This book is a comprehensive guide to the Indian securities markets, designed to provide basic knowledge and understanding of the subject. It covers key topics such as:

• Basics of Indian Securities Markets
• Processes involved in Primary & Secondary markets
• Schemes and products in Mutual Funds and Derivatives Markets in India
• Financial Planning Process

The book is particularly tailored for entry-level professionals aiming for a career in securities markets and individuals from various backgrounds, such as employees in securities, other professionals, students, homemakers, and teachers, who are keen on acquiring a basic understanding of the Indian Securities markets.

The Present Publication is the November 2023 workbook version, published exclusively by Taxmann for NISM Certification Examination XII | Securities Markets Foundation, with the following noteworthy features:

• [Know] the following:
• Basics of the Indian Securities Market
• Various Processes Involved in Primary and Secondary Markets
• [Understand] the Schemes and Products in Mutual Funds and Derivatives Markets

The detailed contents of the book are as follows:

• Understanding Securities Markets and Performance
• This chapter introduces the concept of securities markets, detailing their structure and the various participants involved
• It explores the role of securities markets in the financial ecosystem
• A special focus is given to the technological advancements that have impacted the securities market
• Securities: Types, Features and Concepts of Asset Allocation and Investing
• An extensive overview of the different types of securities available in the market
• It discusses the choices between equity and debt financing for issuers and the characteristics and roles of each
• The chapter delves into hybrid instruments, commodities as an asset class, and derivatives
• It also covers asset allocation, diversification, and the investment process in both equity and debt securities
• Primary Markets
• This chapter defines primary markets and their functions, comparing them with secondary markets
• It outlines the various intermediaries, types of issues, issuers, and investors in the primary market
• Regulatory frameworks, public issue processes for equities and debt securities, and private placements are also discussed
• Secondary Markets
• Focuses on the role and function of secondary markets and the different types available for various securities
• Details the market structure, participants, brokers, trade execution, clearing, and settlement of trades
• It also touches upon market information and regulation, risk management systems, and trading and reporting for debt securities
• Mutual Funds
• Provides a detailed explanation of mutual funds, their types, and related terms and concepts
• Differentiates between open-ended and closed-ended mutual fund schemes
• Discusses investment approaches, processes for investing in mutual funds, and systematic transactions
• It also includes information on the benefits, costs, regulations, and investor service standards in mutual funds
• Derivatives Markets
• Covers the basics of derivatives, underlying concepts, and the various types of derivative products
• Explores the structure of derivative markets, trading and settlement processes, and risk management
• Concludes with the application of derivatives in risk management and market indicators