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Overview

Creation and Issuance of Convertible Instruments

Convertible Instruments are financial instruments such as debentures, preference shares, or warrants that can be converted into equity shares of a company at a future date under specified terms and conditions. Their issuance is governed by the Companies Act, 2013, SEBI Regulations (for listed companies), and FEMA Regulations (for foreign investments).

Convertible instruments combine debt and equity features, making them attractive for investors and companies. They offer companies a way to raise funds without immediate dilution of equity and provide investors with potential ownership in the future.

Importance

1. Flexible Fundraising : Balances debt and equity requirements.

2. Attracts Strategic Investors : Appeals to investors seeking equity conversion in the future.

3. Deferred Equity Dilution : Delays ownership dilution until conversion.

4. Customizable Terms : Allows specific terms like conversion ratio, price, and timeline.

5. Regulatory Compliance : Aligns with legal requirements for capital-raising activities.

Applicability

1. Private Limited Companies : Issue convertible instruments to attract strategic investors or fund expansion.

2. Public Limited Companies : Use debentures or preference shares for long-term financing.

3. Listed Companies : Governed by SEBI regulations for public issuance of convertible securities.

4. Foreign Investments : Comply with FEMA and FDI guidelines for convertible instruments issued to foreign investors.

Key Compliance Requirements

1. Approval for Name Reservation :

  • Debt instruments that convert into equity shares after a certain period.
  • Types: Fully Convertible Debentures (FCDs) and Partly Convertible Debentures (PCDs).

2. Convertible Preference Shares : Preference shares that convert into equity shares based on agreed terms.

3. Warrants : Securities granting the holder the right to purchase equity shares at a specified price within a certain period.

4. Convertible Notes (for Startups) : A hybrid instrument allowing startups to raise funds from investors, convertible into equity at a later stage.

Key Compliance Requirements

1. Board and Shareholder Approvals : Resolutions required to approve the issuance and terms of convertible instruments.

2. Filing with ROC : Submit PAS-3 for allotment of securities and MGT-7 for annual returns.

3. Adherence to FEMA Guidelines : Mandatory for foreign investments in convertible instruments.

4. SEBI Compliance (for Listed Companies) : Adhere to SEBI regulations, including disclosures and filings.

5. Credit Rating (if applicable) : Obtain ratings for convertible debentures.

6. Offer Letter : Provide terms of issuance to investors via Form PAS-4 for private placements.

7. Conversion Terms : Specify the conversion price, ratio, and timeline in the instrument’s terms.



Documents Required




Features

Features & Benefits of Creation and Issuance of Convertible Instruments

Convertible into Equity
Instruments can be converted into shares at predefined terms.
Customizable Terms
Conversion price, ratio, and timeline are negotiable.
Deferred Equity Dilution
Delays shareholding changes until conversion.
Attracts Strategic Investors
Appeals to those seeking long-term equity participation.
Tax Benefits
Interest on debentures is tax-deductible.

Creation and Issuance of Convertible Instruments

Compliance Oversight
Adheres to ROC, SEBI, and FEMA guidelines.
Investor Security
Convertible instruments offer a fallback as debt if conversion is not favorable.
Private and Public Issuance
Flexible options to issue securities through private placement or public offering.
Credit Ratings
Provides transparency for investors.
Regulated Conversion
Ensures fair treatment of existing shareholders during conversion.



Comparison with Related Services

Feature Convertible Instruments Equity Issuance Debenture Issuance
Objective Raise funds with equity option Raise immediate equity capital Raise funds as debt
Conversion Feature Convertible to equity Not applicable Not convertible
Regulatory Body MCA, SEBI, FEMA MCA, SEBI MCA, SEBI
Tax Benefits Interest deductible (if debt) No tax benefit Interest deductible



Frequently Asked Questions

What are convertible instruments?

Convertible instruments are financial securities like debentures, preference shares, or warrants that can be converted into equity shares under specific terms.

What is the difference between FCDs and PCDs?

Fully Convertible Debentures (FCDs) are entirely convertible into equity, while Partly Convertible Debentures (PCDs) are partially converted into equity and partially redeemed as debt.

Are convertible instruments taxable?

Interest on convertible debentures is tax-deductible, while capital gains tax may apply during conversion.

Is shareholder approval mandatory for issuing convertible instruments?

Yes, a special resolution must be passed in a general meeting.

What is Form PAS-3?

PAS-3 is a form filed with the ROC to report the allotment of securities, including convertible instruments.

Can startups issue convertible notes?

Yes, startups recognized by DPIIT can issue convertible notes to raise funds under the Companies Act, 2013.