Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWF) are government-owned investment funds created by countries to manage their wealth and generate long-term financial returns. Global investors are growing confident that India’s economic potential is strengthening by the surge in assets under sovereign wealth funds.
According to data from the NSDL, Sovereign Wealth Funds have significantly increased their investments, with total securities owned soaring by nearly 60% in FY24, reaching Rs.4.7 lakh crore. This substantial rise from the Rs 3 lakh crore recorded in 2023 brings out a booming interest in India’s growth prospects. In contrast, while overall foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) also experienced growth, their assets under custody expanded by about 40% in 2024, reaching Rs. 69.5 lakh crore. The significant increase in sovereign wealth funds’ investments signals a strong belief in India’s position as one of the fastest-growing markets globally.
Market analysts observe a growing preference among foreign government funds to invest in India, driven by its robust growth potential and favourable business environment. Over the past few years, the central government has streamlined compliance procedures and introduced special tax incentives, particularly benefiting sovereign wealth funds such as the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, one of the major investors in India’s infrastructure sector through FDI.
India’s promising growth trajectory and political stability have positioned it as a prime destination for direct investments by Sovereign Wealth Funds and continuation of tax incentives will likely sustain the influx of such funds into the country. Notable players in the Indian market include sovereign funds like the Government of Singapore, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, Kuwait Investment Authority, and the Norwegian pension fund.
The Government of Singapore has made substantial investments in Indian equities, with significant stakes in companies like Reliance Industries and HDFC Bank. The fund owns a 1.5 % stake in Reliance Industries, valued at approximately Rs.30,000 crore, and a 2.34 % share in HDFC Bank, worth around Rs.25,000 crore. These investments reinforce the confidence of sovereign wealth funds in India’s economic prospects and its potential for lucrative returns.
Conclusion: The notable increase in investments by SWFs in India underscores a growing confidence in the country’s economic trajectory. This surge can be attributed to India’s growth potential, favourable business environment, and government initiatives aimed at easing investment processes and providing tax incentives. Such factors, coupled with India’s promising growth trajectory and political stability, continue to attract substantial investments from global players, reaffirming India’s status as a thriving investment destination.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making related decisions.
Published on: May 7, 2024, 4:59 PM IST
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