Indian market is sound, attractive: Chidambaram

Amid fears of global financial meltdown hitting India, FM P Chidambaram assured investors that Indian market is "sound and attractive" and promised them to take necessary action if needed.

Amid fears of global financial meltdown hitting India, Finance Minister P Chidambaram on Tuesday assured investors that Indian market is "sound and attractive" and promised them to take necessary action if needed.

HT Image

"There is nothing to worry about the Indian market. We are suffering the consequences of turbulence around the world. Basically, Indian market is a sound, attractive and well regulated market", he told reporters in New Delhi.

The government is monitoring the situation round-the- clock, he said, adding "the regulations that are in place are adequate. But if the regulations are to be tweaked we will do so".

He further added that steps would to be taken, if needed, for smooth functioning of the market.

Commenting on withdrawal of FIIs from equity market, he said, "FIIs are selling but I do not think all FIIs are selling nor do I think they are selling all the time."

They are selling because they have got payment obligations, he said, adding, "some FIIs are buying and perhaps more FIIs will buy having regard to the fact that India is still is a very attractive market to invest and Indian market is a well regulated market".

Referring to the rejection of 700 billion-dollar bailout package by the US House of Representatives, Chidambaram said, "bailout package is a concern of US Congress and the US Government. It is agreed by everyone that bailout is necessary. How the Congress will reconcile to the views of two major political parities, it is not for me to comment."

He said, "Of course, we will be greatly helped if a bailout package is quickly approved by the US Congress."