Saturday, January 24, 2026

๐Ÿ›‘ UPI Kill Switch: India’s New Emergency Safety Button to Fight Digital Fraud

India’s digital payment ecosystem has grown rapidly, with UPI (Unified Payments Interface) emerging as the backbone of everyday transactions. From grocery shopping to large business payments, UPI has made money transfers instant, seamless, and widely accessible.

However, this convenience has also attracted cybercriminals, leading to a sharp rise in online frauds such as digital arrest scams, phishing attacks, fake customer care calls, and forced or coercive money transfers.

To counter this growing threat, the Government of India and financial regulators are working on a powerful new safety feature — the UPI Kill Switch. The UPI Kill Switch is an emergency security mechanism designed to instantly freeze UPI transactions when fraud is suspected, helping users prevent further financial loss. With rising UPI frauds across the country, this feature aims to give users immediate control, protection, and peace of mind in critical situations.


๐Ÿ” What Is the UPI Kill Switch?

The UPI Kill Switch is a proposed emergency control feature that allows users to instantly freeze all outgoing digital transactions from their bank account when fraud is suspected.

In simple terms, it works like an emergency brake for your money.

Once activated, the Kill Switch can:

  • Stop UPI payments instantly

  • Freeze bank transfers temporarily

  • Prevent further loss during a suspected fraud

This feature is expected to be built directly into UPI apps and banking apps, making it accessible to common users.


๐Ÿšจ Why Was the UPI Kill Switch Needed?

In recent years, India has witnessed a surge in real-time digital frauds, especially:

  • Digital arrest scams (fake police, CBI, or ED calls)

  • Fraudsters forcing victims to transfer money urgently

  • Scams where money is drained within minutes

In most cases, victims realise the fraud after the transaction is completed, when recovery becomes extremely difficult.

The UPI Kill Switch aims to solve this problem by giving immediate control to users, instead of depending on delayed customer support or complaint mechanisms.


⚙️ How Will the UPI Kill Switch Work? (Expected Process)

Although the final framework is yet to be notified, the likely flow would be:

1️⃣ User notices suspicious activity or pressure to transfer money
2️⃣ User taps the Kill Switch option in their UPI/banking app
3️⃣ All outgoing payments are instantly frozen
4️⃣ Account remains blocked until proper verification is completed
5️⃣ Services are restored after identity confirmation (OTP, biometric, or bank verification)

This quick action can prevent irreversible financial loss.


๐Ÿง  Who Will Benefit the Most?

The UPI Kill Switch is especially useful for:

  • Senior citizens

  • First-time digital payment users

  • Small business owners

  • Individuals handling large UPI transactions

  • Anyone vulnerable to social engineering scams

For such users, even a few minutes of delay can lead to major losses — which this feature aims to prevent.


๐Ÿ›ก️ Is the Kill Switch Enough to Stop Fraud?

While the UPI Kill Switch is a major step forward, it is not a complete solution by itself.

For maximum safety, it must work along with:

  • Strong user awareness

  • Bank-level fraud monitoring systems

  • Quick grievance redressal mechanisms

  • Strict action against mule and fake accounts

At Dhan Shiksha, we strongly believe that financial education + technology together create real protection.


๐Ÿ”ฎ What This Means for the Future of Digital Payments

The proposed UPI Kill Switch reflects a shift towards user-centric financial security. Instead of reacting after fraud happens, the system empowers users to act instantly.

Once implemented nationwide, this feature could:

  • Increase trust in UPI

  • Reduce large-scale fraud losses

  • Encourage safer adoption of digital payments


๐Ÿ“Œ Key Takeaway for Users

๐Ÿ‘‰ If you ever feel pressured, threatened, or confused during a money transfer — stop immediately.
๐Ÿ‘‰ Never rush a payment due to fear or urgency.
๐Ÿ‘‰ Use security features proactively as soon as they are available.

Digital payments are powerful — and with tools like the UPI Kill Switch, they can also be safer.


✍️ Brought to you by Dhan Shiksha

Spreading financial awareness for a smarter and safer India.

