IPO (Initial Public Offering) Terms Definitions

Sr. No.TermDefinitionRegulatory Reference
1Alternative Investment Fund (AIF)A privately pooled investment vehicle established or incorporated in India which collects funds from investors and invests in accordance with a defined investment policy.SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012, Reg. 2(1)(b)
2AllotmentThe process of assigning shares to applicants after finalization of the basis of allotment in an issue.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 42
3Anchor InvestorA Qualified Institutional Buyer who applies for shares before the opening of the IPO to provide market confidence.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(a)
4Application Supported by Blocked Amount (ASBA)An IPO application mechanism where the applicant’s funds are blocked in their bank account until allotment.SEBI Circular CIR/CFD/DIL/12/2012
5ApplicantAny investor who applies to subscribe to shares or securities offered in an issue.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(d)
6Auditor’s ReportA formal opinion by statutory auditors on the fairness and compliance of financial statements.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 143
7Authorized CapitalThe maximum amount of share capital a company is authorized to issue as stated in its Memorandum of Association.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 2(8)
8Basis of AllotmentThe process by which shares are allocated to investors based on demand and availability, finalized by the stock exchange and registrar.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 42
9Book Building ProcessA price discovery mechanism in which investors bid within a price band, and the final price is determined by demand.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 6(1)
10Book Running Lead Manager (BRLM)A SEBI-registered merchant banker responsible for managing the issue, coordinating book building, and regulatory compliance.SEBI (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992
11Bonus IssueThe issue of fully paid-up shares to existing shareholders from free reserves or share premium in proportion to their holdings.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 293; Companies Act, Sec. 63
12Broker to the IssueA stockbroker registered with SEBI who is authorized to collect and upload IPO applications.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(vii)
13Capital MarketA financial market where long-term debt or equity-backed securities are traded.SEBI Act, 1992, Preamble
14Clearing CorporationAn entity that ensures the clearing and settlement of trades executed on stock exchanges.SEBI (Stock Exchanges and Clearing Corporations) Regulations, 2018
15Collecting BankA bank authorized to collect IPO application money from investors and transfer it to the escrow account.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 36
16Companies Act, 2013An Act of Parliament governing incorporation, management, and regulation of companies in India.Companies Act, 2013
17Cut-off PriceThe final issue price determined after book building, applicable for retail investors opting for cut-off bids.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 44
18DepositoryA company registered with SEBI to hold securities in dematerialized form and facilitate electronic transfer.SEBI (Depositories and Participants) Regulations, 2018
19Depository Participant (DP)An intermediary acting as agent of a depository to offer demat account services to investors.SEBI (Depositories and Participants) Regulations, 2018
20DematerializationThe process of converting physical securities into electronic form to be held in a demat account.SEBI (Depositories and Participants) Regulations, 2018
21Demat AccountAn account with a depository participant used to hold securities in electronic form.SEBI (Depositories and Participants) Regulations, 2018
22DiscountA reduction in the issue price offered to eligible investors such as employees or retail investors.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 42(3)
23Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP)A preliminary document filed with SEBI containing all disclosures except final price and number of shares.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 25
24Equity ShareA share that represents ownership in a company and carries voting rights.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 43(a)
25Escrow AccountA temporary account held by a bank to collect and hold IPO application money until allotment or refund.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 36
26Face ValueThe nominal or par value of a share as stated in the Memorandum of Association.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 2(8)
27Financial YearA 12-month accounting period ending on 31st March each year.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 2(41)
28Fixed Price IssueAn IPO where the price of the shares is fixed in advance and stated in the offer document.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 6(2)
29Green Shoe OptionAn option to stabilize post-listing prices by allowing additional allocation of shares up to 15% of the issue size.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 45
30Initial Public Offer (IPO)The first sale of shares by an unlisted company to the public through a prospectus to list on a stock exchange.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(t)
