BSE SME Platform Marks Milestone with 500th Listing, Welcoming in New Era for Growth-Oriented Businesses

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 17:  The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), Asia’s oldest stock exchange, celebrated a landmark achievement today with the listing of its 500th small and medium enterprise (SME) on the BSE SME Platform. This milestone signifies the platform’s crucial role in empowering Indian SMEs and fostering their growth journeys.

Mr. Ajay Thakur, who is recognized as the “Father of SME Capital Growth in India” and Head of BSE SME, played an important role in establishing this platform. The BSE SME Platform was the first of its category in India when it was introduced on March 13, 2012. It meant to provide SMEs with easier access to equity funding through relaxed eligibility criteria and streamlined post-listing compliance requirements.

Initially, the platform faced challenges. To ease the risk, underwriting was made mandatory and the investment ticket size was set at approximately Rs 1.25 lakh. This guarded approach, though essential, led to a slower initial response. However, the BSE’s determination, commitment and consistent efforts paid off. Over time, the platform gained traction, attracting a various pool of investors, including Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs), banks, High Net worth Individuals (HNIs), and retail investors.