How is BSE Collaborating with the Department of Posts to Enhance Mutual Fund Accessibility in India?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- BSE and Department of Posts sign MoU to improve mutual fund access.
- Over 1.64 lakh post offices to facilitate distribution.
- Focus on enhancing financial inclusion in rural areas.
- StAR MF platform processes over 7 crore transactions monthly.
- Training for post employees to become certified mutual fund distributors.
New Delhi, Dec 12 (NationPress) The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has officially entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Department of Posts to facilitate the distribution of mutual fund offerings through the vast network of India Post.
As part of this three-year agreement, designated staff and agents from the Department of Posts will undergo training and certification as mutual fund distributors, enabling them to provide products and investor services via the BSE's StAR Mutual Fund platform, as highlighted in the announcement.
The StAR MF platform is responsible for over 85% of mutual fund transactions based on exchanges, processing more than 7 crore transactions every month, thereby improving investor access in rural and semi-urban regions.
With a network of over 1.64 lakh post offices throughout the nation, the Department of Posts is poised to offer last-mile access, promote investor education, and ensure trust-driven mutual fund distribution across the country.
This strategic collaboration seeks to enhance financial inclusion by utilizing India Post’s extensive physical presence, especially in rural and semi-urban locales, alongside BSE’s StAR MF platform, recognized as India’s largest online mutual fund distribution system, the announcement stated.
BSE's MD & CEO, Sundararaman Ramamurthy, expressed gratitude to the Government of India for its vision in redefining the role of India Post as a driver for inclusive growth, noting that this collaboration aims to democratize access to financial products and empower millions with investment opportunities and financial education.
Manisha Bansal Badal, GM of the Department of Posts, remarked that this vision aligns seamlessly with BSE’s goal of fostering a professional, transparent, and investor-friendly mutual fund ecosystem in India.
“India Post has always been a reliable institution for the general public, offering a diverse range of savings and financial services,” she added.
This initiative is projected to boost mutual fund penetration in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, enhance investor confidence, and support India’s aspiration for a financially empowered society.
The government previously announced intentions for India Post to transform into a technology-driven logistics provider, aiming for 80% private-sector contribution in business revenues and generating Rs 25,000 crore in parcel business revenue within the next five years.