Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Features of Financial Services: Banking Services
Features of Financial Services: Banking Services
Financial services make up one of the economy's most important and influential
sectors.
Financial services are a broad range of more specific activities such as banking,
investing, and insurance.
Financial services are limited to the activity of financial services firms and their
professionals, while financial products are the actual goods, accounts, or investments
they provide.
Features of Financial Services:
Banking Services:
Investment Services:
Insurance Services:
Life insurance
Property and casualty insurance
Health insurance
Financial Planning:
Retirement planning
Wealth management
Estate planning
Payment Services:
Risk Management:
Hedging services
Derivative trading
Scope of Financial Services:
Global Reach:
Diversification:
The scope includes a wide array of services to cater to diverse customer needs, from
individuals to businesses.
Innovation:
The scope includes adherence to regulatory frameworks to ensure the stability and
integrity of the financial system.
Problems in Financial Services:
Risk Management:
Managing financial risks, including market risk, credit risk, and operational risk, is a
complex challenge for financial institutions.
The digital nature of financial services exposes them to cybersecurity threats, fraud, and
identity theft.
Regulatory Compliance:
Customer Trust:
Building and maintaining trust with customers is crucial, and any breach or unethical
behavior can lead to reputational damage.
Financial Inclusion:
Access to financial services is not uniform globally, and efforts are needed to ensure
financial inclusion for all segments of society.
Technological Disruption:
Market Volatility:
Fluctuations in financial markets pose challenges for investment and asset management
services.
Complex Products:
Diversification:
Mutual funds invest in a variety of securities, spreading the risk across different assets.
Professional Management:
Fund managers are responsible for making investment decisions based on the fund's
objectives.
Liquidity:
Investors can buy and sell mutual fund shares on any business day at the net asset value
(NAV).
Transparency:
Mutual funds disclose their holdings and performance regularly, providing transparency
to investors.
Equity funds, bond funds, money market funds, hybrid funds, and sector-specific funds.
Investors buy shares in a mutual fund, and the value of these shares is determined by
the net asset value per share (NAV), which is calculated daily based on the fund's assets
minus liabilities.
Venture capital (VC) financing is a form of funding provided by venture capital firms to
startups and small businesses that have high growth potential. In exchange for the
investment, venture capitalists typically take equity (ownership) in the company.
Venture capital is often sought by companies in the early stages of development when
traditional sources of financing, such as bank loans, may be less accessible. Key features
of venture capital financing include:
Equity Investment:
Venture capitalists invest in the equity of the company, becoming partial owners.
Venture capital involves a high level of risk, and investors expect high returns if the
startup is successful.
Active Involvement:
Venture capitalists often provide not just capital but also guidance and mentorship to
help the startup grow.
Exit Strategies:
Venture capitalists aim for exits through methods like initial public offerings (IPOs) or
acquisitions, where they can realize their returns.
Focus on Innovation:
Stage of Investment:
Venture capital is commonly associated with early-stage and growth-stage financing but
can extend to later stages as well.
Startups seeking venture capital typically go through rounds of funding, with each round
representing a new stage of development. The venture capital firm's involvement helps
the startup scale its operations, enter new markets, and navigate the challenges of rapid
growth. The relationship between the venture capitalist and the startup is crucial for
mutual success.
Q3 explain the concept of leasing and hire purchase?
Hire purchase is an agreement where the buyer makes a downpayment and pays the
balance plus interest in installments.
These types of agreements are generally used for very expensive goods.
In a hire purchase agreement, ownership is not transferred to the purchaser until all
payments are made.
Hire purchase agreements usually prove to be more expensive in the long run than
purchasing an item outright.
Hire purchase agreements are similar to rent-to-own transactions that give the lessee
the option to buy at any time during the agreement, such as rent-to-own cars. Like rent-
to-own, hire purchases can benefit consumers with poor credit by spreading the cost of
expensive items that they would otherwise not be able to afford over an extended time
period. It's not the same as an extension of credit, though, because the purchaser
technically doesn't own the item until all of the payments are made.
