Out of 7.8 crore MSMEs in the country, only about 1,400 SMEs are listed on the stock exchange, and in Tamil Nadu, just 31 companies are listed, said Sundararaman Ramamurthy, Managing Director and CEO of Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), while addressing on the topic “Strengthening Market Access for SME Corporates” which was organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Coimbatore (ICCIC) at Chamber Towers recently.

Ramamurthy stated that MSMEs contribute significantly to the Indian economy. Of the 7.8 crore MSMEs in India, the sector contributes 31% to the country’s GDP, 49% to exports, generates employment for 34 crore people, and 39% of MSME entrepreneurs are women.

At the state level, MSMEs contribute 8% to Tamil Nadu’s Gross State Domestic Product and generate employment for one crore people.

He noted that MSMEs play a vital role in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat. However, many MSMEs face hurdles in their expansion plans, mainly due to the non-availability of finance. One of the most effective remedies to help them grow is raising capital from the market.

BSE has been undertaking various initiatives to educate investors about investing in good companies and guiding businesses on how to get listed, the challenges involved, and ways to overcome them through structured processes, including AI-driven systems. This, he said, benefits not only companies but also the broader economy and capital markets.

He expressed confidence that the number of listed MSMEs would multiply in the coming years with increased awareness. So far, around 200 MSME companies have migrated to the Main Board, he added. Maharashtra and Gujarat currently rank high in SME listings.

Addressing investment challenges, he remarked that growth requires perseverance and investment. “Without hardships, there is no growth. Without investment, a company cannot grow. We will help companies grow along with the nation,” he said.

What are the benefits of listing a company in stock market?

Highlighting the benefits of listing, he said BSE advises MSMEs on strengthening corporate governance, ensuring continuity with qualified professionals such as Chartered Accountants, and preparing them to become strong market players. “If you are listed on BSE as an SME, it indicates that the company meets required standards,” he said.

How to Identify Fake Stock-Related Links and Videos?

On identifying fake stock-related links or videos, Ramamurthy cautioned that manipulated videos can circulate online. To verify authenticity, he advised copying the suspicious link and checking it on the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) website.

When asked why many companies remain unlisted, he said, it is due to lack of awareness. Listing benefits not only the company but also future generations, similar to investing in gold, he noted.

For individuals who wish to participate in the stock market but lack knowledge, he suggested investing through mutual funds, particularly large-cap funds, in a systematic manner.

BSE conducts nearly 20,000 awareness seminars annually, reaching about eight lakh people, including through social media and video platforms, he added.

Radha, Head – Listing and SME, BSE, addressed on the benefits and challenges of listing a company on stock exchanges.

Rajesh B. Lund, President of ICCIC, delivered the welcome address and said ICCIC would support BSE in creating greater awareness in Coimbatore.

Office-bearers of ICCIC, including Vice-Presidents Annamalai, Dorairaj and Natarajan; Honorary Secretaries Pradeep and Karthik; and Treasurer Kailash Kumar, were present. Vanitha Mohan, Past President of ICCIC, also graced the event. SME company owners and students participated in the programme.