TITLE: India's Securities and Exchange Board Amends Lock-In Requirements for Pledged Shares BODY: On April 8, 2026, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued Circular No. HO/49/(17)2026-CFD-POD2/I/8965/2026 addressing the mechanism for lock-in of pledged shares under the SEBI (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018. The circular forms part of SEBI's ease of doing business initiative, which aims to streamline regulatory requirements and reduce compliance burden on market participants. The amendment modifies the lock-in provisions applicable to pledged shares, facilitating more flexible arrangements for promoters and other shareholders who pledge their securities as collateral. This development reflects SEBI's ongoing effort to balance investor protection with operational efficiency in India's capital markets. The lock-in mechanism for pledged shares is a key regulatory requirement affecting promoters, institutional investors, and other significant shareholders. By easing the restrictions on pledged shares, the amendment enables market participants to utilise their shareholdings more efficiently while maintaining appropriate safeguards. This change is particularly relevant for entities seeking to leverage their equity holdings for financing purposes without triggering unnecessary regulatory constraints. The circular is effective from the date of issuance and applies to all transactions involving pledged shares under the regulations. Market participants should review their existing pledging arrangements to ensure compliance with the updated framework. For further details and the complete circular, stakeholders should refer to SEBI's official website. **Reference:** SEBI Circular No. HO/49/(17)2026-CFD-POD2/I/8965/2026, April 8, 2026

SEBI | Ease of doing business - mechanism for lock-in of pledged shares under SEBI (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018

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