Because ownership is not transferred until the end of the agreement, hire purchase
plans offer more protection to the vendor than other sales or leasing methods for
unsecured items. That's because the items can be repossessed more easily should the
buyer be unable to keep up with the repayments.
Lease financing:
A lease is a legal, binding contract outlining the terms under which one party agrees to
rent property owned by another party.
It guarantees the tenant or lessee use of the property and guarantees the property
owner or landlord regular payments for a specified period in exchange.
Residential leases tend to be the same for all tenants, but there are several different
types of commercial leases.
Consequences for breaking leases range from mild to damaging, depending on the
circumstances under which they are broken.
Certain protected groups are able to vacate their leases without any consequences, for
which some form of proof is usually required.
Understanding a Lease
Leases are legal and binding contracts that set forth the terms of rental agreements
in real estate and real and personal property. These contracts stipulate the duties of
each party to effect and maintain the agreement and are enforceable by each. For
example, a residential property lease includes:
Pet policies
Not all leases are designed the same, but all of them have some common
features. These include the rent amount, the due date of rent, the expiration
date of the lease. The landlord requires the tenant to sign the lease, thereby
agreeing to its terms before occupying the property.
Corporate Finance Advisory: Merchant banks assist companies in raising capital through
various means, such as issuing stocks or bonds. They advise on the most suitable
financial instruments and structures for fundraising.
Loan Syndication: Merchant banks help in arranging large loans by forming a syndicate
of banks to share the lending risk. This is common in major project financing.
Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A): Merchant banks play a crucial role in facilitating
mergers and acquisitions. They provide advisory services, valuation, and assist in the
negotiation and structuring of deals.
Risk Management: Merchant banks assist companies in managing financial risks through
various instruments like derivatives. This involves helping clients hedge against
unfavorable market movements.
Project Appraisal: Before providing financial assistance, merchant banks evaluate the
feasibility and viability of projects. This includes assessing technical, economic, financial,
and managerial aspects.
Issue Management and Placement: They manage the issuance and placement of
securities in the primary market, helping companies go public through Initial Public
Offerings (IPOs) or issuing additional shares.
Credit Syndication: Merchant banks arrange for credit facilities from multiple sources
for clients who require large amounts of funds.
The activities of merchant banking are dynamic and tailored to the financial needs of
businesses. They act as financial intermediaries, facilitating complex financial
transactions and providing specialized financial services that go beyond the scope of
traditional banking.
This service is usually appropriate for wealthy individuals with a broad array of diverse
needs.
Key components of wealth management services typically include:
Financial Planning: Wealth managers assess a client's financial situation, goals, and
objectives to create a customized financial plan. This plan may cover areas such as
retirement planning, estate planning, tax planning, and risk management.
Investment Management: Wealth managers help clients build and manage investment
portfolios tailored to their financial goals and risk tolerance. This may involve selecting
and monitoring a diverse range of assets, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and
alternative investments.
Estate Planning: Wealth management services often include assistance with estate
planning, which involves organizing one's assets and planning for the transfer of wealth
to heirs while minimizing tax implications.
Risk Management: Wealth managers assess and manage various risks, including market
risk, longevity risk, and unexpected events that could impact a client's financial well-
being. Insurance solutions may be recommended to mitigate certain risks.
Tax Planning: Wealth managers work to optimize a client's tax situation by employing
strategies to minimize tax liabilities while staying within the bounds of the law.
Client Education: Wealth managers often provide ongoing education to clients, keeping
them informed about market trends, investment opportunities, and changes in the
regulatory environment.
Investor Confidence: Investors, both domestic and international, use credit ratings as a
key indicator to assess the risk associated with investing in various financial instruments.
Higher credit ratings attract more investor confidence, leading to increased investments
and better access to capital markets.
Public Issue: Entities raising funds through the issuance of bonds or other debt
instruments need to have their creditworthiness evaluated. A higher credit rating can
enable them to raise funds at more favourable terms and conditions. A good credit
rating ensures easier access to financing options, essential for business expansion and
capital requirements.
