BAJAJ BROKING

Notification close image
No new Notification messages
card image
Smartworks Coworking Spaces IPO is Open!
Apply for the Smartworks Coworking Spaces IPO through UPI in just minutes.
delete image
card image
Start your SIP with just ₹100
Choose from 4,000+ Mutual Funds on Bajaj Broking
delete image
card image
Open a Free Demat Account
Pay ZERO maintenance charges for the first year, get free stock picks daily, and more.
delete image
card image
Trade Now, Pay Later with up to 4x
Never miss a good trading opportunity due to low funds with our MTF feature.
delete image
card image
Track Market Movers Instantly
Stay updated with real-time data. Get insights at your fingertips.
delete image

What is Equity Market?

The equity market is where companies raise money and people can invest. So, what is equity market in practice? It is a formal marketplace where businesses offer part of their ownership in exchange for funds. When you buy shares, you are purchasing a stake in a company.

This process helps companies fund their growth, while you have the opportunity to participate in that journey. The equity market includes public exchanges like the NSE and BSE, as well as over-the-counter (OTC) spaces where unlisted shares can change hands. These are all regulated environments.

You participate in the equity market by trading shares through brokers. Real-time data, company reports, and news updates help you decide when and what to trade. The equity market is structured to bring together capital seekers and investors under one system.

Types of Equity Markets

The equity market is divided into two parts. Each one plays a different role in helping businesses raise capital and giving you, the investor, an entry point.

  • Primary Equity Market

In the primary equity market, companies offer shares to the public for the first time. This is done through an Initial Public Offering (IPO). You can invest directly at this stage. When you do, the money you pay goes to the company. It uses the funds for things like expansion, debt reduction, or launching new services.

The shares offered in the primary equity market are priced either at a fixed rate or through a book-building method. Once the IPO is closed, the shares are listed on recognised stock exchanges. This listing marks their entry into the next phase of the equity market—the secondary market.

The primary equity market is critical because it gives companies access to public funds and offers the public a chance to become a shareholder at the earliest stage of public ownership.

  • Secondary Equity Market

The secondary equity market is where shares are traded after being listed. In this market, you can buy or sell shares through stock exchanges like NSE and BSE. The company no longer receives the money; it’s a transaction between investors.

Prices in the secondary equity market change every day. These changes are based on several factors, including company performance, industry trends, and overall market sentiment. You have the flexibility to hold your shares, sell them, or buy more at any time.

Most daily activity in the equity market happens here. The secondary equity market provides liquidity and allows you to respond to market movements with greater ease.

How Does the Equity Market Work?

The equity market works through a regulated network of participants. Companies issue shares, investors buy and sell them, and brokers handle the transactions. These actions take place on stock exchanges or over-the-counter systems.

It starts with an IPO in the primary equity market, where a company raises fresh capital. Once listed, those shares move into the secondary equity market, where they are actively traded.

As an investor, you place your orders through a SEBI-registered broker. Trades are processed by exchanges and settled through clearing agencies. All of this is monitored by regulatory bodies to ensure fairness and transparency.

The equity market relies on real-time information. News, financial reports, earnings data, and global updates affect share prices. Your decisions in the equity market are based on how you interpret this flow of information.

Benefits of Investing in Equity Markets

Investing in the equity market offers several key advantages. Here’s what makes it useful for many investors:

  • Ownership in Businesses

When you invest through the equity market, you own a piece of the company. You benefit from its success as the share price rises.

  • Liquidity

The equity market allows you to buy and sell shares almost instantly during trading hours. This means you can adjust your position as needed.

  • Diversification

You can invest across industries and sectors. A diversified equity market portfolio reduces your exposure to a single business or sector.

  • Access to Information

The equity market provides real-time updates, detailed company disclosures, and transparent trade data to help guide your decisions.

  • Regulated Environment

The equity market operates under strict rules set by SEBI. This structure reduces the risk of fraud and keeps the system orderly.

Risks Associated with Equity Markets

While the equity market has benefits, it also involves risks. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Volatility

Share prices in the equity market can change rapidly. External events, earnings results, or economic shifts often impact prices.

  • No Guaranteed Returns

The equity market offers no certainty. A strong company today could face issues tomorrow, and prices may fall.

  • Too Much Information

The equity market is full of data. Sorting through company reports, analyst views, and news updates can be overwhelming.

  • Emotional Reactions

Market panic or hype can cause quick decisions. In the equity market, acting on emotion instead of analysis may lead to mistakes.

