Resource
Refer to the official IFSCA platform for detailed regulations. We simplify it for your ease.
GIFT City Capital Markets Setup
We provide expert guidance for businesses looking to enter the GIFT City capital markets, a globally integrated ecosystem offering unparalleled opportunities. Our services are designed to help you establish a strong presence, whether you are setting up a stock exchange, a clearing corporation, or a brokerage firm. We navigate the regulatory landscape to ensure your venture is built for success.
Our team specializes in facilitating a smooth capital market setup in GIFT City, covering everything from licensing and compliance to operational readiness. We also offer dedicated support for capital market broking, enabling intermediaries to connect global investors with the diverse financial instruments available in the GIFT City capital markets.
What is IFSCA?
The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) is the unified regulator for all financial services in India’s International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) at GIFT City. It governs banking, capital markets, insurance, and asset management activities, creating a world-class regulatory environment aligned with global standards.
Why Invest via IFSC (GIFT City)?
- Tax Benefits: 100% tax exemption for 10 consecutive years out of 15.
- Global Currency Transactions: Seamlessly operate in international currencies like USD, EUR, GBP, etc.
- Repatriation-Friendly: Enjoy full capital and profit repatriation with no restrictions.
- Ease of Business: Benefit from simplified regulations and streamlined approvals.
- Global Market Access: Operate as an offshore entity while based in India’s GIFT City.
Capital Market Activities You Can Undertake in IFSCA
IFSC at GIFT City empowers institutions to operate a full spectrum of capital market services under a single unified regulator. From setting up stock exchanges, clearing corporations, and depositories to trading in global securities, derivatives, ETFs, and bonds — IFSC enables seamless international capital market operations with tax advantages and regulatory ease.
Stock Exchanges
Operate or invest in global equity, debt, and derivative instruments through IFSCA-recognised exchanges within IFSC.
Clearing Corporations
Ensure smooth and guaranteed trade settlements with regulated clearing corporations operating in the GIFT City IFSC.
Depositories
Securely hold and transfer securities in dematerialised form under internationally aligned regulations within 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 as per IFSCA Guidelines
– Company Incorporation & MOA / AOA
– Business Plan (3 years minimum)
– Details of Technology Infrastructure
– Shareholding Pattern & Net Worth Certificate
– KYC, Risk Management & Surveillance Framework
Want to know how long your setup will take? Try the Licensing Timeline Tool.
Use our real-time Licensing Timeline calculator. We analyze your needs and provide a personalized estimate.
-> Try the Licensing Timeline Tool.
Operate Exchanges, Clearing Corps & Depositories
Tap into GIFT City’s international investor base and low-friction regulation.
Free Calculator for GIFT City Investors
Instantly calculate savings and benefits with GiftCityAdvisor’s Free Investment Calculator tailored for GIFT City.
Tax Savings Estimator
Learn how establishing in GIFT City could maximize tax savings.
Licensing Timeline
Break down the entire registration process step by step.
Regulatory Fit Checker
Quickly identify compliance
fit before applying.
Regulatory Highlights
Capital market entities in GIFT City’s IFSCA 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 (e.g., USD 30 million for stock exchanges); 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 like IOSCO.
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
What capital market activities are allowed in GIFT City?
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Trading, clearing, depository, and other market infrastructure activities under IFSCA regulations.
Who can set up capital market entities?
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Indian and global brokers, exchanges, and financial institutions.
What are the key benefits?
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Regulatory clarity, tax benefits, and global investor access.
Do you assist in obtaining IFSCA approvals?
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Yes, we help with applications, business plans, and compliance submissions.
What is the setup timeline?
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Usually 6–10 weeks depending on the type of intermediary.
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.