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Dos and Don'ts of Primary Market Investing

When you invest in the stock market, you often hear about IPOs. These are part of what’s called the primary market. It’s where companies raise money by offering shares to the public for the first time. You get to buy shares before they start trading in the secondary market.

This might sound exciting—and it can be. But it’s also important to be careful. Many people jump into IPOs without enough research. Some even fall for fake tips or misleading promises. So, knowing the do’s and don’ts of primary market investing helps you make safer and smarter decisions.

This guide will walk you through what to do and what to avoid when investing in the primary market, especially in an IPO. You'll also learn why it's important to read the prospectus, understand SEBI's role, and know how this market differs from the secondary one.

What is the Primary Market?

The primary market is where companies first offer their shares or bonds to the public. This happens through an IPO or another public issue. Once the issue is complete, those securities start trading in the secondary market.

When a company needs funds—maybe to expand its business or reduce debt—it issues new shares. These shares are made available in the primary market. You buy directly from the company, not from another investor.

This process is supported by underwriters and investment banks. They help decide the share price, manage risks, and ensure compliance. The offer price is usually mentioned in a document called the red herring prospectus. You can find details about the company’s finances, goals, and risks there.

As an investor, your first step is to open a free Demat account. Without it, you can't apply for an IPO. You also need to check if your broker is registered with SEBI. Being cautious in the primary market means protecting yourself from avoidable risks and frauds.

Key Dos for Investing in the Primary Market

1. Read the Prospectus Carefully:

The company must issue a prospectus before launching an IPO. Read it thoroughly. Look for business details, financials, risk factors, and the purpose of raising funds.

2. Verify the Background of Promoters:

Check the track record of the promoters. Use reliable sources to find out if they’ve handled businesses responsibly in the past.

3. Understand the Purpose of the IPO:

Why is the company raising money? Is it for expansion, debt repayment, or general use? Match this with your financial goals.

4. Check Underwriter Reputation: 

The underwriter manages the IPO process. A good one usually means a more transparent and stable issue.

5. Open a Free Demat Account:

To apply for shares in the primary market, you need a Demat account. Many platforms let you open one for free. Make sure the provider is SEBI-registered.

6. Raise Concerns if Needed:

If you spot incomplete or misleading information in the prospectus, you have the right to raise it with the merchant banker or issuer's contact.

7. Match the IPO With Your Goals:

If you’re looking for long-term investment, choose IPOs with strong fundamentals. Avoid investing only for possible listing gains.

8. Use Only Registered Brokers: 

Always check if the broker is authorised by SEBI. Unregistered agents may misguide you or even disappear with your money.

Common Don'ts to Avoid in the Primary Market

1. Don’t Invest Without Research:

Don’t buy into an IPO just because it’s popular. Go beyond the hype. Understand the company’s financial health and future plans.

2. Don’t Expect Quick Gains:

Not all IPOs open at a premium. Some may list lower than expected. Avoid unrealistic expectations about returns.

3. Don’t Follow Unverified Tips:

Avoid investment tips from unknown sources. Promises of high returns are often red flags.

4. Don’t Use Borrowed Funds: 

Never invest in the stock market using loans. If the investment fails, you’ll still owe money—with interest.

5. Don’t Skip Reading the Fine Print:

Many investors ignore the terms and risks mentioned in the prospectus. That’s a mistake. These details are crucial.

6. Don’t Invest in What You Don’t Understand:

If you don’t understand the company’s business model, it’s better to stay away. Don’t rely only on media headlines.

7. Don’t Overcommit During a Bull Run:

Even if the market is booming, don’t invest blindly. Market trends change fast, especially in the primary market.

8. Don’t Ignore Red Flags in Public Sector IPOs:

Even with government backing, always check the fundamentals of a public sector company before investing.

Importance of Reading the Prospectus

The prospectus is your main source of information before investing in an IPO. It tells you what the company does, why it's raising funds, and what risks are involved.

You’ll also learn about the promoter’s background, financial history, and how the funds will be used. This lets you make a better decision based on facts—not just advertising.

If you don’t understand some terms, take your time to research them. It’s better to pause and understand than to rush and regret. Reading the prospectus protects you from poor decisions and helps align your investments with your goals.

Role of SEBI in Regulating the Primary Market

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) plays a big role in protecting investors like you. It sets rules that companies must follow when launching an IPO or public issue.

SEBI checks whether companies give complete and correct information in the prospectus. It also makes sure merchant bankers and brokers are registered and act in your interest.

If you ever feel misled, you can file a complaint with SEBI or use its grievance redressal portal. Thanks to SEBI, you can expect a level of safety, transparency, and fairness when you invest in the primary market.

Comparing Primary and Secondary Markets

Feature

Primary Market

Secondary Market

Purpose

Companies raise funds by issuing new securities

Investors buy and sell existing shares

Investor Role

Buy directly from the issuer

Trade with other investors

Price

Fixed or price band (in IPO)

Decided by supply and demand

Regulation

Controlled by SEBI and merchant bankers

Regulated by stock exchanges and SEBI

Account Requirement

Requires Demat and bank account

Requires Demat and trading account

Conclusion

The do’s and don'ts of primary market investing help you stay clear-headed when you explore new IPOs. The primary market gives you a chance to become an early investor in a company. But it comes with risks if you don’t do your homework.

Make sure you open a free Demat account, read the prospectus, understand the business, and avoid hype. Don’t follow the crowd or borrow money to invest. Stick to facts, trust SEBI-regulated platforms, and stay informed.

This way, you can make more confident choices—not just in the primary market, but across your stock market journey. Take your time, keep learning, and align every investment with your long-term plan.

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The information on this website is provided on "AS IS" basis. Bajaj Broking (BFSL) does not warrant the accuracy of the information given herein, either expressly or impliedly, for any particular purpose and expressly disclaims any warranties of merchantability or suitability for any particular purpose. While BFSL strives to ensure accuracy, it does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the information. Users are advised to independently verify details and stay updated with any changes.

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is subject to change without prior notice. BFSL shall not be responsible for any consequences arising from reliance on the information provided herein and shall not be held responsible for all or any actions that may subsequently result in any loss, damage and or liability. Interest rates, fees, and charges etc., are revised from time to time, for the latest details please refer to our Pricing page.

Neither the information, nor any opinion contained in this website constitutes a solicitation or offer by BFSL or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities, futures, options or other financial instruments or provide any investment advice or service.

BFSL is acting as distributor for non-broking products/ services such as IPO, Mutual Fund, Insurance, PMS, and NPS. These are not Exchange Traded Products. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions please read the sales brochure carefully before investing.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing. This content is for educational purposes only. Securities quoted are exemplary and not recommendatory.

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