Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992

THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY
PART III - SECTION 4
PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE BOARD OF INDIA
NOTIFICATION
THE TWENTY SECOND DAY OF DECEMBER, 1992
BOMBAY
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE BOARD OF INDIA
(MERCHANT BANKERS) REGULATIONS, 1992
No. LE/11112/92. In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 30 of the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992 (15 of 1992), the Board with the previous approval of the Central Government hereby makes the following regulations, namely:

CHAPTER I
PRELIMINARY
Short title and commencement

(1) These regulations may be called the Securities and Exchange Board of India
(Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992.
(2) They shall come into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette. Definitions 2[(1)]1 In these regulations, unless the context otherwise requires,— 2 [*] 3 [(a) “Act” means the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992 (15 of 1992); (aa) “body corporate” shall have the meaning assigned to it in or under [clause (11) of
section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013 (18 of 2013)]4
;

1
Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Banker) (Amendment) Regulations, 2021 w.e.f. 30-03-2021
2. Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Procedure for Holding Enquiry by Enquiry
Officer and Imposing Penalty) Regulations, 2002 w.e.f., 27.09.2002. Prior to omission the clause read as under :
(a) "enquiry officer" means any Officer of the Board, or any other person, having experience in dealing with the problems relating to the securities market, who is authorised by the Board under Chapter V; 3 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Third Amendment) Regulation, 2006, w.e.f., 7-9-2006.

(ab) “certificate” means a certificate of 5
[] registration issued by the Board;
(ac) 6
[]
7
[(ad) “Change in control” in case of a body corporate – (A) if its shares are listed on any recognised stock exchange, shall be construed with reference to the definition of control in terms of regulations framed under clause (h) of sub-section (2) of section 11 of the Act; (B) if its shares are not listed on any recognised stock exchange, shall be construed with reference to the definition of control as provided in sub-section (27) of Section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013 (18 of 2013);] (b) “form” means a form specified in Schedule I; (c) “inspecting authority” means one or more persons appointed by the Board to exercise powers conferred under Chapter IV; 8 [(ca) “issue” means an offer of sale or purchase of securities by any body corporate, or by any other person or group of persons on its or his or their behalf, as the case may be, to or from the public, or the holders of securities of such body corporate or person or group of persons through a merchant banker; (cb) “merchant banker” means any person who is engaged in the business of issue management either by making arrangements regarding selling, buying or subscribing to securities or acting as manager, consultant, adviser or rendering corporate advisory service in relation to such issue management;]

4
Substituted by Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Banker) (Amendment) Regulations, 2021 w.e.f. 30-03-2021 5 The words “initial or permanent” were omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to omission the words “initial or permanent” were inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011. 6 Omitted by the (Change in conditions of Registration of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011. w.e.f. 19-04-2011. Prior to the omission the clause read as under:
“Change of status or constitution” in relation to a merchant banker— (i) means any change in its status or constitution of whatsoever nature; and (ii) without prejudice to generality or sub-clause (i), includes— (A) amalgamation, demerger, consolidation or any other kind of corporate restructuring falling within the scope of section 391 of the Companies Act, 1956 (1 of 1956) or the corresponding provision of any other law for the time being in force; (B)change in its managing director or whole-time director; and (C)any change in control over the body corporate.” 7 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change in Control in Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2023 w.e.f. 17-1-2023. Prior to the substitution, clause (ad) read as under:
“change in control”, in relation to a merchant banker being a body corporate, means:— (i) if its shares are listed on any recognised stock exchange, change in control within the meaning of [regulations framed under clause (h) of sub-section (2) of section 11 of the Act (ii) in any other case, change in the controlling interest in the body corporate. Explanation: For the purpose of sub-clause (ii), the expression “controlling interest” means an interest, whether direct or indirect, to the extent of at least fifty one per cent of voting rights in the body corporate;” 8 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Third Amendment) Regulations, 2006., w.e.f., 7-9-2006.

9
[(d) “principal officer” means an employee of the merchant banker, who has at least five years of experience in working in the financial markets, and who has been designated as such by the merchant banker, and is responsible for the decisions made by the merchant banker for the management or administration of merchant banking activities and all other operations of the merchant banker:
Provided that a merchant banker that already holds a certificate of registration under these regulations shall ensure compliance with this clause within such time and in the manner, as may be specified by the Board;] (e) 10[] (f) []11 12[(g) “underwriter” means a person who engages in the business of underwriting of an issue of securities of a body corporate; (h) “underwriting” means an agreement to subscribe to or procure subscription for securities, issued or offered for sale, remaining unsubscribed] 13[(2) Words and expressions used but not defined in these regulations shall have the same meaning as have been assigned to them under the Act or the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956 (42 of 1956), or the Depositories Act, 1996 (22 of 1996), or the Companies Act, 2013 (18 of 2013) or any rules or regulations made thereunder or any statutory modification or re-enactment thereto, as the case may be.]
CHAPTER II
REGISTRATION OF MERCHANT BANKERS
14[Application for grant of certificate of registration.

9
Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. Prior to the substitution, clause (d) read as under:
““principal officer” means—
(i) proprietor, in the case of a proprietary concern, (ii) partner, in the case of a partnership firm, (iii) director, in the case of a body corporate who is responsible for the activities of the merchant banker.” 10 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Third Amendment) Regulations, 2006., w.e.f., 7-9-2006. 11 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Banker) (Amendment) Regulations, 2021 w.e.f. 30-03-2021 12 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Banker) (Amendment) Regulations, 2021 w.e.f. 30-03-2021 13 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Banker) (Amendment) Regulations, 2021 w.e.f. 30-03-2021 14 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. Prior to the substitution, regulation 3 read as under:
“Application for grant of certificate of registration.
3. (1) An application by a person for grant of a certificate of registration shall be made to the Board
in Form A.
(1A) An application for registration made under sub-regulation (1) shall be accompanied by a nonrefundable application fee as specified in Schedule II. (2) The application under sub-regulation (1) shall be made for any one of the following categories of the merchant banker namely:— (a) Category I, that is— (i) to carry on any activity of the issue management, which will, inter alia, consist of preparation of prospectus and other information relating to the issue, determining

(1) No person shall act as a merchant banker or hold itself out as a merchant banker
unless it has obtained a certificate of registration from the Board under these regulations. (2) An application by a person for grant of a certificate of registration shall be made to the Board in Form A. (3) An application for registration made under sub-regulation (2) shall be accompanied by a non-refundable application fee as specified in Schedule II. (4) The application under sub-regulation (2) shall be made for any one of the following categories of the merchant banker namely:— (a) Category I, which can carry out all the permitted activities; (b) Category II, which can carry out all the permitted activities except public issues of equity shares proposed to be listed on the main board of a recognised stock exchange:
Provided that a merchant banker that already holds a certificate of registration under these regulations shall re-categorise itself as Category I or Category II within such time period and in the manner, as may be specified by the Board.] Application to conform to the requirements.
Subject to the provisions of sub-regulation (3) of regulation 3, any application, which is
not complete in all respects and does not conform to the instructions specified in the form shall be rejected :
Provided that, before rejecting any such application, the applicant shall be given an opportunity to remove within the time specified such objections as may be indicated by the Board. Furnishing of information, clarification and personal representation.
(1) The Board may require the applicant to furnish further information or clarification
regarding matters relevant to the activity of a merchant banker for the purpose of disposal of the application. (2) The applicant or its principal officer shall, if so required, appear before the Board for personal representation.

financial structure, tie up of financiers and final allotment and refund of the subscriptions; and (ii) to act as adviser, consultant, manager, underwriter, portfolio manager; (b) Category II, that is to act as adviser, consultant, co-manager, underwriter, portfolio manager; (c) Category III, that is to act as underwriter, adviser, consultant to an issue; (d) Category IV, that is to act only as adviser or consultant to an issue. (2A) Notwithstanding anything contained in this regulation, with effect from 9th December, 1997:
(i) an application under sub-regulation (2) can be made only for carrying on the activities mentioned in clause (a) therein, and (ii) * (iii) an applicant can carry on the activity as portfolio manager only if he obtains separate certificate of registration under the provisions of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Portfolio Manager) Regulations, 1993. (3) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-regulation (1) any application made by a merchant banker prior to coming into force of these regulations containing such particulars or as near thereto as mentioned in Form A shall be treated as an application made in pursuance of subregulation (1) and dealt with accordingly.”

Consideration of application.
6. The Board shall take into account 15[], all matters which are relevant to the
activities 16[of a] 17[] merchant banker and in particular 18[,whether] the applicant complies with the following requirements, namely:—

19[(a) the applicant shall be a body corporate including a company incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013 or any previous company law or a limited liability partnership firm, except- (i) a body corporate incorporated outside India other than a foreign bank licensed by the Reserve Bank of India, (ii) a One Person Company as defined under the Companies Act, 2013 (18 of 2013), and (iii) a non-banking financial company as defined under clause (f) of section 45-I of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 (2 of 1934), as amended from time to time:]

20[Provided that the merchant banker who has been granted registration by the Reserve Bank of India to act as a primary or satellite dealer may carry on such activity subject to the condition that it shall not accept or hold public deposit;] 21[(aa)] the applicant has the necessary infrastructure like adequate office space, equipments, and manpower to effectively discharge 22[its] activities; 23[(b) the applicant has in its employment, a minimum of two persons who are professionally qualified in finance or law or accountancy or business management from a Government recognised university or institution or who have a recognised degree in finance or law or accountancy or business management from a foreign university or institution;] 24[(ba) the employees referred to in clause (b) and the compliance officer shall possess such certification(s) as may be specified by the Board;] (c) 25[*]

15 The words “for considering the grant of a certificate” were omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 16 The word “relating” was substituted with the words “of a” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 17 The word “to” omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. 18 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 19 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. Prior to the substitution, clause (a), without the proviso therein, read as under:
“(a) the applicant shall be a body corporate other than a non-banking financial company as defined under clause (f) of section 45-I of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 (2 of 1934), as amended from time to time:”
20. Proviso to clause (a) to regulation 6 was inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India
(Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 1999 w.e.f., 17.11.1999.
21. Clause (a) to regulation 6 was renumbered as (aa) by the Securities and Exchange Board of India
(Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 1997 w.e.f., 09.12.1997.
22 The word “his” substituted by the word “its” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 23 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. Prior to its substitution, clause (b) read as under:
“(b) the applicant has in his employment minimum of two persons who have the experience to conduct the business of merchant banker;” 24 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026.

