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Why Indian Promoters Borrowed More Than ₹7 Trillion

Why Indian Promoters Borrowed More Than ₹7 Trillion
Why have Promoters Borrowed Rs 7 Trillion? · rediff.com

Promoters are major owners or controllers of companies.

They can borrow money by using their company shares as security.

By June 2026, Indian promoters had borrowed more than ₹7 trillion this way.

Much of the money is being used to expand businesses, buy companies or start new ventures.

Some borrowing may also fund personal needs or purchases of more shares.

This can help companies grow without the promoters selling their ownership.

However, if share prices fall, lenders may ask for more security or repayment.

If the promoter cannot provide it, the lender may sell the shares.

Large share sales could push prices down even further.

Key facts

Total borrowing
More than ₹7 trillion by June 2026.
Pre-pandemic comparison
₹2 trillion in June 2019.
Promoter stake involved
3.17% in June 2026, up from 2.52% in June 2019.
Companies with such borrowing
491 in June 2026, compared with 481 in June 2019.
Listed-company universe
Nearly 3,000 companies in June 2026, compared with fewer than 1,700 in June 2019.
Reported high-borrowing sectors
Mining, metals, paint and power, among others.
Loan structures
Borrowing covered both pledged shares and non-disposal undertakings.

Quotes

Sourasubha Ghosh

Partner at CMS IndusLaw

“Tomorrow, if there is a downward spiral in prices, for reasons not even linked to the company or promoters, say a war, promoters have to meet the margin call by pledging more shares or repaying part of the loans.”
rediff.com
“You will hardly see a case where a loan has been taken only on the basis of pledge of shares. There will be guarantees, mortgages, personal guarantees.”
rediff.com

Sources

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