20th June 2025, Kathmandu
In a landmark development for Nepal’s fintech sector, IME Digital Solutions Ltd. and Khalti Pvt. Ltd. are merging. This strategic move will result in the formation of IME Khalti Ltd.
NRB Approves IME Pay Khalti Merger
The merger has received final approval from Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB). Starting Shrawan 1, 2082 (July 17, 2025), both companies will operate as one entity.
This is the first merger of digital wallet companies in Nepal. It aims to strengthen the country’s digital payment ecosystem. Moreover, it promises better services for users, wider accessibility, and improved innovation in financial technology.
NRB Grants Final Approval
Nepal Rastra Bank issued an official notice confirming the merger approval. The bank stated that IME Digital Solutions and Khalti would combine all assets and liabilities. These will transfer to the newly formed IME Khalti Ltd.
This merger complies with Rule 37, Sub-rule 13 of the Payment and Settlement Bylaws (First Amendment 2080), 2077. It also follows Section 35 of the Payment and Settlement Act, 2075. NRB published the notice to inform the general public about the upcoming integration.
Merger Timeline And Background
The merger agreement between IME Pay and Khalti was signed on Falgun 4, 2080. Since then, both companies have worked on completing regulatory processes. NRB reviewed all documents and granted final approval after careful evaluation.
With this merger, the companies have prepared to integrate their operations from July 17, 2025. This marks the start of unified services under one brand.
New Identity: IME Khalti Ltd.
After the merger, the unified company will be known as IME Khalti Ltd. It will carry forward the legacies of both IME Pay and Khalti. The registered office will be located at Panipokhari, Kathmandu.
Interestingly, the digital app name will remain Khalti. Users will continue accessing services through the Khalti mobile application. The new company aims to retain the brand familiarity and trust associated with Khalti.
Unified App Experience For All Users
All existing users of IME Pay and Khalti will be merged into one system. Users who had accounts with both apps will be automatically integrated. However, users who only used IME Pay will need to give consent to join Khalti’s platform.
Khalti will be the single app for all services after integration. It will offer users an improved interface, seamless transactions, and a wider range of features. This includes digital wallet services, utility payments, QR payments, and mobile banking.
New users can simply download the Khalti app and access the updated features directly. Even existing IME Pay users can shift to the Khalti app to continue their digital transactions.
Impact On Nepal’s Digital Payment Ecosystem
This merger marks a major milestone in Nepal’s digital economy. It shows maturity in the digital payment sector and signals a trend toward consolidation. By joining forces, the two companies expect to reduce operational costs and improve service efficiency.
Furthermore, the merger will help scale up technological development, customer outreach, and financial literacy. IME Khalti Ltd. is now set to become one of the largest digital payment platforms in Nepal.
NRB Cancels Licenses Of Two PSPs
In a related update, Nepal Rastra Bank has taken strict action against two other payment service providers. The central bank has revoked the licenses of:
Pewel Nepal Pvt. Ltd.
Sajilo Pay Payment Services Pvt. Ltd.
NRB stated that both companies violated several regulatory provisions. These include:
Payment and Settlement Act, 2075
Payment and Settlement Bylaws, 2077
Unified Payment System Directives, 2081
Money Laundering Prevention Act, 2064
NRB’s Board of Directors made the decision during its meeting on Thursday. The action was taken under Section 35, Sub-section (1), Clause (cha) of the Payment and Settlement Act.
Why The Licenses Were Cancelled?
According to NRB, both Pewel Nepal and Sajilo Pay failed to comply with core regulatory standards. They were found to be in violation of operational, financial, and anti-money laundering policies.
The central bank warned that non-compliance will not be tolerated. It reaffirmed its role in safeguarding Nepal’s digital financial infrastructure. The cancellation serves as a warning to other PSPs to follow the law strictly.
A Turning Point For Fintech In Nepal
The merger of IME Pay and Khalti, and the cancellation of two PSP licenses, mark a shift in Nepal’s digital finance sector. On one hand, the merger promotes innovation, trust, and growth. On the other hand, NRB’s enforcement action shows a focus on compliance and accountability.
As IME Khalti Ltd. starts operations, it will redefine how digital payments work in Nepal. The company now carries the responsibility to deliver secure, inclusive, and customer-focused services.
What Lies Ahead?
The merger opens doors to several future opportunities. IME Khalti Ltd. may explore:
Expanding services beyond wallet functions
Partnering with banks and fintech startups
Introducing new features like digital lending, savings, and insurance
This strategic unification is expected to bring stability and growth to the market. It also positions Nepal as a progressive digital economy in South Asia.
For more:- NRB Approves IME Pay Khalti Merger