  • Ongoing Effort

You need to monitor your investments. The equity market rewards those who stay informed and involved over time.

Equity Market vs Debt Market

Understanding the difference between the equity market and the debt market helps you choose where to invest. Here's a table to compare them:

Feature

Equity Market

Debt Market

Ownership

You own part of the company

You lend money but don’t own a share

Returns

Based on market price and company performance

Fixed interest-based returns

Risk Level

Higher due to price fluctuations

Lower, but includes credit and interest rate risk

Instruments

Shares, equity-linked securities

Bonds, debentures, fixed-income instruments

Trading Platforms

NSE, BSE, or OTC

Also NSE, BSE, or OTC

Capital Use

Used by companies for business needs

Used by issuers for defined repayment terms

Return Guarantee

No fixed or guaranteed returns

Often fixed, but repayment depends on issuer creditworthiness

Role of SEBI in Indian Equity Markets

SEBI, short for Securities and Exchange Board of India, is the regulatory authority for the equity market. It was established in 1992 to protect investor interests and oversee capital markets. 

SEBI forms rules for companies, brokers, and trading systems. It ensures that IPOs in the primary equity market follow disclosure norms. SEBI monitors activity in the secondary equity market to check for market manipulation and insider trading.

Companies must file regular reports and meet listing requirements. SEBI checks if these are accurate. It also investigates complaints and takes action against unfair practices. SEBI’s role makes the equity market transparent, fair, and more reliable for all participants.

Conclusion

The equity market offers you a space to invest in the growth of companies. It works through two main channels—the primary equity market and the secondary equity market. Both give companies access to capital and investors a platform to buy and sell shares.

Understanding how the equity market operates, its structure, and the role of regulators like SEBI helps you make smarter, informed decisions. While the equity market has its risks, it also brings flexibility, access, and opportunity in a regulated environment.

Disclaimer: Investment in securities market is subject to market risks. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument or as an official confirmation of any transaction.

Share this article: 

Frequently Asked Questions

No result found

search icon
investment-card-icon

What is the Implied Correlation Index

Implied Correlation Index shows how assets move together. Know its importance in portfolio diversification and its strategic role in optimizing trading decisions.

investment-card-icon

What is Equity Market

The equity market connects investors with companies. See how investing in stocks works, the different market types, and how to make the most of stock opportunities.

investment-card-icon

Loan Against Mutual Funds

Need funds? A loan against mutual funds offers quick approval and low interest rates. Get insights on eligibility, features, and costs of this financial option.

investment-card-icon

IDCW vs Growth: Key Differences in Mutual Fund Options

IDCW vs Growth mutual funds – analyze returns, risks, and tax impact. Find the right fit for your financial objectives and maximize wealth creation.

investment-card-icon

Fund of Funds (FOF): Types, Benefits & How It Works

Fund of Funds (FOF) invests in multiple other funds, offering diversification. Learn about major types, working, pros, cons, and key considerations for investors.

investment-card-icon

Pharma Sector Mutual Funds

Invest in pharma sector mutual funds. Gain an overview of benefits like growth, stability, and long-term profitability to enhance your investment portfolio.

investment-card-icon

What Is Capitulation in Finance? Meaning, Causes & Impact

Capitulation in finance marks a market sell-off. Know its causes, impact on market dynamics, and how to identify and navigate downturns for better investing.

investment-card-icon

What is DVR Shares

DVR shares offer limited voting rights but higher dividends. Know their advantages, differences from ordinary shares, and how they impact investors and companies.

investment-card-icon

Differences Between Sectoral vs Thematic Indices

Compare sectoral and thematic indices by focus, diversification, and risk. See how each can support your investment goals with expert insights from Bajaj Broking.

investment-card-icon

What Is Share Turnover

Share turnover helps gauge stock liquidity. Know how to calculate this key metric and what it reveals about investor interest and market activity.

Disclaimer :

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.

[ Read More ]

For more disclaimer, check here : https://www.bajajbroking.in/disclaimer

Our Secure Trading Platforms

Level up your stock market experience: Download the Bajaj Broking App for effortless investing and trading

Bajaj Broking App Download

10 lakh+ Users

icon-with-text

4.2 App Rating

icon-with-text

4 Languages

icon-with-text

₹5600+ Cr MTF Book

icon-with-text
banner-icon

Open Your Free Demat Account

Enjoy low brokerage on delivery trades

+91

|

Please Enter Mobile Number

Open Your Free Demat Account

Enjoy low brokerage on delivery trades

+91

|