Sebi tightens norms for MFs, pledged shares to boost investor confidence

Market regulator says move aimed at restoring investor confidence

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) on Thursday introduced more checks and balances for debt mutual funds (MFs) to secure investors and stem systemic risks.

The regulator, among other things, has increased security cover for loans against shares, brought down sectoral investment limits, and mandated certain schemes to have a fifth of their exposure in government securities (g-sec).

Defaults or payment deferments by high-profile corporate groups including Zee and DHFL have plagued the Rs 25-trillion MF industry.

“We don’t think we are late. The measures we have taken will help revive the confidence of investors, especially those investing