Business

SEBI Collaborates with DigiLocker to Minimize Unclaimed Assets and Strengthen Investor Protection

Published

1 year ago

March 20, 2025

On Wednesday, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) announced a partnership with DigiLocker aimed at assisting investors in tracking their securities holdings and minimizing unclaimed financial assets. This initiative, detailed in the SEBI circular titled “Harnessing DigiLocker as a Digital Public Infrastructure for Reducing Unclaimed Assets in the Indian Securities Market,” seeks to bolster investor protection and facilitate easier access to financial holdings.

By integrating DigiLocker within the securities market framework, SEBI is ensuring that investors can securely store and retrieve information regarding their demat accounts and mutual fund investments.

DigiLocker, which currently allows users to access documents such as bank statements, insurance policies, and National Pension System (NPS) information, will now function as a centralized platform for investors to manage their securities data. A significant aspect of this initiative is the nomination feature, enabling investors to designate data access nominees within DigiLocker. This grants read-only access to designated individuals in the event of the investor’s passing, ensuring that legal heirs can more easily identify and claim financial assets without undue delays, according to government officials.

To enhance this process, SEBI has introduced an automated notification system for nominees. In the event of an investor’s death, the KYC Registration Agencies (KRAs), which are overseen by SEBI, will inform DigiLocker. Following this notification, DigiLocker will promptly alert the appointed nominees, allowing them to commence the asset transfer process with financial institutions. KRAs will play a crucial role in verifying information and ensuring a smooth transition of assets to the rightful heirs.

In related news, SEBI plans to discuss significant regulatory adjustments at its upcoming board meeting, the first under new Chairperson Tuhin Kanta Pandey. The agenda will cover new security measures for demat accounts, the independence of clearing corporations, an expanded definition of Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs), and updates to fee collection procedures for research analysts. A notable proposal aims to enhance investor security by implementing a system akin to the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for demat accounts.

Business

Overseas Loans by Indian Firms See Sharp Decline

Published

23 hours ago

May 17, 2026

Namma Kudla

Business : Indian companies borrowed $5.43 billion from abroad in March, according to RBI data. This was 51% lower than March last year.

Experts said the weak rupee and high global interest rates made foreign loans less attractive for companies.

In the financial year 2025-26, India Inc raised nearly $43 billion through foreign borrowings. This was down from $61 billion in the previous year.

In March 2025, borrowings had crossed $11 billion due to large deals by companies like JSW Steel and Tata Semiconductor Manufacturing.

Companies are also avoiding overseas loans because hedging costs have become expensive during currency volatility.

The RBI reportedly discussed easing foreign borrowing rules and offering hedging support, but no final decision was taken.

Market experts said the ongoing West Asia conflict has increased uncertainty, making companies cautious about raising funds from abroad.

Business

Fuel Prices Hiked by Rs.3 per Litre across India

Published

3 days ago

May 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Petrol and diesel prices have been increased by Rs.3 per litre across the country from today. Oil marketing companies revised the rates due to the rise in global crude oil prices.

After the hike, petrol price in Bengaluru has reached Rs.106.17 per litre, while diesel now costs Rs.94.10 per litre.

The increase comes amid fluctuations in international crude oil prices and tensions in West Asia, including the Iran conflict. The fall in the value of the Indian rupee against the US dollar has also increased import costs.

The fuel price hike is expected to affect transportation and daily essentials. Transport charges for goods may rise, leading to higher prices of vegetables, fruits, milk, and other items. Bus, auto, and taxi fares may also increase.

Earlier, fuel prices were reduced before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In 2022, the Centre had also cut excise duty to control inflation after the Covid pandemic.

Business

Gold Prices Rise in Mangaluru; Demand for Ornaments Remains Strong

Published

2 weeks ago

May 4, 2026

Namma Kudla

Mangaluru: Gold prices in the coastal city of Mangaluru have been reported at high levels today. The rate for 24 karat gold (99.9% purity) stands at Rs.14,962 per gram. The price for 22 karat gold (91.6% purity) is Rs.13,715 per gram. Meanwhile, 18 karat gold (75% purity) is being sold at Rs.11,222 per gram.

Mangaluru is well known for its deep cultural connection with gold. The city has a long tradition of buying and wearing gold ornaments. This tradition continues strongly even today.

Local jewellers say that demand for gold remains steady despite high prices. Many people still prefer to invest in gold for safety and long-term value. Gold is also an important part of weddings and festivals in the region.

Apart from its love for seafood, Mangaluru is also famous for its gold market. The gold trade in the city has a long history and continues to grow.

Buyers are advised to check the latest rates before making a purchase. They can also use a gold rate calculator to get exact pricing based on weight and purity.

Experts say that gold prices may change depending on global market trends. Customers should stay updated and make careful decisions while buying gold.