Wednesday, November 19, 2025

What Is Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE)?

 BSE is not just the oldest stock exchange in Asia, but it also acts as a key location for businesses looking for funding and investors aiming to grow their wealth.


The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) is a regulated marketplace where securities such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and derivatives are bought and sold. It operates under the supervision of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and provides the framework for transparent and efficient trading in both the primary market and the secondary market (where new securities are issued and existing securities are traded).


Definition and Role of BSE

BSE acts as a bridge between investors and companies. Companies list their shares on the BSE to raise capital, while investors use the platform to invest and trade. The exchange ensures liquidity, price discovery, and investor protection through advanced infrastructure and regulatory oversight.


History and Evolution of BSE

BSE was established in 1875, making it the first stock exchange in Asia. It started as a group of stockbrokers who would gather under a banyan tree in Mumbai’s town hall area. In 1957, it was recognized by the Indian government under the Securities Contracts Regulation Act.

In 1995, BSE launched BOLT (BSE Online Trading), becoming one of the first exchanges in India to go fully electronic. This marked a major transformation, making trades faster, more secure, and accessible across India.


Importance of BSE in India’s Economy

The Bombay Stock Exchange is critical to the Indian economy for several reasons:

  • Access to Capital: By enabling companies to raise funds through IPOs, BSE supports entrepreneurship, business expansion, and job creation.
  • Investor Participation: It allows retail and institutional investors to participate in wealth creation.
  • Sensex as a Barometer: The Sensex, BSE’s benchmark index, reflects the performance of India’s top 30 companies and is often used to gauge the health of the Indian economy.
  • Technological Infrastructure: Platforms like BOLT ensure real-time trading and transparency, which boosts investor confidence and market efficiency.

Key Features of BSE

  • BOLT (BSE Online Trading): Real-time, automated, and scalable electronic trading system.
  • T+1 Settlement Cycle: A quick settlement that reduces risks and improves liquidity.
  • Investor Protection Fund (IPF): Offers compensation to investors in case of broker default.
  • Wide Product Range: Includes equities, debt securities, derivatives, mutual funds, and ETFs.
  • Strict Listing Requirements: Ensures that only credible and transparent companies are listed.

These features make BSE a secure, reliable, and accessible platform for millions of investors across India and abroad.


Read more: BSE: India’s Oldest Stock Exchange and Its Modern Role

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