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Overview

Issuance of Debentures and Bonds

Issuance of Debentures and Bonds refers to raising funds by offering debt instruments to investors, which promise fixed returns over a specified period. Governed by the Companies Act, 2013, SEBI Regulations, and the Indian Contract Act, 1872, these instruments are a common way for companies to secure funding without diluting equity.

Debentures and bonds are financial instruments used by companies to borrow money from investors. While bonds are generally issued by government entities or large corporations, debentures are primarily issued by private or public companies. These instruments offer periodic interest payments and repayment of principal upon maturity.

Important

1. Non-Dilutive Funding : Enables companies to raise funds without giving up ownership.

2. Fixed Interest Costs : Ensures predictable financial planning.

3. Diversified Financing : Expands access to capital beyond equity financing.

4. Attracts Institutional Investors : Bonds and debentures appeal to risk-averse investors.

5. Regulatory Compliance : Adheres to SEBI and RBI norms for transparency and investor protection.

Applicability

1. Private Limited Companies : Issue debentures to raise funds for expansion or operations.

2. Public Limited Companies : Issue debentures or bonds to institutional and retail investors.

3. Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) : Frequently issue bonds to meet financing requirements.

4. Government Entities : Issue bonds to fund public projects.

Key Compliance Requirements

1. Board and Shareholder Approval : Approval required for issuing debentures or bonds.

2. Filing with ROC and SEBI : File necessary forms like PAS-3 for private placement and comply with SEBI regulations for listed securities.

3. Appointment of Debenture Trustee : Mandatory for secured debentures to protect investor interests.

4. Creation of Debenture Redemption Reserve (DRR) : Maintain a reserve to ensure repayment of debenture holders.

5. Credit Rating : Obtain credit ratings for public issuance to assess investment risk.

6. Execution of Debenture Trust Deed : Legal agreement outlining the terms and conditions of the debenture issue.



Documents Required




Features

Features & Benefits of Issuance of Debentures and Bonds

Secured and Unsecured Options
Companies can issue debentures with or without collateral.
Flexible Tenure
Tailored repayment schedules, from short-term to long-term.
Convertible Features
Debentures can be structured to convert into equity.
Fixed Returns
Offers predictable interest payouts for investors.
Tax Benefits
Interest on debentures is tax-deductible for companies.

Issuance of Debentures and Bonds

Regulatory Compliance
Ensures adherence to SEBI, MCA, and RBI guidelines.
Mandatory DRR for Protection
Safeguards investor interests by maintaining a redemption reserve.
Public and Private Placement
Options to issue debentures to specific investors or the general public.
Credit Rating Requirement
Ensures transparency and builds investor trust.
Periodic Reporting
Debenture trustee files reports with SEBI for investor protection.



Comparison with Related Services

Feature Debenture/Bond Issuance Share Allotment Bank Loan
Objective Raise debt capital Raise equity capital Borrow funds
Regulatory Body SEBI, MCA MCA, ROC RBI, Banks
Filing Frequency One-time Event-based Periodic
Forms Required PAS-3, Trust Deed PAS-3 Loan Agreement
Security Optional (Secured/Unsecured) Not Applicable Mandatory for secured loans



Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between bonds and debentures?

Bonds are typically secured and issued by government or large corporations, while debentures can be unsecured and are more common among private and public companies.

What is the role of a debenture trustee?

A debenture trustee acts as a representative of debenture holders, ensuring compliance and safeguarding their interests.

Is DRR mandatory for all debentures?

DRR is mandatory for public issues of debentures by unlisted companies, as per the Companies Act.

Can a private company issue bonds?

Yes, private companies can issue bonds or debentures through private placement.

What is Form PAS-3?

Form PAS-3 is filed with the ROC for the return of allotment of securities, including debentures.

HHow are interest payments made on bonds and debentures?

Interest is paid periodically (quarterly, semi-annually, or annually) or at maturity, as specified in the issuance terms.