Corporate Governance and Transparency: Credit rating agencies assess the financial
health and governance practices of businesses. Maintaining a good credit rating
encourages companies to adhere to strong corporate governance standards and
maintain transparency, which can ultimately benefit shareholders and other
stakeholders.
Risk Management: Credit ratings help entities identify their own credit risk profiles and
take necessary measures to mitigate risks. This includes improving financial
management, reducing debt levels, and maintaining healthy liquidity positions.
Regulatory Requirements: In some cases, regulatory authorities may use credit ratings
to set capital adequacy requirements for financial institutions, ensuring they hold
enough capital to cover potential credit losses. Non-banking Financial Institutions (NBFC)
and banks are required to secure ratings for every deposit or bond program they
introduce, and they must achieve a specified minimum credit rating to sustain these
programs. If the prescribed minimum credit rating is not attained, the funds collected
through these programs must be returned.
SEBI, established in 1988, was initially tasked with regulating the securities market. Over
time, its mandate expanded to cover various aspects of the financial markets, including
CRAs. The regulatory framework for CRAs was first established through the SEBI (Credit
Rating Agencies) Regulations, 1999. However, recognizing the need for more stringent
oversight, SEBI introduced the SEBI (Credit Rating Agencies) Regulations, 2018, which
replaced the earlier regulations. These updated regulations aimed to reinforce the
credibility and accountability of CRAs and enhance transparency in their operations.
Registration and Eligibility Criteria: One of the pivotal aspects of SEBI’s regulation is the
requirement for CRAs to obtain registration from SEBI before conducting rating activities
in India. CRAs must meet strict eligibility criteria, including minimum net worth
thresholds, track record, and governance standards. This ensures that only financially
sound and credible entities operate as CRAs.
Rating Review and Monitoring: SEBI’s regulations require CRAs to conduct periodic
reviews and monitoring of credit ratings to ensure their accuracy and relevance. If new
information emerges that impacts an issuer’s creditworthiness, CRAs are expected to
adjust ratings accordingly.
Conflict of Interest Management: CRAs are required to have robust policies and
procedures in place to manage and disclose potential conflicts of interest that could
compromise the integrity of their ratings. This ensures that ratings remain objective and
unaffected by external influences.
Regulatory Reporting: CRAs are required to submit regular reports to SEBI, detailing
their financials, operations, and compliance with regulations. This enables SEBI to
maintain a vigilant oversight of their activities, ensuring adherence to established
standards.
The credit rating process is when a credit rating agency, ideally a third party, gathers
information about a bond, stock, security, or company and evaluates it to give it a rating
other investors may use as a benchmark.
Corporations rely on stocks or debt to fund their operations. For equity, they can use
investments from promoters, internal cash flows, or IPOs/FPOs to access financial
markets.
Credit rating agencies determine interest rates based on risk and must be impartial,
vigilant, and unbiased in their evaluations
The credit rating process involves a series of steps that agencies follow. Though these
steps may differ from one agency to another, the basic series is similar. Let us have a
quick at the steps that credit rating agencies follow to rate entities:
The agency begins as soon as it receives the request from the rating companies. In short,
the receipt of the formal request to issue a credit rating is the first step of the process.
The companies do that to ensure each and every aspect of the process is thoroughly
taken into consideration.
Signing an Agreement
The issuer company and the agency sign an agreement. According to this contract that
they sign, the agencies are asked to keep the information of the issuer company as
shared with them, confidential. The agreement gives the issuer company the liberty to
accept or reject the ratings provided by the rating agencies.
Assigning to Analysts
As soon as the request is received and the agreement is signed between the parties, an
analyst is assigned the task to look after the rating. Before this task is assigned, the
expertise of the analysts in the agencies is checked. Based on the area they possess
maximum knowledge and skills in, the credit agencies assign a particular credit rating
task to respective analyst teams.
The next step is to schedule visits and meetings with the company management.
