SME Digital World

Tag: SME

Red Sea Crisis: Government Must Support MSME Exporters

Red Sea Crisis: Government Must Support MSME Exporters

The deteriorating security situation in the Red Sea has led to increased insurance rates and longer travel times for exporters.
Logistics costs significantly impact the country’s manufacturing sector, export competitiveness, and global positioning. The Red Sea route, known for being shorter and faster, was the preferred choice for most shipping companies. Ships transporting goods from major Indian ports like Mumbai and JNPT used the Suez Canal to enter the Mediterranean Sea and reach various European ports based on their destinations.
India heavily relied on this route for trade and energy imports. However, due to disruptions, exporters now have to diversify their trade routes. The worsening security in the Red Sea has resulted in higher insurance rates and longer travel times for exporters. Major shipping companies like Equinor and Maersk have increased their costs, severely impacting Indian companies. Disruptions in freight services and nearly a 50 percent increase in air freight charges have affected the export of perishable goods like vegetables, flowers, fruits, and eggs to the UK, the US, and other parts of the world.
Exporters are anxious about the significant increase in freight costs, which will inevitably impact India’s exports. In the 2023-24 financial year, Indian exports saw substantial growth in both volume and value, totaling nearly $450 billion, with MSMEs playing a crucial role.
The Indian research and information systems estimate that higher container shipping rates and delayed shipments due to route changes could lead to a significant drop in Indian exports in the coming year. Global supply chains have suffered as vessels now take longer routes for exports and imports. The immediate effects are increased freight costs, with small and medium industries in India being the major victims.
The global credit crisis means the world may not be able to absorb this hit. Government agencies need to support the MSME sector to maintain growth and achieve a $5 trillion economy. New markets for perishable goods should be sourced in Asian and Far Eastern regions.
Controlling export container pricing with an incentive mechanism could help mitigate the impact. Since seasonal perishable goods are at the highest risk, an urgent solution from government economic experts is needed.

May 27, 2024
NSE SME Indian Emulsifiers Makes a Blockbuster Debut

NSE SME Indian Emulsifiers Makes a Blockbuster Debut

Shares of Indian Emulsifiers surged to Rs 450 on the NSE, reflecting a remarkable premium of 240.91% over the issue price of Rs 132. The stock was listed at Rs 430, marking a 225.76% premium compared to its initial public offer (IPO) price. Currently, the stock is trading 4.65% higher than its listing price.
The trading volume was substantial, with the counter reaching a high of Rs 451.50 and a low of Rs 410, and approximately 18.21 lakh shares of the company exchanging hands.
Indian Emulsifiers’ IPO was a massive success, subscribed 306.66 times. The bidding for the issue was open from 13 May 2024 to 16 May 2024, with a price band set at Rs 125-132 per share. The IPO consisted of a fresh issue of 32,11,000 shares. The company plans to use the net proceeds for purchasing plant machinery, civil work, installation costs, funding working capital requirements, and general corporate purposes.
Prior to the IPO, Indian Emulsifiers raised Rs 12.01 crore on 10 May 2024, with the board allotting 9.10 lakh shares at Rs 132 per share to five anchor investors.
Indian Emulsifiers specializes in manufacturing and supplying specialty chemicals such as Esters, Amphoterics, Phosphate Esters, Imidazolines, Wax Emulsions, SMO & PIBSA Emulsifiers. As of 31 December 2023, the company employed 34 full-time staff.
For the period ending 31 December 2023, the company reported revenue from operations of Rs 48.67 crore and a net profit of Rs 6.75 crore.

May 23, 2024
Impact of Bribery on SMEs: Standing Against Corruption May Cost Business Opportunities, Survey Reveals

Impact of Bribery on SMEs: Standing Against Corruption May Cost Business Opportunities, Survey Reveals

