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Merchant banking gained momentum as Indian companies increasingly tapped
capital markets for funds.
Services diversified into underwriting, portfolio management, and advisory for
foreign collaborations.
The Controller of Capital Issues (CCI) regulated merchant banking activities before
SEBI was established.
1990s Liberalization Era
Economic reforms in 1991 opened up capital markets.
Foreign merchant banks like HSBC, Citibank, and Morgan Stanley entered India.
SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India) became the regulator, introducing
strict norms for merchant bankers.
Merchant banks played a crucial role in managing IPOs during the boom of the
1990s.
2000s Technology and Globalization
With globalization, merchant banks began advising Indian companies on cross-
border mergers and acquisitions.
They also helped in private equity placements and venture capital funding.
Technology-driven services like online issue management and electronic fund raising
emerged.
2010s Rise of Investment Banking
Merchant banking merged with broader investment banking services.
Firms like Kotak Mahindra, Axis Capital, and Edelweiss became leaders in IPO
management.
Focus shifted to structured finance, risk management, and global advisory.
Today
Merchant banking in India is a mature industry.
It supports startups, SMEs, and large corporates in raising funds, restructuring, and
expanding globally.
SEBI regulations ensure transparency and protect investors.
Merchant banks are now integral to Indias financial ecosystem.
Diagram: Evolution of Merchant Banking in India
1967 → Grindlays Bank starts merchant banking
1970s → SBI & Indian banks enter
1980s → Expansion, diversification
1990s → Liberalization, SEBI regulation, foreign banks enter
2000s → Globalization, technology-driven services
2010s → Investment banking integration
Today → Mature industry, IPOs, M&A, global advisory