26[(d) the applicant fulfils the capital adequacy and liquid net worth requirements specified in regulations 7 and 7A;] (e) The applicant, 27[its] partner, director or principal officer is not involved in any litigation connected with the securities market which has an adverse bearing on the business of the applicant; (f) The applicant, 28[its] director, partner or principal officer has not at any time been convicted for any offence involving moral turpitude or has been found guilty of any economic offence; 29 [*] 30[(gg) the applicant is a fit and proper person;] (h) grant of certificate to the applicant is in the interest of investors31[;] 32[(i) the conditions as specified by the Board, in case the applicant is directly or indirectly connected with a person already registered with the Board under these regulations. Explanation: For the purposes of this clause, - (i) the expression “directly or indirectly connected” with reference to any person means an associate or subsidiary or inter-connected or group company of the applicant, in case of the applicant being a body corporate; (ii) the certificate of registration granted to a merchant banker connected directly or indirectly with another merchant banker prior to the commencement of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 shall continue to be valid.] 33[Criteria for fit and proper person. 6A. For the purpose of determining whether an applicant or the merchant banker is a fit and proper person the Board may take into account the criteria specified in Schedule II of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Intermediaries) Regulations, 2008.]

25 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. Prior to the omission, clause (c) read as under:
“(c) a person directly or indirectly connected with the applicant has not been granted registration by the Board. Explanation : For the purposes of this clause the expression “directly or indirectly connected” means any person being an associate, subsidiary or inter-connected or group company of the applicant in case of the applicant being a body corporate;” 26 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. Prior to the substitution, clause (d) read as under:
“(d) The applicant fulfils the capital adequacy requirement specified in regulation 7;” 27 The word “his” substituted by the word “its” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 28 The word “his” substituted by the word “its” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 29 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. Prior to its omission, clause (g) read as under:
“(g) The applicant has the professional qualification from an institution recognised by the Government in finance, law or business management;” 30 Clause (gg) to regulation 6 was inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 1997 w.e.f., 09.12.1997 31 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026 for the symbol “.”. 32 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. 33 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Criteria for fit and Proper Person Regulations,
2004) w.e.f. 10-3-2004.

34[Capital adequacy requirement.
7. (1) The capital adequacy requirement referred to in clause (d) of regulation 6 shall be a
net worth of not less than–
(i) fifty crore rupees for Category I merchant banker, and (ii) ten crore rupees for Category II merchant banker:
Provided that the capital adequacy requirement for a merchant banker that already holds a certificate of registration under these regulations shall be complied with, in the manner and within such time, as may be specified by the Board. (2) A merchant banker that fails to meet the minimum net worth requirement specified in sub-regulation (1), without prejudice to any action that may be taken by the Board, shall not undertake any fresh permitted activity, till such time it complies with the requirement. Explanation: For the purposes of this regulation, “net worth”, – (a) in case of a body corporate, shall have the same meaning assigned to it under sub-section (57) of section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013 (18 of 2013); and (b) in case of a limited liability partnership, shall mean the sum of the partners’ contribution (fixed) plus reserves and surplus.]

35[Liquid net worth requirement.
7A. (1) The liquid net worth requirement referred to in clause (d) of regulation 6 shall be a net worth of not less than– (i) twelve crore fifty lakh rupees for Category I merchant banker, and (ii) two crore fifty lakh rupees for Category II merchant banker:
Provided that the liquid net worth requirement for a merchant banker that already holds a certificate of registration under these regulations shall be complied with, in the manner and within such time, as may be specified by the Board. (2) A merchant banker that fails to meet the minimum liquid net worth requirement specified in sub-regulation (1), without prejudice to any action that may be taken by the Board, shall not undertake any fresh permitted activity, till such time it complies with the requirement. Explanation: For the purposes of this regulation, “liquid net worth” shall mean the net worth that is deployed in unencumbered liquid assets, as may be specified by the Board and the expression “liquid assets” shall mean low risk assets that can be converted into cash in a short period of time such as cash, fixed deposits, government securities, money markets instruments, treasury bills, repo on government securities and acceptable marketable securities with applicable haircut.]

34 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. Prior to the substitution, regulation 7 read as under:
“Capital adequacy requirement.
7. The capital adequacy requirement referred to in clause (d) of regulation 6 shall be a net worth of not less
than five crore rupees.
Explanation: For the purposes of this regulation, “net worth” means the sum of paid-up capital and free reserves of the applicant at the time of making application under sub-regulation (1) of regulation 3.” 35 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026.

36[Grant of certificate of 37[]registration.
8.(1) The Board, on being satisfied that the applicant is eligible, shall grant a certificate of 38[] registration in Form B and shall send an intimation to the applicant. (2) 39[ The certificate of registration granted under sub-regulation (1) shall be valid unless it is suspended or cancelled by the Board.] (3) 40[The merchant banker who has already been granted certificate of registration by the Board, prior to the commencement of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change in Conditions of Registration of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 shall be deemed to have been granted a certificate of registration, in terms of sub-regulation (1).] (4) On the grant of a certificate of 41[] registration the merchant banker shall be liable to pay the fee in accordance with Schedule II of these regulations.] 8A 42[]

36 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011. Prior to the substitution the regulation 8 as amended by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1997 w.e.f. 09-12-1997, read as under:
“8. Procedure for registration.
(1) The Board, on being satisfied that the applicant is eligible, shall grant a certificate in Form B. (2) and (3) *Omitted. (4) On the grant of a certificate the applicant shall be liable to pay the fees in accordance with Schedule II” 37 The word “initial” was omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. 38 The word “initial” was omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. 39 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to substitution, subregulation (2) read as under:
“(2) The certificate of initial registration granted under sub-regulation (1) shall be valid for a period of five years from the date of its issue to the applicant.” 40 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to substitution, subregulation (3) read as under:
“The merchant banker who has already been granted certificate of registration by the Board, prior to the commencement of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011, and has not completed a period of three years, shall be deemed to have been granted a certificate of initial registration for a period of five years from the date of its certificate of registration, subject to payment of fee for the remaining period of two years, as prescribed in Schedule II of these regulations.” “The certificate of initial registration granted under sub-regulation (1) shall be valid for a period of five years from the date of its issue to the applicant.” 41 The word “initial” was omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. 42 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to omission regulation 8A which was inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011, read as under:
“8A. Grant of certificate of permanent registration.
(1) The merchant banker who has been granted or deemed to have been granted a certificate of initial registration under regulation 8, may, three months before the expiry of the period of certificate of initial registration, make an application for grant of a certificate of permanent registration in Form A. (2) The merchant banker who has already been granted a certificate of registration by the Board and has completed a period of five years, on the date of commencement of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011, may, three months before the expiry of validity

9 43[*]
44[Conditions of registration.
9A. (1) 45[Registration granted under regulation 8] shall be subject to the following conditions, namely:— (a) where the merchant banker proposes 46[change in control], it shall obtain prior approval of the Board for continuing to act as such after the change;

of certificate of registration or before, make an application for grant of a certificate of permanent registration in Form A. (3) An application under sub-regulation (1) or sub-regulation (2) shall be accompanied by a non-refundable application fee as specified in Schedule II of these regulations. (4) The application for grant of a certificate of permanent registration shall be accompanied by details of the changes that have taken place in the information that was submitted to the Board while seeking initial registration or renewal, as the case may be, and a declaration stating that no changes other than those as mentioned in such details have taken place. (5) The application for permanent registration made under sub-regulation (1) or (2) shall be dealt with in the same manner as if it were a fresh application for grant of a certificate of initial registration. (6) The Board, on being satisfied that the applicant is eligible, shall grant a certificate of permanent registration in Form B and shall send an intimation to the applicant. (7) On the grant of a certificate of permanent registration the merchant banker shall be liable to pay the fee in accordance with Schedule II of these regulations.]” 43 Regulation 9 was omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 5-7-2011. Prior to omission, regulations 9 as amended by Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 1997 w.e.f, 09.12.1997, Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 1998 w.e.f, 21-01- 1998, Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Third Amendment) Regulations, 2006 w.e.f. 7-9-2006 and Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2009, w.e.f. 26-8-2009, read as under:
“9. (1) Three months before the expiry of the period of certificate, the merchant banker may, if he so desires, make an application for renewal in Form A. (1A) An application for renewal made under sub-regulation (1) shall be accompanied by a non-refundable application fee as specified in Schedule II. (1B) The application for renewal under sub-regulation (1) shall be accompanied by details of the changes that have taken place in the information that was submitted to the Board while seeking registration or earlier renewal, as the case may be, and a declaration stating that no changes other than those as mentioned in such details have taken place. (2) The application of renewal, under sub-regulation (1), shall be dealt with in the same manner as if it were a fresh application for grant of a certificate :
Provided that in the case of an application for renewal of certificate of registration, the provisions of clause (a) of regulation 6 shall not be applicable up to June 30, 1998. (3) The Board on being satisfied that the applicant is eligible for renewal of certificate shall grant a certificate in Form B and sent an intimation to the applicant. (4) & (5) -Omitted (6) On the grant of a certificate the applicant shall be liable to pay the fees in accordance with Schedule II.” 44 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Third Amendment) Regulations, 2006. w.e.f. 7-9-2006. 45 Substituted for the words “Any 45[initial registration] granted under regulation 8 or any 45[permanent registration granted under regulation 8A” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to the above, the words “initial registration” was substituted for “registration” and the words “permanent registration granted under regulation 8A” was substituted for the words “renewal granted under regulation 9” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 5-7-2011.