Through the visits, the analysts and team try to explore the operational aspects of the
clients. They figure out the business activities, production process and cost of
production, and other aspects. The meeting with the management helps analysts assess
the overall position, strategies, risks, and policies of the client.
Forming an Opinion
The next steps are to present a report based on the observation and also mention the
ratings as felt suitable. In short, this is the step where the rating opinion is formed and
then the same is presented to the rating committee.
Then, the rating is communicated to the issuer company with reasons. It is, however, the
issuer company that would further decide whether to accept or reject the rating
assigned by the agency. If they are convinced by the ratings against the reasons, they
accept the decisions, else, they reject it. The final step is to communicate the rating to
the public .
The process of credit rating begins with the prospective issuer approaching the rating
agency for evaluation . he experts in analyzing banks should be given a free hand and
they will collect data and informant and will investigate the business strength and
weaknesses in detail. The entire process of rating stands on the for of confidentiality and
hence even the most confidential business strategies, marketing plans, future outlook
etc., are revealed to the steam of analysis.
The rating is based on the investigation analysis, study and interpretation of various
factors. The world of investment is exposed to the continuous onslaught of political,
economic, social and other forces which does not permit any one to understand
sufficiently certainty. Hence a logical approach to systematic evaluation is compulsory
and within the framework of certain common features the agencies employ different
methodologies.
Unit 3
Risk Capital: IFCI provides risk capital to projects that may be considered risky by
traditional financial institutions. This support encourages innovation and investment in
sectors that may face challenges in attracting conventional financing.
the Industrial Finance Corporation of India plays a pivotal role in the economic
development of the country by providing financial assistance, promoting
entrepreneurship, supporting infrastructure development, and contributing to the
growth of various industries.
SIDBI, or the Small Industries Development Bank of India, plays a crucial role in the
development and promotion of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in India.
Here are some key aspects of SIDBI's role:
Financial Assistance: SIDBI provides financial assistance to MSMEs in the form of loans,
working capital, and term loans. It aims to facilitate the growth and development of
these enterprises by addressing their financial needs.
Venture Capital and Risk Capital: SIDBI plays a role in providing venture capital and risk
capital to startups and small businesses. This support is crucial for fostering innovation
and entrepreneurship in the country.
Microfinance: SIDBI promotes microfinance institutions (MFIs) and facilitates the flow of
credit to the micro-enterprises sector. This is particularly important in rural areas where
small businesses often lack access to formal financial institutions.
Credit Guarantee: SIDBI provides credit guarantee support to small businesses, which
helps them secure loans from banks and financial institutions by mitigating the risk
associated with lending to this sector.
SIDBI plays a multifaceted role in supporting the growth and development of MSMEs in
India by providing financial assistance, promoting technological upgradation, and
engaging in various developmental activities that contribute to the overall economic
development of the country.
Risk Mitigation: EXIM banks often provide insurance and guarantees to protect
exporters and financial institutions from risks associated with international transactions.
This can include political risks, commercial risks, and risks related to currency
fluctuations.
Trade Promotion: EXIM banks actively promote and support the expansion of
international trade. They may offer educational resources, advisory services, and other
initiatives to encourage businesses to explore and engage in global markets.
Economic Development: By +
Foreign Policy: EXIM banks also play a role in supporting a country's foreign policy
objectives. By facilitating trade, these institutions strengthen economic ties between
nations and contribute to diplomatic relations.
Financing Infrastructure Projects: Some EXIM banks may also finance large
infrastructure projects in other countries, contributing to the development of vital
economic and transportation networks.
It's important to note that the specific functions and roles of EXIM banks can vary from
country to country, depending on the policies and objectives set by the respective
governments. Many countries have their own EXIM banks with specific mandates to
support their national trade interests.
CHARACTERISTICS OF INSURANCE
Sharing of Risks
Insurance is a co-operative device to share the burden of risk, which may fall on
happening of some unforeseen events, such as the death of head of the family, or on
happening of marine perils or loss of by fire.
