MCA notifies issue & transfer of shares by unlisted public copanies in dem

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has notified that with effect from October 2, 2018, issue of further shares and transfer of all shares by unlisted public companies shall be in dematerialised form only. The MCA has taken this step as a measure for further enhancing transparency, investor protection and governance in the corporate sector. The rules in this regard have been amended accordingly.

According to the MCA, the major benefits of dematerialisation of securities, which will now be available to unlisted Public companies include,  Elimination of risks associated with physical certificates such as loss, theft, mutilation, fraud etc, Improving the corporate governance system by increasing transparency and preventing malpractices such as benami shareholding, back dated issuance of shares, etc, Exemption from payment of stamp duty on transfer, and  Ease in transfer, pledge etc. of securities.

Unlisted Public Companies are expected to facilitate the dematerialisation of their securities in coordination with Depositories and Share Transfer Agents. Any grievances arising out of such Dematerialization of securities will be handled by the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) Authority. The measure is expected to significantly enhance the Corporate Governance standards in the country, according to a PIB release.