₹505 Crore of Unclaimed Wealth Accumulates, SEBI Proposes a Systematic Returns Framework

The Issue of Unclaimed Assets in Indian Markets

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has identified a significant concern in the financial markets—unclaimed investor funds and securities. As of January 31, investors have left approximately ₹323 crore in funds and ₹182 crore in securities unclaimed. To prevent misuse and facilitate timely returns, SEBI has proposed new guidelines involving brokers, stock exchanges, and investor protection mechanisms.

Defining ‘Unclaimed’ Assets

Unclaimed assets arise when funds or securities cannot be credited back to an investor’s bank or demat account due to various reasons, such as inactivity or incorrect details. SEBI has now standardised a process to classify funds or securities as unclaimed:

  • If a client’s broking account is inactive for 30 consecutive days, the broker must return any unutilised funds to the investor’s bank account per the monthly settlement cycle.
  • For active accounts, unutilised funds are to be credited monthly or quarterly based on the client’s preference.
  • Shares purchased by an investor must be transferred to their demat account by T+1 (the day after the transaction). If not, the broking account is placed under ‘enquiry status’, and the securities are categorised as unclaimed.
  • If an investor’s bank or demat account is inactive or incorrect, or if the investor has passed away, funds or securities can be transferred to their nominee or legal heir.

Treatment of Unclaimed Funds

To ensure investor protection, SEBI has mandated that brokers must:

  • Park unclaimed funds in low-risk investments such as liquid or overnight mutual funds and fixed deposits.
  • Transfer or pledge these funds to a clearing corporation to generate a minimum return.
  • Attempt to contact the investor at least six times before transferring the funds to the stock exchange.
  • If funds remain unclaimed for three years, they will be moved to the Investor Protection Fund (IPF). Investors can still reclaim them, but with interest only up to the fourth year.

Treatment of Unclaimed Securities

SEBI has outlined a structured process to handle unclaimed securities:

  • Brokers must transfer unclaimed securities to stock exchanges within seven days.
  • These securities will be pledged in favour of the stock exchange’s demat account.
  • Any corporate actions such as dividends and bonus shares will be credited to the investor’s ledger and transferred accordingly.

The Role of Stock Exchanges

Once brokers transfer unclaimed funds or securities, stock exchanges take on a supervisory role to locate the investors. Exchanges must:

  • Use databases such as Unique Client Code (UCC), depositories, and KYC registration agencies to track investors.
  • Contact investors through text messages and emails.
  • Deploy unclaimed funds in low-risk investment vehicles such as liquid mutual funds, treasury bills, or government securities.
  • Ensure brokers follow SEBI’s protocol in handling unclaimed assets.

Additionally, stock exchanges must attempt to contact nominees, employers, or introducers who may help locate the investor.

Process for Claiming Unclaimed Assets

Investors or their nominees can reclaim their funds or securities under the following conditions:

  • If a claim is made before assets are transferred to the exchange, the broker must verify and process the claim within 5 working days.
  • If a claim is made after the assets have been moved to the exchange, the broker must first verify the claim before forwarding it to the stock exchange, which then has 10 working days to process it.
  • If a broker defaults, unclaimed assets automatically go to the stock exchange, and investors must claim them directly from the exchange.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

SEBI Proposes Advanced Security Measures for Trading Accounts

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed new technology-based security measures to enhance the safety of trading and demat accounts. These initiatives aim to prevent unauthorised transactions and fortify authentication mechanisms, ensuring a more secure trading environment for investors.

Strengthening Authentication with SIM Binding

SEBI has suggested implementing a SIM binding mechanism similar to UPI applications. This would require a Unique Client Code (UCC) to be linked with a single SIM and mobile device, thereby ensuring that logins occur only from authenticated devices. 

This measure would significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access to trading accounts. Additionally, biometric authentication and login restrictions on multiple devices have also been proposed to enhance security further.

Centralised Call and Trade Facility

To mitigate risks associated with unauthorised transactions, SEBI has recommended that the call and trade facility be allowed only through dedicated and centralised phone numbers, email addresses, or mobile numbers registered with the stockbroker. 

