An IPO by definition is the process in which an organization raises funds from the public by selling shares for the first time. The investors are thus given an opportunity to become shareholders of a growing business in its infancy. As technology makes the investment decision all the more simpler, it is now commonplace to apply for IPOs over the internet via your Demat and trading account without having to visit any physical branch. Knowing the procedure stepwise makes for a well-versed application experience.
Knowing About IPO and Its Objective
The IPO is an event during which a formerly nonlisted company lists its shares on a stock exchange and invites members of the public to invest in it. The capital thereby raised would be used by the company in an expansion drive, to pay debts, or to invest in new projects. In return, investors are given a chance to participate in the growth of a company by getting shares in it.
After the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has given its approval, an IPO launches from a company. Once listed, the shares are able to trade freely over the counter. The investors can subscribe to IPO shares on their respective online platforms through their Demat and trading accounts.
Requirements for Applying for the IPO
An IPO application should first of all make sure the following are put in place:
Demat Account:
The Demat account is held by the holder in whose name the shares are held in electronic form. This account is mandatory for receiving the allotted shares post the IPO.
- Trading Account:
This account helps in pushing a bid online for the IPO shares.
Bank Account with UPI or ASBA Access:
The IPO application amount is blocked through the ASBA (Application Supported by Blocked Amount) process using the bank account connected to your trading account.
- PAN Card and KYC Verification:
Make sure your KYC level details are updated and are linked with your Demat account before any kind of application.
Having all of the above set up beforehand serves to make operating the software more straightforward and avoids a last-minute rush with any concluding issues getting sorted out during the subscription timeline.
IPO Online Application Procedure
With a trading and a Demat account already activated, IPO application can be made online as follows:
Step 1: Log In to Your Trading or Investment Platform
In the IPO section of your broker’s trading portal or mobile application, choose the option for IPO. Most of these platforms will display a console with Notice board and active IPOs.
Step 2: Choose the IPO You Want to Apply For
Select the company whose IPO you want to subscribe to. You will see information like price band, lot size, issue period, and bid quantity.
Step 3: Enter Details for Bidding
Afterward, you have to enter the number of lots that you want to apply for and the bid price within the price range. If you want the system to apply automatically to the final price decided by the issuer, you could also go for the “cut-off price” option.
Step 4: Choose the Payment Option (UPI or ASBA)
Choose one out of two available payment methods:
- UPI: Provide your UPI ID and block money through whichever app of mobile banking you prefer.
- ASBA: Instruct your bank to keep your IPO application money under reserve until the shares are allotted.
Step 5: Confirm and Submit Application
Check everything, and submit the IPO application. After getting verified through the acknowledgment number, you will get an email or SMS on your successful submission of the application.
Post-Application Procedure for IPO
Upon application for IPO, the following becomes the procedure:
- Blocking of funds: The application amount is blocked in the applicant’s bank account until the allotment result is declared.
- Allotment: The shares, if allotted to you, are credited to your DEMAT account before listing.
- Refund where no allotment was made: In case no allotment is made, the blocked amount is released automatically.
- On Listing: On the day of listing, you could see the shares in your DEMAT account and decide whether to hold or sell them in the market.
Tips for the First-Time Investors in IPOs
Go through the financials of the company and the draft prospectus before investing.
You have to apply within the phase of bidding—generally three working days.
Approval for the UPI mandate should have been done before the closing of the issue.
Apply early to avoid any unforeseen technical glitches at the last minute.
Check for the allotment results through your broker or the registrar’s online portal.
Such trivial things contribute hugely to a seamless process while investing in IPOs online.
Conclusion
IPO online application is simple and secure, with trading and Demat accounts integrated. Following the due step-by-step procedure, the investors can apply effortlessly for IPOs through either UPI or ASBA methods, bypassing paper works. Allotment of shares goes into your Demat account directly and almost on the trading day itself. For new and seasoned investors, the IPO is an opportunity to diversify their portfolios and invest in rising companies that may have great long-term potential.