched its own brand of inverters. Fitted with sensor charge, they are available from 325 VA to 3000 VA with a 24-month warranty.

Finger in another pie
Joshi Group has opened a seafood restaurant called Lobsters in Sherpa Mall, Durbar Marg, which will offer lobster, crab, squid, oysters and prawns imported from Thailand. The company's business interests include wire manufacturing, entertainment, banking, finance, insurance, hospitality, education consultancy, hydropower, and property development.

Smooth transfer
Global Bank has started 'Global Remit' in co-operation with Qatar based Trust Exchange Company to provide remittence transfer servies from all its branches and agencies. Global bank has established association with 12 other exchange companies in six countries.