#UPIKillSwitch #UPISafety #DigitalFraud #OnlineFraudPrevention #UPIUpdates #CyberFraud #SecurePayments #DigitalIndia #FinTechIndia #RBIUpdates #BankingAwareness #FinancialLiteracy #DhanShiksha #UPIScams #MoneySafety


Thursday, January 15, 2026

How Inflation Is Silently Eating Your Savings Explained with Real Examples

Most people believe that saving money in a bank account means staying financially safe.

But what if your money is quietly losing value every year—without you noticing?

This invisible enemy is called inflation.

Inflation doesn’t steal money from your account.
It steals your purchasing power.



Let’s understand how inflation silently eats your savings—with real-life Indian examples.


What Is Inflation (In Simple Words)?

Inflation means a rise in prices of goods and services over time.

๐Ÿ‘‰ If today you can buy something for ₹100
๐Ÿ‘‰ After a few years, you may need ₹120 or ₹130 for the same thing

Your money stays the same, but its value falls.


The Silent Danger: Saving Without Growing

Most Indians still prefer:

  • Savings accounts

  • Fixed deposits (FDs)

  • Cash at home

These feel safe, but are they really?

Let’s see with numbers.


Real Example 1: Bank Savings Account vs Inflation

  • Savings account interest: 3% per year

  • Average inflation rate: 6% per year

What really happens?

If you save ₹1,00,000:

  • After 1 year, bank gives you: ₹1,03,000

  • But prices increase by 6%

๐Ÿ‘‰ Your money buys less than before

Real return = 3% – 6% = –3% (LOSS)

๐Ÿ“‰ You are losing money silently every year


Real Example 2: Fixed Deposit Trap

FDs are considered “safe”, but let’s check reality.

  • FD interest: 6.5%

  • Inflation: 6%

  • Tax on FD interest (20% slab): ~1.3%

Actual return after tax:

6.5% – 1.3% = 5.2%

Now compare:

  • Inflation = 6%

  • Your return = 5.2%

๐Ÿ“‰ You still lose purchasing power


Real Example 3: Everyday Life Proof (Most Shocking)

Milk Price

  • 2014: ₹40 per litre

  • 2025: ₹65–70 per litre

School Fees

  • 2010: ₹15,000 per year

  • 2025: ₹50,000+ per year

House Rent

  • 2012: ₹6,000

  • 2025: ₹15,000–20,000

Did your salary or savings grow at the same speed?
For most people, the answer is NO.

That gap is inflation.


The Biggest Mistake: “At Least My Money Is Safe”

Many people say:

“FD mein paisa safe hai”

Yes, amount is safe,
but value is not.

Inflation is like:

A slow leak in a water tank — you don’t notice until it’s half empty.


Why Inflation Hurts Middle-Class the Most

  • Salaries grow slowly

  • Expenses grow fast

  • Savings earn low returns

  • Taxes reduce returns further

Result?

๐Ÿ‘‰ More saving, but less financial security


How to Beat Inflation (Smart Money Rule)

You don’t need to become a trader or take big risks.
You just need to grow money faster than inflation.

Better Inflation-Beating Options (Long Term)

✔ Equity Mutual Funds
✔ Index Funds
✔ Balanced / Hybrid Funds
✔ SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans)

Historically, good equity investments have delivered 10–12% long-term returns, beating inflation.


Simple Rule to Remember (Dhan Shiksha Golden Rule)

If your money grows slower than inflation, you are becoming poorer—even if your balance increases.


Final Thoughts: Inflation Is Invisible, But Dangerous

Inflation won’t:

  • Send you a notice

  • Reduce your bank balance

But it slowly reduces your future lifestyle.

The real question is:
๐Ÿ‘‰ Is your money working hard enough to protect you from inflation?

If not, it’s time to upgrade from just saving to smart investing.


✍️ Dhan Shiksha Takeaway: -

Saving is important. But investing is essential to survive inflation. 


Tuesday, January 13, 2026

New EPF Withdrawal Rules 2025 Explained: Eligibility, Limits & Key Changes

The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) is one of the most important financial safety nets for salaried employees in India. In 2025, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) introduced major changes to EPF withdrawal rules to make the system simpler, faster, and more flexible, while still protecting long-term retirement savings.