This approach is aimed at preventing fraudulent activities such as SIM spoofing, unauthorised modifications, and erroneous share transfers.

Conclusion

With the increasing reliance on web and mobile-based trading platforms, SEBI’s proposed measures aim to tackle risks such as hacking, identity theft, and fraudulent activities. By leveraging technology-driven security protocols, the regulator seeks to provide investors with a safer trading experience.

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Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Ashok Leyland Wins ₹298 Crore Order for TNSTC Buses

Ashok Leyland has secured an order worth ₹297.85 crore from the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) for 320 fully built, 12-meter low-floor buses. These buses will run on BS-VI diesel fuel and will be delivered between June and August 2025.

Bus Specifications

The order includes buses equipped with iGen 6 BS VI technology and H-Series engines with a power output of 184 kW (246 hp). They will also feature front and rear air suspension, which is meant to improve ride quality for city transport.

The contract was awarded through a normal tender process following standard business norms. Ashok Leyland has stated that there are no adverse provisions in the agreement.

Financial Performance

For Q3 FY25, Ashok Leyland reported a 36% rise in consolidated net profit to ₹761.92 crore, up from ₹560.21 crore in Q3 FY24. Revenue from operations increased 8.2% to ₹11,946.15 crore for the quarter ending December 31, 2024.

Following the announcement, Ashok Leyland’s stock price increased 0.93% to ₹224.35 as of 1:53 PM on February 19. Over the past month, the stock has gained 7.23%, and it has surged 30.28% over the past year. However, it has seen a 12.87% decline in the past six months.

Company Overview

Ashok Leyland manufactures and sells commercial vehicles, including trucks and buses. The company also produces industrial and marine engines, forgings, and castings. It supplies vehicles to multiple state transport corporations across India. The company has been expanding its presence in the commercial vehicle segment, particularly in public transport.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

SEBI Seeks Enhanced Powers to Regulate Unauthorised Financial Advice on Social Media

India’s market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), is seeking expanded authority from the government to tackle unregulated financial advice spreading across social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram. According to a news report, SEBI has requested the ability to remove misleading financial content and access call records for market violation investigations.

This is SEBI’s second such request since 2022, but government approval remains pending.

Addressing Unregulated Financial Advice

As part of its intensified crackdown on market violations, SEBI has been targeting unregulated financial advice proliferating on digital platforms. However, despite discussions with social media companies, regulators have been unable to gain access to critical communication records.

According to SEBI, platforms such as Meta-owned WhatsApp have denied access to group chat data, citing the limitations of existing information technology laws. “SEBI finds itself limited while investigating serious market violations due to the absence of power to access equivalent of call data records,” SEBI stated in its letter dated February 3.

SEBI’s Demands and Government Roadblocks

In its latest communication to the government, SEBI has requested:

  • The authority to remove any misleading financial messages, links, or groups that violate securities regulations.
  • The ability to access call or message data records communicated via digital and social media platforms.

Currently, such investigative powers are vested with other law enforcement agencies, including the Tax Department, Department of Revenue Intelligence, and Enforcement Directorate, but not with regulatory bodies like SEBI.

Social Media Platforms’ Response

Social media platforms have been reluctant to comply with SEBI’s demands. Telegram, in a revised statement emailed to Reuters on Friday, stated: “Telegram is fully cooperating with the concerned authorities to process their requests around content moderation or blocking groups or channels, after performing the necessary legal checks, as per the guidelines of the IT Act 2000.”

However, it clarified that it cannot provide access to call data due to its platform’s technical structure. This revision came after a previous statement issued on Thursday, which stated, “Telegram has not denied access to SEBI,” without further elaboration.

Implications for Market Regulation

SEBI’s push for broader powers highlights the regulator’s growing concerns over unauthorised financial advice that can mislead investors and impact market stability. If granted, these powers would enhance SEBI’s ability to monitor and take action against entities operating outside regulatory oversight. 

However, the ongoing tussle between regulatory authorities and social media platforms raises questions about data privacy, jurisdiction, and enforcement challenges.

