IEPFA, NCAER, and BSE Host Workshop on Digitalisation of Financial Education to Advance Investor Protection and Capital Market Growth

The workshop aimed to explore how digital tools and platforms can empower investors, protect their interests, and encourage sustainable growth within India’s capital markets.

The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), in partnership with the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), organized a workshop on "Digitalisation of Financial Education: A Modern Approach for Investor Protection and Capital Market Development." Held on November 11, 2024, at the BSE International Convention Hall in Mumbai, the event gathered leading experts to discuss the transformative impact of digitalization on investor education, investor protection, and sustainable capital market development.

Focus on Digital Financial Literacy for Investor Safety

The workshop aimed to explore how digital tools and platforms can empower investors, protect their interests, and encourage sustainable growth within India’s capital markets. Recognizing the rapid evolution of the financial ecosystem, the event underscored the importance of equipping investors with the knowledge and tools to navigate opportunities and risks associated with digital finance.

Since its inception, IEPFA has held numerous initiatives to improve financial literacy across India, reinforcing the government's efforts to build a more financially aware population. These efforts have provided valuable guidance to investors, enabling them to make more informed financial choices.

Inaugural Address and Keynote on Digitalization's Role in Investor Empowerment

The workshop opened with an inaugural address by Mr. Sundararaman Ramamurthy, CEO and Managing Director of BSE India Ltd., who highlighted BSE’s ongoing commitment to promoting investor education. Mr. Ramamurthy emphasized that digitalization is central to empowering investors, making it easier for them to make informed financial decisions in an increasingly complex market.

Ms. Anita Shah Akella, CEO of IEPFA and Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, delivered the keynote address, spotlighting the government's dedication to strengthening investor protection mechanisms. She elaborated on how digital financial education can reach even the remotest areas of India, creating a more informed and protected investor base. “In today’s digital age, it is essential for investors to be equipped with the tools and knowledge to make informed financial decisions. By embracing technology, we can ensure that investor protection and financial education reach every corner of India, empowering citizens and fostering sustainable growth in our capital markets,” Ms. Akella stated.

Expert Panel Discussions on Digital Finance and Investor Safety

The workshop featured a panel of distinguished experts, who provided insights on different aspects of digital financial literacy, investor protection, and capital market development. The panelists included:

Dr. C. S. Mohapatra, IEPF Chair Professor at NCAER, who served as both moderator and speaker.

Mr. Shashikumar V., Executive Director at SEBI, who spoke on regulatory approaches to digital finance.

Mr. Sashi Krishnan, Director at NISM and former CEO of NPS Trust, who discussed best practices in financial literacy programs.

Mr. Navneet Munot, Chairman of AMFI and MD & CEO of HDFC AMC Ltd., who offered perspectives on investor behavior and digital tools.

Ms. Kamala Kantharaj, Capital Market Expert & Chief Regulatory Officer at BSE India Ltd., who highlighted the need for regulatory measures in the digital era.

Mr. Bharat Panchal, Cyber Security Expert and former Chief of Risk Management at NPCI, who addressed the critical role of cybersecurity in protecting investors.

Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments

The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Khushro Bulsara, Chief Risk Officer at BSE India Ltd., who expressed gratitude to all speakers and attendees. He emphasized the importance of such events in building a secure, digitally literate financial environment for Indian investors. He noted that collaborative efforts between government bodies, regulatory authorities, and private sector players are instrumental in creating a financial ecosystem that prioritizes investor protection and fosters sustainable growth.

The event underscored the necessity of digital financial education as a tool for empowering investors in today’s digital landscape and highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen investor confidence in India’s capital markets.