SEBI permits online subscription of bonds

Market regulator Sebi today allowed online subscription of bonds, a move that will reduce timeline for completion of the process.  "...in order to facilitate a system for making online applications for public issue of debt securities and to reduce the timelines of the issue process for public issue of debt securities, it has been decided to extend ASBA facility to public issues of debt securities," Sebi said in a notification.

As per the existing regulation, Application Supported by Blocked Amount (ASBA) is allowed in case of initial public offer of shares. It has also provided option for subscribing to debt securities through an online internet interface with a facility to make online payment, it said.

Bond issuer should provide, through a recognized stock exchange which offers such facility, an online interface enabling direct application by investors to the public issue, it said.

The regulator has directed exchanges to put in place necessary systems and infrastructure for implementation of this notification. Besides, it has also directed depositories, merchant bankers and registrars to create awareness among issuers and investors about the various modes available for making applications.