Calcutta Chamber of Commerce, one of India’s oldest and most respected trade bodies established in 1830, hosted a special session focused on the opportunities for MSMEs and SMEs through IPOs, with a keynote address by Shri Sundararaman Ramamurthy, Managing Director & CEO of BSE Limited. The event began with a warm welcome address by Shri Hari Shankar Halwasiya, President of the Calcutta Chamber of Commerce. He extended a respectful welcome to Shri Ramamurthy, acknowledging the honor of his presence and valuable insights. The gathering also included senior chamber members Shri Anant Saharia, Sr. Vice President, and Shri Annurag Jhunjhunwala, Vice President, along with distinguished guests, media representatives, and members from across the business community.
In his address, Shri Halwasiya highlighted the pivotal role played by MSMEs and SMEs in India’s economy — contributing nearly 30% to the GDP, and playing a significant role in exports and employment generation. He underscored how SME IPOs provide an effective path for small businesses to raise capital, expand operations, and foster innovation, all while offering investors a unique opportunity to diversify their portfolios. He further elaborated on India’s dedicated SME IPO platforms — BSE SME and NSE Emerge — which cater specifically to the needs of smaller enterprises with lower thresholds for investment and turnover, simplified disclosure requirements, and greater retail participation. These platforms were described as instrumental in helping small businesses transition into the public market while easing the regulatory burden.
Shri Sundararaman Ramamurthy, Managing Director & CEO of BSE Limited, stated, “Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are a vital force in India’s economic landscape. At BSE, we are committed to empowering these businesses to grow and access capital. I encourage SMEs to dream big, embrace strong governance, and consider listing as a path to creating long-term value. However, with growth must come integrity — credibility is non-negotiable. As regulations evolve, it’s essential for SMEs to move forward with responsibility and vision.”
The event also celebrated the legacy of BSE Ltd, which marked its 150th anniversary on April 17, 2025. As Asia’s oldest stock exchange, BSE currently stands among the largest in the world, with over 4,100 listed companies and a total market capitalization exceeding Rs. 419 lakh crore.
The session aimed to equip attendees with knowledge and clarity about public offerings, equity funding, and financial empowerment for India’s small enterprises. Shri Annurag Jhunjhunwala, Vice President of the Chamber, moderated the session and offered introductory remarks to facilitate an engaging dialogue. The Calcutta Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to providing valuable platforms for discussion, policy engagement, and supporting India’s business community in adapting to financial innovations and market opportunities
