Business
FPI rulebook revamp: Sebi proposes simplified registrations; clearer KYC rules, unified framework on cards – The Times of India
Sebi on Friday proposed a comprehensive overhaul of the Foreign Portfolio Investor (FPI) framework, aiming to streamline registrations and introduce an abridged application option for related funds, even as the regulator seeks to ease compliance for global investors.In a consultation paper, the Securities and Exchange Board of India said the move is intended to enhance ease of doing business by simplifying procedures and creating a more unified rulebook, according to PTI.As part of the revamp, Sebi has suggested a complete update and simplification of the Master Circular for FPIs and designated depository participants (DDPs), consolidating all rules and circulars issued since May 2024 into a single, clearer document.According to the proposals, a simplified registration process is planned for select FPI categories — including funds managed by an investment manager already registered as an FPI, sub-funds of an existing master fund, segregated share classes, and insurance schemes linked to an already registered entity.Such applicants may choose to fill the entire Common Application Form (CAF) or use an abridged version requiring only information unique to the new entity, with the remaining details automatically populated. Custodians would obtain explicit consent to rely on pre-existing information and ensure unchanged details remain accurate.Once the application is submitted, custodians will update the CAF module, while DDPs will issue Sebi-generated registration certificates after verifying eligibility. Sebi has also outlined steps DDPs must follow, including due diligence, clarifications on incomplete forms, PAN verification, and country-of-residence and regulatory status checks.Beyond registration reforms, the updated circular proposes clearer rules on KYC and beneficial-owner identification. It specifies requirements for NRIs, OCIs and resident Indians, while introducing dedicated frameworks for FPIs investing exclusively in government securities, IFSC-based FPIs, banks, insurance entities, pension funds and funds with multiple investment managers.Sebi has also detailed procedures for renewal, surrender, transition and reclassification of registrations, along with uniform compliance and reporting standards for custodians and DDPs.The regulator has sought public comments on the proposals until December 26.
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Gold is sold at a discount in Dubai due to Middle East conflict disrupting flights. Traders offer up to $30 per ounce less than London prices.
Dubai Gold Selling Cheaper As Iran War Grounds Flights
Gold is being sold at a discount in Dubai as the widening conflict in the Middle East disrupts flights and hampers the movement of bullion from one of the world’s key trading hubs.
According to a Bloomberg report, traders in Dubai are offering discounts of up to $30 per ounce compared to the global benchmark price in London. The unusual price cut comes as shipments remain stranded due to flight disruptions triggered by the escalating conflict involving Iran and Israel.
Dubai is a key global centre for refining and exporting gold to markets across Asia, including India. However, partial airspace restrictions and heightened security risks have slowed the movement of bullion out of the region.
Why Gold Is Being Sold Cheaper
Gold is typically transported in the cargo holds of passenger aircraft. With several flights from the UAE restricted amid regional tensions, traders are struggling to move bullion to international markets.
At the same time, insurance and freight costs have surged, making shipments more expensive and uncertain. Many buyers have therefore stepped back from placing new orders, unwilling to bear high logistics costs without assurance of timely delivery.
To avoid paying prolonged storage and financing costs while shipments remain stuck, some traders are offering gold at discounted prices.
Although transporting bullion by road to airports in neighbouring countries such as Saudi Arabia or Oman is theoretically possible, logistics firms are reluctant due to the risks and complications of moving high-value cargo across land borders during a conflict.
What It Means For India
India, one of the largest buyers of gold shipped from Dubai, could face short-term supply disruptions if the situation continues.
Renisha Chainani, head of research at Augmont Enterprises Ltd., said several cargo shipments have already been delayed, creating temporary tightness in the availability of physical bullion in India.
However, industry experts as reported by Bloomberg say the immediate impact may remain limited as domestic inventories are currently comfortable after heavy imports earlier this year.
Chirag Sheth, principal consultant for South Asia at Metals Focus, said Bloomberg that India has ample stocks for now, but warned that prolonged disruptions could eventually affect supply if the conflict continues for several months.
Meanwhile, global gold prices have surged this year amid geopolitical uncertainty, with spot gold recently trading above $5,000 per ounce.
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March 08, 2026, 10:03 IST
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Some seven in 10 British adults without a full driving licence say learning to drive is currently unaffordable, according to a survey.
The figure is even higher among younger people, with 76% of 18 to 29-year-olds without a licence saying driving lessons are financially out of reach, the poll for car insurer Prima found.
Overall, 38% said the cost of driving lessons was the biggest deterrent to learning to drive.
Some 32% were put off by the price of buying a car and 15% said the cost of car insurance was the main barrier to learning to drive.
Almost half (45%) said they would consider learning to drive if it became significantly cheaper.
Nick Ielpo, UK country manager at Prima, said: “For a growing number of people, driving is no longer a symbol of freedom – it’s a financial stretch too far.
“Between lessons, buying a car and insuring it, the upfront and ongoing costs are pricing many people out before they even start.”
Find Out Now surveyed 1,134 adults who do not hold a full driving licence between January 21 and 23.
Go Digit General Insurance on Saturday said it has received a demand notice of about Rs 170 crore for short payment of goods and services tax (GST) for nearly five years. The company has received an order copy from the Office of the Commissioner of GST & Central Excise, Chennai South Commissionerate on March 6, confirming GST demand of Rs 154.80 crore levying penalty of Rs 15.48 crore and Interest u/s 50 of CGST Act, 2017 for the period July 2017 to March 2022, the insurer said in a regulatory filing. The company is in the process of evaluating the legal advice on the implications and would file an appeal, it said.
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