(b) 47[it shall pay the fees for registration, in the manner provided in these regulations;] (c) it shall take 48[all] steps for redressal of 49[the] grievances of the investors within 50[twenty-one calendar days] of the date of the receipt of the complaint 51[*]; 52 [(d) it shall maintain capital adequacy requirements specified in regulation 7 at all times;]

53[(da) it shall maintain liquid net worth requirements specified in regulation 7A at all times;] (e) it shall abide by the regulations made under the Act in respect of the activities carried on by it as merchant banker. 54[(f) it shall intimate the Board of the details of any change in information submitted while seeking registration within seven working days of such change55[;]] 56[(g) where the merchant banker is acting as an underwriter, it shall enter into a valid agreement with the body corporate on whose behalf it is acting as an underwriter and shall abide by the regulations made under the Act in respect of the activities carried on by it as underwriter57[;]] 58[(h) it shall undertake only such activities as specified by the Board under these regulations from time to time; (i) it shall not outsource its core merchant banking activities, namely,- (i) due diligence activities;

46 Substituted for “to change its status or constitution” by the (Change in conditions of Registration of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011. w.e.f. 19-04-2011. 47 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to substitution clause (b) read as udner “(b) it shall pay the fees for 47[initial registration or permanent registration], as the case may be, in the manner provided in these regulations;” Prior to the above, the words “initial registration or permanent registration” were substituted for the words “registration or renewal” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 5-7-2011. 48 The word “adequate” substituted by the word “all” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 49 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 50 Substituted for “one month” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Facilitation of Grievance Redressal Mechanism) (Amendment) Regulations, 2023 w.e.f. 18-08-2023. 51 The words and symbol “and keep the Board informed about the number, nature and other particulars of the complaints received” omitted by the by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 52 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. Prior to the substitution, clause (d) read as under:
“(d) it shall maintain capital adequacy requirements specified in regulation 7 at all times during the period of the;” 53 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. 54 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. Prior to its substitution, clause (f) read as under:
“(f) it shall immediately intimate the Board, details of changes that have taken place in the information that was submitted, while seeking registration.” 55 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026 for the symbol “.”. 56 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Banker) (Amendment) Regulations, 2021 w.e.f. 30-03-2021 57 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026 for the symbol “.”. 58 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026.

(ii) preparation of offer related document; and (iii) any other activity as may be specified by the Board from time to time:
Provided that a merchant banker that already holds a certificate of registration under these regulations shall ensure compliance with this clause, in the manner and within such time, as may be specified by the Board; (j) it shall generate minimum revenue, as may be specified by the Board, from permitted activities:
Provided that the certificate of registration granted to a merchant banker under these regulations may not be cancelled if it is not able to generate minimum revenue due to certain circumstances(s) as may be specified by the Board from time to time; (k) the employees referred to in clause (b) of regulation 6 and the compliance officer shall possess such certification(s) as may be specified by the Board:
Provided that in case of a merchant banker that already holds a certificate of registration under these regulations, the employees referred to in clause (b) of regulation 6 and the compliance officer shall obtain such certification(s) within such time as may be specified by the Board.] (2) Nothing contained in clause (a) of sub-regulation (1) shall affect the obligation to obtain a fresh registration under section 12 of the Act in cases where it is applicable. 59[9B *]

60[Requirement of minimum revenue generation.
9C. The merchant banker shall ensure that it generates minimum revenue, as specified by the Board, from activities specified under sub-regulation (1) of regulation 13A of these regulations:
Provided that this regulation shall not apply to a merchant banker who manages only the issuance of the following securities, - (i) listed or proposed to be listed non-convertible securities, securitized debt instruments, security receipts, municipal debt securities, commercial papers; or (ii) listed or proposed to be listed units of a REIT or an InvIT.] Procedure where registration is not granted.
10. 61[(1) Where an application for grant of a certificate of registration under regulation 3
does not satisfy the criteria set out in regulation 6, the Board shall reject the application after giving an opportunity of being heard.]

59 Omitted by the by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011. Prior to the substitution the regulation read as under:
“ Period of validity of certificate.
9B. The certificate of registration granted under regulation 8 and its renewal granted under regulation 9, shall be valid for a period of three years from the date of its issue to the applicant.” 60 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. 61 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to substitution, subregulation (1) read as under:
“(1) Where an application for grant of a certificate 61[of initial registration under regulation 3 or of permanent registration under regulation 8A] does not satisfy the criteria set out in regulation 6, the Board may reject the application after giving an opportunity of being heard.”

62[(2) The refusal to grant registration, shall be communicated by the Board within thirty days of such refusal to the applicant stating therein the grounds on which the application has been rejected.] (3) Any applicant may, being aggrieved by the decision of the Board under sub-regulation (1), apply within a period of thirty days from the date of receipt of such intimation to the Board for reconsideration of its decision. (4) The Board shall reconsider an application made under sub-regulation (3) and communicate its decision as soon as possible in writing to the applicant. 63[11. Effect of refusal to grant certificate of permanent registration. Any applicant, whose application for grant of a certificate of permanent registration has been refused by the Board, on and from the date of receipt of the communication, shall not carry on any activity as a merchant banker:
Provided that the Board may, in the interest of investors in the securities market, permit the merchant banker to carry on activities undertaken prior to the receipt of the intimation of refusal subject to such condition as the Board may specify.] Payment of fees and the consequences of failure to pay fee.
12. (1) Every applicant eligible for grant of a certificate shall pay such fees in such
manner and within the period specified in Schedule II.
64[(2) Where the merchant banker fails to pay such fees as provided in sub-regulation (1), without prejudice to any other action that may be taken by the Board, the merchant

Prior to this the words “of initial registration under regulation 3 or of permanent registration under regulation 8A” were substituted for the words “under regulation 3 or of renewal under regulation 9” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07- 2011. 62 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to substitution, subregulation (s) read as under:
“(2) The refusal to grant 62[initial registration or permanent registration, as the case may be,] shall be communicated by the Board within thirty days of such refusal to the applicant stating therein the grounds on which the application has been rejected.” Prior to this the words “initial registration or permanent registration, as the case may be,” were substituted for the word “registration” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011. 63 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to omission, the regulation was substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011 and read as under:
“11. Effect of refusal to grant certificate of permanent registration.
Any applicant, whose application for grant of a certificate of permanent registration has been refused by the Board, on and from the date of receipt of the communication, shall not carry on any activity as a merchant banker:
Provided that the Board may, in the interest of investors in the securities market, permit the merchant banker to carry on activities undertaken prior to the receipt of the intimation of refusal subject to such condition as the Board may specify.”

Prior to substitution by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers)
(Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011, the regulation read as under:
“ Effect of refusal to grant certificate.

Any merchant banker whose application for a certificate has been refused by the Board shall, on and
from the date of the receipt of the communication under sub-regulation (2) of regulation 10, cease to carry on any activity as merchant banker.”

banker shall not undertake any new activity till such time the fees is paid by the merchant banker, and shall also be liable to pay interest at 15% per annum for each month of delay or part thereof.]
CHAPTER III
GENERAL OBLIGATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Code of conduct.
13. Every merchant banker shall abide by the Code of Conduct as specified in Schedule
III.
65[Permitted Activities
13A. (1) A merchant banker who has been granted a certificate of registration under these regulations shall undertake any of the following permitted activities in the securities market that are regulated by the Board, namely, – (i) managing of public issues, qualified institutions placements, rights issues of securities and advisory or consulting services incidental to such issues; (ii) managing of:
a. acquisitions and takeovers under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, 2011;

64 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. Prior to the substitution, sub-regulation (2) read as under:
“(2) Where a merchant banker fails to pay the annual fees as provided in sub-regulation (1), read with
Schedule II, the Board may suspend the registration certificate, whereupon the merchant banker shall cease
to carry on any activity as a merchant banker for the period during which the suspension subsists.” 65 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. Prior to the substitution, regulation 13A read as under:
“Merchant banker not to associate with any business other than that of the securities market. 13A. No merchant banker, other than a Bank or a Public Financial Institution, who has been granted a certificate of registration under these regulations shall after June 30, 1998 carry on any business other than that in the securities market. Notwithstanding anything contained above, a merchant banker who prior to the date of notification of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) Amendment Regulations, 1997, has entered into a contract in respect of a business other than that of the securities market may, if it so desires, discharge its obligations under such contract:
Provided that a merchant banker who has been granted certificate of registration to act as primary or satellite dealer by Reserve Bank of India, may carry on such business as may be permitted by the Reserve Bank of India. Provided further that a merchant banker, that has been granted a certificate of registration under these regulations, shall ensure market making in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018. Explanation: For the purposes of this regulation,— (i) A “bank” shall mean a banking company as defined under section 5 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 (10 of 1949), and the corresponding new bank set up under the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertaking) Act, 1970 (5 of 1970), and the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertaking) Act, 1980 (40 of 1980), State Bank of India Act, 1955 (23 of 1955) and State Bank of India (Subsidiary Banks) Act, 1959 (38 of 1959). (ii) A “public financial institution” shall have the same meaning as assigned to the term under subsection (72) of section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013 and shall include Industrial Development Corporations and Financial Corporations established by the Central Government or State Governments, as the case may be.”

