{"id":25638347,"date":"2026-02-11T14:45:14","date_gmt":"2026-02-11T09:15:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/?p=25638347"},"modified":"2026-02-11T14:48:11","modified_gmt":"2026-02-11T09:18:11","slug":"mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/","title":{"rendered":"Difference Between Mainboard IPO and SME IPO"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_79_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69e6354ee1640\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69e6354ee1640\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#What_is_an_IPO\" >What is an IPO?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Understanding_a_Mainboard_IPO_and_an_SME_IPO\" >Understanding a Mainboard IPO and an SME IPO<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Reason_for_introducing_SME_IPOs_in_India\" >Reason for introducing SME IPOs in India<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Eligibility_Criteria_Mainboard_IPO_vs_SME_IPO\" >Eligibility Criteria: Mainboard IPO vs SME IPO<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Issue_Size_and_Fundraising_Capacity\" >Issue Size and Fundraising Capacity<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Listing_Platforms_and_Trading\" >Listing Platforms and Trading<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Liquidity_and_Volatility\" >Liquidity and Volatility<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Regulatory_Requirements_Compliance\" >Regulatory Requirements, Compliance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Risk_Profile_Mainboard_IPO_Vs_SME_IPO\" >Risk Profile: Mainboard IPO V\/s SME IPO<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Growth_Potential_and_Returns\" >Growth Potential and Returns<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Investor_Participation\" >Investor Participation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Migration_from_SME_to_Mainboard\" >Migration from SME to Mainboard<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Taxation_of_Mainboard_IPO_and_SME_IPO\" >Taxation of Mainboard IPO and SME IPO<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#How_to_Choose_Between_Mainboard_IPO_and_SME_IPO\" >How to Choose Between Mainboard IPO and SME IPO<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Common_Myths_About_SME_IPOs\" >Common Myths About SME IPOs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Key_Takeaways\" >Key Takeaways<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/mainboard-ipo-vs-sme-ipo\/#Parting_Words\" >Parting Words<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span><strong>Introduction<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>When companies in India have the requirement of raising money from the public, one of the most common routes they prefer is an Initial Public Offering (IPO). Now you might be curious to know how an IPO works. When an IPO takes place, a private company becomes a publicly listed company. To keep it simple, its shares can be bought and sold on a stock exchange. However, for many retail investors the confusion still remains as IPOs in India are broadly divided into <strong>Mainboard IPOs<\/strong> and <strong>SME IPOs<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Be it Mainboard IPOs or SME IPOs, both of them allow investors to participate in a company\u2019s growth journey. That said, they are meant for very different kinds of businesses. It is of integral importance to clearly understand the <strong>difference between mainboard IPO and SME IPO<\/strong> because the risks, investment size, regulations, and return potential can vary significantly.<\/p>\n<p>This blog explains the difference between mainboard IPO and SME IPO in simple English for Indian investors. We have included everything right from how each IPO works, eligibility criteria, minimum investment, risks, benefits, and which type of investor each IPO is best suited for. After reading this blog till the end, you should have a clear idea of where you stand as an investor and what to look for before applying.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/course\/stock-market-course\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Join our Online Course and Learn Stock Marketing the Right Way. Enrol Now!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_an_IPO\"><\/span><strong>What is an IPO?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>An Initial Public Offering (IPO), is the process by which a company offers its shares to the public for the first time and gets listed on a stock exchange. Prior to an IPO, the company is usually owned by promoters, founders, and a few private investors. After the IPO, public investors also become shareholders.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-25638350 \" src=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1538.webp\" alt=\"Stock Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" srcset=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1538.webp 1500w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1538-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1538-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1538-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1538-150x100.webp 150w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1538-750x500.webp 750w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/1538-1140x760.webp 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The following are some of the many reasons due to which companies launch IPOs:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Raising funds for expanding business<\/li>\n<li>Bringing down debt<\/li>\n<li>Elevating brand visibility and credibility<\/li>\n<li>Offering an exit option to early investors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In India, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is the body that regulates IPOs. Also note that these IPOs are listed on recognised stock exchanges like NSE and BSE.