Nepal, Oct. 26 -- The number of dematerialized (demat) accounts in Nepal has reached 8.098 million as more people turn to the stock market amid economic uncertainty, rising costs and risks in other sectors.

Political instability, floods and landslides have disrupted transport and supply chains, while rising prices have increased the cost of importing raw materials and fuel.

Difficulties in commercial farming, livestock trading and hydropower construction have also added to investment risks. With the business environment remaining challenging, investors appear to be increasingly attracted to the stock market as an alternative.

CDS and Clearing Limited (CDSC), Nepal's central securities depository and settlement service provider, report...