b. buy-back under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (BuyBack of Securities) Regulations, 2018;
c. delisting under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Delisting
of Equity Shares) Regulations, 2021; d. compliances as may be required under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 in respect of any scheme of arrangement; e. implementation of a scheme under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Share Based Employee Benefits and Sweat Equity) Regulations, 2021; and f. advisory or consulting services incidental to the activities specified in clauses (a) to (e); (iii) underwriting activities as specified by the Board from time to time; (iv) private placement of listed or proposed to be listed securities on a stock exchange recognized by the Board and activities incidental thereto. Explanation: For the purpose of this clause, ‘securities’ shall be treated as ‘proposed to be listed’ from the date of approval of the board resolution of the issuer, for the issuance of such securities to be listed on a stock exchange recognized by the Board; (v) managing of international offering of securities and advisory or consulting services incidental to such offering; (vi) filing of placement memorandum of an alternative investment fund; (vii) issuance of fairness opinion; (viii) managing of secondary market transactions of securities listed on a stock exchange recognized by the Board and activities incidental thereto; (ix) market making in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018; and (x) any other activity as may be specified by the Board from time to time. (2) A merchant banker may also undertake – (i) other activities regulated by the Board in accordance with the respective regulations made by the Board by obtaining the relevant certificate of registration; and/or (ii) activities which fall under the purview of any other financial sector regulator or an authority specified by the Board, in accordance with the regulations or guidelines, if any, issued by such financial sector regulator or authority; and/or (iii) activities that do not fall under the purview of the Board or any other financial sector regulator or authority, which shall be fee-based, non-fund based and pertain to the financial services sector; on an arms-length basis through separate business units of such merchant banker, in such manner and subject to such other conditions as may be specified by the Board:
Provided that a person which is regulated by the Reserve Bank of India and which holds a certificate of registration under these regulations shall undertake the activities specified under sub-regulation (1) through separate business unit:
Provided further that a merchant banker that already holds a certificate of registration under these regulations shall transfer the activities referred to in this subregulation to separate business unit(s) within a period of six months from the date of coming into force of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 or within such time period as may be specified by the Board.

Explanation: For the purpose of this sub-regulation, the expression “financial sector regulator” shall mean an authority or body constituted under any law for the time being in force to regulate services or transactions in the financial sector and includes the Reserve Bank of India, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India, Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority, International Financial Services Centres Authority, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India or such other authority as may be specified by the Board, from time to time. (3) A merchant banker shall ensure that the net worth specified for a merchant banker under these regulations is ring-fenced from any adverse impact that may arise from undertaking the activities specified under sub-regulation (2). (4) The merchant banker that does not possess the registration for valuation related activities from the relevant regulatory authority shall conclude the existing valuation assignments undertaken by it within a period of nine months from the date of coming into force of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025.] Maintenance of books of account, records etc.
14. (1) Every merchant banker shall keep and maintain the following books of account,
records and documents namely :—
(a) a copy of balance sheet as at the end of the each accounting period; (b) a copy of profit and loss account for that period; (c) a copy of the auditor’s report on the accounts for that period66[;] (d) a statement of financial position. 67[(e) Records and documents pertaining to due diligence exercised in pre-issue and post –issue activities of issue management and in case of takeover, buyback and delisting of securities.] (2) Every merchant banker shall intimate to the Board the place where the books of account, records and documents are maintained. (3) Without prejudice to sub-regulation (1), every merchant banker shall, after the end of each accounting period furnish to the Board copies of the balance sheet, profit and loss account and such other documents for any other preceding five accounting years when required by the Board. 68[(4) Every merchant banker acting as an underwriter shall also maintain the following records with respect to— (i) details of all agreements entered with a body corporate on whose behalf it is acting as an underwriter; (ii) total amount of securities of each body corporate subscribed to in pursuance of an agreement; (iii) statement of capital adequacy requirements; (iv) such other records as may be specified by the Board from time to time.]

66 Substituted for the full stop by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Second) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 16-08-2011. 67 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Second) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 16-08-2011. 68 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Banker) (Amendment) Regulations,2021 w.e.f. 30-03-2021

Submission of half-yearly results.
15. Every merchant banker shall furnish to the Board half-yearly unaudited financial
results when required by the Board with a view to monitor the capital adequacy of the merchant banker. 69[Preservation of books of account, records and other documents.
16. (1) The merchant banker shall preserve the books of account and other records and
documents maintained under regulation 14 for a minimum period of eight financial years. (2) A merchant banker shall maintain all the data and information within the territorial limits of India as per the data storage and localization norms as specified by the Board from time to time.] Report on steps taken on auditor’s report.
17. Every merchant banker shall, within two months from the date of the auditor’s report,
take steps to rectify the deficiencies made out in the auditor’s report.
Appointment of lead merchant bankers.
18. 70[]
Restriction on appointment of lead managers.
19. 71[]
72[Responsibility of the lead manager.

69 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. Prior to the substitution, regulation 16 read as under:
“Maintenance of books of account, records and other documents.
16. The merchant banker shall preserve the books of account and other records and documents
maintained under regulation 14 for a minimum period of five years.”
70 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2009, w. e. f., 26-08-2009. 71 Omitted vide Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations,
2006. w.e.f. 18-4-2006. Before the omission, regulation 19 read as under :
“Restriction on appointment of lead managers19. The number of lead merchant bankers may not, exceed in case of any issue of Size of issue No. of Merchant Bankers (a) Less than rupees fifty crores Two (b) Rupees fifty crores but less than rupees one hundred crores Three (c) Rupees one hundred crores but less than rupees two hundred crores Four (d) Rupees two hundred crores but less than rupees four hundred crores Five (e) Above Rupees four hundred crores five or more as may be agreed by the board” 72 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. Prior to its substitution, the regulation read as under:
“Responsibilities of lead managers.
20. (1) No lead manager shall agree to manage or be associated with any issue unless his
responsibilities relating to issue mainly, those of disclosures, allotment and refund are clearly defined, allocated and determined and a statement specifying such responsibilities is furnished to the Board at least one month before the opening of the issue for subscription:
Provided that, where there are more than one lead merchant bankers to the issue the responsibilities of each of such lead merchant bankers shall clearly be demarcated and a statement specifying such responsibilities shall be furnished to the Board at least one month before the opening of the issue for subscription.”

No lead manager shall agree to manage or be associated with any issue unless
its responsibilities relating to the issue particularly, those of disclosures, allotment and refund are clearly defined, allocated and determined and a statement specifying such responsibilities is disclosed in the draft offer document and offer document:
Provided that, where there is more than one lead merchant banker to the issue, the responsibilities of each of the lead merchant banker shall clearly be demarcated and a statement specifying such responsibilities shall be disclosed in the draft offer document and offer document.] Lead merchant banker not to associate with a merchant banker without registration.
A lead merchant banker shall not be associated with any issue if a merchant banker
who is not holding a certificate is associated with the issue.
73[Merchant banker not to act 74[for its] associate.
21A. (1) 75[A merchant banker, being a promoter or an associate of either the issuer of the securities or of a person making an offer to sell or purchase securities in terms of any of the regulations made by the Board, shall not lead manage any issue or be associated with any activity undertaken under any of the regulations made by the Board by such issuer or person:] Provided that a merchant banker who is an associate of such issuer or person may be appointed, if 76[it] is involved only in the marketing of the issue or offer. Explanation: For the 77[purpose] of this regulation, a merchant banker shall be deemed to be an “associate of the issuer or person” if:
(i) either of them controls, directly or indirectly through its subsidiary or holding company, not less than 78[ten] per cent. of the voting rights in the other; or (ii) either of them, directly or indirectly, by itself or in combination with other persons, exercises control over the other; or 79[(iii) there is a common director – (a) in the issuer and the merchant banker; or

73 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2009, w. e. f., 26-08-2009. 74 The words “as such for an” substituted with the words “for its” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 75 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. Prior to its substitution, sub-regulation (1) read as under:
“(1) A merchant banker shall not lead manage any issue or be associated with any activity undertaken under any regulations made by the Board, if he is a promoter or a director or an associate of the issuer of securities or of any person making an offer to sell or purchase securities in terms of any regulations made by the Board:” 76 The word “he” substituted by the word “it” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 77 The word “purposes” substituted by the word “purpose” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 78 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026 for the word “fifteen”. 79 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. Prior to its substitution, clause (iii) read as under:
“(iii) there is a common director, excluding nominee director, amongst the issuer, its subsidiary or holding company and the merchant banker.”

