The share market plays an important role in India’s economy. It allows companies to raise money for business expansion while providing investors with an avenue to earn significant returns. However, like any investment, the share market also carries risks. People often question, ‘ What is the share market?’ (share market kya hai)’ as it has always been a topic of inquisitiveness. This blog will tell you everything about the Indian share market—how it works, its key participants, how share prices are determined, and the potential risks and rewards involved.
What is the Share Market?
The share market refers to a marketplace where investors can buy and sell shares of publicly listed companies. India’s two major stock exchanges are the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE). These regulated platforms facilitate the trading of company stocks.
When you purchase a share, you become a part-owner of that company. The ownership you hold is proportional to the number of shares you own. Companies list themselves on stock exchanges to raise funds for growth. Investors buy these shares, hoping to profit through capital appreciation and dividends.
Primary vs Secondary Share Market
The share market in India functions through two connected segments:
- Primary Market: This is the avenue for companies to issue new shares to the public through an Initial Public Offering (IPO). Investors can bid for shares during IPOs. Once allotted, investors can trade these shares in the secondary market.
- Secondary Market: This refers to the NSE and BSE, where previously issued shares are bought and sold by investors. The prices of these listed stocks keep fluctuating based on market activity. This is what most people commonly refer to as the ‘share bazaar.’
Key Participants in the Share Market
From individual investors to regulatory authorities, many entities drive the functioning of India’s dynamic share markets:
- Investors: The share market investors usually include retail and institutional investors who buy shares for capital gains.
- Exchanges: BSE and NSE provide an electronic platform that connects buyers and sellers to trade company stocks seamlessly.
- SEBI: The Securities and Exchange Board of India regulates the securities markets to protect investor interests.
- Depositories: NSDL( National Securities Depository Limited) and CDSL (Central Depository Services Limited) maintain shareholding records and holdings electronically.
Determining Share Prices
In the secondary market, share prices fluctuate dynamically based on the forces of demand and supply. Generally, when demand exceeds supply for a stock, its price rises and vice-versa. But what factors impact demand and supply?
- Company Performance: Profit growth, management capability, prospects, etc., impact investor demand.
- Economic environment: Parameters like GDP growth, inflation, and interest rates affect stock market activity.
- Investor sentiment: Market confidence, risk appetite, and expectations drive share prices.
The Potential Risks of Share Market Investments
While investing in shares can deliver inflation-beating returns, there are also inherent risks to navigate:
- Volatility: Share prices swing frequently – sometimes irrationally – due to economic news, events, quarterly earnings reports and even rumours or speculations.
- Liquidity Risk: Certain shares see low trading volumes. This can make it difficult to sell shares when needed or only at unfavourable prices.
- Company Performance Risks: Weak financials, lawsuits, competition, etc., can adversely impact a company’s valuation and share price.
- Macro Risks: Recessions, wars, and policy changes affect market direction and sentiment.
The Potential Rewards
Despite short-term volatility, equity investments have historically delivered the highest inflation-adjusted returns over long periods. Here are some of the key rewards:
- Capital Appreciation: The share prices can surge manifold within years, delivering market-beating returns.
- Dividends: Mature companies share a portion of profits as dividends.
- Liquidity: The ability to liquidate stocks quickly is beneficial for short-term needs.
Conclusion
While the share market carries risks, it offers wealth creation and portfolio diversification opportunities. Understanding the basics, developing a long-term outlook, and staying diversified can help you navigate this rewarding yet volatile investing domain.