Nodal officer under UAPA: New appointment to regulate Gift IFSC entities
The February 2025 circular issued by IFSCA signals a shift in the leadership for overseeing the implementation of these critical regulations. Ankit Bhansali, General Manager at the Division of Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML & CFT), has been designated as the new Nodal Officer responsible for the execution of Section 51A of the UAPA and Section 12A of the WMD Act. This change is a modification of the earlier circular and communication, which may have previously indicated a different officer for this role.
New draft framework for appointment of auditors
SEBI has issued a Consultation Paper on aspects relating to Secretarial Compliance Report, Appointment of Auditors and Related Party Transactions of a Listed Entity. The comments or suggestions, along with rationale, may be submitted latest by February 28, 2025.
SEBI to allow more holdings in listed debt
The objective of this consultation paper is to seek comments / views / suggestions from public on the proposals to allow more holdings in listed debt below a certain rating considering the possible shrinking of the universe of investment opportunities in unlisted debt securities pursuant to the recently introduced Regulation 62A of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015.
SEBI suspends trading of agricultural commodity derivatives
The suspension in trading in listed commodity derivative contracts has been extended till March 31, 2025.
Ensuring safe participation of retail investors in Algotrading
This new directive comes as a response to the growing demand from retail investors for access to the benefits of algorithmic trading, which include precise order execution and market efficiency. However, this technological innovation brings new challenges and risks, especially for less experienced traders. Therefore, SEBI’s updated guidelines set out a structured regulatory framework designed to provide greater oversight and protections for retail investors engaging in Algo trading.
Winding up bankrupt companies: new process
This regulation mandates that, after securing approval from the Committee of Creditors (CoC) with at least 66% of the votes, the Resolution Professional (RP) must hand over the possession of real estate assets, including plots, apartments, or buildings. This must be done if the allottee has performed their part under the agreement. The RP will also need to facilitate the registration process for the allottee, making the resolution of real estate-related insolvencies more seamless. This change aims to provide better clarity and assurance to creditors involved in real estate projects and ensure that agreements are honored swiftly during the insolvency process.
Promoting market efficiency and liquidity: better opportunity for investors
The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) has recently introduced a significant initiative to enhance liquidity in the bullion market through the Liquidity Enhancement Scheme (LES). This decision is aimed at boosting market efficiency and providing better opportunities for investors and market participants.
Safer participation of retail investors in Algorithmic trading
SEBI issued a circular aimed at enabling safer participation of retail investors in Algorithmic Trading (Algo trading). This new regulatory framework is a response to the growing demand for Algo trading by retail investors, which has been gaining momentum in recent years. The initiative not only aims to offer greater access to algorithmic tools but also puts in place critical safeguards to ensure the safety and integrity of market practices.
How to prepare audit report on digital assurance: Technical guide
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued a draft circular inviting public comments on the “Management Statement and Auditor’s / Independent Practitioner’s Report on Digital Assurance based on Information Obtained from External Data Repositories.” This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), aims to bolster financial reporting by incorporating digital assurance mechanisms.
Guidelines for Funding research on Corporate affairs
The “Funding Research and Studies, Workshops and Conferences” initiative is a key component of the Central Sector Plan Scheme titled “Corporate Data Management” (CDM). This initiative, implemented by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), aims to utilize the vast repository of corporate data available with the Ministry by sponsoring research studies and surveys. These studies will provide insights into corporate growth in the broader macroeconomic context.