31Issue PriceThe price at which shares are offered to the public in an IPO; determined through fixed price or book-building process.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(x)
32Issue SizeThe total monetary value of shares offered in an IPO, calculated as issue price multiplied by the number of shares offered.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(xi)
33Issuer CompanyA company that makes a public offer of securities and seeks listing on a recognized stock exchange.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(y)
34Listing AgreementA contract between the company and stock exchange governing the terms of listing, disclosures, and corporate governance.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Schedule III
35Listing DayThe date on which the securities of a company are admitted to dealings on a recognized stock exchange.Stock Exchange Listing Manual
36Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements (LODR)Regulations prescribing disclosure, corporate governance, and compliance obligations for listed entities.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015
37Lock-in PeriodThe period for which specified shares (such as promoter’s contribution) are required to be held and cannot be transferred post-IPO.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 16
38Lead ManagerA SEBI-registered merchant banker responsible for issue management, coordination, and due diligence in a public issue.SEBI (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992
39Merchant BankerAn intermediary registered with SEBI to carry out issue management and related activities in capital markets.SEBI (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992, Reg. 2(cb)
40Minimum SubscriptionThe minimum percentage of the issue size that must be subscribed for an issue to be considered successful, usually 90%.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 49
41Net Asset Value (NAV)The value of a company’s total assets minus total liabilities divided by number of outstanding shares.SEBI (Mutual Funds) Regulations, 1996, Reg. 2(l)
42Net ProceedsThe total issue proceeds less the issue-related expenses; available for utilization as per the objects of the issue.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A
43Non-Institutional Investors (NII)Investors other than retail and QIBs who apply for more than ₹2 lakh worth of shares in an IPO.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule XIII
44Objects of the IssueSection in the offer document stating how the company intends to use the proceeds raised from the public issue.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A, Item 2
45Offer for Sale (OFS)An issue in which existing shareholders or promoters offer their shares to the public instead of issuing new shares.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 8
46Offer DocumentDocument containing all relevant information about the public issue filed with SEBI and the Registrar of Companies.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(x)
47Open OfferAn offer made by an acquirer to the public shareholders to buy shares after acquiring substantial stake in a listed company.SEBI (SAST) Regulations, 2011, Reg. 3 & 4
48Over SubscriptionA situation where the total number of shares applied for exceeds the number of shares offered.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 42(3)
49Paid-up CapitalThe part of authorized capital that has been issued and paid by shareholders.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 2(64)
50Price BandThe minimum and maximum price range within which investors can bid for shares in a book-built issue.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 29
51Price DiscoveryThe process of determining the final issue price in a book-built IPO based on investor demand.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 44
52Private PlacementThe issue of securities to a select group of investors rather than the public, governed under Section 42 of the Companies Act.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 42
53ProspectusThe final offer document filed with the Registrar of Companies containing all details of the public issue including price and number of shares.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 26; SEBI (ICDR) Reg. 57
54Public IssueAn offer of securities by an unlisted issuer to the public through a prospectus for subscription.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(y)
55Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs)Institutions such as mutual funds, banks, insurance companies, and FPIs registered with SEBI eligible to invest in QIB category.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(ss)
56Red Herring Prospectus (RHP)Offer document filed before public issue containing all disclosures except final issue price and number of shares.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 57; Companies Act, Sec. 32
57Registrar to the Issue (RTA)A SEBI-registered intermediary handling IPO applications, allotments, refunds, and investor records.SEBI (Registrars to an Issue and Share Transfer Agents) Regulations, 1993
58Retail Individual Investor (RII)An individual investor who applies for shares worth up to ₹2,00,000 in an IPO and can bid at cut-off price.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(kk)
59Rights IssueAn offer of new shares to existing shareholders in proportion to their current holdings.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Chapter III; Companies Act, Sec. 62
60SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India)The statutory regulatory body established under the SEBI Act, 1992 to regulate and protect investors in the securities market.SEBI Act, 1992, Sec. 3
61Secondary MarketA market where investors buy and sell securities that have already been issued in the primary market.SEBI Act, 1992, Preamble
62SecuritiesFinancial instruments such as shares, bonds, debentures, or derivatives that represent ownership or debt.Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956, Sec. 2(h)
63Securities Premium AccountAn account in which the premium received over the face value of shares is credited; can be used for specific purposes defined by law.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 52
64Self-Certified Syndicate Bank (SCSB)A SEBI-authorized bank offering ASBA facility to investors for IPO applications by blocking funds in their accounts.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(s)
65SettlementThe process of transferring securities and funds between buyers and sellers after a trade is executed.SEBI (Depositories and Participants) Regulations, 2018
66Share CertificateA physical document issued by a company certifying ownership of shares by a shareholder.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 46
67ShareholderA person or entity that owns one or more shares of a company and is entitled to dividends and voting rights.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 2(55)
68Shareholding PatternA statement showing the distribution of equity ownership among various categories of shareholders.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 31
69Small and Medium Enterprise (SME)A company meeting specified criteria of paid-up capital, turnover, and post-issue capital, eligible for SME Exchange listing.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Chapter IX
70SME ExchangeA trading platform of a recognized stock exchange for listing and trading of securities issued by SMEs.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 259
71Split of SharesDivision of existing shares into smaller denominations to increase liquidity and affordability.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 61(i)(d)
72Sponsor BankA bank authorized by NPCI to process IPO applications and UPI mandates in the ASBA system.NPCI UPI Procedural Guidelines
73Statutory AuditorAn independent auditor appointed to audit the financial statements of a company as per law.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 139
74SubscriptionThe process of investors applying to purchase securities offered in an issue.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 42
75Sub-broker / Authorized PersonAn intermediary registered with a trading member to assist in trading and client acquisition.SEBI (Stock Brokers and Sub-Brokers) Regulations, 1992
76TakeoverAcquisition of control or substantial shares in a listed company triggering an open offer to public shareholders.SEBI (SAST) Regulations, 2011, Reg. 3
77Tender OfferAn offer made by a company to buy back its shares from existing shareholders at a specified price.SEBI (Buy-Back of Securities) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 4
78Trading MemberA stockbroker or firm authorized by a stock exchange to execute trades on behalf of investors.SEBI (Stock Brokers) Regulations, 1992, Reg. 2(f)
79Transfer of SharesThe process of transferring ownership of shares from one person to another.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 56
80Transmission of SharesTransfer of ownership of shares due to death or insolvency of a shareholder by operation of law.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 56(2)
81UnderwriterA financial intermediary who guarantees the subscription of securities in case of under-subscription.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 13
82Underwriting AgreementA contract between issuer and underwriter specifying the terms of underwriting obligations and fees.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 13(8)
83Unlisted Public CompanyA public company whose securities are not listed on any recognized stock exchange.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 2(71)
84Unpaid Share CapitalPortion of subscribed capital that remains unpaid by shareholders.Companies Act, 2013, Schedule III
85UPI (Unified Payments Interface)A real-time payment system enabling instant fund transfer between bank accounts through a mobile app.NPCI UPI Procedural Guidelines
86UPI IDA unique virtual payment address linked to a bank account, used for UPI-based transactions.NPCI UPI Procedural Guidelines
87Utilization of FundsApplication of IPO proceeds for purposes stated in the offer document.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 41(3)
88ValuationThe process of determining the fair value of a company or its shares using financial models such as DCF or NAV.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI
89Venture Capital Fund (VCF)A Category I Alternative Investment Fund that invests in early-stage or start-up companies.SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012, Reg. 2(1)(aa)
90Working CapitalThe excess of current assets over current liabilities, used to fund daily business operations.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A
