Background

In our previous publication on the subject, we had discussed the changes introduced by the Ordinance dated 23 November 2017 (the Ordinance), amending the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (Code) (see our Ergo Newsflash dated 24 November 2017).

A bench of Supreme Court comprising of Justice R.F. Nariman and Justice Sanjay Kishen Kaul in the case of M.D. Frozen Foods Exports Pvt. Ltd. And Ors. Vs Hero Fincorp Ltd., in Civil Appeal No. 15147 of 2017 dealt with the issue that whether an NBFC is entitled to initiate proceedings under SARFAESI Act and arbitration proceedings, simultaneously, with respect to a loan account.

Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) in its meeting today has taken decisions that will make M&A and private investment in public equity (PIPE) transactions easier.

Open Offer Exemption for Distressed Public M&A

Presently, prior to a listed Indian company filing a scheme (Scheme) before the High Court for merger/de-merger/amalgamation/reduction of capital (Reconstruction) under the Companies Act, 1956 (Companies Act), it is required to first submit the Scheme to the stock exchange for approval. Upon successful completion of the Reconstruction, the company must ensure that at least 25% of its post-issue capital is offered and allotted to the public.