A global survey by the UK-based Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) highlights the impact of bribery and corruption on SMEs worldwide. It found that 59% of SMEs and their advisers believe that resisting bribery and corruption could lead to lost business opportunities.
While strong anti-bribery policies might result in lost trade, many respondents acknowledged that these policies are ethically correct and could benefit businesses. According to the survey, 77% of respondents thought such policies would boost customer confidence, and 68% believed they would increase the chances of trading with larger businesses or public bodies.
“Many very small businesses lack the bargaining power to refuse small bribes, forcing entrepreneurs to choose between paying the bribe or losing the business,” said Jason Piper, ACCA’s Head of Tax and Business Law. ACCA has over 247,000 members in 181 countries.
Unlike large companies, SMEs often lack structured reporting lines and management frameworks, relying heavily on personal relationships and daily interactions. This can make it difficult to recognize and address corruption issues until they become severe.
The survey also found that 49.8% of respondents believe bribery and corruption negatively impact the business environment, with 66% viewing it as a concern.
Despite high awareness and perceived effectiveness of anti-bribery legislation, compliance costs remain significant for SMEs, with 48% of respondents agreeing that local anti-bribery laws have added to their expenses.
The implications for SMEs involved in bribery can be severe. Unlike large multinationals, small businesses often lack financial buffers, and money spent on bribes is money diverted from profits and local economic support, stunting investment and growth.

May 21, 2024
ET Make in India SME Regional Summit’s Second Session to be Held in Lucknow

ET Make in India SME Regional Summit’s Second Session to be Held in Lucknow

On May 25, the ET Make in India SME Regional Summit will reach its second city for this year’s edition. Lucknow, renowned for its nawabi heritage and famous handicrafts, will host small businesses, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs in an engaging summit organized by Economictimes.com.
According to the Udyam portal, Lucknow boasts 141,648 MSMEs, with 136,895 micro industries, 4,347 small enterprises, and 406 medium enterprises.
With a rich history in textiles and handicrafts dating back to the 16th century, Lucknow has become a hub for handcrafted textiles and leather goods. The city is home to numerous businesses involved in the export of apparel, textiles, and leather.
A report by CBRE South Asia highlighted that Uttar Pradesh is among the top three states contributing significantly to the Indian MSME sector, accounting for 9%. In this context, the ET Make in India SME Regional Summit will feature panel discussions and fireside chats addressing the challenges faced by the state’s labor-intensive MSMEs and craftspersons, and exploring ways to elevate their businesses to global prominence. The event will also provide a networking platform for enterprises, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders in the city and the state.
The ET Make in India SME Regional Summit series is held across the country to bring together local MSMEs, policymakers, enablers, and industry stakeholders. These summits aim to discover opportunities, address challenges, and promote knowledge-sharing and networking to drive the next phase of growth for Indian MSMEs. This year’s theme is “Empowering MSMEs: Driving India’s Century of Sustainable Growth,” aiming to champion and fortify Indian MSMEs. Each summit will feature panel discussions, masterclasses, and demonstrations of MSME solutions.
This is the second edition of the ET Make in India Regional Summit series. Last year’s inaugural edition covered Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Hyderabad, with a stellar turnout. The previous edition’s theme focused on enabling future-ready MSMEs to power the nation’s India@100 dream.
The purpose of these regional summits is to increase awareness, promote networking, and support industry-specific learning. These events aim to recognize the efforts and accomplishments of MSMEs in their respective areas, and assist them in discovering opportunities and strategies to become globally competitive and future-prepared.
The summits are hosted by Economictimes.com in collaboration with Adobe as the Associate Partner.

originally posted on: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/technology/how-to-choose-the-best-ecommerce-platform-for-your-online-store/articleshow/110213245.cms

May 20, 2024
TGIF Agribusiness Makes Strong Debut on BSE SME Platform with 61% Premium

TGIF Agribusiness Makes Strong Debut on BSE SME Platform with 61% Premium

TGIF Agribusiness made its debut on the BSE SME platform on Wednesday with shares opening at Rs 150, representing a premium of 61% over the issue price of Rs 93 per share.
Prior to its listing, the company’s shares were trading at a premium of Rs 30 in the unlisted market.
The Initial Public Offering (IPO) consisted of a fresh equity issue of 6.87 lakh shares and was oversubscribed 37 times due to strong interest from investors.
The proceeds from the IPO will be utilized for purchasing agricultural equipment and irrigation systems, meeting working capital requirements, and for general corporate purposes.
TGIF Agribusiness primarily operates as a horticulture company engaged in open farming of fruits and vegetables across more than 110 acres of farmland in Ajari, Kasindra, and Kojra villages.
Pomegranate farming constitutes over 95% of the company’s revenue, supplemented by cultivation of dragon fruits, Sagwan trees, lemon, watermelon, and chilly in recent years.
The company employs various farming techniques to ensure high-quality produce, such as fruit thinning to enhance crop size and quality, vegetative growth practices, fruit protection measures, and soil moisture management.
The agriculture sector in India, boasting the world’s second-largest agricultural land, plays a pivotal role in employing nearly half of the country’s population, making farmers essential contributors to our sustenance.