91Anchor PortionA portion of the Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIB) category reserved for Anchor Investors to create market confidence before the IPO opens.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(a)
92Application MoneyFunds paid by investors when applying for shares in a public issue, blocked through ASBA or UPI until allotment.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 36
93Basis Points (bps)A unit equal to one hundredth of one percent (0.01%), used in measuring interest rates and yield differentials.Market Convention
94Bid LotThe minimum number of shares that an investor can apply for in an IPO.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(e)
95Book ClosureThe period during which a company closes its register of members to determine shareholders entitled to dividends or rights.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 91
96Bridge LoanA short-term loan taken by a company to meet expenses until IPO proceeds are received.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A
97Buy-back of SharesA process by which a company repurchases its own shares from shareholders to reduce capital or improve valuations.SEBI (Buy-Back of Securities) Regulations, 2018
98Cash Flow StatementA financial statement showing inflows and outflows of cash during a specific period, part of financial disclosures in IPOs.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 129; Ind AS 7
99Certificate of IncorporationA legal document issued by the Registrar of Companies confirming incorporation of a company.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 7(2)
100CIN (Corporate Identification Number)A 21-digit unique identification number assigned to each registered company in India by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 7(3)
101Compliance OfficerA designated officer responsible for ensuring compliance with SEBI and stock exchange regulations.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 6
102Corporate Governance ReportA section of the annual report disclosing compliance with governance norms such as board composition, committees, and ethics policies.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Schedule V
103Credit RatingAn evaluation of a company’s creditworthiness by a SEBI-registered credit rating agency.SEBI (Credit Rating Agencies) Regulations, 1999
104Cut-off TimeThe deadline for accepting IPO applications or payment instructions under ASBA or UPI mechanisms.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018; Exchange Guidelines
105Debt-Equity RatioA measure of financial leverage calculated by dividing total debt by shareholders’ equity.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A
106Deferred TaxA tax liability or asset arising from temporary differences between accounting and taxable income.Ind AS 12 – Income Taxes
107Depository Receipt (DR)A negotiable financial instrument issued by a foreign depository representing ownership of shares of an Indian company.Depository Receipts Scheme, 2014
108Disclosure of Material EventsMandatory reporting of significant corporate developments that may impact share prices or investor decisions.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 30
109DividendA share of profit distributed by a company to its shareholders in proportion to their shareholding.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 2(35); SEBI (LODR) Reg. 43
110Dividend Distribution PolicyA formal policy approved by the board of directors outlining principles for declaring dividends, mandatory for top-1000 listed entities.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 43A
111Earnings Per Share (EPS)A profitability ratio calculated by dividing net profit by weighted average number of equity shares outstanding.Ind AS 33 – Earnings per Share; SEBI ICDR Schedule VI
112Effective Date of ListingThe date from which securities are admitted for trading on a recognized stock exchange.Stock Exchange Listing Rules
113Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP)A plan granting employees the right to purchase shares of the company at a predetermined price.SEBI (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021
114EncumbranceA lien, pledge, or charge created on shares or assets by the owner to secure a debt or obligation.SEBI (SAST) Regulations, 2011, Reg. 28(3)
115Enterprise Value (EV)A measure of company valuation equal to market capitalization plus debt minus cash and cash equivalents.Financial Valuation Term
116EPS (Earnings Per Share)The portion of a company’s profit allocated to each equity share; indicates profitability per share.Ind AS 33; SEBI ICDR Schedule VI, Part A
117Escrow Collection BankA bank appointed by the issuer and syndicate members to collect and hold IPO application money until allotment or refund.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 36
118Face Value of SharesThe nominal value printed on a company’s share certificate representing a portion of capital.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 2(8)
119Financial RatiosKey performance indicators such as RoNW, EPS, NAV disclosed in the prospectus for assessing company performance.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A
120Fixed AssetsTangible and intangible assets held for production or business operations, not for resale.Companies Act, 2013, Schedule III; Ind AS 16
121Profit Before Tax (PBT)Earnings before income tax is deducted; indicates profitability from operations excluding tax liability.Ind AS 1; Companies Act, Schedule III