With government approval still pending, it remains to be seen how SEBI’s request will shape the regulatory landscape for financial communications in India.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

RBIDATA: The Reserve Bank of India’s New Mobile App for Macroeconomic and Financial Statistics

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced RBIDATA, a mobile application aimed at enhancing public access to macroeconomic and financial data. The app is designed to offer a user-friendly interface with interactive visual elements, making complex economic data more accessible and comprehensible for a wider audience.

A Vast Repository of Economic Data

RBIDATA provides access to over 11,000 economic data series, covering various aspects of India’s economy. The information is sourced from reliable databases, ensuring authenticity and relevance for users seeking financial insights.

The app presents data in a structured manner, allowing users to explore various economic indicators, including:

  • Inflation and price indices
  • Banking and monetary statistics
  • National income and GDP trends
  • External trade and balance of payments
  • Government finance and fiscal policy data

Interactive Data Visualisation and Customisation

One of the key features of RBIDATA is its interactive graphs and charts, which help users analyse time-series data effectively. Users can:

  • View economic trends over different periods.
  • Download datasets for in-depth analysis.
  • Customise data views with filters and sorting options.

The app also provides contextual details such as data sources, measurement units, and frequency of updates, ensuring clarity in data interpretation.

Enhanced User Accessibility with Key Features

RBIDATA incorporates several features to improve the user experience:

1. Popular Reports Section

This feature highlights frequently viewed reports, making it easier to access widely used economic statistics without extensive searches.

2. Advanced Search Functionality

Users can quickly locate specific datasets using a search function that eliminates the need to navigate through multiple sections.

3. Banking Outlet Locator

The app includes a Banking Outlet feature, enabling users to find banking facilities within a 20-kilometre radius of their location. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals and businesses seeking nearby banking services.

Regional Economic Insights with SAARC Data

Beyond India-specific statistics, RBIDATA offers access to economic data from SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) countries. The inclusion of the ‘SAARC Finance’ link provides a broader perspective on regional economic trends, fostering cross-border financial awareness.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

US Banks Shift Billions in Gold from London to New York Amid Trade War Fears

In a significant development in global finance, major US banks are rapidly shifting billions of dollars’ worth of gold from London to New York. This mass movement of gold has been triggered by concerns over potential tariffs and the widening price gap between London’s cash price and New York’s futures market.

According to a news report, the US gold reserves have more than doubled since Election Day, with holdings rising from $50 billion in November to approximately $106 billion.

What’s Driving the Gold Exodus?

The movement of gold is being largely driven by the tariff threats posed by former US President Donald Trump. His decision to impose 25% import duties on steel and aluminium has led to speculation that similar tariffs could be applied to gold. 

As a result, gold prices in London have dropped by around $20 since December, leading traders to shift their holdings to the US, where demand has surged.

Additionally, the discrepancy in gold prices between the two financial hubs has incentivised banks to capitalise on the arbitrage opportunity. New York gold futures have increased by 11% this year, reaching $2,935 per ounce, with analysts forecasting a potential record-high of $3,000 per ounce.

The Role of Major Banks in the Gold Migration

Large financial institutions such as JPMorgan and HSBC have been at the forefront of this gold migration, reportedly flying substantial amounts of gold across the Atlantic to cover losses on short positions. The impact has been profound, with the Bank of England (BoE) witnessing a sharp rise in withdrawal requests. 

According to Deputy Governor Sir Dave Ramsden, approximately 8,000 gold bars—equivalent to 2% of the BoE’s total gold reserves—have been moved from its vaults in recent months.

A Supply Crunch in London

With the exodus of gold to the US, London is experiencing a notable shortage. While gold deliveries in London typically take just a few days, the heightened demand and withdrawal pressure have extended delivery times to between four and eight weeks. This has created logistical challenges for traders and banks still reliant on London as a global gold trading hub.

How Is the Gold Transported?