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_a_Mainboard_IPO_and_an_SME_IPO\"><\/span><strong>Understanding a Mainboard IPO and <\/strong><strong>an SME IPO<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><strong>What is a Mainboard IPO?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>A <strong>Mainboard IPO<\/strong> is an IPO launched by relatively large and established companies. These companies usually have a strong financial track record, higher revenues, and a larger market presence. Mainboard IPOs are listed on the main platforms of stock exchanges, such as the NSE Main Board or BSE Main Board.<\/p>\n<p>Main board IPOs tend to attract a lot of interest from ordinary folks as well as from the big players &#8211; be it institutional investors, mutual funds, insurance companies or even foreign investors. Because they&#8217;re a lot bigger and have to jump through some pretty tough regulatory hoops, main board IPOs are often viewed as a bit more solid than SME IPOs &#8211; but that doesn&#8217;t mean they&#8217;re completely safe and sound.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>What is an SME IPO?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>An SME IPO, on the other hand, is basically for smaller and medium sized businesses looking to get their hands on some cash from the public. These companies are a wee bit smaller in scale and maybe not even out of their teenage years in terms of growth yet. SME IPOs list on those special platforms that are usually for smaller outfits like the NSE SME or the BSE SME.<\/p>\n<p>The main aim of SME IPOs is to make it easier for these growing businesses to tap into the capital markets. While they do offer the potential for some good growth, they also carry a higher risk because of the lower liquidity, smaller scale of operations and pretty much no track record to fall back on.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Reason_for_introducing_SME_IPOs_in_India\"><\/span><strong>Reason for introducing SME IPOs in India<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There are heaps of small businesses in India that are really struggling to get the funds they need through more traditional means &#8211; like bank loans or from private investors. To solve this problem, special SME platforms were introduced to allow smaller companies to list with simpler compliance requirements.<\/p>\n<p>The idea was to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Support entrepreneurship and innovation<\/li>\n<li>Provide growth capital to small businesses<\/li>\n<li>Create investment opportunities beyond large companies<\/li>\n<li>Encourage transparency and better corporate governance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>It becomes easier to understand the <strong>difference between mainboard IPO and SME IPO<\/strong> once you know that both serve different segments of the economy.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Eligibility_Criteria_Mainboard_IPO_vs_SME_IPO\"><\/span><strong>Eligibility Criteria: Mainboard IPO vs SME IPO<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-25638352 \" src=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20548550_6304381-scaled.webp\" alt=\"Stock Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" srcset=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20548550_6304381-scaled.webp 2560w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20548550_6304381-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20548550_6304381-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20548550_6304381-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20548550_6304381-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20548550_6304381-2048x1365.webp 2048w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20548550_6304381-150x100.webp 150w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20548550_6304381-750x500.webp 750w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20548550_6304381-1140x760.webp 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Eligibility for Mainboard IPO<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Companies planning a mainboard IPO must meet strict eligibility conditions. These usually include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Strong financial performance over previous years<\/li>\n<li>Minimum net worth and profitability requirements<\/li>\n<li>Higher paid-up capital<\/li>\n<li>Proven business model and operational history<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Because of these requirements, only well-established companies can opt for a mainboard IPO.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Eligibility for SME IPO<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>SME IPOs have comparatively relaxed eligibility norms, such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Lower minimum net worth<\/li>\n<li>Smaller issue size<\/li>\n<li>Shorter operating history allowed<\/li>\n<li>Simpler compliance requirements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This flexibility helps smaller companies access the stock market without the heavy burden faced by large corporations.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Issue_Size_and_Fundraising_Capacity\"><\/span><strong>Issue Size and Fundraising Capacity<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>One of the biggest points in the difference between mainboard IPO and SME IPO is the issue size.<\/p>\n<p>Mainboard IPOs generally raise large amounts of money, often running into hundreds or even thousands of crores. These funds are used for major expansion plans, acquisitions, or large-scale debt reduction.