122Promoter Holding (Pre and Post Issue)The proportion of shares held by promoters before and after IPO, disclosed in the offer document.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 14–16
123Promoters HoldingThe percentage of equity share capital held by promoters of a company as defined in SEBI ICDR Regulations.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(pp)
124Public Sector Undertaking (PSU)A company in which the Central or State Government holds at least 51% of the paid-up share capital.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 2(45)
125QIB Route (Qualified Institutional Placement Route)Fundraising mechanism for listed companies issuing securities to Qualified Institutional Buyers.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Chapter VI
126Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs)Institutional investors such as mutual funds, scheduled banks, insurance companies, and FPIs eligible to invest in public issues.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(ss)
127Red Herring Prospectus (RHP)Offer document filed before the public issue containing all disclosures except final issue price and number of shares.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 57; Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 32
128Reduction of Share CapitalProcess of reducing issued or paid-up share capital with Tribunal approval under Section 66 of Companies Act.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 66
129Registrar and Transfer Agent (RTA)SEBI-registered intermediary maintaining investor records and handling share allotments, transfers, and refunds.SEBI (Registrars to an Issue and Share Transfer Agents) Regulations, 1993
130Regulatory AuthoritiesStatutory bodies governing securities and financial markets such as SEBI, RBI, and MCA.SEBI Act, 1992; RBI Act, 1934; Companies Act, 2013
131REIT IPO (Real Estate Investment Trust IPO)The first-time public issue of units by a SEBI-registered REIT to raise funds.SEBI (Real Estate Investment Trusts) Regulations, 2014
132Reserves and SurplusAccumulated profits, share premium, and other reserves retained by a company after dividend distribution.Companies Act, 2013, Schedule III
133Restated Financial StatementsRevised historical financial statements adjusted to ensure consistency and compliance for IPO disclosures.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A
134Restated Consolidated FinancialsFinancial statements combining issuer and subsidiaries restated for comparability.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A
135Restated Standalone FinancialsStandalone issuer financials restated as per SEBI disclosure norms.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A
136Retail Individual Bidder (RIB)An individual investor applying for shares worth not more than ₹2 lakh; eligible to bid at cut-off price.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(kk)
137Return on Assets (ROA)Profitability ratio measuring net profit relative to total assets of the company.Ind AS 1; Financial Disclosure Standard
138Return on Capital (ROC)A measure of profitability assessing efficiency in generating returns from total capital employed.Financial Metric
139Return on Capital Employed (ROCE)Ratio assessing profits generated from capital employed; disclosed as performance indicator.SEBI Circular on Key Performance Indicators, 2023
140Return on Equity (ROE)Net profit attributable to shareholders divided by average equity; indicates profitability for equity investors.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A
141Return on Net Worth (RoNW)Net profit after tax divided by average net worth; mandatory ratio disclosed in IPO documents.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A
142RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement)RBI-regulated payment system allowing high-value fund transfers in real-time.RBI Payment and Settlement Systems Regulations, 2005
143Satellite DealerAn intermediary authorized by RBI to distribute and trade government securities to retail investors.RBI Guidelines on Satellite Dealers, 2017
144Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)Statutory regulatory authority overseeing India’s securities market.SEBI Act, 1992, Sec. 3
145Self-Certified Syndicate Bank (SCSB)A SEBI-authorized bank offering ASBA facility to IPO applicants and blocking funds in accounts.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(s)
146Share CapitalTotal amount raised by a company through issue of shares representing ownership interest.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 43, 2(84)
147Share ValuationDetermination of fair value of shares using methods like DCF or NAV, disclosed in Basis for Issue Price.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A
148Shareholding StructureDistribution of ownership among promoters, institutional investors, and public shareholders.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A, Item 7
149Shares OfferedTotal number of equity shares offered to investors in an IPO including all categories.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(ii)
150SME ExchangesDedicated trading platforms such as NSE Emerge or BSE SME for listing SMEs under relaxed norms.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Chapter IX
151SME IPOA public issue by a Small and Medium Enterprise with post-issue capital not exceeding ₹25 crore, listed on NSE Emerge or BSE SME Platform.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Chapter IX