Co-operative Device
Insurance is a co-operative form of distributing a certain risk over a group of persons
who are exposed to it (Ghosh & Agarwal). A large number of persons share the
losses arising from a particular risk.
Evaluation of Risk
To ascertain the insurance premium, the volume of risk is evaluated, which forms
the basis of insurance contract.
Payment of happening of specified event
On happening of specified event, the insurance company is bound to makepayment
to the insured. Happening of the specified event is certain in life insurance, but in the
case of fire, marine or accidental insurance, it is not necessary. In such cases, the
insurer is not liable for payment of indemnity.
Amount of payment
The amount of payment in indemnity insurance depends on the nature of losses
occurred, subject to a maximum of the sum insured. In life insurance, however, a
fixed amount is paid on the happening of some uncertain event or on the maturity of
the policy.
Transfer of risk
Insurance is a plan in which the insured transfers his risk on the insurer. This may be
the reason that Mayerson observes, that insurance is a device to transfer some
economic losses to the insurer, and otherwise, such losses would have been borne
by the insured themselves.
Ascertaining of losses
By taking a life insurance policy, one can ascertain his future losses in terms
of money. This is done by the insurer to determining the rate of premium, which is
calculated based on maximum risks.
A contract
Insurance is a legal contract between the insurer & insured under which the insurer
promises to compensate the insured financially within the scope of insurance policy,
& the insured promises to pay a fixed rate of premium to the insurer.
Unit4
Q1 Explain payment system in India
In india, the payment system is diverse and includes various methods to facilitate
transactions. Here are some key aspects of the payment system in India:
1. Traditional Methods:
Cash: Cash transactions are still widely used in India, especially for small-
value transactions.
Cheques: While the use of cheques has decreased with the rise of electronic
transactions, they are still used for certain business and financial transactions.
India has made significant strides in promoting digital payments, with initiatives such as
demonetization and the promotion of UPI contributing to the growth of electronic
transactions. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) plays a crucial role in regulating and overseeing
the payment system in the country.
1. Convenience:
2. Accessibility:
Users can access their accounts and perform transactions from anywhere
with an internet connection. This accessibility is crucial for those who travel
frequently or live in remote areas.
3. Time-saving:
Online banking eliminates the need to visit physical branches, saving time for
both customers and financial institutions. Transactions such as fund transfers
and bill payments can be completed quickly.
4. Cost-effective:
Electronic banking reduces the need for paper-based transactions, leading to
cost savings for banks and, in some cases, lower fees for customers.
5. Account Monitoring:
Users can easily monitor their account balances, track transactions, and set
up alerts for specific activities, providing better control and awareness of
their financial status.
Disadvantages of Electronic Banking:
1. Security Concerns:
2. Technical Issues:
3. Dependence on Technology:
4. Fraud Risk:
Electronic banking may not be suitable for individuals who frequently deal
with cash transactions, as certain services like depositing or withdrawing
physical cash may be limited.
It's important for users to weigh these advantages and disadvantages based on their
individual needs, preferences, and comfort level with technology. Additionally, staying
informed about security practices is crucial to mitigate potential risks associated with
electronic banking.
1. Financial Inclusion:
RBI has been promoting financial inclusion to ensure that banking and
financial services reach all sections of society. This involves measures to
provide banking services to the unbanked and underbanked regions of the
country.
The RBI has introduced and enhanced various payment and settlement
systems to facilitate efficient and secure electronic transactions. Initiatives
like the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) have played a crucial role in
promoting digital payments.
3. Regulatory Reforms:
While IRDAI is the primary regulatory body for the insurance sector, the RBI
collaborates with it to ensure overall financial stability. Joint efforts are made
to align policies and regulations for the seamless functioning of the banking
and insurance industries.
The RBI encourages the adoption of technology in the banking and insurance
sectors to improve efficiency and customer service. This includes guidelines
on the use of fintech and digital innovations.
8. Customer Protection and Education:
Principles of Insurance
The concept of insurance is risk distribution among a group of people. Hence, cooperation
becomes the basic principle of insurance.
