150th anniversary of the BSE

On April 17, 2025, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman commended the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) for its remarkable technological strides and its enduring role in shaping India’s economic landscape. The remarks came during a grand celebration marking the 150th anniversary of the BSE, the oldest stock exchange in Asia.

• Speaking as the chief guest at the commemorative event, the Finance Minister highlighted the BSE’s operational scale and efficiency.

• “BSE processes orders worth ₹1,500 crore daily, which speaks volumes about its seamless adoption of cutting-edge technology,” she noted, adding that the exchange continues to serve as a true barometer of India’s economic direction.

About BSE

• Founded in 1875, BSE has been a cornerstone of India’s financial infrastructure. It was the first stock exchange in Asia, and also the first in India to receive permanent recognition under the Securities Contract Regulation Act, 1956. Over the decades, it has evolved into a globally respected institution, consistently adapting to the dynamic needs of the economy and capital markets.

• Among its many innovations, BSE made history by launching Electronic Gold Receipts (EGRs) during Muhurat Trading on Diwali, adding a new dimension to commodities trading in India.

• The BSE’s flagship index, the Sensex, comprises 30 actively traded stocks and serves as a benchmark indicator of market performance and investor sentiment in India.

• In 2017, BSE added another milestone to its legacy by becoming the first stock exchange in India to be listed on the stock market.