152SME IPO InvestorsInvestors participating in SME IPOs under categories of Retail, NII, and QIB.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule XIII
153SME IPO Migration to Main BoardTransfer of SME-listed company to Main Board after meeting eligibility criteria on net worth and profitability.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 277
154SME PlatformTrading platform for listing and trading SME securities on recognized stock exchanges.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 259
155Sponsor BankBank authorized by NPCI to initiate and process UPI mandates for IPO applications.NPCI UPI Procedural Guidelines
156Startup AcceleratorsPrograms that support early-stage startups through mentorship and funding; recognized under Startup India initiative.DPIIT Startup India Policy
157Startup IncubatorsOrganizations that assist startups through workspace, mentoring, and technical resources.DPIIT Startup Recognition Guidelines
158Sub-Broker / Authorized PersonIndividual appointed by a trading member to deal in securities on behalf of clients.SEBI (Stock Brokers and Sub-Brokers) Regulations, 1992
159Surplus CashExcess cash available after meeting operational and capital needs, usable for dividends or debt repayment.Financial Concept
160Syndicate MembersIntermediaries authorized by lead managers to collect IPO bids and upload them to the stock exchange system.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(zz)
161Tentative Allotment DateProvisional date for credit of shares to successful applicants’ demat accounts after finalization of basis of allotment.Stock Exchange IPO Process Schedule
162Terminal ValueEstimated value of a company beyond the forecast period used in valuation models.Financial Valuation Concept
163Total AssetsSum of all current and non-current assets owned by the company as shown in the balance sheet.Companies Act, 2013, Schedule III
164Total BorrowingsAggregate of short-term and long-term debts owed by the company to lenders.Companies Act, 2013, Schedule III; Ind AS 107
165Total IncomeAggregate of all operating and non-operating revenues during a financial period.Income Tax Act, 1961, Sec. 2(45)
166Total LiabilitiesAll obligations of a company including borrowings, payables, and provisions.Companies Act, 2013, Schedule III
167Total RevenueTotal income earned from sales and services before deducting expenses.Ind AS 115; Companies Act, 2013, Schedule III
168Total Shares OfferedTotal number of equity shares offered for subscription in an IPO across investor categories.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(ii)
169Undervalued StockA share trading below its intrinsic or fair market value based on fundamentals.Market Concept
170Underwriting CommissionFee paid to underwriters for guaranteeing full subscription of an issue.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 40(6); SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 13(8)
171Unlisted SharesShares of companies not listed on any recognized stock exchange.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 2(52); Income Tax Rules, Rule 11UA
172UPI HandleA unique identifier linked to a bank account used for UPI transactions (e.g., name@bank).NPCI UPI Procedural Guidelines
173UPI IPO ApplicationIPO application made using UPI as a payment mechanism under ASBA framework.SEBI Circular SEBI/HO/CFD/DIL2/CIR/P/2020/26
174UPI PINPersonal Identification Number used to authorize UPI transactions securely.NPCI UPI Security Standards
175Venture CapitalEquity or equity-linked investment in early-stage companies by SEBI-registered venture capital funds.SEBI (AIF) Regulations, 2012, Reg. 2(1)(b)(i)
176Venture Capital Fund (VCF)Category I Alternative Investment Fund that invests in start-ups and early-stage ventures.SEBI (AIF) Regulations, 2012, Reg. 2(1)(aa)
177Venture CapitalistInvestor or institution providing capital to start-ups through venture capital funds.SEBI (AIF) Regulations, 2012, Reg. 2(1)(aa)
178Weighted AverageAn average where each value is multiplied by a weight representing its relative importance.Ind AS 33 – Earnings per Share
179Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC)Average rate of return expected by debt and equity holders for financing company assets.Financial Valuation Concept
180Working Capital CycleThe duration between purchase of raw materials and receipt of cash from sales, reflecting liquidity efficiency.Financial Management Term
181Beneficial OwnerA person whose name is recorded as the owner of securities in the records of a depository participant.SEBI (Depositories and Participants) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(a)
182Book Running Lead Manager (BRLM)A SEBI-registered merchant banker responsible for managing the book-building process and coordination during IPO.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(viii)
183DepositoryA company formed under the Companies Act and registered with SEBI to hold securities in dematerialized form and facilitate electronic transfers.SEBI (Depositories and Participants) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(e)
184Depository Participant (DP)An intermediary registered with SEBI and authorized by a depository to offer demat account services to investors.SEBI (Depositories and Participants) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(f)
