Public deposits

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Pratik Kambli (Querist)
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15 July 2012 There is Pvt Ltd company.. It wants to take money from investors and invest it in stock market and give variable returns to the investors. Is it possible and how?? what are the relevant sections in Company Act??? What should be the procedure?? plz help...

CS Ankur Srivastava

CS Ankur Srivastava (Expert)
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16 July 2012 A Private Limited Company can not invite or accept deposit from persons other than its members, directors or their relatives.

It may accept deposits from its members, directors, or their relatives and such deposit shall be treated as unsecured loans.

Deposit rules does not apply on private companies.

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Pratik Kambli

Pratik Kambli (Querist)
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17 July 2012 then how can he start business??????
He wants to take money from public and give them fixed returns... is there any other option???

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Asha Kanta Sharma

Asha Kanta Sharma

(Expert)
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10 August 2024 In India, if a private limited company wants to take money from investors, particularly to invest in the stock market and provide returns, there are strict regulations and requirements under the Companies Act, 2013, and other relevant laws. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to approach this situation:

### 1. **Legal Framework and Restrictions**

**1.1 Public Deposits:**
- **Definition and Restrictions:** Under the Companies Act, 2013, a private limited company cannot accept public deposits unless it meets specific conditions. Public deposits are typically regulated under Section 73 and 74 of the Companies Act, 2013, and related rules.
- **Eligibility:** For accepting public deposits, a company must be a public company, not a private company. Private companies are generally restricted from accepting deposits from the public except under certain conditions.

**1.2 Investment Activities:**
- **Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) Regulations:** Investment activities, such as investing in the stock market and providing variable returns, fall under the regulatory purview of SEBI. SEBI regulates entities dealing in securities and investments under the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956, and other relevant regulations.
- **Mutual Funds and Investment Firms:** To operate legally and attract investments, companies usually need to be registered as mutual funds or investment firms with SEBI. They must adhere to SEBI’s guidelines and regulations concerning fund management and investor protection.

### 2. **Steps to Operate a Fund-Based Investment Business**

**2.1 Incorporate as a Public Company:**
- **Conversion:** If the company is a private limited company, it would need to convert into a public limited company to be eligible to accept public deposits. This involves amending the company's Articles of Association (AoA) and complying with the Companies Act, 2013.

**2.2 Obtain Necessary Registrations:**
- **SEBI Registration:** To operate as an investment entity, the company must obtain registration from SEBI. This would involve complying with SEBI (Mutual Funds) Regulations, 1996, or other applicable regulations depending on the nature of the investment activities.

**2.3 Compliance with Regulations:**
- **Disclosure and Reporting:** The company must comply with extensive disclosure requirements, including periodic reporting, compliance audits, and investor protection measures as mandated by SEBI.

**2.4 Create a Suitable Structure:**
- **Investment Schemes:** Structure the investment schemes in compliance with SEBI regulations. This might involve creating mutual funds, portfolio management services, or other financial products.

**2.5 Legal and Financial Advisory:**
- **Seek Professional Advice:** Engage legal and financial advisors to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and to design investment schemes that meet legal standards and provide clear, fair returns to investors.

### 3. **Alternatives for Fixed Returns**

**3.1 Fixed Deposit Schemes:**
- **Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC):** To offer fixed returns, consider setting up or partnering with an NBFC, which is regulated under the RBI and can accept fixed deposits from the public.
- **Debentures:** Issuing debentures or bonds with fixed returns can be another option, but this would also require adherence to regulatory requirements under the Companies Act and SEBI guidelines.

**3.2 Structured Investment Products:**
- **Financial Institutions:** Collaborate with financial institutions to offer structured investment products that provide fixed returns, adhering to applicable regulations.

### 4. **Relevant Sections and Regulations**

- **Companies Act, 2013:**
- **Section 73 and 74:** Regulations on acceptance of public deposits.
- **Section 180:** Restrictions on borrowing powers and investment limits.

- **SEBI Regulations:**
- **SEBI (Mutual Funds) Regulations, 1996:** Governs mutual funds and investment schemes.
- **SEBI (Portfolio Managers) Regulations, 1993:** Governs portfolio management services.

### 5. **Procedure Summary**

1. **Convert to a Public Company:** If applicable, convert the private company into a public company.
2. **Register with SEBI:** Obtain necessary registration and approvals from SEBI.
3. **Compliance:** Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including disclosure and reporting.
4. **Investment Scheme Design:** Design and structure investment products in line with regulations.
5. **Professional Advisory:** Engage legal and financial experts to navigate regulatory requirements and compliance.

### Key Takeaways

- **Regulations:** Adhere to Companies Act, 2013, and SEBI regulations.
- **Professional Advice:** Seek professional help to ensure compliance and proper structuring of investment schemes.

For detailed guidance, you may refer to the official websites of [SEBI](https://www.sebi.gov.in/) and the [Ministry of Corporate Affairs](https://www.mca.gov.in/) or consult with a financial advisor or legal expert specializing in corporate and investment regulations.