Money Architects: Decoding the Role of Merchant Bankers

DAY – 1

Understanding the Foundations

Theme: Laying the Blueprint – Regulatory, Functional & Strategic Role

Session Breakdown:

1. Introduction to Merchant Banking

• Evolution of Merchant Banking in India
• Distinction between Merchant Bankers and Investment Bankers
• Role in economic and capital market development

2. SEBI Regulations on Merchant Bankers

• SEBI (Merchant Bankers) Regulations, 1992 – Key Provisions
• Categories of Merchant Bankers & Registration Criteria
• Due diligence, disclosures & compliance obligations

3. Functions of a Merchant Banker

• Issue Management (Pre-Issue, Post-Issue)
• Project Appraisal and Loan Syndication
• Corporate Advisory and Restructuring
• Portfolio Management and Underwriting

4. Case Study: Merchant Banker in SME IPO

• Step-by-step analysis of an SME IPO deal
• Role of Lead Manager, due diligence, DRHP filing

DAY – 2

Merchant Bankers in Action

Theme: Executing Deals & Driving Corporate Strategy

Session Breakdown:

1. Role in IPOs, Rights Issues & FPOs

• Merchant Banker as Lead Manager: Roles & Responsibilities
• Coordinating with SEBI, Stock Exchanges, Legal Advisors
• Pricing, Book Building & Allotment Process

2. M&A, Buybacks and Corporate Restructuring

• Due Diligence, Valuation & Negotiation Strategies
• Drafting of Scheme of Arrangements
• Open Offers and SEBI Takeover Code Brief

3. Capital Raising & Private Placements

• Debt vs Equity Instruments
• Role in Private Equity / Venture Capital Deals
• Debt Syndication and ECB Advisory

4. Real-Life Case Studies & Compliance Challenges

• Landmark deals handled by Merchant Bankers
• Common pitfalls and compliance failures
• Ethics, Mis-selling, and Penalties