(b) in the issuer’s subsidiary or holding company and the merchant banker:
Provided that this clause shall not be applicable where the director concerned is a nominee director:
Provided further that this clause shall not be applicable where the director concerned is an independent director subject to recusal by the said independent director in respect of the issue from the boards of both issuer and merchant banker.] 80[Merchant banker not to act as such in its own issue. 21B. A merchant banker shall not lead manage its own issue or be associated with any other activity undertaken under any of the regulations made by the Board in respect of its own issue. Merchant banker not to act as such in an issue where shares are held by its key managerial personnel or their relatives. 21C. A merchant banker shall not lead manage any public issue, if its directors, other key managerial personnel, compliance officer, employees referred to in clause (b) of Regulation 6, or relative(s) of the said persons, individually or in aggregate hold more than 0.1% of the paid up share capital or shares whose nominal value is more than 10,00,000 rupees, whichever is lower in the issuer:
Provided that any such holdings in the issuer through mutual funds and employee stock option schemes may be excluded:
Provided further that a merchant banker whose directors, other key managerial personnel, compliance officer, employees referred to in clause (b) of Regulation 6, or relative(s) of the said persons, individually or in aggregate hold more than 0.1% of paid up share capital or shares whose nominal value is more than 10,00,000 rupees, whichever is lower in the issuer, may be appointed, if it is involved only in the marketing of the issue, subject to appropriate disclosures as may be specified by the Board. Explanation: For the purpose of this clause, the term ‘relative’ in relation to an individual, shall include – (i) spouse of the person; or (ii) parent of the person and parent of the spouse of such person; or (iii) sibling(s) of the person and sibling(s) of the spouse of such person; or (iv) child of the person and child of its spouse; or (v) spouse of the person referred to at clause (iii); or (vi) spouse of the person referred to at clause (iv); or (vii) Hindu Undivided Family of the concerned person.] 81[Underwriting obligations.

80 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. 81 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. Prior to its substitution, regulation 22 read as under:
“Underwriting obligations.
22. In respect of every issue to be managed, the lead merchant banker holding a certificate under
Category I shall accept a minimum underwriting obligation of five per cent of the total underwriting commitment or rupees twenty-five lacs, whichever is less :
Provided that, if the lead merchant banker is unable to accept the minimum underwriting obligation, that lead merchant banker shall make arrangement for having the issue underwritten to that extent by a merchant banker associated with the issue and shall keep the Board informed of such arrangement.

Merchant bankers shall engage in underwriting activities as specified by the Board
from time to time.]
82[Agreement with clients.
22A. Every merchant banker acting as an underwriter shall enter into an agreement with each body corporate on whose behalf it is acting as an underwriter and the said agreement shall, amongst other things, provide for the following, namely— (i) the period for which the agreement shall be in force; (ii) the allocation of duties and responsibilities between the underwriter and the client (iii) the amount of underwriting obligations; (iv) the period, within which the underwriter has to subscribe to the issue after being intimated by or on behalf of such body corporate; (v) the amount of commission or brokerage payable to the underwriter; (vi) details of arrangements, if any, made by the underwriter for fulfilling the underwriting obligations. General responsibilities of a merchant banker as an underwriter. 22B. (1) A merchant banker acting as an underwriter shall not derive any direct or indirect benefit from underwriting the issue other than the commission or brokerage payable under the agreement for underwriting entered with client. 83[(2) At any point of time, the total underwriting obligations under all the agreements shall not exceed twenty times of the liquid net worth of the merchant banker:
Provided that a merchant banker that already holds certificate of registration under these regulations shall comply with the requirements under this sub-regulation, within such time and in the manner, as may be specified by the Board.] 84[(3) A merchant banker, if called upon, pursuant to an agreement for underwriting to subscribe to the securities of a body corporate, shall subscribe to the said securities prior to the finalisation of the basis of allotment.] Submission of due diligence certificate.
85[]

Provided further that in any issue made in accordance with Chapter VIII of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018.” Provided further that in any issue made in accordance with Chapter VIII of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018, the merchant banker shall itself or jointly with other merchant bankers associated with the issue, underwrite at least fifteen per cent of the issue size.” 82 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Banker) (Amendment) Regulations, 2021 w.e.f. 30-03-2021 83 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. Prior to its substitution, sub-regulation (2) read as under:
“(2) At any point of time, the total underwriting obligations under all the agreements shall not exceed twenty times of the net worth of the merchant banker.” 84 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. Prior to its substitution, sub-regulation (3) read as under:
“(3) Every merchant banker acting as an underwriter, in the event of being called upon to subscribe for securities of a body corporate pursuant to an agreement for underwriting, shall subscribe to such securities within 45 days of the receipt of such intimation from such body corporate.”

Document to be furnished to the Board.
24. 86[]
Payment of fees to the Board.
24A. 87[]
Continuance of association of lead manager with an issue.
25. 88[]
Acquisition of 89[securities] prohibited.
26. No merchant banker or any of its directors, partner or manager or principal officer
90[or compliance officer or employees referred to in clause (b) of regulation 6] shall either on their respective accounts or through their associates or relatives, enter into any transaction in securities of bodies corporate on the basis of unpublished price sensitive information obtained by them during the course of any professional assignment either from the clients or otherwise. 91[Information to the Board.
27. Every merchant banker shall submit to the Board the following information as a part of
the periodic report as specified in sub-regulation (2) of regulation 28 – (i) complete particulars of any transaction for acquisition of securities of any body corporate whose issue is being managed by it; (ii) complete particulars of any transaction for acquisition of securities made in pursuance of underwriting or market making obligations in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018; (iii) any other information as may be specified by the Board from time to time.]

85 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2009, w. e. f., 26-08-2009. 86 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2009, w. e. f., 26-08-2009. 87 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2009, w. e. f., 26-08-2009. 88 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2009, w. e. f., 26-08-2009. 89 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026 for the word “shares”. 90 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. 91 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f., 03.01.2026. Prior to its substitution, regulation 27 read as under:
“Information to the Board.
27. A merchant banker shall submit to the Board complete particulars of the transaction for acquisition
of securities of a body corporate whose issue is managed by that merchant banker, within fifteen days from the date of entering into such a transaction:
Provided that complete particulars of a transaction for acquisition of securities pursuant to underwriting or market making obligations in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018 shall be submitted to the Board on a quarterly basis.”

Disclosures to the Board.
2892[(1)] A merchant banker shall disclose to the Board, as and when required, the following information, namely:— (i) 93[its] responsibilities with regard to the management of the issue; (ii) any change in the information or particulars previously furnished, which have a bearing on the certificate granted to it; (iii) the names of the body corporate whose issues 94[it] has managed or has been associated with; (iv) the particulars relating to the breach of the capital adequacy requirement as specified in regulation 7; (v) relating to 95[its] activities as a manager, underwriter, consultant or adviser to an issue, as the case may be. 96[{(2) The merchant banker shall submit a periodic report in such manner as may be specified by the Board from time to time}] 97[Appointment of compliance officer. 28A. (1) A merchant banker shall always have a compliance officer who- (i) at the time of appointment should be a qualified Company Secretary or have a graduate degree in law from a university/institution recognised by the Government; and (ii) at the time of appointment shall have a minimum of two years post qualification experience in activities related to corporate or secretarial compliance; and

92 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2009, w. e. f., 26-08-2009. 93 The word “his” substituted by the word “its” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 94 The word “he” substituted by the word “it” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 95 The word “his” substituted by the word “its” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 96 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2012 w.e.f. 29.03.2012. Prior to this sub- regulation, which was inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2009, w. e. f., 26-08- 2009, read as under :
“The merchant banker shall submit a half yearly report for the period ending with 31st March and 30th September of every year, in the format specified in schedule IV, within three months from the close of the period to which it corresponds.” 97 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f., 03.01.2026. Prior to its substitution, regulation 28A read as under:
“Appointment of compliance officer.
28A. (1) Every merchant banker shall appoint a compliance officer who shall be responsible for monitoring the compliance of the Act, rules and regulations, notifications, guidelines, instructions, etc., issued by the Board or the Central Government and for redressal of investors’ grievances. (2) The compliance officer shall immediately and independently report to the Board any non-compliance observed by him and ensure that the observations made or deficiencies pointed out by the Board on/in the draft prospectus or the letter of offer as the case may be, do not recur.”

(iii)shall possess such certification(s) as may be specified by the Board, and in case of an existing compliance officer, such certification(s) shall be obtained within such time as may be specified by the Board:
Provided that an existing compliance officer of a merchant banker may continue to act as such if he/she complies with clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) of sub-regulation (1) or has professional qualification with at least five years post qualification experience in activities related to corporate or secretarial compliance and obtains such certification(s) as may be specified by the Board. (2) The compliance officer appointed under sub-regulation (1) shall be- (i) separate and independent from the principal officer and the employees referred to in clause (b) of regulation 6:
Provided that a merchant banker that already holds a certificate of registration under these regulations shall comply with the requirement under this clause within such time and in the manner, as may be specified by the Board; (ii) responsible for- (a) monitoring the compliance of the Act, rules and regulations, notifications, guidelines, instructions, etc., issued by the Board or the Central Government; and (b) for redressal of investors’ grievances. (3) The compliance officer shall immediately and independently report to the Board any non-compliance observed by him/her and ensure that the observations made or deficiencies pointed out by the Board in the draft prospectus or the letter of offer as the case may be, do not recur. (4) In case the office of compliance officer becomes vacant, the merchant banker shall appoint another compliance officer not later than three months from the date of the office becoming vacant:
Provided that the merchant banker shall not fill such vacancy by appointing a person in an interim capacity, unless such appointment is made in accordance with conditions applicable in case of a regular appointment to such position and the obligations applicable to a regular appointee are also made applicable to such person on interim appointment.] 98[Dispute Resolution. 28B. All claims, differences or disputes between a merchant banker and its client arising out of or in relation to the activities of the merchant banker in the securities market shall be submitted to a dispute resolution mechanism that includes mediation and/or conciliation and/or arbitration, in accordance with the procedure specified by the Board.] 99[ Grievance Redressal Mechanism.

