Question 1

In 2026, which South Asian country has implemented a comprehensive ban on all cryptocurrency activities, including usage, trade, investment, and mining, rooted in laws like the Foreign Exchange (Regulation) Act of 1962 and the Nepal Rastra Bank Act of 2002?

Accepted Answer

Nepal

Question 2

According to the Asian Development Outlook April 2026, what is Pakistan's projected real GDP growth rate for fiscal year 2026?

Accepted Answer

3.5%

Question 3

As of April 2026, Sri Lanka's debt restructuring process is nearing completion, with significant progress recorded. Which international financial institution's report highlighted this advancement?

Accepted Answer

Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable (GSDR)

Question 4

In India's fintech sector in 2026, a major trend involves the large-scale deployment of AI. What specific type of AI is noted for proactively resolving complex customer issues and executing actions autonomously?

Accepted Answer

Agentic AI

Question 5

Bhutan's economy is projected to grow significantly in 2026, with its GDP expected to grow by 6.5%. What is identified as the main support for this strong economic growth?

Accepted Answer

Tourism, agriculture, and government spending

Question 6

In 2026, Bangladesh's startup ecosystem is receiving a significant boost with the launch of the 'Onkur Bangladesh Fund 1'. This venture capital platform is backed by how many commercial banks under the guidance of Bangladesh Bank?

Accepted Answer

39

Question 7

The Maldives is targeting 2.5 million tourist arrivals in 2026. Which international event is planned for 2027 to further elevate the Maldives' global tourism presence?

Accepted Answer

Visit Maldives Year

Question 8

As of April 2026, Fitch Ratings affirmed Sri Lanka's sovereign credit rating at 'CCC+'. What is a primary reason cited by Fitch for this rating, indicating the fiscal crisis is far from resolved?

Accepted Answer

Elevated general government indebtedness and a high interest/revenue ratio

Question 9

In 2026, India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is expanding its reach. Which of the following is a key trend identified for UPI in the Indian fintech sector?

Accepted Answer

Integration for cross-border and international payments

Question 10

A new United Nations report in February 2026 projected Bhutan's GDP to grow by 6.5% in that year, higher than the South Asian average of 5.6%. What is a significant challenge mentioned for Bhutan despite its strong growth outlook?

Accepted Answer

Moderate risk of debt distress and potential impact of global oil prices

Question 11

In May 2026, a report indicated that Pakistan's investment-to-GDP ratio remained unchanged at 14.4% for FY2025-26, missing the official target. What was the savings-to-GDP ratio during the same period?

Accepted Answer

14.0%

Question 12

The Indian film industry is predicted to have a record haul in 2026, with net box office receipts potentially surging by 25-30%. What type of films are expected to be major contributors beyond the conventional big-star releases?

Accepted Answer

Films that connect deeply with audiences and 'sleeper hits'

South Asian Economic Pulse: Fintech, Crypto Bans, and Bollywood's Financial Resurgence in 2026

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