The Companies (Acceptance of Deposits) Rules, 2014 provide the regulatory framework for how companies may invite, accept, renew, and repay deposits under the Companies Act, 2013.

They define what constitutes a deposit and list several exclusions to ensure clarity and compliance.

The rules also specify eligibility conditions, limits on the amount of deposits, tenure restrictions, interest and brokerage caps, and special relaxations for private companies and start-ups.

The Companies (Acceptance of Deposits) Rules, 2014 set out what amounts count as deposits, list numerous exclusions, and define key terms like depositor and eligible company.

They clarify when application money, loans, debentures, and receipts from regulated financial players are treated as deposits or not.

The rules prescribe limits, tenures, and conditions for accepting deposits, requirements for security and deposit insurance, and the need to appoint trustees and execute a trust deed.

Depositor protections include maintenance of a deposit repayment reserve, strict timelines for receipts and refunds, and a penal interest rate for overdue repayments.

Non-compliance attracts fines and other sanctions, ensuring transparency and safeguarding investor interests.