<\/p>\n<p>When it comes to SME IPOs, they raise much smaller amounts. Generally they come somewhere between a few crores to around a hundred crores. These funds are used typically for working capital needs, small expansions, or technology upgrades.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Minimum Investment and Lot Size<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-25638353 \" src=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/29974.webp\" alt=\"Stock Market\" width=\"499\" height=\"312\" srcset=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/29974.webp 1500w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/29974-300x188.webp 300w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/29974-1024x640.webp 1024w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/29974-768x480.webp 768w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/29974-150x94.webp 150w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/29974-750x469.webp 750w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/29974-1140x713.webp 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 499px) 100vw, 499px\" \/><\/p>\n<h4><strong>Mainboard IPO Lot Size<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Mainboard IPOs are designed to be accessible to retail investors. The lot size is usually small, and the minimum investment often falls within a reasonable range that most retail investors can afford.<\/p>\n<p>This encourages wide participation from individual investors.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>SME IPO Lot Size<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>SME IPOs usually have a much larger lot size. The minimum investment amount can be significantly higher compared to mainboard IPOs. This is done to limit participation to serious investors who understand the higher risks involved.<\/p>\n<p>Because of this, SME IPOs may not be suitable for investors with limited capital.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Listing_Platforms_and_Trading\"><\/span><strong>Listing Platforms and Trading<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Mainboard IPO shares are listed on the main trading platforms of NSE and BSE. These stocks enjoy high liquidity, meaning it is easy to buy or sell shares at market prices.<\/p>\n<p>SME IPO shares are listed on separate SME platforms. Liquidity in these stocks is usually low, and trading volumes can be limited. This means investors may find it difficult to sell their shares quickly.<\/p>\n<p>Liquidity is a crucial factor when comparing the difference between mainboard IPO and SME IPO.<\/p>\n<div class=\"lead-gen-block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Stock-Market-360_Pdf-1.pdf\" data-url=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Stock-Market-360_Pdf-1.pdf\" class=\"lead-pdf-download\" data-id=\"25556854\">\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><button class=\"btn btn-default\">free download Stock market course roadmap<\/button><\/p>\n<\/a><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Liquidity_and_Volatility\"><\/span><strong>Liquidity and Volatility<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><strong>Mainboard IPO Liquidity<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Mainboard IPO stocks generally have:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Higher trading volumes<\/li>\n<li>Better price discovery<\/li>\n<li>Lower chances of extreme price manipulation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>While prices can still fluctuate, liquidity is usually sufficient for smooth entry and exit.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>SME IPO Liquidity<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>SME IPO stocks often experience:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Low trading volumes<\/li>\n<li>Sharp price movements<\/li>\n<li>Difficulty in exiting positions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Prices can rise or fall sharply even with small trades. This makes SME IPOs more volatile and risky for inexperienced investors.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Regulatory_Requirements_Compliance\"><\/span><strong>Regulatory Requirements, Compliance<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Mainboard IPOs are subject to strict regulatory oversight. Companies must follow detailed disclosure norms, corporate governance standards, and periodic reporting requirements.<\/p>\n<p>SME IPOs enjoy certain relaxations in compliance to reduce costs and encourage participation. However, this also means investors may have access to less information compared to mainboard companies.<\/p>\n<p>This regulatory difference is another important aspect of the difference between mainboard IPO and SME IPO.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Risk_Profile_Mainboard_IPO_Vs_SME_IPO\"><\/span><strong>Risk Profile: Mainboard IPO V\/s SME IPO<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-25638355 \" src=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/9010589_4065799-scaled.webp\" alt=\"Stock Market\" width=\"498\" height=\"332\" srcset=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/9010589_4065799-scaled.webp 2560w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/9010589_4065799-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/9010589_4065799-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/9010589_4065799-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/9010589_4065799-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/9010589_4065799-2048x1365.webp 2048w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/9010589_4065799-150x100.webp 150w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/9010589_4065799-750x500.webp 750w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/9010589_4065799-1140x760.webp 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 498px) 100vw, 498px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Risks in Mainboard IPOs<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Mainboard IPOs are generally less risky compared to SME IPOs, but risks still exist. These include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Market volatility<\/li>\n<li>Overvaluation at the time of listing<\/li>\n<li>Poor performance after listing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>However, the presence of institutional investors and stricter regulations often boosts the confidence levels.