New Delhi, Aug. 28 -- The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed exempting certain listed issuers from the mandatory appointment of a merchant banker for small-value debt raised through private placement, citing operational challenges and the need to facilitate market development.

Under the proposal, the exemption would apply to debt securities or non-convertible redeemable preference shares issued through private placement at a face value of Rs 10,000, subject to specified eligibility conditions. The existing SEBI framework requires issuers undertaking such small-value debt offerings to appoint at least one merchant banker.

SEBI said feedback from market participants had highlighted the burden associated with mercha...