NSE IPO: SBI and LIC Lead $2.5 Billion Sale

The National Stock Exchange (NSE) is on the verge of launching a significant initial public offering (IPO) valued at an impressive $2.5 billion. This move is particularly noteworthy as State Bank of India (SBI) and Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) emerge as key players in this venture. Currently, shares of the NSE are trading at ₹2,150 in the grey market, which reflects a staggering valuation of approximately ₹5.3 lakh crore. This valuation positions NSE as the fourth most valuable stock exchange globally, according to Bloomberg data.

To facilitate the IPO process, the NSE board is taking proactive steps. They plan to form a committee that will include top executives from the exchange as well as representatives from major shareholders like SBI and LIC. This committee will oversee the entire IPO process, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. A crucial meeting is scheduled for February 6, where the board will not only approve the financial results for the quarter ending December 2025 but is also expected to make decisions regarding the formation of this committee.

The financial performance of the NSE has been impressive, further solidifying its position in the market. For the fiscal year 2025, the exchange reported a remarkable 15% increase in revenue, reaching ₹17,100 crore. Additionally, net profit soared by 44% to ₹12,188 crore, resulting in a net margin of around 71%. This robust performance highlights the NSE's dominance in India's derivatives market, where it commands over 75% of the total market share.

The upcoming IPO is anticipated to attract significant attention from investors, given the NSE's strong financial performance and its strategic importance in the country's financial landscape. As the IPO process unfolds, stakeholders will be keenly watching how SBI and LIC's involvement shapes the offering and its reception in the market.

In conclusion, the NSE's planned IPO not only signifies its growth trajectory but also reinforces the vital roles of major financial institutions like SBI and LIC in shaping the future of India's capital markets. As the committee gears up for the upcoming IPO, the financial community awaits the developments with great interest.