185DematerializationThe process of converting physical share certificates into electronic form and crediting them to the investor’s demat account.SEBI (Depositories and Participants) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(g)
186Demat AccountAn account maintained by investors with a Depository Participant to hold securities in electronic form for trading and settlement.SEBI (Depositories and Participants) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(h)
187Draft Offer DocumentA preliminary offer document filed with SEBI for comments and review before submission to the Registrar of Companies.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 25
188Escrow Collection BankA bank appointed by the issuer and syndicate members to collect IPO application money in an escrow account.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 36
189Financial Year (FY)A period of twelve months ending on 31st March, used for financial reporting and compliance in India.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 2(41)
190Intermediary (SEBI)Any person registered with SEBI to carry out activities such as merchant banking, broking, or depository services.SEBI Act, 1992, Sec. 12
191IPO Refund AccountAn account maintained by the issuer or registrar to refund excess application money to investors after allotment.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 42(5)
192Lead Broker / Syndicate BrokerA stockbroker who assists in collecting IPO applications and uploading bids during book-building.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(zz)
193Monitoring AgencyA SEBI-registered financial institution or bank appointed to monitor the use of IPO proceeds exceeding ₹100 crore.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 41
194Minimum SubscriptionThe minimum subscription required (usually 90% of the issue size) for an IPO to be successful.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 49
195Offer DocumentThe document containing all information about a public issue, filed with SEBI and Registrar of Companies.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(x)
196Promoter GroupIncludes the promoter, their immediate relatives, and entities controlled or influenced by the promoter.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(pp)
197ProspectusThe final offer document filed with the Registrar of Companies containing final issue price and share details.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 26; SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 57
198Public IssueAn offer of securities by an unlisted issuer to the public through a prospectus for subscription.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(y)
199Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP)Private placement of securities by a listed company to Qualified Institutional Buyers.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Chapter VI
200Registrar to an IssueA SEBI-registered intermediary responsible for processing applications, allotments, and refunds in an IPO.SEBI (Registrars to an Issue and Share Transfer Agents) Regulations, 1993
201Reservation PortionA specific portion of the total issue reserved for eligible categories such as employees or shareholders.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 6(2)
202Retail Individual Investor (RII)Investor applying for shares up to ₹2 lakh in a public issue; eligible to bid at cut-off price.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(kk)
203Security Premium AccountAccount where premium received over face value of shares is credited; used for specific corporate purposes.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 52
204Statutory AuditorAn independent auditor appointed under Section 139 of Companies Act to audit financial statements and disclosures.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 139; SEBI (ICDR) Schedule VI
205UnderwriterAn institution or merchant banker guaranteeing full subscription of securities in case of under-subscription.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 13
206Utilization CertificateReport confirming use of IPO proceeds for purposes stated in the offer document, verified by auditors.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 41(3)
207Working CapitalDifference between current assets and current liabilities, representing liquidity for day-to-day operations.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI
208Objects of the IssueStatement in the offer document describing intended use of IPO proceeds.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Schedule VI, Part A, Item 2
209Under SubscriptionA situation where total shares applied for are less than shares offered; addressed via underwriting or reallocation.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 42(4)
210Minimum Promoter ContributionMandatory 20% of post-issue capital to be contributed and locked-in by promoters for 3 years.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 14 & 16
211Annual ReportA yearly publication containing audited financial statements, directors’ report, and corporate governance disclosures.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 34; Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 134
212Audit CommitteeA board committee of independent directors overseeing financial reporting, internal controls, and audits.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 18; Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 177
