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Reporting Requirements for External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs)

External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs) in India are subject to specific reporting obligations to ensure transparency and regulatory compliance. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), has prescribed a detailed framework for the reporting of ECB transactions. Adherence to these requirements is mandatory for all eligible borrowers. 1. Loan Registration…

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A Comparative Overview of External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

India utilizes multiple channels to attract foreign capital, two of the most significant being External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). While both serve as vital tools in financing economic growth and development, they differ fundamentally in structure, purpose, and regulatory framework. External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) Definition:External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) refer to commercial…

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External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) Policy amendment

As per the existing policy on External Commercial Borrowings, Trade Credit, Borrowing and Lending in Foreign Currency, ECB can be raised under tracks I and III for working capital purposes. As per extant regulations ECB can be raised from direct and indirect equity holders or from a group company for working capital purpose. The above…

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External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) Policy – Revision

In consultation with Government of India, the Reserve Bank of India liberaised some aspects of ECB policy including policy on Rupee Denominated Bonds (RDB). According to review of the policy, the eligible borrower companies in manufacturing sector can raise Extranal Commercial Borrowings up to USD 50 million or its equivalent with minimum average maturity period…

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External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) – Clarifications on hedging

Further to its earlier circulars, Reserve Bank of India has clarified on the provisions of hedging in the ECB framework vide its circular (A.P. (DIR Series) Circular No. 15) dated 07.11.2016.  The circular provides clarity on hedging ‘External Commercial Borrowings, Trade Credit, Borrowing and Lending in Foreign Currency to bring uniformity in hedging practice in…

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External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) in Indian Rupees

The recognized overseas ECB lenders who are able to mobilise Indian Rupees may extend Rupee denominated loans to Indian companies. The lenders may enter into back-to-back swap transaction with AD-Category-1 banks to facilitate Rupee denominated lending. The recognized non-resident lender (financier from abroad)  approaches his overseas bank with a request for a swap rate for…

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