These changes are especially beneficial for young professionals, job switchers, and employees facing financial emergencies.



1. Biggest Change: Simplified Withdrawal Structure

Earlier, EPF withdrawals were allowed under 13 different provisions, each with different limits and service conditions. This often created confusion and delays.

What’s new?

EPFO has merged 13 old rules into just 3 simple categories, making EPF withdrawals easy to understand and faster to process.

2. Three New EPF Withdrawal Categories

๐Ÿ”น 1. Personal (Essential) Needs

EPF can be withdrawn for:

  • Marriage (self, children, siblings)

  • Higher education (self or children)

  • Medical emergencies (self or family)


๐Ÿ”น 2. Housing Needs

EPF withdrawal is allowed for:

  • Buying a house

  • Constructing a house

  • Home repair or renovation


๐Ÿ”น 3. Special Circumstances

Withdrawals are permitted for:

  • Job loss or unemployment

  • Financial stress

  • Natural calamities or unforeseen emergencies

๐Ÿ‘‰ No detailed justification required in many cases, making access to funds quicker.


3. EPF Withdrawal Limit: How Much Can You Withdraw?

Under the new rules:

  • ✅ Employees can withdraw up to 75% of their eligible EPF balance for approved purposes.

  • ๐Ÿ”’ A minimum 25% balance must remain in the EPF account.

Why this rule?

The retained balance ensures:

  • Continued interest earnings

  • Protection of retirement savings

  • Financial security in old age


4. Minimum Service Requirement Reduced

Earlier, EPF withdrawals required different service periods depending on the purpose (for example, 5 years for housing).

New Rule:

Only 12 months of continuous service is required for most EPF partial withdrawals.

This change is especially beneficial for:

  • Young professionals

  • Employees switching jobs

  • First-time EPF contributors

5. Increased Withdrawal Frequency (Major Upgrade ๐Ÿš€) 

Purpose

New Limit

๐ŸŽ“ Education

Up to 10 times during service

๐Ÿ’ Marriage

Up to 5 times during service

๐Ÿฅ Medical

Up to 3 times per year

๐Ÿ  Housing

Up to 5 times

Earlier, many of these were allowed only once or twice.


6. EPF Withdrawal Rules After Job Loss

If an employee becomes unemployed:

  • Up to 75% of the EPF balance can be withdrawn immediately.

  • The remaining 25% can be withdrawn after 12 months of continuous unemployment.

This approach provides:

  • Immediate financial support

  • Protection against complete depletion of retirement funds


7. EPS (Pension) Withdrawal Rules

The Employee Pension Scheme (EPS) has stricter withdrawal conditions:

  • EPS withdrawal is allowed only after 36 months of unemployment.

This rule is designed to:

  • Strengthen long-term pension security

  • Encourage employees to preserve pension benefits


Old vs New EPF Withdrawal Rules – Comparison

Feature

Earlier Rules

New Rules (2025)

Withdrawal categories

Multiple specific reasons

3 broad categories

Minimum service

5–7 years (varied)

12 months

Maximum withdrawal

Limited

Up to 75%

Job loss withdrawal

After waiting period

Immediate 75%

Pension withdrawal

Short waiting period

36 months



8. Important Points Employees Should Remember

  • EPF is not just an emergency fund; it is a retirement corpus

  • Withdrawing the entire balance can impact future financial security

  • Partial withdrawals should be made only when genuinely required

  • Long-term planning should always take priority over short-term needs


9. Tax (TDS) Rules on EPF Withdrawal

❌ No TDS If:

  • 5 years of continuous service completed

  • Withdrawal amount is below ₹30,000

  • Withdrawal due to ill-health, business closure, or reasons beyond employee control

⚠️ TDS Applicable If:

  • Less than 5 years of service

  • Withdrawal above ₹30,000

  • No valid documentation submitted


Conclusion: More Flexibility with Financial Discipline

The New EPF Withdrawal Rules 2025 offer greater flexibility, simpler procedures, and quicker access to funds during emergencies. At the same time, they ensure that employees maintain a minimum retirement corpus for the future.

