Stock Markets

There are numerous stock markets in the country. The largest and the oldest is the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which was founded in 1875. In Bombay, there are three markets: the BSE, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Over The Counter Exchange of India (OTCEI). Numerous other cities also have stock markets. There is a strong presence of foreign investors operating on these markets.

Most major companies in the country are listed on the BSE. The OTCEI currently only offers trading in small companies. Currently, 200 large companies are traded on the NSE; that list is expected to gradually expand as the exchange stabilises.

The regulatory agency which oversees the functioning of stock markets is the Securities and Exchanges Board of India (SEBI), which is located in Bombay.

The BSE Sensex

The BSE Sensex is a widely used market index for the BSE.

Trading Volume on the BSE

Trading volume on the BSE has grown steadily over the years.

Large Companies

There are around 3,500 companies in the country which are listed and have some serious trading volume. The market capitalisation of the BSE is Rs.5 trillion.

Primary Market

India has one of the most active primary markets in the world, with roughly 130 public issues taking place each month.

Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, Bombay
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Last updated: August 1995.