98 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanism) (Amendment) Regulations, 2023, w.e.f., 04-07-2023. 99 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Facilitation of Grievance Redressal Mechanism) (Amendment) Regulations, 2023 w.e.f. 18-08-2023.

28C. (1) The Merchant Banker shall redress investor grievances promptly but not later than twenty-one calendar days from the date of receipt of the grievance and in such manner as may be specified by the Board. (2) The Board may also recognize a body corporate for handling and monitoring the process of grievance redressal within such time and in such manner as may be specified.]
CHAPTER IV
PROCEDURE FOR INSPECTION
Board’s right to inspect.
29. (1) The Board may appoint one or more persons as inspecting authority to undertake
inspection of the books of account, records and documents of the merchant banker for any of the purposes specified in sub-regulation (2). (2) The purposes referred to in sub-regulation (1) may be as follows namely :
(a) to ensure that the books of account are being maintained in the manner required; (b) that the provisions of the Act, rules, regulations are being complied with; (c) to investigate into the complaints received from investors, other merchant bankers or any other person on any matter having a bearing on the activities of the merchant banker; and (d) to investigate suo motu in the interest of securities business or investors interest into the affairs of the merchant banker. Notice before inspection.
30. (1) Before undertaking an inspection under regulation 28 the Board shall give a
reasonable notice to the merchant banker for that purpose.
(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-regulation (1), where the Board is satisfied that in the interest of the investors no such notice should be given, it may by an order in writing direct that the inspection of the affairs of the merchant banker be taken up without such notice. (3) During the course of inspection, the merchant banker, against whom an inspection is being carried out, shall be bound to discharge 100[its] obligations as provided under regulation 31. Obligations of merchant banker on inspection by the Board.
31. (1) It shall be the duty of every director, 101[*] partner, officer and employee of the
merchant banker, who is being inspected, to produce to the inspecting authority such books, accounts and other documents in his custody or control and furnish him with the statements and information relating to 102[its] activities as a merchant banker within such time as the inspecting authority may require.

100 The word “his” substituted by the word “its” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 101 The word and symbol “proprietor,” omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. 102 The word “his” substituted by the word “its” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024.

(2) The merchant banker shall allow the inspecting authority to have reasonable access to the premises occupied by such merchant banker or by any other person on 103[its] behalf and also extend reasonable facility for examining any books, records, documents and computer data in the possession of the merchant banker or any such other person and also provide copies of documents or other materials which, in the opinion of the inspecting authority, are relevant for the purposes of the inspection. (3) The inspecting authority, in the course of inspection, shall be entitled to examine or record statement of any principal officer, director, partner 104[] and employee of the merchant banker. (4) It shall be the duty of every director, 105[] partner, officer or employee of the merchant banker to give to the inspecting authority all assistance in connection with inspection which the merchant banker may reasonably be expected to give. Submission of report to the Board.
32. The inspecting authority shall, as soon as may be possible submit, an inspection report
to the Board.
106[Action on inspection or investigation report.
33. The Board or the Chairman shall after consideration of inspection or investigation
report take such action as the Board or Chairman may deem fit and appropriate including action under 107[ Chapter V of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Intermediaries) Regulations, 2008]]. Appointment of 108[the] auditor.
34. The Board may appoint a qualified auditor to investigate into the books of account or
the affairs of the merchant bankers:
Provided that the auditor so appointed shall have the same powers of the inspecting authority as are mentioned in regulation 29 and the obligations of the merchant banker in regulation 31 shall be applicable to the investigation under this regulation. Explanation.—For the purposes of this regulation the expression “qualified auditor” shall have the same meaning as 109[provided in section 141 of the Companies Act, 2013].

103 The word “his” substituted by the word “its” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 104 The word and symbol “, proprietor” omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. 105 The word and symbol “proprietor,” omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. 106 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Procedure for Holding Enquiry by Enquiry Officer and Imposing Penalty) Regulations, 2002 w.e.f.,27.09.2002. Prior to the substitution the regulation read as under:
“Communication of findings etc. to the merchant banker” 33. (1) The Board shall after consideration of the inspection report communicate the findings to the merchant banker to give him an opportunity of being heard before any action is taken by the Board on the findings of the inspecting authority. (2) On receipt of the explanation if any, from the merchant banker, the Board may call upon the merchant banker to take such measures as the Board may deem fit in the interest of the securities market and for due compliance with the provisions of the Act, rules and regulations.” 107 Substituted for “the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Procedure for Holding Enquiry by Enquiry Officer and Imposing Penalty) Regulations, 2002 by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Intermediaries) Regulations, 2008, w.e.f, 26-5-2008. 108 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024.

CHAPTER V
PROCEDURE FOR ACTION IN CASE OF DEFAULT
110[Liability for action in case of default.
35. A merchant banker who contravenes any of the provisions of the Act, Rules or
Regulations framed thereunder shall be liable for one or more actions specified therein including the action under Chapter V of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Intermediaries) Regulations, 2008.]
36. to 43. 111[]
112[CHAPTER VI
POWER TO RELAX STRICT ENFORCEMENT OF THE REGULATIONS Exemption from enforcement of the regulations in special cases.
44. (1) The Board may, exempt any person or class of persons from the operation of all or
any of the provisions of these regulations for a period as may be specified but not exceeding twelve months, for furthering innovation 113[] relating to testing new products, processes, services, business models, etc. in live environment of regulatory sandbox in the securities markets. (2) Any exemption granted by the Board under sub-regulation (1) shall be subject to the applicant satisfying such conditions as may be specified by the Board including conditions to be complied with on a continuous basis. Explanation. — For the purposes of these regulations, "regulatory sandbox" means a live testing environment where new products, processes, services, business models, etc. may

109 The words, symbols and figures “given in section 226 of the Companies Act, 1956 (1 of 1956)” were substituted with the words, symbols and figures “provided in section 141 of the Companies Act, 2013” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024. 110 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Intermediaries) Regulations, 2008 w.e.f, 26- 5-2008. Prior to the substitution the regulation read as under:
33. Action on inspection or investigation report –
The Board or the Chairman shall after consideration of inspection or investigation report take action as the Board or Chairman may deem fit and appropriate including action under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Procedure for Holding Enquiry by Enquiry Officer and Imposing Penalty) Regulations, 2002.” Prior to the above substitution the regulation read as under:
“33. Communication of findings etc. to the merchant banker etc.- (1) The Board shall after consideration of the inspection report communicate the findings to the merchant banker to give him an opportunity of being heard before any action is taken by the Board on the findings of the inspecting authority. (2) On receipt of the explanation if any, from the merchant banker, the Board may call upon the merchant banker to take such measures as the Board amy deem fit in the interest of the securities market and for due compliance with the provisions of the Act, rules and regulations.” 111 The regulations 36 to 43 were omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Procedure for Holding Enquiry by Enquiry Officer and Imposing Penalty) Regulations, 2002 w.e.f., 27.09.2002. 112 Inserted by the SEBI (Regulatory Sandbox) (Amendment) Regulation, w.e.f. 17-04-2020. 113 The words “in technological aspects” omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Regulatory Sandbox) (Amendment) Regulations, 2021, w.e.f. 03-08-2021.

be deployed on a limited set of eligible customers for a specified period of time, for furthering innovation in the securities market, subject to such conditions as may be specified by the Board.] 114[CHAPTER VII POWER TO REMOVE DIFFICULTIES
45. In order to remove any difficulties in respect of the applicability or interpretation of
these regulations, the Board may issue clarifications or guidelines in the form of circulars.]

114 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026.

SCHEDULE I
FORMS
FORM A
Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992 [ 115[Regulation 3]] 116[Application for Grant of Certificate of Registration] Name of Applicant 117[*] Category I118[/II] Contact Name Telephone No. Instructions for Filling up Form

Applicants must submit a completed application form together with appropriate
supporting documents to the Board.
It is important that this application form should be filled in accordance with the
regulations.
Application for registration will be considered provided it is complete in all respects.
Answers must be typed.
Information which needs to be supplied in more details may be given on separate
sheets which should be attached to the application form.
All signatures must be original.
Particulars of the applicant:
1.1 Name of Applicant :
1.2 (A) Address—Principal Place of business/Registered Office of the Company.
Pin Code................................ Telephone No. .................................. Telex No.
.....................................
Fax No.................................
(B) Address for Correspondence :
Pin Code................................ Telephone No. ................................ Telex No.
................................
Fax No. ................................
(C) Address of Branch Offices :

115 Substituted for “Regulation 3/ Regulation 8A” by the the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to this, the words “Regulation 3/ Regulation 8A” were substituted for the words “Regulation 3” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011. 116 Substituted for “Application for Grant of Certificate of Initial/ Permanent Registration” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to this, the words “Application for Grant of Certificate of Initial/ Permanent Registration” were substituted for the words “Application for Grant of Certificate / Renewal of Certificate” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011. 117 Words “Applied for :II/III/IV” omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 1997 w.e.f , 9-12-1997. 118 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026.