Employees now enjoy:

✔️ Faster access to funds
✔️ Simple rules
✔️ Reduced service conditions
✔️ Better financial support during emergencies

Used wisely, EPF can serve as both:
✔️ A short-term financial support system
✔️ A long-term retirement foundation

๐Ÿ‘‰ Smart money decisions today create financial freedom tomorrow.


#EPF #EPFO #EPFWithdrawal #NewEPFRules #EPFRules2025 #PFWithdrawal #ProvidentFund #PFForMarriage #PFForEducation #PFForMedical #PFForHousing #JobLossSupport #RetirementPlanning

Thursday, January 8, 2026

DINK Trend in India: Why the DINK Lifestyle Is Rising Fast in Urban India

The DINK trend is rising rapidly in urban India. More and more modern couples are rethinking traditional life choices and prioritizing financial stability, personal freedom, and long-term planning over convention.

In recent years, India has witnessed a clear shift in lifestyle and money decisions among young urban couples. The DINK lifestyle reflects changing priorities—where careers, wealth creation, flexibility, and personal growth are taking center stage in defining success.



What is DINK?

DINK stands for Double Income, No Kids. It refers to couples where both partners earn, but they choose not to have children—either temporarily or permanently.

This decision is not anti-family; rather, it is a lifestyle and financial choice based on personal goals, career aspirations, and long-term planning.


Why is the DINK Trend Growing in India?

1️⃣ Rising Cost of Living

Raising a child in India today involves high expenses—education, healthcare, housing, and lifestyle costs. Many couples prefer to first achieve financial stability and comfort.

2️⃣ Career-Focused Mindset

Young professionals, especially women, are prioritizing career growth, skill development, and financial independence before taking on parental responsibilities.

3️⃣ Desire for Better Lifestyle

Travel, luxury experiences, hobbies, and work-life balance are easier to manage without the financial and time commitments of parenting.

4️⃣ Late Marriages & Changing Social Norms

Late marriages, urbanization, and evolving social thinking have made the DINK lifestyle more socially acceptable in modern India.


Advantages of the DINK Lifestyle

✅ Higher Savings & Investments

Two incomes with fewer responsibilities result in a higher savings rate.

✅ Faster Financial Freedom

DINK couples can:

  • Pay off home loans faster

  • Build a strong retirement corpus

  • Aim for early retirement (FIRE – Financial Independence, Retire Early)

✅ Improved Quality of Life

More personal time, reduced stress, better mental health, and flexibility in life decisions.


Disadvantages & Risks of the DINK Trend

⚠️ Loneliness in Old Age

Lack of children may lead to emotional or practical challenges in later years if not planned well.

⚠️ Social Pressure

Indian society still places strong importance on family and children, which can create external pressure.

⚠️ Need for Strong Long-Term Planning

DINK couples must be extra careful about healthcare, insurance, and retirement planning.


Is DINK the Right Choice?

DINK is neither right nor wrong. It depends entirely on personal values, financial goals, and life priorities.

What matters most is:

  • Informed decision-making

  • Open communication between partners

  • A solid financial roadmap


Conclusion

The DINK trend in India represents a new financial and social reality. With the right planning and mindset, DINK couples can enjoy financial security, lifestyle freedom, and long-term peace of mind.

At Dhan Shiksha, we believe money should support your life choices—not control them.

#DINKIndia #FinancialPlanning #DhanShiksha #ModernLifestyle #WealthCreation #MoneyMindset



Tuesday, January 6, 2026

MTF Margin by Brokers: Meaning, Charges, Risks & Best Options in India

In the Indian stock market, many investors want higher exposure with limited capital. To meet this demand, brokers offer a facility called MTF – Margin Trading Facility.

MTF allows you to buy shares by paying only a part of their value, while the broker funds the rest.
While this can boost returns, it can also multiply losses if used without proper understanding.


What is MTF (Margin Trading Facility)?

MTF (Margin Trading Facility) is a facility provided by stockbrokers that allows investors to purchase shares by paying only a fraction of the total value, while the broker finances the remaining amount.

The shares bought under MTF are pledged as collateral until the borrowed amount is fully repaid.

