RBI Plans to Double Foreign Investor Cap in Listed Firms

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) plans to increase the cap on individual foreign investors in listed companies from 5% to 10%. The combined holding limit for all overseas individual investors in a listed company is proposed to rise from 10% to 24%. The move is aimed at boosting capital inflows amid $28 billion in FPI outflows since September.

Policy Expansion to Include All Foreign Investors

• Previously, only Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) could hold up to 5% in an Indian company under Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) Schedule III.
• The RBI now proposes to extend this benefit to all foreign investors.
• This reform aligns with efforts to widen India’s investment pool and attract global capital.

Concerns Raised by SEBI

• Market regulator SEBI has flagged monitoring challenges and risks of breaching takeover norms.
• If a single foreign investor and associates hold more than 34%, it could trigger mandatory takeover offers under Indian laws.
• SEBI cautioned the RBI that without robust monitoring, such takeovers might go undetected.

Regulatory Discussions & Next Steps

• The government, RBI, and SEBI are in the final stages of discussion to formalize these reforms.
• While the government and RBI favor the move, SEBI is urging stronger compliance frameworks to prevent misuse.

Implications for Investors & Markets

• The increase in foreign investment limits could boost liquidity and improve market sentiment.
• However, strict monitoring mechanisms may be required to prevent unintended takeovers and ensure regulatory compliance.

BS