Business

SEBI Suggests Enhanced Regulations for Listed Companies to Fortify Corporate Governance

Published

1 year ago

February 11, 2025

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced proposed regulations aimed at enhancing corporate governance within listed companies. These initiatives include revamping the Annual Secretarial Compliance Report (ASCR) format, establishing specific qualifications for auditor appointments, and setting monetary thresholds for approvals related to Related Party Transactions (RPTs).

With these proposals, SEBI seeks to enforce stringent compliance measures and promote transparency in corporate operations.

In its consultation paper, the regulator recommends making the ASCR more comprehensive to provide clearer confirmation on a company’s adherence to securities regulations. Moreover, it proposes that the ASCR be a mandatory inclusion in the annual report, thereby enhancing accountability.

Regarding auditor appointments, SEBI suggests integrating relevant provisions from the Companies (Audit and Auditors) Rules, 2014, into the Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements (LODR) Regulations. This approach aims to ensure that statutory auditors possess the appropriate qualifications and experience that align with a company’s size and complexity. Additionally, it recommends that audit committees thoroughly assess the qualifications of key signing partners before their appointment.

To bolster transparency in auditor selections and reappointments, the SEBI has advised that crucial details regarding these processes be disclosed to the audit committee, board of directors, and shareholders, along with a standardized format for such disclosures.

Furthermore, SEBI has proposed monetary limits for RPTs carried out by subsidiaries of listed companies, suggesting dual approval thresholds. For subsidiaries with a financial history, the threshold will be whichever is lower: 10 percent of their turnover or a monetary cap—Rs 1,000 crore for main-board companies and Rs 50 crore for SMEs. For those without a financial track record, the approval threshold will either be 10 percent of the subsidiary’s net worth or the same monetary limits. In cases where a subsidiary has a negative net worth, share capital plus securities premium will be used instead.

To enhance compliance, SEBI is also advocating for a clearer definition of RPTs. The amendments will clarify if exemptions for transactions between parent companies and wholly-owned subsidiaries apply to both listed and unlisted entities. The regulator is seeking public feedback on these proposals until February 28.

Business

Overseas Loans by Indian Firms See Sharp Decline

Published

1 day 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.