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Risks in SME IPOs<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>SME IPOs carry higher risks such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Limited operating history<\/li>\n<li>High dependence on a few clients<\/li>\n<li>Lower liquidity<\/li>\n<li>Higher price volatility<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Hence, due to the above factors, investors must carefully assess their risk tolerance before investing in SME IPOs.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Growth_Potential_and_Returns\"><\/span><strong>Growth Potential and Returns<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Mainboard IPOs usually offer stable and moderate growth over the long term. These companies are often already well-established, so explosive growth may be limited.<\/p>\n<p>On the other hand, SME IPOs can offer very high returns if the company grows successfully. Many small companies have the potential to turn out to be large businesses in the future. That said, it is not that all SME IPOs succeed, and some may fail.<\/p>\n<p>This risk-reward trade-off is central to understanding the difference between mainboard IPO and SME IPO.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Investor_Participation\"><\/span><strong>Investor Participation<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Mainboard IPOs attract a wide range of investors:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Retail investors<\/li>\n<li>Institutional investors<\/li>\n<li>Mutual funds<\/li>\n<li>Foreign investors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>SME IPOs mainly attract:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>High-net-worth individuals<\/li>\n<li>Experienced investors<\/li>\n<li>Long-term investors with higher risk appetite<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Retail participation in SME IPOs is usually limited due to high investment requirements.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Migration_from_SME_to_Mainboard\"><\/span><strong>Migration from SME to Mainboard<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>An interesting feature of SME IPOs is that successful companies can later migrate to the mainboard. On meeting the required criteria, they can shift to the main trading platform. This often improves liquidity and visibility.<\/p>\n<p>This migration can be beneficial for early investors. However, there is guarantee.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-25638354 \" src=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/485.webp\" alt=\"Stock Market\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" srcset=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/485.webp 1500w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/485-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/485-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/485-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/485-150x100.webp 150w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/485-750x500.webp 750w, https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/485-1140x760.webp 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Taxation_of_Mainboard_IPO_and_SME_IPO\"><\/span><strong>Taxation of Mainboard IPO and SME IPO<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>From a taxation perspective, there is no major difference between mainboard IPO and SME IPO for investors. Capital gains tax rules apply in the same manner:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Short-term capital gains if shares are sold within a year<\/li>\n<li>Long-term capital gains if shares are held for more than a year<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Tax treatment depends on the holding period and applicable tax laws.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Choose_Between_Mainboard_IPO_and_SME_IPO\"><\/span><strong>How to Choose Between Mainboard IPO and SME IPO<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Before you invest in an IPO, ask yourself the following questions:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>What is my risk tolerance?<\/li>\n<li>What is the amount of capital I can invest?<\/li>\n<li>Does liquidity matter to me?<\/li>\n<li>Is my purpose of investing short-term gains or long-term growth?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you are looking for stability, liquidity, and lower risk, mainboard IPOs may suit you more. On the other hand, if you are ready to take higher risk for potentially higher returns and can invest a larger amount, it may be worth considering SME IPOs.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Myths_About_SME_IPOs\"><\/span><strong>Common Myths About SME IPOs<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Many investors believe SME IPOs always give higher returns, though this is not true. Though some SME IPOs do perform exceptionally well, others may struggle or fail.<\/p>\n<p>Another myth is that SME IPOs are unsafe. The reality is that they are regulated but designed for a different category of investors.<\/p>\n<p>Understanding facts instead of myths helps in making better decisions about the difference between mainboard IPO and SME IPO.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/course\/stock-market-course\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Join our Online Course and Learn Stock Marketing the Right Way. Enrol Now!