Example

  • Share value: ₹1,00,000

  • Investor pays: ₹25,000

  • Broker funds: ₹75,000

  • Leverage received:

This leverage increases both profit potential and risk.


How MTF Margin Works (Step-by-Step)

  1. Investor selects an MTF-enabled stock

  2. Pays initial margin (usually 20%–40%)

  3. Broker funds the remaining amount

  4. Shares are pledged in Demat account

  5. Interest is charged daily on funded amount

  6. Position can be held for multiple days (beyond T+1)


MTF Margin vs Intraday Trading

Feature

MTF Margin

Intraday Trading

Holding period

Multiple days

Same day

Delivery

Yes (pledged)

No

Interest cost

Yes

No

Leverage

Moderate

High

Suitable for

Positional traders

Day traders



MTF Charges by Brokers

MTF is not free. Investors should clearly understand the costs involved:

Main Charges

  • Interest on funded amount (8%–18% annually)

  • Brokerage

  • Pledge & unpledge charges

  • GST and statutory taxes

  • Margin shortfall penalty (if applicable)

๐Ÿ“Œ Interest is calculated daily, so long holding periods can reduce profitability.




 MTF Margin Offered by Popular Brokers (Indicative)

Broker

MTF Available

Interest Rate (Approx.)

Zerodha

Via NBFC

9% – 12% p.a.

Upstox

Yes

10% – 12% p.a.

Angel One

Yes

~0.03% per day

Groww

Yes

9% – 12% p.a.

Paytm Money

Yes

9.5% – 13% p.a.

ICICI Direct

Yes

Higher than discount brokers

HDFC Securities

Yes

Premium pricing

⚠️ Important Disclaimer:
Eligible stocks, margin percentage, and interest rates vary across brokers and change with market conditions. Brokers may revise rates without prior notice.


Advantages of Using MTF

✅ Higher buying power
✅ Opportunity to benefit from short-term market rallies
✅ No need to sell long-term investments
✅ Useful for positional and swing traders


Risks of MTF Margin (Must Read)

⚠️ Losses are magnified due to leverage
⚠️ Margin calls if stock price falls
⚠️ Broker can square off shares without consent
⚠️ Interest cost reduces net returns
⚠️ Not suitable for volatile or low-quality stocks

๐Ÿ‘‰ Many retail investors lose money in MTF due to poor risk management.


Who Should Use MTF?

✔ Experienced investors
✔ Short-term positional traders
✔ Investors with disciplined risk management

❌ Beginners
❌ Long-term wealth investors
❌ Emotion-driven traders


Smart Tips to Use MTF Safely

  • Use MTF only in large-cap, liquid stocks

  • Avoid using full leverage

  • Keep extra margin buffer

  • Set strict stop-loss

  • Monitor interest cost daily

  • Avoid MTF in highly volatile markets



Is MTF Good or Bad for Indian Investors?

MTF is a double-edged sword.

✔ Used wisely → Enhances returns
❌ Used carelessly → Can destroy capital

Dhan Shiksha Thought

“Leverage se paisa banta bhi hai aur bigadta bhi – farq sirf discipline ka hota hai.”


#MTF #MarginTrading #StockMarketIndia #DhanShiksha #InvestorEducation #SmartInvesting #TradingRisk


Conclusion

MTF margin by brokers can be a powerful trading facility if used with knowledge, discipline, and strict risk control.
Before using MTF, investors must clearly understand charges, interest cost, margin rules, and downside risks.

For most retail investors, capital protection should always come before leverage


⚠️ Disclaimer

The content on Dhan Shiksha is for educational purposes only. We are not SEBI-registered advisors and do not offer financial recommendations. Please consult a certified financial advisor before making investment decisions. We do not accept responsibility for any financial losses resulting from reliance on this information.

How to Improve CIBIL Score in India Fast

 A good Credit Score (CIBIL Score) is the key to financial freedom. Whether you are applying for a home loan, personal loan, car loan, or credit card, your CIBIL score decides approval, interest rate, and loan amount.

