Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the markets regulator, on August 16, announced allowing of e-IPOs (initial public offerings). To begin with, the option of e-IPOs will be available at over 1,000 points for electronic bidding in public offers.    

Sebi said that it will frame new rules for investment advisers and fast-track clearance to public offer documents of companies. Sebi also allowed mutual funds flexibility in using expense charges. The markets regulator said that 30 bps expense ratio hike for Tier II cities will be allowed.    

Entry load for MFs may not be re-introduced. Sebi Chairman, UK Sinha said that these steps have been taken to expand market reach. Sebi will set up a committee for national mutual fund policy. The regulator has sought tax incentives in equity funds under Rajiv Gandhi Equity Savings Scheme.    

Companies will be allowed to achieve the minimum 25 per cent public shareholding rule through the allocation of bonus or rights shares. Market regulations have stipulated that all listed companies must have a minimum 25 per cent public shareholding by June 2013.