India appears like an oasis in a turbulent world: NSE MD & CEO Ashishkumar Chauhan

Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO, National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) | Photocredit: Ashoke Chakrabarty

Ashishishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO of the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE), offered sharp insights into the performance of the Indian market in the midst of global headwind, investor sentiment and future perspectives. He shared opinions on the India Global Forum, Mumbai NXT25.

Despite a dip of $ 1.5 trillion of the peak, Chauhan emphasized the long -term growth trajectory of the Indian capital markets. “In 2014, Indian market capitalization was below $ 1 trillion. Nowadays it is almost $ 5 trillion – demonstrating considerable wealth creation,” he noticed.

Chauhan focused on foreign investors. However, he emphasized the relative insulation of India from global tariff tensions, supported by his unique export profile.

Retail participation remains a driving force for the Indian market. With more than 60 million Indians who contribute a maximum of £ 250 a month through systematic investment plans (SIPs), the market sees a steady inflow of around $ 2.5-3 billion per month. “This shows increasing trust in Indian entrepreneurs and companies,” said Chauhan.

On the subject of financial inclusion, Chauhan emphasized the importance of small ticket investments in deepening market penetration. “These direct investments reflect the growing maturity of investors, even during market volatility phases,” he added.

Although the IPO momentum remains strong, with at the end of March alone of more than 50 archives, Chauhan recognized that persistent global uncertainty could influence the mention of time lines. In 2024, NSE organized 268 IPOs, with $ 19.6 billion, which was the highest IPO fundraising in the world, with 178 IPOs from the SME sector. In general, mobilizing funds at NSE was more than $ 209 billion.

In recent operational updates, Chauhan clarified that the shift in a derivative course from Thursday to Monday was a response to changes in the regulations and market consultation. “It is a routine adjustment and we are waiting for further guidance before we make extra changes,” he said.

Chauhan closes with a balanced perspective: “India navigates carefully through the global turbulence. The basic principles remain strong and our supervisors and the government continue to offer a steady hand.”