The logistics of transporting such vast quantities of gold involve a highly secure and methodical process. The movement is typically executed in the following steps:

  1. Ground Transport: Gold is transported from vaults in London to airports using high-security armoured vehicles.
  2. Recasting in Switzerland: Before reaching the US, the gold often makes a stop in Switzerland, where refiners melt and reshape the bars into sizes that comply with Comex contract requirements.
  3. Air Transport: The refined gold is then flown to New York, primarily using the cargo holds of commercial flights, which is considered the most cost-effective method.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

India and Qatar Strengthen Ties with Strategic Partnership and $10 Billion Investment Commitment

In a significant diplomatic and economic milestone, India and Qatar have decided to elevate their bilateral ties to a “strategic partnership.” This decision was announced following talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani during the latter’s visit to New Delhi on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Modi, in a post on X, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Had a very productive meeting with my brother, Amir of Qatar H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, earlier today. Under his leadership, Qatar has scaled new heights of progress. He is also committed to a strong India-Qatar friendship. This visit is even more special because we have elevated our ties to a Strategic Partnership.”

Doubling Trade and Expanding Investment

One of the key highlights of the meeting was the decision to double bilateral trade from the current $14 billion to $28 billion over the next 5 years. Additionally, Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund, the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), which currently holds $1.5 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) in India, announced a commitment to invest an additional $10 billion.

Sectors benefiting from Qatar’s existing investments in India include retail, power, IT, education, healthcare, and affordable housing. This expanded investment is expected to further strengthen economic cooperation between the two nations.

Exploring a Free Trade Agreement

India and Qatar also discussed the possibility of negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which could enhance trade opportunities and deepen economic ties. This move aligns with India’s broader efforts to strengthen trade relations with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, having already established strategic partnerships with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait.

Bilateral Agreements and MoUs Signed

Sheikh Al Thani’s second visit to India resulted in the signing of 2 agreements and 5 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements span various sectors, including economic cooperation, youth affairs, and the avoidance of double taxation, further reinforcing the comprehensive nature of the strategic partnership.

Arun Chatterjee, Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, while briefing reporters, stated, “Trade, investment and energy were among the major topics of discussion between the two leaders today. The trade today between India and Qatar is about US $14 billion annually. Both sides have agreed to set a target to double this in the next 5 years.”

Strengthening Ties Within the GCC

Qatar’s decision to elevate its relationship with India brings it in line with other GCC nations that have already entered into strategic partnerships with India. This development is expected to open new avenues for collaboration in trade, energy, and investments, reinforcing India’s growing economic footprint in the Gulf region.

As India and Qatar move forward with this strategic partnership, the focus will remain on facilitating investments, boosting trade, and fostering long-term economic collaboration, marking a new chapter in their diplomatic and economic relations.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Adani Group’s Philanthropic Push: ₹2,000 Crore Committed for 20 Schools Across India

The Adani Group, led by Gautam Adani, as per news reports has announced a substantial philanthropic initiative aimed at transforming the education landscape in India. The conglomerate has pledged ₹2,000 crore to construct at least 20 schools across the country. This forms part of the ₹10,000 crore charity commitment made during the wedding of Gautam Adani’s younger son, Jeet Adani, with Diva Shah.

A Broader Social Responsibility Initiative

The latest educational commitment aligns with the group’s ongoing social welfare initiatives. Previously, the Adani Group had allocated ₹6,000 crore towards the construction of hospitals and ₹2,000 crore for skill development. This diversified approach signifies a structured and holistic philanthropic roadmap aimed at enhancing healthcare, education, and employment opportunities in India.

Collaboration with GEMS Education

In an effort to ensure world-class educational standards, the Adani Foundation—the philanthropic arm of the Adani Group—has partnered with GEMS Education, a globally recognised institution in private K-12 education. This collaboration seeks to establish educational institutions with top-tier learning infrastructure that will be accessible to students across various socio-economic backgrounds.

A statement released by the Adani Group highlighted that this partnership would not only focus on school-level education but also on creating research institutions that will contribute towards developing teaching competencies through innovation and skill enhancement.

The First School to Open in 2025

The first institution under this initiative, the Adani GEMS School of Excellence, is expected to commence operations in Lucknow during the 2025–26 academic year. Over the next three years, at least 20 such schools will be set up across India’s major metropolitan cities. Subsequently, the initiative will be expanded to Tier II, III, and IV cities, ensuring a wider reach beyond urban centres.