May 16, 2024
SEBI Plans Stricter Rules for SME Public Offers Amid Market Surge

SEBI Plans Stricter Rules for SME Public Offers Amid Market Surge

India’s capital markets are on the brink of a regulatory overhaul as the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) prepares to tighten regulations governing public offerings by small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This initiative responds to increasing concerns over the misuse of a specialized listing platform introduced in 2012 to facilitate small businesses’ access to capital markets.
According to Reuters reports, SEBI is considering raising the minimum size requirement for such public offerings to between Rs 30 crore and Rs 50 crore ($3.59 million to $5.99 million). Sources from Reuters indicated that the proposed rules are expected to be officially issued later this year following consultations with stakeholders.
Currently, there is no prescribed minimum issue size for SMEs, although companies listing on the platform are required to have a post-issue capital base of Rs 25 crore. “Establishing a minimum offer size will ensure that serious companies access the capital markets, thereby protecting investor interests,” commented one of the sources. This initiative demonstrates regulators’ commitment to fortify investor protection mechanisms amidst increased activity in India’s equity markets.
Data from PRIME Database, a leading capital markets information provider, reveals a rise in public offerings by SMEs during the fiscal year ending March 2024. A total of 205 companies raised Rs 6,000 crore, marking an increase from the previous year’s 125 firms that raised Rs 2,200 crore.
Despite repeated requests for comments, both the markets regulator and exchanges, tasked with implementing regulatory policies, refrained from responding. The move to tighten regulations surrounding SME public offerings reflects a broader trend towards enhancing market integrity and investor confidence. By imposing stringent criteria for accessing capital markets, authorities aim to eliminate frivolous listings while fostering an environment conducive to sustainable growth.
In recent years, India’s SME segment has emerged as a vital engine of economic expansion, contributing to employment generation and fostering innovation. However, concerns regarding corporate governance standards and regulatory oversight have lingered, prompting regulators to recalibrate existing frameworks to align with evolving market dynamics.
Reports suggest that some SME issues were oversubscribed by 500 to 1000 times, raising concerns about the misuse of the listing platform. In response to these concerns, SEBI is considering imposing a minimum issue size for SMEs along with enhanced disclosure requirements. Companies eyeing public listings will be required to provide comprehensive disclosures, including the objectives of the issue, financials of the issuer, and associated risk factors.
“The merchant bankers will be tasked with providing more upfront disclosures, ensuring investors have the necessary information to make informed decisions,” remarked a source privy to the discussions.
SEBI’s proactive stance follows earlier remarks by its chairperson, Madhabi Puri Buch, who highlighted instances of misuse within the SME listing framework. Buch emphasized the regulator’s commitment to investigating complaints of price manipulation within the segment, stressing the need for heightened vigilance to maintain market integrity.
In a crackdown on malpractices, SEBI recently barred three SME companies from accessing capital markets, citing misuse of funds raised through public offerings, including diversion for unauthorized purposes, misrepresentation of facts in offer documents, and alleged manipulation of financial statements.
The regulatory clampdown underscores a broader push towards fortifying investor protection mechanisms and upholding market integrity. By establishing robust disclosure norms and imposing stringent penalties for non-compliance, SEBI aims to foster transparency and accountability within India’s SME space. As stakeholders anticipate the formal issuance of SEBI’s revised guidelines, market participants brace for a paradigm shift in the regulatory landscape, signaling a pivotal moment in India’s capital markets as authorities strive to balance promoting entrepreneurship with safeguarding investor interests.