To ensure the proper functioning of an insurance contract, the insurer and the insured have
to uphold the 7 principles of Insurances mentioned below:
The fundamental principle is that both the parties in an insurance contract should act in
good faith towards each other, i.e. they must provide clear and concise information related
to the terms and conditions of the contract.
The Insured should provide all the information related to the subject matter, and the insurer
must give precise details regarding the contract.
Example – Jacob took a health insurance policy. At the time of taking insurance, he was a
smoker and failed to disclose this fact. Later, he got cancer. In such a situation, the
Insurance company will not be liable to bear the financial burden as Jacob concealed
important facts.
Principle of Proximate Cause
This is also called the principle of ‘Causa Proxima’ or the nearest cause. This principle applies
when the loss is the result of two or more causes. The insurance company will find the
nearest cause of loss to the property. If the proximate cause is the one in which the
property is insured, then the company must pay compensation. If it is not a cause the
property is insured against, then no payment will be made by the insured.
Example –
Due to fire, a wall of a building was damaged, and the municipal authority ordered it to be
demolished. While demolition the adjoining building was damaged. The owner of the
adjoining building claimed the loss under the fire policy. The court held that fire is the
nearest cause of loss to the adjoining building, and the claim is payable as the falling of the
wall is an inevitable result of the fire.
In the same example, the wall of the building damaged due to fire, fell down due to storm
before it could be repaired and damaged an adjoining building. The owner of the adjoining
building claimed the loss under the fire policy. In this case, the fire was a remote cause, and
the storm was the proximate cause; hence the claim is not payable under the fire policy.
This principle says that the individual (insured) must have an insurable interest in the
subject matter. Insurable interest means that the subject matter for which the individual
enters the insurance contract must provide some financial gain to the insured and also lead
to a financial loss if there is any damage, destruction or loss.
Example – the owner of a vegetable cart has an insurable interest in the cart because he is
earning money from it. However, if he sells the cart, he will no longer have an insurable
interest in it.
To claim the amount of insurance, the insured must be the owner of the subject matter
both at the time of entering the contract and at the time of the accident.
Principle of Indemnity
This principle says that insurance is done only for the coverage of the loss; hence insured
should not make any profit from the insurance contract. In other words, the insured should
be compensated the amount equal to the actual loss and not the amount exceeding the
loss. The purpose of the indemnity principle is to set back the insured at the same financial
position as he was before the loss occurred. Principle of indemnity is observed strictly for
property insurance and not applicable for the life insurance contract.
Example – The owner of a commercial building enters an insurance contract to recover the
costs for any loss or damage in future. If the building sustains structural damages from fire,
then the insurer will indemnify the owner for the costs to repair the building by way of
reimbursing the owner for the exact amount spent on repair or by reconstructing the
damaged areas using its own authorized contractors.
Principle of Subrogation
Subrogation means one party stands in for another. As per this principle, after the insured,
i.e. the individual has been compensated for the incurred loss to him on the subject matter
that was insured, the rights of the ownership of that property goes to the insurer, i.e. the
company.
Subrogation gives the right to the insurance company to claim the amount of loss from the
third-party responsible for the same.
Example – If Mr A gets injured in a road accident, due to reckless driving of a third party, the
company with which Mr A took the accidental insurance will compensate the loss occurred
to Mr A and will also sue the third party to recover the money paid as claim.
Principle of Contribution
Contribution principle applies when the insured takes more than one insurance policy for
the same subject matter. It states the same thing as in the principle of indemnity, i.e. the
insured cannot make a profit by claiming the loss of one subject matter from different
policies or companies.
Example – A property worth Rs. 5 Lakhs is insured with Company A for Rs. 3 lakhs and with
company B for Rs.1 lakhs. The owner in case of damage to the property for 3 lakhs can claim
the full amount from Company A but then he cannot claim any amount from Company B.
Now, Company A can claim the proportional amount reimbursed value from Company B.
