Resource
Refer to the official IFSCA platform for detailed regulations. We simplify it for your ease.
GIFT City Capital Markets Intermediary
As a leading advisor, we specialize in helping firms become a licensed GIFT City capital markets intermediary. We provide end-to-end support for brokers, clearing members, and portfolio managers looking to operate within the IFSC’s dynamic ecosystem.
Our guidance covers everything from application filing and business plan development to ensuring full compliance with IFSCA regulations.
We offer a comprehensive suite of IFSC intermediary services designed to facilitate your entry into the global financial markets. By becoming a GIFT City capital markets intermediary, you can access unparalleled tax benefits, multi-currency trading opportunities, and a streamlined regulatory environment. Let our expertise guide you in establishing a successful and compliant intermediary operation in GIFT City.
What is a Capital Market Intermediary in IFSCA?
A Capital Market Intermediary in IFSCA refers to any regulated entity or individual that facilitates trading, investment, and settlement of securities within the GIFT City IFSC ecosystem.
This includes share brokers, clearing members, trading platforms, investment advisors, and portfolio managers operating under the unified regulatory framework of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA).
Why Capital Market Intermediaries Choose GIFT City?
- Tax Holiday: 100% tax exemption on income for 10 consecutive years.
- Multi-Currency Trading: Serve global clients in USD, EUR, GBP, and more.
- No SEBI Registration: Brokers in IFSC are governed solely by IFSCA policy.
- Cross-Border Access: Offer trading in global equities, bonds and more.
- Ease of Setup: Speedy licensing, and single-window clearances.
What You Can Do as a Share Broker or Intermediary in GIFT City IFSC
IFSCA at GIFT City enables full-scale global capital market operations under a single regulatory body. This includes setting up stock exchanges, clearing corporations, depositories, and engaging in global securities, ETFs, derivatives, and bonds—all with strong tax and regulatory advantages.
Trade via Global Exchanges
Act as a licensed broker on IFSCA-recognised exchanges like NSE IFSC and India INX — offering foreign equities, derivatives, and ETFs.
Secure Client Assets via Depositories
Handle dematerialised securities using IFSCA-approved depository services — ensuring safe, fast, and transparent asset management.
Become a Clearing Member
As a capital market intermediary, manage trade settlements and reduce counterparty risk by becoming a certified clearing participant in IFSC.
How to Set Up a Capital Market Institution in IFSCA?
Setting up a capital market infrastructure (such as a stock exchange, clearing corporation, or depository) in IFSCA, GIFT City, provides businesses with global access, efficient regulations, and strategic positioning. Governed by IFSCA, the process is structured yet designed for ease of global operation.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Indian or Foreign Entities with capital market expertise.
- SEBI-registered or IOSCO-compliant operators.
- Entities with regulatory clearance in home jurisdictions.
Must be incorporated in GIFT City (as an IFSC entity).
- Application Form with business intent.
- Detailed Business Plan (3-year financial + operational projection).
- Details of management, directors & key personnel.
- KYC/AML Policies, Tech architecture (where applicable).
- Proof of net worth & compliance history.
- Application & Review: 15–30 days.
- For more.
-> Try the Licensing Timeline Tool.
Operate Capital Market Infrastructure in GIFT City IFSC
Build quickly your capital market institution in India’s IFSC—with simplified approvals, tax benefits, and access to cross-border investors.
Maximise GIFT City Benefits—Free Investment Calculator
GiftCityAdvisor offers a Free Investment Calculator to help you see the financial advantages of setting up in GIFT City.
Tax Savings Estimator
Check your estimated tax exemptions by moving to GIFT City.
Licensing Timeline
Plan efficiently with a detailed
licensing roadmap.
Regulatory Fit Checker
Ensure your business operations match IFSC requirements.
Regulatory Highlights
Capital market entities in GIFT City’s IFSC operate under IFSCA’s globally aligned, innovation-friendly regulations. With simplified compliance, flexible capital rules, and seamless foreign currency operations, the IFSCA offers a world-class environment for exchanges, clearing corporations, and depositories to grow.
Capital Requirement
Minimum net worth as prescribed by IFSCA varies by type of market infrastructure institution (MII).
Governance & Compliance
Mandatory fit-and-proper criteria for shareholders/directors, robust risk frameworks, and adherence to international standards.
Technology & Infrastructure
Real-time surveillance, digital trading platforms, and seamless API integrations for cross-border clearing and settlement.
Services We Offer as Your
GiftCityAdvisor
At GiftCityAdvisor, we help capital market participants navigate the regulatory and operational landscape of GIFT City with ease. From exchanges and depositories to intermediaries and trading members, we offer customised, end-to-end solutions to simplify your IFSCA registration, licensing, and expansion journey.
Whether you’re setting up a new Market Infrastructure Institution (MII) or joining as a trading entity, we guide you every step of the way.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Assessment | Evaluate your readiness and qualification as per IFSCA norms. |
| Licensing Support | Assistance with application filing, business plan, and regulatory approvals. |
| Regulatory Compliance | Advisory on ongoing IFSCA filings, risk management, and prudential norms. |
| Technology & Operations | Guidance on setting up trading platforms, API integrations, and digital onboarding. |
| Post-Approval Setup | Support with onboarding members, investor services, and surveillance mechanisms. |
| Annual Reporting & Renewals | Help with compliance filings, annual reviews, and renewal formalities. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies as a capital markets intermediary?
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Entities like brokers, custodians, investment advisers, and portfolio managers.
Why register intermediaries in GIFT City?
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To access global markets with tax and regulatory benefits.
What are the regulatory requirements?
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IFSCA Capital Markets Intermediary Regulations apply.
Do you assist with registration?
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Yes, we provide end-to-end licensing and compliance support.
What is the timeline for intermediary setup?
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Approximately 4–8 weeks.
Talk to Our Advisors
Let’s make your GIFT City journey smooth and rewarding. Fill out a quick form, and our expert will call you back within 24 hours.