If your credit score is low or average, don’t worry. In this article, Dhan Shiksha explains what a CIBIL score is, why it falls, and practical steps to improve it fast and safely.



What is a CIBIL Score?

A CIBIL Score is a 3-digit number ranging from 300 to 900, calculated by TransUnion CIBIL based on your credit history.

CIBIL Score Range

Meaning

750 – 900

Excellent

700 – 749

Good

650 – 699

Average

550 – 649

Poor

Below 550

Very Poor

๐Ÿ‘‰ Banks prefer borrowers with a score above 750.

 

Why is Your CIBIL Score Low?

Common reasons for a low credit score in India:

  • ❌ Late or missed loan EMIs

  • ❌ Credit card bill defaults

  • ❌ High credit card utilization

  • ❌ Too many loan or card applications

  • ❌ Loan settlements or write-offs

  • ❌ Errors in credit report


How to Improve Your Credit / CIBIL Score (Step-by-Step)

1️⃣ Pay EMIs & Credit Card Bills on Time (MOST IMPORTANT)

Payment history contributes 35% of your CIBIL score.

✔ Pay all EMIs before due date
✔ Pay full credit card bill, not minimum due
✔ Enable auto-debit to avoid forgetting

Even one missed payment can damage your score for months.


2️⃣ Maintain Low Credit Utilization Ratio

Credit utilization = Credit used ÷ Credit limit

✔ Keep usage below 30%
✔ If limit is ₹1,00,000 → use max ₹30,000

❌ High usage shows financial stress and lowers score.


3️⃣ Do NOT Apply for Too Many Loans or Credit Cards

Each application creates a Hard Inquiry.

✔ Apply only when required
✔ Avoid multiple applications in short time

๐Ÿ“‰ Too many inquiries = Lower CIBIL score


4️⃣ Check Your CIBIL Report for Errors

Many people have wrong data in their credit report.

✔ Check report from CIBIL, Experian, Equifax
✔ Look for:

  • Wrong loan amounts

  • Already closed loans showing active

  • Unknown accounts

๐Ÿ“Œ Dispute errors immediately — score improves once corrected.


5️⃣ Avoid Loan Settlements (If Possible)

❌ Loan settlement damages your score badly
✔ Try full repayment or restructure loan

๐Ÿ“‰ “Settled” status stays on report for years.


6️⃣ Keep Old Credit Accounts Active

Length of credit history matters.

✔ Don’t close your oldest credit card
✔ Use it occasionally and pay full bill

๐Ÿ“ˆ Older accounts increase trust and score.


7️⃣ Maintain Healthy Credit Mix

A balanced mix improves score.

✔ Secured loans (Home, Gold, Car)
✔ Unsecured loans (Personal Loan, Credit Card)

๐Ÿ“Œ Too many unsecured loans can reduce score.


8️⃣ Use Credit Card Smartly

✔ Spend regularly but responsibly
✔ Pay full bill every month
✔ Avoid cash withdrawals from credit card

๐Ÿ’ก Credit cards are powerful tools if used wisely.


How Long Does It Take to Improve CIBIL Score?

Action

Time to See Improvement

Timely payments

2–3 months

Error correction

30–45 days

High utilization reduction

1–2 months

Major improvement

6–12 months

Patience and discipline are key.


Myths About Credit / CIBIL Score

❌ Checking your own CIBIL score reduces it
❌ No loan = good CIBIL score
❌ Paying minimum due is enough
❌ Income decides CIBIL score

Only credit behavior matters.


Final Words – Dhan Shiksha Advice

Improving your credit / CIBIL score is not difficult, but it requires:

✅ Financial discipline
✅ Timely payments
✅ Smart credit usage

A strong credit score gives you:

  • Lower interest rates

  • Faster loan approvals

  • Higher financial confidence

๐Ÿ“Œ Start today — your future self will thank you.


๐Ÿ“ข Follow Dhan Shiksha for more articles on:

  • Money management

  • Credit cards & loans

  • Wealth creation

  • Financial freedom



Monday, January 5, 2026

IPO Explained: Complete Guide to Mainboard IPO and SME IPO

In recent years, IPOs (Initial Public Offerings) have become one of the most discussed investment opportunities among retail investors. Some investors participate in IPOs for quick listing gains, while others look at IPOs as long-term wealth creation opportunities.

