Has SEBI Extended the Deadline for the New Margin Pledge Framework to October 10?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- SEBI has extended the deadline for the new margin pledge framework to October 10.
- CDSL and NSDL requested more time for system development.
- The framework aims to safeguard investor securities.
- A new feature enhances the efficiency of the pledge release process.
- Record settlement applications show a trend toward resolving disputes amicably.
Mumbai, Aug 18 (NationPress) The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has announced an extension for the implementation of the new margin pledge and re-pledge framework within the depository system to October 10. The initial deadline was set for September 1.
In its official circular, SEBI stated, "To facilitate smooth implementation without disrupting market operations and investor activities, we have decided to extend the timeline to October 10."
This decision follows requests from the depositories CDSL and NSDL, which asked for additional time to complete system development and perform thorough end-to-end testing.
SEBI emphasized that this extension is crucial for a seamless rollout, preventing any inconveniences for investors or market participants.
Under the new system, clients’ securities will be blocked for early pay-in directly in their demat accounts when margin obligations arise.
This initiative aims to curb the misuse of securities by brokers and maintain a transparent transaction record.
A new feature called ‘pledge release for pay-in’ has also been introduced. Once a pledge is released, a pay-in block will be automatically established in the client’s demat account.
The depositories will ensure that the necessary capabilities are available for a smooth process.
Post-implementation, brokers will no longer need to submit separate physical or electronic instructions for un-pledging and delivery.
The system will validate the pay-in amount based on the client’s obligations, streamlining the process and enhancing transparency.
In related news, the market regulator has seen an unprecedented number of settlement applications in 2024-25, indicating a growing preference among entities to resolve disputes without drawn-out litigation.
According to SEBI’s latest annual report released last week, a total of 703 settlement applications were received during the year, significantly up from 434 in the previous financial year.