Organisation structure
(Organisation Chart separately showing functional responsibilities of Merchant Banking activities to be enclosed).
2.1 Objectives : (To be given in brief alongwith copy of Memorandum and Articles of
Association).
2.2 Date and Place of Incorporation :
Day Month/Year Place
2.3 Status of the Applicant : (e.g., 119[body corporate,] limited company—Private/Public,
unlimited company, 120[limited liability partnership], 121[] others. If listed, names of Stock Exchanges and latest share price to be given).
2.4 Particulars of all Directors/Partners122[]:
Name Qualification Experience in
Merchant
Banking &
Financial
Ser- vices related areas
Share in applicants firm/company
Directorship in other companies

2.5 Particulars of Key Management Personnel : (Particulars of merchant banking
division)
Name Qualification Experience with particular reference to merchant banking Date of appointme nt Function al areas

2.6 Name and activities of associate companies/concerns
Name of Company/
Firm
Address Types of activity handled
Nature of interest of
Promoter/
Director
Nature of interest of applicant company

Business information
3.1 History, major events and present activities :
3.2 Details of Experience in Merchant Banking activities:
3.3 Experience in other financial services rendered :

119 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. 120 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026 for the word “partnership”. 121 The word and symbol “proprietary,” omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. 122 The word and symbol “/Proprietors” omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026.

3.4 Business handled during the last three years :
(a) Issue Management
Name of client
Type of issue
Size of
Issue
Year of
Issue
Times subscribed
Name of lead merchant banker
Functional responsibilit ies
1 2 3 4 5 6 7

(b) Investment Adviser
Name of client
Year for which services are rendered
Nature of services rendered

(c) Underwriting
Name of client
Year of issue
Type and Size of Issue
Amount underwritten
%age of Issue underw ritten
Whether there was any development

(d) Portfolio Management
Name of Scheme Features of the
Scheme
Number of clients Total volume of funds managed Average returns

(e) Consultants/Advisors to the Issue
Name of the client
Year of Issue Type and size of
Issue
Nature of services rendered
Name of lead
Merchant
Banker(s)

Client information
4.1 List of major clients with address
Name
Services rendered
................................................................................................................................................
.......................................
................................................................................................................................................
.......................................
................................................................................................................................................
.......................................
4.2 If the applicant is proposing to engage in Merchant Banking activities for the first
time, the experience of key management personnel to be indicated.
Name of Key
Management
Personnel
Qualification Previous positions held
Experience particularly in respect of merchant banking activities

4.2aIf the applicant is proposing to engage in Merchant Banking activities for the first time, business plan of the company with projected volume of activities and income for which registration is sought to be specifically given.
4.3 Details of infrastructure including computing facilities, equity research and data base
available with the applicant.
4.4 Any other information considered relevant to the nature of services rendered by the
applicant.
5. Financial information.
123[(₹ in lakhs)
5.1 Capital structure Year prior to the
preceding year or current year
Preceding year Current year a) Paid-up capital b) Free reserves (excluding revaluation reserves) c)Securities Premium Account Total (a) + (b) + (c)

Notes: In case of a limited liability partnership firm, please indicate sum of the partners’ contribution (fixed) plus reserves and surplus.]
5.2 Deployment of Resources
(Rs. in lakhs)
Year prior to the preceding year or current year Prec eding year Current year (a) Fixed Assets (b) Plant & Machinery and office equipment (c) Quoted Investments (d) Unquoted Investments

123 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f., 03.01.2026. Prior to its substitution, sub-paragraph 5.1 read as under:
“(Rs. in lakhs)
5.1 Capital structure Year prior to the
preceding year or current year
Preceding year Current year a) Paid-up capital b) Free reserves (excluding revaluation reserves) c) Total (a) + (b)

Notes: 1. In case of partnership or proprietary concerns, please indicate capital minus drawings. 2.In case of partnership or proprietary concerns, please indicate the financial position, means and net worth of the partners.”

(e) Details of Liquid Assets
(f) Others
(Details of investments, Loans & Advances made to Associate Companies/Firms where Promoters/Directors have an interest be separately given).
5.3 Major Sources of Income:
(Rs. in lakhs)
Year prior to the preceding year or current year Preceding year *Fees charge d as % of issue (a) Issue Management (b) Underwriting (c) Portfolio Management (d) Consultant/Adviser to issue (e) Investment Adviser (f) Others

*As fees charged by the Merchant Banker may vary from issue to issue, please indicate range within which fees have been charged.
5.4 Net Profit
Year prior to the preceding year or current year Preceding year Current year
5.5 5.5 Dividend
Year prior to the preceding year or current year Preceding year Current year
5.6 5.6
Amount
Percentage
Note : Please enclose three years of Audited Annual Accounts. Where Unaudited Reports are submitted, give reasons. If Minimum net worth requirement has been met after last Audited Annual Accounts. Audited Statement of Accounts of a later date also be submitted.
5.6 List of major shareholders (holding 5% and above of applicant directly or along with
associates—applicable only to limited companies).
Shareholding as on : ...............................................................................................
Name of
Shareholder
No. of shares held %age of total paid up capital of the company

5.7 Name and address of the principal bankers of the applicant.
5.8 Name and address of the auditors.
6. Other information
6.1 Details of all settled and pending disputes:

Nature of dispute Name of the party Pending/settled

6.2 Indictment or involvement in any economic offences by the applicant or any of the
Directors, or key Managerial Personnel in the last three years.

DECLARATION
This Declaration must be signed by Two Directors 124[or Two Partners], as the case may be. I/We hereby apply for registration. I/We warrant that I/we have truthfully and fully answered the questions above and provided all the information which might reasonably be considered relevant for the purposes of my registration. I/We declare that the information supplied in the application form is complete and correct. For and on behalf of
................................................................................................................................................
.
(Name of Applicant)
Director/Partner 125[*] Director/Partner
Name in Block Letters Name in Block Letters
Date
FORM B
Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992 [ 126[Regulation 8 / Regulation 8A]] 127[Certificate of Registration] 128[I. In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 12 of the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992, read with the regulations made

124 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026 for the words and symbol “, Two Partners or the Sole Proprietor”. 125 The words “or sole Proprietor” omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f. 03.01.2026. 126 Substituted for “Regulation 8” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011. 127 Substituted for “Certificate of Initial / Permanent Registration” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to this, the words “Certificate of Initial / Permanent Registration” were substituted for the words “Certificate of Registration” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011. 128 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 w.e.f., 03.01.2026. Prior to its substitution, clause I read as under:
“I. In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 12 of the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992, read with the rules and regulations made thereunder the Board hereby grants a certificate of registration to......as a merchant banker in Category I subject to the conditions in the rules and in accordance with the regulations to carry out the following activities:
*1. Management of any issue, including preparation of prospectus, gathering information relating to the Issue, determining financing structure, tie up of financiers, final allotment and refund of excess application money.

thereunder, the Board hereby grants a certificate of registration to ............... as a merchant banker in Category I/II subject to the conditions in the regulations to carry out the activities made permissible for its Category under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992.]
II. Registration Code for the merchant banker is MB.
III. 129[This certificate of registration shall be valid unless it is suspended or cancelled by
the Board.]
By Order Sd/- For and on behalf of Securities and Exchange Board of India Place :
Date :
130[FORM C
]
SCHEDULE II
Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992 [Regulation 12] FEES 131[1. Every merchant banker shall pay a sum of 132[twenty lakh] rupees as registration fee at the time of grant of certificate of 133[] registration.

*2. Investment Adviser
*5. Manager, consultant or Adviser to any issue including corporate advisory services. *6. Consultant or Adviser. (*Delete whichever are not applicable)” 129 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to substitution, paragraph III as substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011 read as under:
“This certificate of registration shall be valid from ….. to …. / for permanent, unless suspended or cancelled by the Board.” Prior to substitution by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011, the paragraph read as under:
“This certificate shall be valid from..........to........and may be renewed as specified in regulation 9 of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992.” 130 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2009, w. e. f., 26-08-2009. 131 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011. Prior to the substitution the paragraphs as amended by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 1996 and Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Third Amendment) Regulations, 2006 read as under:
“1. Every merchant banker shall pay a sum of [ten lakh rupees] as registration fees at the time of the grant of certificate by the Board.
2. A merchant banker to keep registration in force shall pay renewal fee of [five lakh rupees] every three
years from the fourth year from the date of initial registration.”

1A. 134[*]
2. 135[A merchant banker who has been granted a certificate of registration, to keep its
registration in force, shall pay a fee of nine lakh rupees every three years from the sixth year, from the date of grant of certificate of registration or from the date of grant of certificate of initial registration granted prior to the commencement of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change in Conditions of Registration of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016, as the case may be.] 3.(a) The fee referred to in paragraph 1 shall be paid by the merchant banker within fifteen days from the date of receipt of intimation from the Board under subregulation (1) of regulation 8. 136[(aa) *]

137[(b) The fee referred to in paragraph 2 shall be paid by the merchant banker one month before the expiry of the block for which the fee has been paid.] 138[3A. The non-refundable fee payable along with an application for registration under sub-regulation (1A) of regulation 3 139[*] shall be a sum of 140[fifty thousand] rupees.]