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Takeaways\"><\/span><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Mainboard IPOs are for large, established companies whereas SME IPOs are for small and medium enterprises.<\/li>\n<li>Mainboard IPOs have lower risk, better liquidity, and smaller minimum investment requirements.<\/li>\n<li>SME IPOs offer higher growth potential but also carry higher risk and lower liquidity.<\/li>\n<li>When compared to SME IPOs, regulatory requirements are stricter for mainboard IPOs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Investors should choose based on risk appetite, investment size, and financial goals.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Parting_Words\"><\/span><strong>Parting Words<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Hope you are absolutely clear about the <strong>difference between mainboard IPO and SME IPO. <\/strong>If you are planning to buy stocks, it is an imperative to learn stock markets from a trusted finance education platform.<\/p>\n<p>Entri Finacademy has grown to be a leading finance education platform since 2022. To start with, Entri has a team of highly experienced, expert mentors who will help you learn stock markets right from the scratch to the advanced levels. With features such as practical trading support and both live and recorded classes, learning is pretty easy here. Last but not least, there is also the option to learn stock markets in several regional languages including Tamil and Malayalam. To know more about Entri Finacademy\u2019s stock market courses, click <a href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/course\/stock-market-course\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"alert alert-warning\"><strong>Disclaimer:<\/strong> The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as investment advice, financial guidance, or an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Readers should conduct their own research or consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. The author(s) and the publisher disclaim any liability for any loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from the use of or reliance on the information provided herein.<\/div>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"2\">\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>RELATED POSTS<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/career-opportunities-in-stock-market\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Career Opportunities in Stock Market<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/needs-vs-wants\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Needs vs Wants: How to Control Overspending<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/short-squeeze-vs-long-squeeze-in-stock-market\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Short Squeeze vs Long Squeeze in Stock Market\u00a0<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/entri-stock-market-course-faqs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Entri Stock Market Course: Frequently Asked Questions<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/stock-marketing-for-beginners-in-india\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Stock Marketing for Beginners in India 2025<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/entri.app\/blog\/how-to-do-stock-marketing-a-complete-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>How to do Stock Marketing? 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margin-bottom: -15px;\"> <div id=\"cf-turnstile-cf7-2560608745\" class=\"cf-turnstile\" data-sitekey=\"0x4AAAAAABVigxtkiZeGTu5L\" data-theme=\"light\" data-language=\"auto\" data-size=\"normal\" data-retry=\"auto\" data-retry-interval=\"1000\" data-action=\"contact-form-7\" data-appearance=\"always\"><\/div> <script>document.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\", function() { setTimeout(function(){ var e=document.getElementById(\"cf-turnstile-cf7-2560608745\"); e&&!e.innerHTML.trim()&&(turnstile.remove(\"#cf-turnstile-cf7-2560608745\"), turnstile.render(\"#cf-turnstile-cf7-2560608745\", {sitekey:\"0x4AAAAAABVigxtkiZeGTu5L\"})); }, 0); });<\/script> <br class=\"cf-turnstile-br cf-turnstile-br-cf7-2560608745\"> <style>#cf-turnstile-cf7-2560608745 { margin-left: -15px; }<\/style> <script>document.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\",function(){document.querySelectorAll('.wpcf7-form').forEach(function(e){e.addEventListener('submit',function(){if(document.getElementById('cf-turnstile-cf7-2560608745')){setTimeout(function(){turnstile.reset('#cf-turnstile-cf7-2560608745');},1000)}})})});<\/script> <\/div><br\/><input class=\"wpcf7-form-control wpcf7-submit has-spinner\" type=\"submit\" value=\"Submit\" \/>\n<\/p><div class=\"wpcf7-response-output\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n<\/form>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction When companies in India have the requirement of raising money from the public, one of the most common routes they prefer is an Initial Public Offering (IPO). Now you might be curious to know how an IPO works. When an IPO takes place, a private company becomes a publicly listed company. To keep it [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":137,"featured_media":25638348,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[802,1867],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-25638347","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-articles","category-stock-marketing"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Difference Between Mainboard IPO and SME IPO - Entri Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Curious about how Mainboard IPOs are different from SME IPOs? 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