May 15, 2024
“MSME Delayed Payments: Updated Online Procedure for Filing Applications Against Defaulting Buyers”

MSME Delayed Payments: Updated Online Procedure for Filing Applications Against Defaulting Buyers

In response to delayed payments from buyers, MSMEs in India often encounter significant challenges. According to the government’s delayed payment monitoring portal, MSME Samadhaan, since October 2017, approximately 1.89 lakh applications involving Rs 43,160 crore have been filed by MSMEs. However, only 36,074 cases totaling Rs 6,235 crore have been resolved by facilitation councils.
For those seeking to file an application online against a buyer who has not settled dues within 45 days of invoice generation, follow these step-by-step instructions:
1. Visit the delayed payment filing and monitoring portal by the MSME ministry at samadhaan.msme.gov.in.
2. Click on the ‘Case Filing for Entrepreneur/MSE Units’ tab.
3. Choose the type of MSME registration — Udyog Aadhaar Number or Udyam Registration Number.
4. Enter the registration number, mobile number (as per the registration certificate), and verification code.
5. Click on ‘Validate Udyog Aadhaar’ or ‘Validate Udyam Registration’ based on your registration type.
6. Enter the OTP sent to the registered mobile number or email address for verification.
7. Access the ‘Application List’ page and click on ‘Application Entry’ located at the top right corner.
8. Input the date of the pending invoice under ‘The date of invoice in dispute’ and click ‘Submit.’
9. Your details will be pre-filled under ‘Petitioner Details’; provide any additional required information.
10. Select the business location from where the dispute has arisen.
11. Opt to send the application to the facilitation council of the state where your corporate office is located (‘Yes’).
12. Enter your office PAN and NIC code of the product sold.
13. Confirm the declaration at the end of the form.
14. Provide buyer or respondent details, including the GST number, and acknowledge the consent statement.
15. Specify the amount owed by the buyer.
16. Enter work order and invoice specifics and upload necessary documents.
17. Validate the information submitted, enter the verification code, and click ‘Final Submit.’
Both you and the buyer will receive notifications upon successful submission of the complaint.

May 14, 2024
Driving Factors: Technology’s Role in Shaping India’s Electric Two-Wheeler Adoption

Driving Factors: Technology’s Role in Shaping India’s Electric Two-Wheeler Adoption

Technological factors have the potential to either impede or accelerate the adoption of electric two-wheelers in India’s evolving electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem, which has witnessed significant growth in recent years supported by government and private sector initiatives. The interim budget also outlined various measures aimed at expediting the expansion of the domestic EV ecosystem, including bolstering charging infrastructure.
As the EV landscape evolves, it becomes evident how policies, market conditions, and technological advancements influence consumer acceptance of these vehicles. Technology emerges as a critical determinant for the adoption of EVs, particularly in the two-wheeler segment, which constitutes one of the largest automobile segments in India.
According to Sushant Kumar, Founder & Managing Director of AMO Mobility, battery technology plays a pivotal role. Advancements in lithium-ion batteries and the emergence of solid-state batteries enhance efficiency, safety, and charging speed, which are crucial for extending vehicle range and enhancing user convenience. Motor technology also significantly impacts performance, with innovations such as brushless DC motors offering improved efficiency and requiring less maintenance.
Furthermore, material science advancements enable the use of lightweight materials that improve range and performance without compromising safety. Kumar notes that these technological strides collectively shape the future of electric two-wheelers, making them more attractive and efficient for consumers.
Anshul Gupta, Managing Director of Okaya EV, emphasizes the importance of finding the right technology as EVs are still in the pilot phase. He highlights the necessity of progressing charging infrastructure, including rapid charging methods and battery swapping techniques, to address concerns about range anxiety and promote widespread adoption.
In the evolving landscape of EV technology, particularly concerning two-wheelers, several technological factors are poised to influence their future development, experts believe.
Prashant Vashishtha, Chairman & Managing Director of Sokudo India, underscores the significance of battery technology advancements, including shifts to more advanced formulations like solid-state or lithium-sulfur batteries promising higher energy densities and faster charging times. Motor technology is expected to advance further, focusing on increasing efficiency and reducing weight, while electronic control systems become more sophisticated to enhance vehicle dynamics and user interfaces.
The integration of IoT and AI technologies plays a vital role in facilitating real-time vehicle diagnostics, enhancing user experience, and increasing vehicle reliability. These technologies contribute to predicting battery life, optimizing energy management, and improving overall vehicle efficiency, according to industry stakeholders.
Gupta also highlights safety as a primary concern for customers due to high voltages and temperatures associated with EVs. LFP batteries are considered safer than NMC batteries due to their higher thermal runaway temperature and longer lifespan, despite requiring more space.
Overall, infrastructure improvements such as fast-charging stations and connectivity features like GPS navigation, coupled with supportive government policies and incentives, contribute to the growing popularity of electric two-wheelers in India’s dynamic mobility landscape.