Before investing, it is very important to understand how IPOs work, their types, benefits, and risks.

In this article, you will learn:

  • What is an IPO?
  • Why companies launch IPOs
  • Types of IPOs – Mainboard IPO and SME IPO
  • How to invest in an IPO
  • Important IPO-related terms
  • Benefits and risks of IPO investing

 


What is an IPO (Initial Public Offering)?

An IPO (Initial Public Offering) is the process through which a private company offers its shares to the public for the first time and gets listed on a stock exchange such as NSE or BSE. After the IPO, the company becomes a publicly listed company.

Example: If a company issues 10 lakh shares at ₹100 per share to the public, this offering is known as an IPO.

 

Why Do Companies Launch IPOs?

Companies bring IPOs for several reasons:

  1. To raise capital – for expansion, new projects, or working capital
  2. Debt reduction – to repay existing loans
  3. Brand visibility and credibility – listed companies gain more trust
  4. Exit opportunity for early investors and promoters
  5. Liquidity for shares

 

Types of IPOs

IPOs in India are broadly classified into two categories:

 

1️ Mainboard IPO

Mainboard IPOs are offered by relatively large companies and are listed on the main platforms of NSE and BSE.

Key Features of Mainboard IPOs:

  • Large and established companies
  • Issue size generally above ₹100 crore
  • Strict SEBI regulations
  • High investor participation
  • Better liquidity after listing
  • Suitable for long-term investors

Minimum Investment: Usually around ₹14,000–₹15,000 (one lot)

 

2️ SME IPO (Small and Medium Enterprises IPO)

SME IPOs are designed for small and medium-sized companies and are listed on BSE SME or NSE Emerge platforms.

Key Features of SME IPOs:

  • Smaller companies with high growth potential
  • Lower issue size (generally ₹5–50 crore)
  • Larger lot size compared to Mainboard IPOs
  • Higher risk but potential for higher returns
  • Lower liquidity after listing

Minimum Investment: Generally ranges from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh, depending on the issue

 

Difference Between Mainboard IPO and SME IPO

Basis

Mainboard IPO

SME IPO

Company Size

Large

Small / Medium

Issue Size

Large

Small

Risk Level

Lower

Higher

Liquidity

High

Low

Minimum Investment

Low

High

Investor Type

Retail & Institutional

Mostly HNI / Experienced

 

How to Invest in an IPO?

To apply for an IPO, you need:

  1. Demat Account
  2. Trading Account
  3. Bank Account with ASBA facility

Ways to Apply for IPO:

  • Online broker platforms like Zerodha, Groww, Angel One
  • Net banking through ASBA

 

Important IPO Terminology

  • Price Band: The minimum and maximum price at which you can bid
  • Lot Size: Minimum number of shares you must apply for
  • Issue Size: Total amount the company wants to raise
  • GMP (Grey Market Premium): Unofficial premium in the grey market
  • Listing Gain: Profit earned on the listing day
  • Oversubscription: Demand exceeding the number of shares offered

 

What to Check Before Investing in an IPO?

Before applying, investors should analyze:

  1. Company business model
  2. Revenue and profit growth
  3. Debt and financial stability
  4. Promoter holding and background
  5. Industry outlook
  6. IPO valuation compared to peers

 

Benefits of Investing in IPOs

  • Opportunity for listing gains
  • Early investment in growing companies
  • Potential for long-term wealth creation
  • Portfolio diversification

 

Risks of Investing in IPOs

  • Possibility of listing losses
  • Overvaluation risk
  • Low liquidity in SME IPOs
  • Dependence on market sentiment

 

Conclusion

IPOs can be an excellent investment opportunity if chosen carefully. Mainboard IPOs are generally suitable for beginners and conservative investors, while SME IPOs are more appropriate for experienced investors who can handle higher risk.

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๐Ÿ‘‰ Dhan Shiksha Investment Principle:

“Invest in IPOs with proper research, not just for hype or quick gains.”

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 ✍️ Author: Dhan Shiksha

 

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