
Introduction
Every IPO investor, whether a beginner or an expert, needs to understand the refund & listing process. It’s one thing to apply for shares, but what happens after you click that ‘Apply’ button is just as important.
This detailed guide will help you learn how the IPO refund works, when your shares get credited, when the stock lists on the exchange, what you should watch for, and how to avoid refund delays or listing day mistakes.
Let’s break it all down in simple English.
Why the Refund Process Matters
When you apply for an IPO, you commit your money for the number of shares you want to buy. But you are not guaranteed to get those shares.
When demand is high, an IPO may be oversubscribed many times — meaning more applications than available shares. In such cases, allotment happens via a lottery system, and not everyone gets shares.
If you do not get shares (or get only part of your request), the excess money is refunded to you.
What is ASBA and How It Works
In India, IPOs use the ASBA (Application Supported by Blocked Amount) process. Under ASBA:
✅ Your application money stays in your bank account, but is blocked.
✅ The bank cannot use or release that amount until the allotment process is complete.
✅ If you get shares, only that portion is debited.
✅ If you don’t, the money is unblocked or refunded automatically.
This system makes IPO investing safer — your money stays in your account until shares are actually allotted.
Timeline for Refunds
Here’s how the typical timeline looks:
Step | Expected Timeline |
IPO closes | Day 0 |
Basis of allotment finalised | Day 3–4 |
Refunds initiated | Day 4–5 |
Funds unblocked in bank account | Day 5–7 |
Shares credited to demat | Day 5–6 |
Listing on stock exchange | Day 7–10 |
Most IPO refunds happen within 7 working days after the IPO closes. Refunds through UPI are usually faster than net banking.
How Refund is Processed
✅ If you applied via UPI, the blocked amount will be automatically released.
✅ If you used Net Banking ASBA, the bank will unblock the amount.
✅ You don’t need to fill any extra forms to get a refund.
Always check your bank account or UPI app balance to ensure the unblocking is done.
What If Refund is Delayed?
Sometimes, investors face delays due to bank holidays, technical glitches, or incorrect details. If your refund is delayed:
- Contact your broker first.
- Then reach out to the IPO registrar (Link Intime, KFintech, etc.).
- Keep your application number and bank statement handy.
Common Reasons for Refund Delay
❌ Wrong UPI ID entered during application.
❌ Bank account mismatch.
❌ Technical server issues.
❌ Public holidays delaying bank processing.
The Listing Process: What Happens After Refund
Once allotment and refund are done, the shares you did get are credited to your demat account. The stock’s listing day is when it starts trading on the stock exchange (NSE, BSE).
On listing day:
✅ The stock’s opening price is decided by market demand.
✅ It can be higher, lower, or same as the IPO price.
✅ You can sell the shares on the same day (if you want) or hold them for long-term growth.
Table: Example Listing Day Scenario
IPO Name | IPO Price (₹) | GMP (₹) | Listing Price (₹) | Day High/Low (₹) |
ABC Ltd | 100 | 40 | 140 | 150 / 135 |
XYZ Ltd | 500 | 100 | 600 | 620 / 580 |
This shows how market demand can affect your gains or losses on listing day.
Listing Day Tips for Investors
✅ Be ready to track the stock from 9:15 AM on listing day.
✅ Don’t panic sell if the price drops suddenly — watch how the market reacts.
✅ Set your stop-loss and target profit in advance.
✅ Use limit orders to avoid large price swings.
How to Check If Shares Are Credited
Your shares will appear in your demat account before listing day. Log in to your broker’s app and check your holdings. If they don’t appear:
- Confirm the allotment status with the registrar.
- Check if you entered the right DP ID/Client ID.
- Contact your broker immediately.
What to Do After Refund
Didn’t get any shares? Don’t worry!
✅ Use the refunded amount to apply for other upcoming IPOs.
✅ Keep your account funded and ready for new opportunities.
✅ Use market dips to invest in good stocks if you prefer.
Table: Upcoming IPOs Example
Company | Expected Date | Industry | Price Band (₹) |
ABC Ltd | Next Month | FMCG | 200–220 |
XYZ Ltd | Next Month | Tech | 500–550 |
PQR Ltd | Next Month | Pharma | 150–160 |
Checklist for Smooth Refund & Listing
✅ Use correct bank and UPI details.
✅ Save your application number and keep it safe.
✅ Track your refund status.
✅ Check demat account for credited shares.
✅ Stay updated about listing date.
Conclusion
The refund & listing process is one of the most important parts of IPO investing. By understanding how your money is blocked, when it gets refunded, and when shares list, you stay calm and confident. Always invest wisely, double-check your details, and don’t let small delays stress you out. The stock market rewards patient and informed investors.
✅ FAQs (10)
Q1: How long does IPO refund take?
👉 Usually 5–7 working days after IPO close.
Q2: Do I need to apply for refund separately?
👉 No. Refunds happen automatically.
Q3: Where do I check my refund status?
👉 In your bank account statement or UPI app.
Q4: What if my refund is delayed?
👉 Contact broker and registrar with details.
Q5: Can I cancel my IPO application?
👉 No. Once submitted, you can’t cancel — but the refund works if you don’t get shares.
Q6: When will my shares appear in demat?
👉 Usually 1–2 days before listing.
Q7: Can I sell shares on listing day?
👉 Yes, once they are credited, you can sell anytime.
Q8: What is the role of a registrar?
👉 They manage allotment, refunds, and investor queries.
Q9: What if I entered wrong UPI ID?
👉 It can delay refund — always double-check.
Q10: How can I get listing gain?
👉 By selling shares above the IPO price on listing day.
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