SEBI Chairman Calls for Greater Boardroom Responsibility and Technology-Led Compliance; Helps Smooth the Way for NSE IPO

Updated: April 17, 2025 12:46

Image Source: The Economic Times

In a wide-ranging address today, the Chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) called for sweeping improvements in corporate governance across Indian Inc., emphasizing that “long-lasting change must come from within boardrooms.” The speech covered regulatory expectations, the central role of auditors and independent directors, and SEBI’s ongoing efforts to resolve issues surrounding the highly anticipated NSE (National Stock Exchange) IPO.

Path Forward for NSE IPO:

The SEBI Chair gave markets and stakeholders assurance that the regulator is seriously working towards settling "all pending issues" for the NSE IPO, indicating movement on one of India's most anticipated public offerings.

Strong Call for Governance Reform:
"Permanent change has to originate from within boardrooms," the SEBI chairman said, calling upon company boards to own up to ethical behavior and good decision-making. Board members were urged to "ask tough questions" and maintain a high standard of governance.
Tech Solutions for Compliance:
The Chair highlighted the need for the industry to deploy advanced technological solutions to meet evolving regulatory obligations efficiently and transparently. Tech adoption, she underlined, is key to addressing complexity and enhancing market integrity.
Auditors and Independent Directors as Gatekeepers:
Reiterating regulatory expectations, SEBI’s head described auditors and independent directors as vital “gatekeepers” who must remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding stakeholder interests.
SEBI’s Ongoing Vigilance:
The regulator vowed to "continue expecting a higher bar on governance" from listed companies, assuring continued oversight and reforms to strengthen faith in India's financial markets.

Outlook:

With SEBI pushing for change in governance and laying the ground for the NSE IPO, the speech is set to fuel renewed attention to boardroom dynamics, compliance, and responsibility at India Inc.

Source: SEBI Chair's speech, official statements, April 16, 2025.

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