Episode 14: A Closer Look at Nepal

March 9, 2023 – In this episode of Asia Society Switzerland’s A Closer Look series, leading Nepalese investor Suman Joshi speaks about the domestic issues on people's minds, after an election saw a slew of newcomers enter Nepalese politics. In this conversation with Nico Luchsinger, Executive Director at Asia Society Switzerland, Suman also addresses the economic challenges and where the opportunities are that can put Nepal on a definitive path to further growth.

SPEAKER

Suman Joshi is widely regarded as one of the most innovative banking experts in Nepal. He has intimate knowledge of commercial and investment banking. Following a successful banking career, he established True North Associates (TNA) which is now a prominent domestic private capital vehicle. In 2018, TNA acquired a significant stake in Dutch impact investment firm One To Watch (OTW), which channels foreign capital into Nepali SMEs. In addition to investing in Nepali businesses, both companies are actively involved in supporting entrepreneurs with business development services and strategic advisory. A recent example of proactive initiative aimed at helping business is the Covid MSME Fund, which was conceived by TNA and implemented by OTW with financial support from the Swiss Development Cooperation and FMO - the Dutch development bank. Suman received his degree in economics and political science from Punjab University, India, and executive education on private equity & venture capital from Harvard Business School. He holds a number of board and advisory positions at Nepali corporates and institutions. He is also a member of the Nepal advisory committee of British International Investment. A number of key investment firms banded together in 2020 to form the Nepal Private Equity Association of which Suman is the inaugural chair.
Suman is currently dedicated to improving the eco-system for alternative investments in Nepal.

A Closer Look is organized by Asia Society Switzerland with support of BDO and the Institute of Asian and Oriental Studies at the University of Zurich.