This principle says that as an owner, it is obligatory on the part of the insurer to take
necessary steps to minimise the loss to the insured property. The principle does not allow
the owner to be irresponsible or negligent just because the subject matter is insured.
Example – If a fire breaks out in your factory, you should take reasonable steps to put out
the fire. You cannot just stand back and allow the fire to burn down the factory because you
know that the insurance company will compensate for it.
Q5 types of insurance
There are two broad categories of insurance:
1. Life Insurance
2. General insurance
Life Insurance – The insurance policy whereby the policyholder (insured) can ensure
financial freedom for their family members after death. It offers financial compensation in
case of death or disability.
While purchasing the life insurance policy, the insured either pay the lump-sum amount or
makes periodic payments known as premiums to the insurer. In exchange, of which the
insurer promises to pay an assured sum to the family if insured in the event of death or
disability or at maturity.
Depending on the coverage, life insurance can be classified into the below-mentioned types:
Unit5
Q1 Explain depository participants
What is a Depository
A bank holds your funds, and just like that, a depository contains your financial assets. A
depository is a financial institute that does this and you have to pay certain dp charges to
open an account with a depository participant linked to a main depository. The depository
has the responsibility of keeping your financial assets like bonds, mutual funds, stocks, and
other assets in dematerialized format safe. India has two primary depositories - NSDL
(National Securities Depository Limited) and CSDL (Central Depository Services Limited).
Since it isn’t possible to open an account and trade directly with either of these bodies,
depository participants step in.
Who Is a Depository Participant
You can think of a depository participant as a mediator between CDSL and NSDL, and
traders and investors. Essentially, a depository participant means a place that resembles a
bank that stores money and conducts transactions. Instead of money, a depository
participant acts as a store of assets such as securities. With a DP or depository participant,
you can open a Demat account and store securities and then trade with them as your
account may be linked if you open a trading account. Serving as an agent of one or both the
NSDL and CDSL, a depository participant helps you manage your assets efficiently.
The Role of a Depository Participant
Now that you have enough understanding as to what is depository participant, you may
want to know why you need one. This can be best explained by knowing the role of
depository participants, described below:
Q2 objective of SEBI
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is the regulatory body for the securities
market in India. Its primary objective is to protect the interests of investors in securities and
to promote the development and regulation of the securities market. SEBI aims to achieve
the following objectives:
5. Promotion of Research and Education: SEBI promotes research and education in the
securities market. It conducts training programs for intermediaries and investors to
enhance their understanding of the market and to promote informed decision-
making.
6. Prohibition of Insider Trading: SEBI aims to prevent insider trading and fraudulent
activities in the securities market. It formulates and enforces regulations to curb
unfair practices related to trading based on non-public information.
7. Monitoring and Surveillance: SEBI monitors and supervises the securities market to
detect and prevent market manipulations, frauds, and other malpractices. It has the
authority to take corrective measures when necessary.
Overall, SEBI plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and stability of the securities
market in India while protecting the interests of investors and promoting its development.
Functions of SEBI
To prohibit fraudulent and unfair trade practices within the securities market and
related to it.
To keep the securities market efficient and up to date through proper research and
developmental tactics.
Powers of SEBI
Quasi-judicial Powers
In cases of fraud and unethical practices in the securities market, SEBI India can pass
judgements.
The said power of SEBI facilitates transparency, accountability and fairness in the securities
market.
Quasi-executive Powers
SEBI can examine the Book of Accounts and other vital documents to identify or gather
evidence against violations. If it finds one violating the regulations, the regulatory body can
impose rules, pass judgements and take legal actions against violators.
Quasi-Legislative Powers
To protect the interest of investors, the authoritative body has been entrusted with the
power to formulate pertinent rules and regulations. Such rules tend to encompass listing
obligations, insider trading regulations and essential disclosure requirements.
The body formulates rules and regulations to eliminate malpractices in the securities
market.
The Supreme Court of India and the Securities Appellate Tribunal have the upper hand when
it comes to the powers and functions of SEBI. The two apex bodies must go through all their
functions and related decisions.