213Board of DirectorsThe group of individuals elected to oversee management, ensure compliance, and make strategic decisions.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 2(10); SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015
214Clearing CorporationAn entity that provides clearing and settlement services for stock exchange trades, managing counterparty risk.SEBI (Stock Exchanges and Clearing Corporations) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(i)
215Corporate GovernanceFramework ensuring accountability, fairness, and transparency in a company’s relationships with stakeholders.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 4(2); Companies Act, 2013, Chapter XI
216Corporate ActionAny event initiated by a company affecting its shareholders, such as dividend, rights issue, or stock split.SEBI (Depositories and Participants) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(j)
217Company Secretary / Compliance OfficerOfficer responsible for ensuring company’s compliance with SEBI and stock exchange requirements.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 6; Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 203
218Consolidated Financial StatementsFinancial statements of a parent company and its subsidiaries presented as one entity.Ind AS 110; Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 129
219Continuous Disclosure RequirementsObligations of listed companies to disclose material events, financial results, and shareholding changes.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Regs. 30–33
220Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)Requirement for companies to spend 2% of average net profits on approved social causes.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 135; CSR Rules, 2014
221Depository Receipts (DRs)Negotiable instruments issued by a foreign depository representing ownership in shares of an Indian company.Depository Receipts Scheme, 2014; SEBI (ODR) Regulations, 2020
222Designated Stock ExchangeStock exchange chosen by issuer for coordinating listing, post-issue reporting, and refunds.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(j)
223Director Identification Number (DIN)A unique number allotted by MCA to an individual eligible to become a company director.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 153
224Disclosure of Material EventsTimely reporting of material developments that may influence investor decisions.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 30
225Dividend Distribution PolicyPolicy defining parameters for declaration of dividends, mandatory for top 1000 listed companies.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 43A
226Employee Stock Option (ESOP)Right granted to employees to buy company shares at a predetermined price.SEBI (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021
227Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)Framework evaluating company sustainability and ethical practices.SEBI Circular SEBI/HO/CFD/CFD-CMD-2/P/CIR/2021/562
228Independent DirectorA non-executive board member free from management control ensuring unbiased judgment.Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 149(6); SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 16(1)(b)
229Insider TradingTrading in securities while in possession of unpublished price-sensitive information.SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015
230Institutional Trading Platform (ITP)Platform for start-ups and high-growth companies to raise funds from institutional investors.SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018, Chapter X
231Investor Grievance Redressal MechanismFramework for resolving investor complaints via SEBI, exchanges, and SCORES portal.SEBI Circular SEBI/HO/OIAE/IGRD/CIR/P/2018/137
232KYC (Know Your Customer)Verification process for identifying investors opening demat or trading accounts.SEBI (KYC Registration Agency) Regulations, 2011; PML Rules, 2005
233Material SubsidiaryA subsidiary whose income or net worth exceeds 10% of consolidated group figures.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 16(1)(c)
234Merchant BankerA SEBI-registered intermediary authorized to manage public issues and corporate fund-raising.SEBI (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992
235Mutual Fund Trustee CompanyEntity that supervises and ensures compliance of mutual fund operations under SEBI norms.SEBI (Mutual Funds) Regulations, 1996
236Nomination and Remuneration Committee (NRC)Board committee responsible for appointments and remuneration of directors and key personnel.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 19; Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 178
237Related Party Transaction (RPT)Any transaction between a company and its related parties involving transfer of resources or obligations.SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015, Reg. 23; Companies Act, 2013, Sec. 188
238SCORES (SEBI Complaints Redress System)Online platform developed by SEBI for lodging and tracking investor complaints.SEBI Circular CIR/OIAE/1/2014
239Stock ExchangeA recognized marketplace for listing and trading securities under SEBI supervision.SEBI (Stock Exchanges and Clearing Corporations) Regulations, 2018, Reg. 2(1)(m)
240Takeover / Substantial Acquisition of SharesAcquisition of control or voting rights exceeding prescribed limits, triggering open offer.SEBI (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, 2011, Reg. 3 & 4
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