In News:

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has launched Bond Central, a centralized and authentic information portal for corporate bonds in India. The initiative aims to enhance transparency, standardize data, and enable informed decision-making in the corporate debt market.

About Bond Central

• Launched by: SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India)
• Developed by: Online Bond Platform Providers Association (OBPP Association) in collaboration with Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs)—including stock exchanges and depositories
• Operated by: OBPP Association (a not-for-profit entity)
• Accessibility: Free and open to the public
• Purpose: To serve as a centralized, authentic source of information on corporate bonds issued in India

Key Features of Bond Central

• Unified Listings:
  • Offers a comprehensive view of corporate bonds across all exchanges and issuers.
  • Enhances transparency by allowing investors to compare bond data seamlessly.
• Price Comparison Tool:Enables investors to compare corporate bond prices with Government Securities (G-Secs) and other fixed-income indices, supporting better investment decisions.
• Investor-Centric Information:
  • Provides access to risk assessments, disclosures, and corporate bond documentation.
  • Helps investors effectively evaluate and compare investment opportunities.
• Standardization & Transparency:
  • Standardizes corporate bond-related data to reduce information asymmetry.
  • Builds trust in the bond market by ensuring consistency and reliability of information.

Significance for the Market

• Promotes Transparency: Makes vital market data openly accessible.
• Empowers Investors: Facilitates research-based and informed investment decisions.
• Strengthens Market Infrastructure: Aligns with SEBI’s goal of improving market efficiency and trust.

Current             Status

• Phase 1 of Bond Central is live as of early 2025.
• More features are to be added progressively based on stakeholder feedback.