Understand IPO Application Rules: Guidelines and Common Queries

Understanding IPO Application Rules: Guidelines and Common Queries

When it comes to Initial Public Offering (IPO) applications in India, there are specific rules and guidelines that investors must follow. This article aims to clarify some common queries related to IPO application rules, including the number of applications one can submit, the role of different savings bank and DEMAT accounts, and the importance of a PAN number. By understanding these rules, investors can make informed decisions and ensure compliance with SEBI guidelines.

Can I Apply More Than One IPO Application in My Name from Different Savings Bank Accounts in the Same Bank or Different Banks?

The short answer is no. According to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), only one IPO application per person is allowed technically, with a limit of one application per PAN number. This rule applies regardless of how many savings bank accounts you hold or in which banks these accounts are located.

If you submit multiple applications using the same PAN number, even if they come from different savings bank accounts, all your applications will be rejected. Therefore, it is crucial to understand that SEBI enforces these restrictions strictly to maintain the integrity and fairness of the IPO process.

Investment Limit Per Pan Number

The maximum limit per PAN number for IPO applications is set at ?2 lakh. This means that you can bid up to 10 times, with each application amounting to ?20,000. However, it is important to note that the exact maximum investment per application can vary and is typically capped at ?15,000. This limit is to ensure that no single individual can participate disproportionately in the IPO process.

This rule is designed to ensure that everyone has a fair chance to participate in the IPO process, irrespective of their financial means. By limiting the investment per application, SEBI aims to promote a level playing field for all investors.

Can I Submit Multiple IPO Applications Using Different DEMAT Accounts?

Unfortunately, the answer is also a no. While you can have multiple DEMAT accounts, you cannot submit multiple IPO applications using different DEMAT accounts for the same person. This restriction is based on the fact that the PAN number remains the same across different DEMAT accounts. Therefore, if an application is made under the same PAN number, all such applications will be rejected.

The purpose of this rule is to prevent duplicate applications and ensure that each investor abides by the rules of the IPO. By maintaining the same PAN number across all applications, SEBI can effectively track and manage the number of applications per individual, thus upholding the integrity of the IPO process.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Understanding the IPO application rules is crucial for any investor looking to participate in the Indian capital market. The restriction on the number of applications, the investment limit per PAN number, and the prohibition on using different DEMAT accounts for the same person are all designed to ensure a fair and transparent IPO process.

For investors, it is advisable to familiarize themselves with these rules and limits to avoid any inconvenience or rejection of their applications. By complying with SEBI guidelines, investors can contribute to a healthy and robust capital market while ensuring fairness and transparency in the IPO process.