The NSE (National Stock Exchange) and BSE (Bombay Stock Exchange) are two of the major
stock exchanges in India.
1. Establishment: NSE was established in 1992 and began its operations in 1994.
2. Location: The NSE is headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
3. Index: NSE is known for its flagship index called Nifty, which consists of 50 actively
traded stocks across various sectors.
4. Technology: NSE is known for its advanced and sophisticated electronic trading
platform. It was the first exchange in India to implement a fully automated, screen-
based electronic trading system.
Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE):
1. Establishment: BSE is one of the oldest stock exchanges in Asia, established in 1875.
2. Location: The BSE is also headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
3. Index: BSE is known for its benchmark index, the Sensex, which represents the
performance of 30 large, well-established companies listed on the exchange.
4. Historical Significance: BSE has a long and rich history and played a crucial role in the
development of the Indian capital market.
Key Differences:
1. Formation: NSE is relatively newer compared to BSE, which has a much longer
history.
2. Indices: Nifty is the key index for NSE, while Sensex is the primary index for BSE.
3. Trading Technology: NSE is known for its advanced electronic trading system, while
BSE has transitioned to electronic trading from traditional floor trading.
Both NSE and BSE play a vital role in the Indian financial markets, providing a platform for
companies to list and for investors to buy and sell securities. They contribute significantly to
the development and regulation of the Indian capital market.
Q7 functions of RBI
Functions of RBI
1. Monetary Authority: The main function of RBI is formulating and
implementing the monetary policies of India. Creating and balance between
“Price stability” and “future economic growth” is the main challenge of RBI
as a monetary authority. Read more on the monetary authority role of RBI
2. Regulator and supervisor of the financial system: RBI sets the rules and
regulations under which Indian banks and financial systems must operate.
The idea is to run the banks and financial system so efficiently that public
trust in the system is maintained. When people feel confident about the
financial system, it’s a win for RBI. How RBI ensures public confidence?
By ensuring that the depositor’s money is safe with the banks, and all
banking & financial functions are operating seamlessly as per rules. Read
more on how RBI manages the financial system.
3. Manager of Foreign Exchange: In India, all foreign currency flow must be
done as per FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act). It is the RBI that
ensures that transactions happen as per FEMA. The bigger role of RBI is in
ensuring that external trade happens in a seamless manner. Whether the
trader is a resident Indian or a foreign national, they must be able to deal in
foreign exchange in an easy and transparent manner. Read more
about Foreign Exchange Management by RBI.
4. The Issuer of Currency: It is the responsibility of the RBI to print and
issue new currency notes in India. It is also the RBI’s responsibility to
exchange old or damaged notes for new ones. This way RBI can manage the
availability of enough “good quality cash” needed in the market at a given
point in time. Here, “cash” means both notes and coins. Read more
about RBI’s role as an issuer of currency.
5. Regulator and Supervisor of Payment and Settlement Systems:In India,
all payments must be settles as per PSS Act, 2007 (Payment and Settlement
Systems Act). It is the RBI who ensures that transactions happens as per
PSS. In India there are several payments systems like ECS, Credit Card,
Debit Card, RTGS, NEFT, IMPS and UPI. All these payments system are
covered by PSS Act, 2007. The overall objective of RBI is to provide fast,
safe and efficient payment system for the public. Efficient payment flows is
one of the main confidence booster of the public in the Indian financial
system. Read more here.
6. Banker to Government: Like retail and commercial banks gives service to
common public, RBI is the retail bank for the Government of India (GOI).
RBI also acts as a merchant banker for the GOI. Read more about role
of RBI as Banker to GOI.
7. Banker to Banks: All Banks in India maintains an account with the RBI.
They keep their statutory reserves and other deposits in this account. Hence,
this way RBI also functions as banker to the banks. It is RBI’s responsibility
to ensure inter-bank transactions. RBI can also lend money to banks as a
special case. Read more about role of RBI as Banker to Banks.