132 Substituted by the SEBI (Payment of Fees) (Amendment) Regulations, 2014, w.e.f.23-5-2014 for the words "thirteen lakh thirty three thousand and three hundred". 133 The words “initial” was omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. 134 Omitted by the by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to omission, paragraph 1A read as under:
“1A. A merchant banker referred to under sub-regulation (3) of regulation 8 shall pay fee for the remaining period of two years on pro rata basis to the fee prescribed under paragraph 2. ” 135 Substituted by the by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to substitution, paragraph 2 read as under:
“2. A merchant banker who has been granted a certificate of permanent registration, to keep its registration in force, shall pay a fee of 135[nine] lakh rupees every three years from the sixth year from the date of grant of certificate of initial registration, or from completion of the period of renewed certificate of registration, as the case may be.” Prior to above, the word “nine” was substituted by the SEBI (Payment of Fees) (Amendment) Regulations, 2014, w.e.f. 23-5-2014 for the word "five". 136 Omitted by the by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to omission, clause (aa), as inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05-07-2011 read as under:
“(aa) The fee referred to in paragraph 1A shall be paid by the merchant banker three months before completion of the period of three years from the date of grant of certificate of initial registration, or within a period of three months from the date of notification of these regulations, as the case may be.” 137 Substituted by the SEBI (Payment of Fees and Mode of Payment) (Amendment) (Regulations) 2021 w.e.f. 05-05-2021. Prior to substitution the clause read as:
“b) The fee referred to in paragraph 2 shall be paid by the merchant banker three months before expiry of the block for which fee has been paid.” 138 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Third Amendment) Regulations, 2006. w.e.f. 7-9-2006. 139 The words “or an application for 139[permanent registration under sub-regulation (1) or sub-regulation (2) of regulation 8A” omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Change In Conditions Of Registration Of Certain Intermediaries) (Amendment) Regulations, 2016 w.e.f. 08-12-2016. Prior to this, the words “permanent registration under sub-regulation (1) or sub-regulation (2) of regulation 8A” were substituted for the words “renewal of registration under sub-regulation (1A) of regulation 9” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 w.e.f. 05- 07-2011. 140 Substituted by the SEBI (Payment of Fees) (Amendment) Regulations, 2014, w.e.f. 23-5-2014 for the words "twenty five"

141[4. The fee specified in paragraphs 1, 2 and 3A shall be payable by the merchant banker by way of direct credit in the bank account through online payment using SEBI payment gateway.] 142[SCHEDULE III Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992 [Regulation 13] CODE OF CONDUCT FOR MERCHANT BANKERS

A merchant banker shall make all efforts to protect the interests of investors.
A merchant banker shall maintain high standards of integrity, dignity and fairness in
the conduct of its business.
A merchant banker shall fulfil its obligations in a prompt, ethical, and professional
manner.
A merchant banker shall at all times exercise due diligence, ensure proper care and
exercise independent professional judgment.
A merchant banker shall endeavour to ensure that—
(a) inquiries from investors are adequately dealt with; (b) grievances of investors are redressed in a timely and appropriate manner; (c) where a complaint is not remedied promptly, the investor is advised of any further steps which may be available to the investor under the regulatory system.
A merchant banker shall ensure that adequate disclosures are made to the investors in a
timely manner in accordance with the applicable regulations and guidelines so as to enable them to make a balanced and informed decision.
A merchant banker shall endeavour to ensure that the investors are provided with true
and adequate information without making any misleading or exaggerated claims or any misrepresentation and are made aware of the attendant risks before taking any investment decision.
A merchant banker shall endeavour to ensure that copies of the prospectus, offer
document, letter of offer or any other related literature is made available to the investors at the time of issue or the offer.
A merchant banker shall not discriminate amongst its clients, save and except on
ethical and commercial considerations.
A merchant banker shall not make any statement, either oral or written, which would
misrepresent the services that the merchant banker is capable of performing for any client or has rendered to any client.
A merchant banker shall avoid conflict of interest and make adequate disclosure of its
interest.

141 Substituted by the SEBI (Payment of Fees and Mode of Payment) (Amendment) (Regulations) 2021 w.e.f. 05-05-2021. Prior to substitution the clause read as:
“4. The fees specified in paragraphs 1, 2, and 3A shall be payable by the merchant banker by way of direct credit in the bank account through NEFT/RTGS/IMPS or any other mode allowed by RBI or by a demand draft in favour of ‘Securities and Exchange Board of India’ payable at Mumbai or at the respective regional office.” 142 Substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Banker) (Amendment) Regulations, 2003 w.e.f, 01.10.2003.

A merchant banker shall put in place a mechanism to resolve any conflict of interest
situation that may arise in the conduct of its business or where any conflict of interest arises, shall take reasonable steps to resolve the same in an equitable manner.
A merchant banker shall make appropriate disclosure to the client of its possible
source or potential areas of conflict of duties and interest while acting as merchant banker which would impair its ability to render fair, objective and unbiased services.
A merchant banker shall always endeavour to render the best possible advice to the
clients having regard to their needs.
A merchant banker shall not divulge to anybody either orally or in writing, directly or
indirectly, any confidential information about its clients which has come to its knowledge, without taking prior permission of its clients, except where such disclosures are required to be made in compliance with any law for the time being in force.
A merchant banker shall ensure that any change in registration status/any penal action
taken by the Board or any material change in the merchant banker’s financial status, which may adversely affect the interests of clients/investors is promptly informed to the clients and any business remaining outstanding is transferred to another registered intermediary in accordance with any instructions of the affected clients.
A merchant banker shall not indulge in any unfair competition, such as weaning away
the clients on assurance of higher premium or advantageous offer price or which is likely to harm the interests of other merchant bankers or investors or is likely to place such other merchant bankers in a disadvantageous position while competing for or executing any assignment.
A merchant banker shall maintain arms length relationship between its merchant
banking activity and any other activity.
A merchant banker shall have internal control procedures and financial and
operational capabilities which can be reasonably expected to protect its operations, its clients, investors and other registered entities from financial loss arising from theft, fraud, and other dishonest acts, professional misconduct or omissions.
A merchant banker shall not make untrue statement or suppress any material fact in
any documents, reports or information furnished to the Board.
A merchant banker shall maintain an appropriate level of knowledge and competence
and abide by the provisions of the Act, regulations made thereunder, circulars and guidelines, which may be applicable and relevant to the activities carried on by it. The merchant banker shall also comply with the award of the Ombudsman passed under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Ombudsman) Regulations, 2003.
A merchant banker shall ensure that the Board is promptly informed about any action,
legal proceedings, etc., initiated against it in respect of material breach or non-compliance by it, of any law, rules, regulations, directions of the Board or of any other regulatory body.
(a) A merchant banker or any of its employees shall not render, directly or indirectly,
any investment advice about any security in any publicly accessible media, whether realtime or non-real-time, unless a disclosure of 143[their] interest including a long or short position, in the said security has been made, while rendering such advice. (b) In the event of an employee of the merchant banker rendering such advice, the merchant banker shall ensure that such employee shall also disclose the interests, if any,

143 The word “his” substituted by the word “their” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024.

of himself, his dependent family members and the employer merchant banker, including their long or short position in the said security, while rendering such advice.
24. A merchant banker shall demarcate the responsibilities of the various intermediaries
appointed by it clearly so as to avoid any conflict or confusion in their job description.
25. A merchant banker shall provide adequate freedom and powers to its compliance
officer for the effective discharge of the compliance officer’s duties.
26. A merchant banker shall develop its own internal code of conduct for governing its
internal operations and laying down its standards of appropriate conduct for its employees and officers in carrying out their duties. Such a code may extend to the maintenance of professional excellence and standards, integrity, confidentiality, objectivity, avoidance or resolution of conflict of interests, disclosure of shareholdings and interests, etc.
27. A merchant banker shall ensure that good corporate policies and corporate
governance are in place.
28. A merchant banker shall ensure that any person it employs or appoints to conduct
business is fit and proper and otherwise qualified to act in the capacity so employed or appointed (including having relevant professional training or experience).
29. A merchant banker shall ensure that it has adequate resources to supervise diligently
and does supervise diligently persons employed or appointed by it in the conduct of its business, in respect of dealings in securities market.
30. A merchant banker shall be responsible for the Acts or omissions of its employees and
agents in respect of the conduct of its business.
31. A merchant banker shall ensure that the senior management, particularly decision
makers have access to all relevant information about the business on a timely basis.
32. A merchant banker shall not be a party to or instrument for—
(a) creation of false market;
(b) price rigging or manipulation; or
(c) passing of unpublished price sensitive information in respect of securities which are listed and proposed to be listed in any stock exchange to any person or intermediary in the securities market.] 144[33. A merchant banker or any of its directors, partners or manager having the management of the whole or substantially the whole of affairs of the business, shall not either through its account or their respective accounts or through their associates or family members, relatives or friends indulge in any insider trading.
34. A merchant banker acting as an underwriter shall not make any statement, either oral
or written, which would misrepresent—
(a) the services that the underwriter is capable of performing for its client, or has rendered to any other issuer company; (b) 145[its] underwriting commitment.
35. A merchant banker acting as an underwriter shall not indulge in any unfair
competition, which is likely to be harmful to the interest of other entities acting as underwriters carrying on the business of underwriting or likely to place such other underwriters in a dis-advantageous position in relation to the underwriter while competing for, or carrying out any assignment.]

144 Inserted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Banker) (Amendment) Regulations, 2021 w.e.f. 30-03-2021 145 The word “his” substituted by the word “its” by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 w.e.f., 29.11.2024.

146[]

146 Omitted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2012 w.e.f. 29.03.2012. Prior to the omission, the schedule was substituted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2009, w.e.f., 26-08-2009.

Securities and Exchange Board of India (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992

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