May 14, 2024
New MSME payment clause in IT Act

New MSME payment clause in IT Act

The Supreme Court declined to hear a petition filed by traders’ associations challenging the constitutionality of Section 43B(H) of the Income Tax Act, which mandates businesses to clear dues owed to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within 45 days to avail tax benefits.
Instead, a bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud advised the petitioners – Federation of All India Vyapar Mandal, Federation of Madras Merchants and Manufacturers Association, and Confederation of West Bengal Trade Associations – to seek relief from the high court.
The provision came into effect on April 1. The Federation of All India Vyapar Mandal challenged the constitutionality of Section 43B(H), highlighting its adverse impact on the business community, especially MSMEs like textile, chemical, and engineering units based in Gujarat.
The traders’ body sought a review of the provision due to its negative implications on MSMEs, arguing that it unfairly favors medium-scale industries by granting them more leeway in extending credit, thereby causing MSMEs to lose market share. Traders also alleged that the amendment unfairly penalized small enterprises by restricting their ability to offer credit based on their discretion.
The petition further pointed out that large companies were redirecting their orders away from MSMEs registered under the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006, opting instead to place them with unregistered entities to evade mandatory provisions and maintain longer payment cycles of 90-120 days.
To address working capital shortages and ensure timely payments within the sector, the Finance Act 2023 introduced an amendment to the Income Tax Act by adding clause (h) to Section 43B. This clause mandates that buyers settle outstanding payments owed to MSMEs within 45 days to qualify for tax deductions. Failure to comply results in disqualification from tax benefits until the dues are settled.
In cases of delayed payments to MSMEs, the buyer is liable to pay tax on the overdue amount, which can only be reversed upon clearing the dues to MSMEs. Additionally, interest on the overdue amount accrues at the bank rate notified by the Reserve Bank of India, applicable from the appointed day or an agreed date.

May 8, 2024
How Lenders Navigate Risk in MSME Lending Without Credit History

How Lenders Navigate Risk in MSME Lending Without Credit History

Lending to small and unorganised businesses presents significant credit risk, primarily due to the absence of credit history for assessment. Traditional methods of credit evaluation, such as predicting behavior based on credit history or analyzing cash flows and profitability through financial statements, often fall short in this scenario.
Shikhar Aggarwal, Chairman of BLS E-Services, underscores the importance of identifying and mitigating risks like credit default and market volatility. This approach not only ensures the stability of loan portfolios and minimizes losses but also promotes responsible lending practices. Aggarwal emphasizes that proactive risk management is crucial for MSMEs to demonstrate financial reliability and business acumen, essential for securing funding, growth, and operational success. Moreover, a robust risk management framework builds trust with financial institutions, improving loan terms and access to larger credit facilities, enabling MSMEs to innovate, expand, and navigate economic challenges effectively.
Ujual George, COO of Aye Finance, explains how his company overcame this challenge by developing a tailored underwriting model based on data science and a comprehensive physical presence. Aye Finance’s extensive workforce of 6,000 across 450+ branches nationwide plays a critical role in managing credit risk effectively through this “phygital” (physical + digital) model.
Aggarwal further elaborates on the multifaceted approach NBFCs use to manage risks during lending. This includes assessing liquidity profiles with seasonally adjusted fund utilization patterns, evaluating company profiles based on ownership, industry segment, location, and maturity level, analyzing repayment behavior and asset classification, determining creditworthiness through outstanding debt and credit scores, assessing collateral for secured credit, and considering external factors like economic conditions, business trends, and potential legislative changes that may impact MSMEs.

May 8, 2024