'75-100 firms likely to be listed in BSE SME platform in 2018'

BSE's small and medium enterprises (SME) platform is expecting a spell of listing in 2018 as 75-100 companies are likely to list in the year raising an estimated amount of Rs 1000-1500 crore amid rising interest from these firms to tap the capital market to raise funds.

"A flurry of listing is expected this year as 75-100 companies are expected to be listed in the platform in 2018 raising an estimated amount Rs 1000-1500 crore," BSE SME's Head Ajay Thakur said here in an interactive session.

He said although the platform has been present for some time, the last two and half years have seen a lot of action on the platform.

"Many listed firms have recorded improvement in top line following their listing. The SME IPO Index has given a good return (over 80 per cent) last year," he said adding that already 35 companies have filed their prospectus and more filings are expected to happen.

According to him, a combination of factors is expected to contribute to a higher number of listing and some of the firms that had delayed listing in 2017 are expected to file their prospectus this year.

Thakur also pointed out since December 2012 till date, 254 prospectuses were filed amongst which 216 SMEs have been listed and till date, 40 companies have migrated from the platform to the main board of the exchange.

--IANS

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