SEBI NSE IPO: The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has officially taken a step forward in launching its Initial Public Offering (IPO). The exchange has once again approached the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), requesting a No Objection Certificate (NOC), a critical document that has been pending for over eight years. NSE had initially filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) in December 2016 but has faced multiple hurdles in getting the required approvals.

NSE’s Fresh Appeal to SEBI for IPO Approval

In a letter dated March 28, 2025, NSE wrote to SEBI stating: “We are submitting this request letter to seek NOC/approval from SEBI to proceed with the listing of NSE shares, including filing the DRHP with SEBI.” This latest request highlights NSE’s renewed commitment to getting its IPO off the ground.

Repeated Requests for NOC Over the Years

This is not the first time NSE has sought approval from SEBI. The exchange has made multiple attempts over the years: November 2019, Twice in 2020, August 2024, Latest attempt in March 2025 SEBI had responded on February 28, 2025, mentioning certain pending compliance matters, including issues related to technology, key management personnel (KMP), clearing corporation ownership, and the co-location case. These concerns have delayed the clearance process for NSE’s IPO.

NSE’s IPO: A Highly Anticipated Market Event

The NSE IPO is expected to be one of the most significant stock market listings in India, attracting strong interest from investors. If approved, it will mark a historic moment for the Indian capital markets, giving retail and institutional investors an opportunity to invest directly in the country’s largest stock exchange.

Change in NSE’s Futures & Options Expiry Plan

In a related development, NSE has postponed its plan to shift the Futures & Options (F&O) expiry from Thursday to Monday. Initially scheduled to take effect from April 4, 2025, the change has been put on hold following a consultation with SEBI. This means traders will continue to see Thursday as the expiry date for now.

What’s Next for NSE’s IPO?

If SEBI grants the NOC, NSE can proceed with filing a fresh DRHP. Once SEBI approves the DRHP, NSE can move towards launching its IPO, which is expected to be one of the biggest public offerings in India.Investors and market participants are eagerly waiting for an official timeline from SEBI regarding the IPO clearance.