Standard Capital Markets Raises ₹50 Crore Via NCDs

 Standard Capital Markets Raises ₹50 Crore Via NCDs

The micro-cap NBFC, trading below Re 1, draws market attention after securing ₹50 crore through privately placed secured non-convertible debentures.

Summary:

Standard Capital Markets, a non-banking financial company (NBFC) with a stock price under Re 1, has approved the allotment of 5,000 secured non-convertible debentures (NCDs) worth ₹50 crore. This strategic decision is intended to strengthen the company’s capital foundation and improve its ability to lend.Despite its micro-cap status and inherent risks, the issuance has sparked investor interest in the penny stock.

Standard Capital Markets: A Small Stock’s Bold Move in Fundraising

In a bold move that has captured the interest of retail and speculative investors alike, Standard Capital Markets Ltd, a little-known NBFC trading below Re 1, has raised ₹50 crore through the issuance of secured non-convertible debentures (NCDs). In a recent filing with regulators, the board of directors announced the allocation of 5,000 unrated and unlisted secured non-convertible debentures (NCDs), each having a face value of ₹1,00,000 and issued at par.
This development sharply focuses on this micro-cap NBFC, with many now questioning whether it could signal a larger transformation, improved operational performance, or simply a short-term financial restructuring move.

Details of the NCD Issuance

The company clarified that the NCDs were issued on a private placement basis, targeting institutional and high-net-worth investors rather than retail subscribers. These NCDs are:
Not rated and not publicly listed, suggesting that credit rating agencies have not yet assessed the company’s ability to repay.
Secured means that they are backed by specific assets, which offer a safety net for debenture holders in the event of a default.
Presented at its nominal value, without any discounts or premiums for investors, emphasizing the clear goal of raising funds.
This ₹50 crore capital injection is expected to strengthen the company’s liquidity position. It may be used to expand its loan book, repay existing liabilities, or support future growth initiatives in the NBFC space.

What Is Driving the Buzz Around This Penny Stock?

With a current share price below Re 1, Standard Capital Markets has long been a dormant micro-cap counter with limited trading volumes. However, news of this significant fundraising has sparked unusual interest from market watchers.

There are several reasons why this penny stock is now being talked about:

Unusual Volume Activity: Post announcement, the counter witnessed a surge in trading volumes as speculative investors rushed in, betting on a turnaround story.
Strategic Capital Raise: ₹50 crore is a substantial amount for a company with such a small market capitalization, hinting at a potential business revival plan or debt restructuring.
NBFC Sector Interest: In 2025, India’s NBFC sector saw increasing investor interest due to growing credit demand from underserved rural and urban populations, especially in micro-lending, SME credit, and consumer finance.
Penny Stock Psychology: Stocks priced below Re 1 often attract retail interest due to the perception of ‘cheap entry’, though they are also notoriously risky and volatile.

Risks Associated with the Investment

While the fundraising news is undeniably noteworthy, investors must tread cautiously. There are multiple risks to consider:
Lack of Credit Rating: The NCDs’ unrated status implies no third-party assessment of the company’s ability to service the debt, elevating credit risk for debenture holders.
Unlisted Instruments: Since the NCDs are unlisted, they are illiquid and not tradeable on any exchange, limiting exit options.
Penny Stock Volatility: Stocks priced below Re 1 are often highly speculative and can witness sharp movements without underlying business changes.
Opaque Financials: With limited analyst coverage and public scrutiny, companies like Standard Capital Markets may offer limited transparency regarding their financial health and plans.

Broader NBFC Sector Context

Standard Capital Markets’ fundraising also comes when NBFCs are increasingly relied upon to fill the credit gaps left by traditional banks, particularly in the informal and MSME segments.
Following the RBI’s regulatory push for greater compliance, liquidity buffers, and improved asset quality, several NBFCs are merging, raising capital, or transforming into niche lenders to survive and thrive.
In this context, a ₹50 crore capital boost could potentially:
Enhance the company’s capital adequacy ratio (CAR).
Permit the company to engage in new lending activities, particularly in secured areas like gold, vehicle, or SME financing.
Assist in improving its balance sheet by allocating a portion to pay off old debt or lessen the interest burden.

What Lies Ahead?

For Standard Capital Markets, this fundraiser could be a stepping stone towards revival or, at the very least, financial stabilization. The company may slowly crawl out of its penny stock zone if the funds are deployed effectively to generate higher income or refinance expensive debt.
However, a lot depends on execution, governance standards, and future business strategy. Market participants would be keenly watching for further updates such as:
Financial performance in the upcoming quarterly results.
Strategic announcements or partnerships.
Credit rating upgrades (if pursued).
Are there any plans to list the NCDs or raise equity capital?

Conclusion

Standard Capital Markets has taken a significant leap by raising ₹50 crore through NCDs while being a sub-Re 1 penny stock. While the move showcases the intent to strengthen financials, it comes with risks that investors must weigh carefully. The market will closely monitor whether this NBFC can turn the tide and capitalize on the evolving financial ecosystem in India. Until then, the story remains a high-risk, high-reward proposition that may remain speculative or blossom into a genuine turnaround.

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