Philanthropy at the Core of Adani Group

Gautam Adani, currently the second-richest individual in India after Mukesh Ambani with a net worth of $53.9 billion as per the report, has long been associated with large-scale philanthropy. His foundation, through various initiatives, has consistently worked towards socio-economic development, focusing on education, healthcare, and skill development.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

SBI JanNivesh SIP: Turn SIP of ₹250 Monthly into Lakhs

SBI Mutual Fund has introduced the JanNivesh SIP, an initiative designed to make investing more accessible to a wider audience. With a minimum investment requirement of just ₹250 per month, this scheme aims to encourage financial participation among first-time investors, small savers, and those in the unorganised sector.

In a country where financial literacy and investment participation are still evolving, such an initiative plays a crucial role in bridging the gap and promoting disciplined investing.

How JanNivesh SIP Can Build Wealth Over Time

A systematic investment plan (SIP) is one of the simplest ways to invest in mutual funds, allowing investors to contribute small amounts consistently over time. While the monthly investment in JanNivesh SIP may seem modest, the power of compounding can help generate significant returns in the long run.

Let’s explore the potential growth of a ₹250 monthly SIP over different periods and expected returns, this is calculated using SIP calculator: 

Investment Period Expected Return Corpus Generated
30 years 15% ₹17.52  lakh
30 years 18% ₹35.81 lakh

 

  • Total Investment: ₹90,000 (over 30 years)
  • Estimated Returns: ₹34,91,322 (assuming an 18% annual return)

This demonstrates how even a small monthly contribution can grow into a substantial corpus over time, thanks to compounding returns.

A Digital-First Approach to Investment

The JanNivesh SIP is being integrated into SBI’s YONO app, making it easier for customers to start investing with just a few taps on their smartphones. This digital-first approach aligns with the broader financial inclusion agenda by ensuring that investments are accessible to a larger population, including those who may not have access to traditional financial advisory services.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Mutual Fund investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Man Wins ₹65,000 Compensation for ‘Wasted Time’ at PVR-INOX: A Landmark Consumer Court Ruling

Abhishek MR, a Bengaluru resident, filed a complaint after experiencing an unexpected delay while watching Sam Bahadur in 2023. Despite a scheduled showtime of 4:05 pm, the film commenced only at 4:30 pm due to an extended session of advertisements and trailers.

He argued that this delay disrupted his plans and caused him to miss important appointments. In his complaint, he alleged that multiplexes misled customers with incorrect show timings and forced them to watch commercials for financial gain. “The complainant could not attend other arrangements and appointments which were scheduled for the day and has faced losses that cannot be calculated in terms of money as compensation,” the complaint stated.

Consumer Court’s Ruling: ‘Time is Money’

The consumer court ruled in favour of Abhishek, holding PVR Cinemas and INOX accountable for wasting his time. The compensation awarded included:

  • ₹50,000 for unfair trade practices
  • ₹5,000 for mental agony
  • ₹10,000 for legal expenses

Additionally, the court imposed a ₹1 lakh fine on PVR and INOX, payable to the Consumer Welfare Fund within 30 days. However, BookMyShow was exempted from liability, as it only facilitated ticket bookings and had no control over advertisement durations.

Court’s Stand: A Strong Message for Businesses

The ruling, issued on February 15, 2024, made it clear that no business has the right to profit at the cost of a customer’s time. The court firmly stated: “25-30 minutes is not a small amount of time to sit idle in a theatre and watch whatever is telecasted.”

It emphasised that people with busy schedules should not be forced to endure unnecessary advertisements before a movie screening.

PVR-INOX’s Defence & Court’s Response

PVR Cinemas and INOX defended their actions by stating that they are legally required to broadcast Public Service Announcements (PSAs) to promote awareness campaigns.

However, the court clarified that such PSAs should be limited to 10 minutes before the movie starts and during the interval—not stretched into an extended pre-screening advertisement session.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.