SEBI lowered the minimum investment in social stock exchange instruments to ₹1,000

Current Context: SEBI's decision to lower the minimum investment for Zero Coupon Zero Principal (ZCZP) instruments on the Social Stock Exchange (SSE) from ₹10,000 to ₹1,000 was announced on March 19, 2025.

Here are the key details:

• Objective: This move aims to enhance retail participation in social impact investments, making it more accessible for smaller investors.
• ZCZP Instruments: These are unique financial tools designed for donations to non-profit organizations (NPOs) listed on the SSE. They do not offer returns like interest or dividends but serve as a structured way to fund social causes.
• Background: The change modifies provisions outlined in SEBI's earlier circulars from September 19, 2022, and December 28, 2023. It reflects recommendations from the Social Stock Exchange Advisory Committee and public feedback.
• Impact: By lowering the threshold, SEBI expects to channel more funds into sectors like education, healthcare, women's empowerment, and rural development. This democratizes access to social finance and encourages broader participation.

Question:

Q.1 What is the revised minimum investment amount for Zero Coupon Zero Principal (ZCZP) instruments on the Social Stock Exchange (SSE), as per SEBI's announcement on March 19, 2025?
a) ₹100
b) ₹1,000
c) ₹5,000
d) ₹10,000

Answer: b) SEBI reduced the minimum investment for ZCZP instruments from ₹10,000 to ₹1,000 to encourage retail participation in social impact investments.