KATHMANDU: Prominent Nepali-origin business leaders Shesh Ghale and Jamuna Gurung have once again featured in Australia's rich list, ranking 150th and 151st respectively — marking 18 consecutive years since the couple first appeared on the ranking in 2009.

The pair entered Australia's list of the top 250 wealthiest individuals for the first time in 2009 and have maintained their position ever since, at one point climbing as high as 80th place. Throughout this period, both have remained within the billionaire bracket, with a combined wealth of approximately AUD 1.2 billion, reflecting sustained success in Australia's competitive business landscape.

Commitment to Nepal

Beyond their achievements abroad, Ghale and Gurung have over the past decade actively explored avenues to contribute to Nepal's development through foreign direct investment and philanthropic initiatives. However, their efforts have repeatedly run into headwinds, with observers pointing to an unfriendly investment climate as a persistent barrier.

Their continued engagement with Nepal is seen as emblematic of the broader potential of the Nepali diaspora in supporting the country's economic growth. Experts argue that successive governments have yet to fully capitalise on the capital, expertise, and global networks that successful Nepali entrepreneurs abroad are willing to bring home.

There is cautious optimism, however, that recent political and economic shifts may create a more conducive environment for diaspora investment. 

Stakeholders remain hopeful that improved policies and governance will translate into greater participation from the Nepali business community overseas — with Ghale and Gurung's sustained interest in Nepal seen as a positive signal of what may be possible.