Indian Market Stays Strong Amid Rising Volatility, Affirms SEBI Chairperson

Indian markets are demonstrating resilience amid rising volatility attributed to global uncertainties, according to SEBI Chairperson Tuhin Kanta Pandey. He indicated that while volatility has increased, it remains manageable, allowing markets to absorb various shocks and return to their normal trajectories. Pandey emphasized the interconnectedness of global markets, noting that economic impacts from the West Asia crisis, particularly in terms of oil-related price and supply shocks, have contributed to inflationary risks and broader economic spillovers.

Over the past decade, India’s securities market has experienced substantial growth, with market capitalization skyrocketing from ₹95 lakh crore in 2016 to approximately ₹463 lakh crore by April 2026. The corporate bond market has also expanded significantly, reflecting heightened investor confidence and participation. Notably, retail participation surged from 38 million unique investors in 2019 to around 145 million, highlighting a robust interest among the general populace in market opportunities.

Pandey pointed to the resilience of capital formation in the face of a challenging economic climate, with India managing to raise about ₹13 lakh crore through debt and equity even during difficult times. He noted the impressive number of IPOs, 366 recorded last year, in stark contrast to several European Union countries that saw no IPO activity. Additionally, mutual fund assets under management have grown dramatically from ₹12 lakh crore in 2016 to nearly ₹82 lakh crore by April 2026, demonstrating the increasing role of systematic investment plans (SIPs) as a vital channel for investment in India’s financial markets.