Section 41 of Companies Act, 2013: How Indian Companies Can Raise Global Capital Through GDRs
In today’s world, raising funds is not limited to the geographical boundaries. Because of the globalised business environment, Indian companies are now looking towards foreign markets for funding their growth, expansion, and innovation apart from the domestic market. To meet this challenge, the Companies Act, 2013, introduced a game-changing provision that allows Indian companies to tap foreign investors directly. This provision is Section 41 of the Companies Act, 2013.
In the present times, money-raising is not limited to the local region only. As a result of a globalized business environment, Indian companies are looking for funds in foreign markets for their growth, expansion, and innovation apart from the domestic market. To cater to this evolving situation, the Companies Act, 2013, has brought in a revolutionary section that enables Indian companies to tap foreign investors directly. This section of the Companies Act, 2013, is Section 41.
What Is Section 41 of the Companies Act, 2013?
Nowadays, raising money is not confined to just the local area anymore. Due to the globally interconnected business environment, Indian firms apart from seeking money in the domestic market, are also scouting for funds in foreign markets for their growth, expansion, and innovation. To cater to this evolving scenario, the Companies Act, 2013 came up with a radical provision that enables Indian companies to have access to foreign investors directly. This provision is Section 41 of the Companies Act, 2013.
This section came into force on April 1, 2014, and is enabled by the Companies (Issue of Global Depository Receipts) Rules, 2014. This section, along with the rules, provides a regulatory framework that regulates the manner in which companies are allowed to issue depository receipts in any foreign nation, as specified by the Central Government.
In summary, Section 41 enables Indian companies to access global investors while still being in compliance with Indian corporate law.
Understanding Global Depository Receipts (GDRs)
Global Depository Receipt
A Global Depository Receipt is a negotiable financial instrument issued by a foreign depository bank. It symbolizes the shares of an Indian company and is listed on foreign stock exchanges. Foreign investors would buy GDRs abroad instead of investing in Indian shares.
This set-up is advantageous for both parties. Firms can tap into foreign capital markets, whereas investors can invest in Indian companies without going through the domestic regulatory maze. Section 41 lays down the legal framework for this operation and makes certain that GDR issuance is clear, controlled and has the consent of the shareholders.
Why Section 41 Was Introduced
The provisions regarding depository receipts prior to the Companies Act, 2013, were not clear and consistent. As there were more cross-border investments, there was a requirement for a clear legal framework regarding the issue of depository receipts in any foreign nation.
Section 41 was introduced to:
• Encourage global fund-raising by Indian companies
• Provide legal certainty for issuing GDRs
• Protect shareholder interests through mandatory approvals
• Align Indian corporate law with international financial practices
This move positioned Indian companies competitively in global capital markets.
Conditions for Issuing GDRs Under Section 41
Issuing Global Depository Receipts is not automatic. Section 41 imposes specific conditions to ensure accountability and compliance.
Key requirements include:
• Passing a special resolution in a general meeting
• Compliance with Companies (Issue of Global Depository Receipts) Rules, 2014
• Adherence to conditions prescribed by the Central Government
• Alignment with foreign exchange and securities regulations
These safeguards ensure that overseas capital raising is well-regulated and in the company’s long-term interest.
Role of the Special Resolution
One of the most important aspects of Section 41 is shareholder approval. A company cannot issue GDRs without passing a special resolution, which requires at least 75% shareholder consent.
This ensures:
• Transparency in decision-making
• Shareholders are aware of dilution and overseas exposure
• Management remains accountable
It reinforces corporate democracy while enabling global expansion.
Companies Eligible to Issue Depository Receipts
Section 41 applies broadly to Companies registered under the Companies Act, 2013. Both listed and eligible unlisted companies can issue GDRs, provided they meet regulatory conditions.
This flexibility allows:
• Large corporates to expand internationally
• Growth-stage companies to attract foreign capital
• Indian brands to establish global investor visibility
However, compliance remains non-negotiable.
Advantages of Issuing GDRs
The issue of depository receipts under Section 41 offers several strategic benefits.
Companies can:
• Access a wider investor base
• Raise capital in foreign currency
• Improve global brand recognition
• Reduce dependence on domestic markets
For investors, GDRs provide diversification and exposure to emerging markets like India.
Regulatory Framework Supporting Section 41
Section 41 does not operate in isolation. It is supported by:
• Companies (Issue of Global Depository Receipts) Rules, 2014
• Foreign exchange regulations
• SEBI guidelines (where applicable)
This integrated framework ensures that issuing GDRs is legally sound, financially transparent, and globally acceptable.
Compliance Challenges and Practical Considerations
While Section 41 opens global doors, it also brings complexity. Companies must manage:
• Cross-border legal compliance
• Currency risk
• Disclosure standards in foreign jurisdictions
• Ongoing reporting obligations
Professional advisory support becomes crucial to avoid regulatory lapses and penalties.
Strategic Importance for Indian Companies
Globally mobile capital flows have made Section 41 a very pertinent instrument. In order to expand operations, purchase foreign assets, or make their balance sheets more robust, Indian companies can efficiently use GDRs as a source of capital.
It reflects India’s intention to integrate its corporate sector with global financial markets while maintaining strong governance standards.
Common Misconceptions About Section 41
Many believe issuing GDRs means loss of control. In reality:
• Voting rights remain structured
• Shareholder dilution is transparent
• Control depends on issuance size
Section 41 ensures clarity, not chaos.
Why Section 41 Matters Today More Than Ever
With rising global investor interest in India, Section 41 has gained renewed importance. It allows Indian companies to tell their growth story on international platforms and attract long-term capital.
It is not just a legal provision—it is a growth enabler.
Final Thoughts
Section 41 of the Companies Act, 2013, empowers Indian companies to think globally while acting responsibly. By permitting companies to issue Global Depository Receipts in any foreign country, it bridges domestic enterprise with international capital markets.
For companies with global ambitions, understanding and correctly implementing Section 41 can unlock unprecedented opportunities.
