NSE Pays ₹643 Cr to SEBI, Clears Path for IPO Listing

The National Stock Exchange (NSE) recently settled a significant case involving the misuse of its Trading Access Point (TAP) platform, agreeing to pay Rs. 643 crore to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). This settlement led NSE to navigate its regulatory challenges preparing for its initial public offering (IPO).

Background of the TAP Misuse Case

The NSE introduced the TAP platform in 2008, designed to facilitate communication between brokers and the stock exchange. However, allegations arose that high-frequency traders manipulated this system in 2013, executing thousands of undetected orders and effectively sidelining other users. SEBI's investigation revealed that the NSE had failed to exercise proper oversight of the TAP system.

The traders also the platform bypass the system and even skipped paying fees for some transactions. This misuse was uncovered during a 2017 investigation by income tax authorities linked to a separate co-location scandal involving former NSE executives.

In February 2023, SEBI issued a show-cause notice to the NSE, highlighting concerns that brokers could bypass the TAP system. The notice pointed out that the NSE had not implemented adequate measures to prevent such manipulations. Following this, the NSE submitted multiple settlement applications, ultimately leading to the recent agreement.

Settlement Details

On September 25, 2024, the NSE remitted the settlement amount of Rs. 643 crore, which is noted as one of the largest in SEBI's history. This payment was settled by the former Managing Director and CEO Vikram Limaye, along with eight other individuals involved in the case.

The settlement was approved after recommendations from SEBI's High-Powered Advisory Committee (HPAC), which assessed the terms proposed by the NSE. In addition to the financial settlement, all applicants except for NSE and one other individual are required to undertake at least 14 days of pro bono community service in the current financial year as part of their non-monetary settlement terms.

Big Relief for NSE Planning IPO

This resolution allows the NSE to move forward without further legal complications, thereby facilitating its plans for an IPO. The exchange previously applied for a no-objection certificate from SEBI to file IPO documents, and settling this case is expected to ease that process.

Resolving this case might strengthen investor confidence as it demonstrates the NSE's commitment to addressing regulatory issues proactively. The settlement also reflects SEBI's ongoing efforts to maintain market integrity and hold exchanges accountable for operational lapses.

Read more about NSE unlisted shares here

NSE Financial Performance

NSE’s total revenuein the quarter ending June ’24 increased by 47% from INR 3,357 crores to INR 4,950 crores. This significant rise showcases NSE’s ability to generate continuous growth in operations.

Total Expenses in FY 25 Q1were Rs 943 crores, before contribution to Core SGF Fund. This is 16% more than YoY Rs 826 crore spent in the same year.

The Profit After Taxrose 39% Year on Year from Rs 2568 crore to Rs 1844 crore thus increasing the profitability. Read in-depth analysis of NSE’s latest financial performance here

Is It The Right Time To Buy NSE Unlisted Shares?

The NSE in India is one of the most actively traded shares in the unlisted market. With itsrecent financial performanceand declaring a 4:1 bonus issue, theNSE Share pricejumped from Rs 6000-6500 per share.

It is dominating with more than 90% market share in all categories. Compared to BSE, its revenue growth has been three times more than BSE for the last four years. NSE IPO may come soon as SEBI has given a green flag for the alleged scam. Based on its recent returns and positive news indicators, this can be the right time to buy.

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