ANNUAL REPORT 2022-23

Letter from the Chairman and
Managing Director

Our priorities for the future are anchored in expanding our global outreach and amplifying our assets under management. We are driven to fortify our lending business by venturing into new segments. The remittance license in the UK and our IFSC operations hold the promise of long-term growth.”
Dear Esteemed Shareholders,

I address you today as the Chairman and Managing Director of Abans Holdings Limited, with immense pride and privilege, to present our inaugural Annual Report as a listed entity. This juncture signifies a monumental milestone in our journey — one that embodies remarkable growth, transformative evolution, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. Allow me to provide insights into our operations and pivotal developments that have sculpted our path, while reaffirming our unwavering commitment to our core values of outreach, innovation, and relentless accomplishment.

Navigating Challenges, Embracing Opportunities

The fiscal year 2022-23 unfolded amid global economic fluctuations, marked by geopolitical tensions, market volatility, and surging inflation rates. Thanks to concerted efforts by global policymakers, economies charted a course through these uncertain waters. The financial sector, though not immune to challenges, is poised for a more optimistic outlook. While renowned banking institutions faced setbacks, global inflation is projected to stabilise after a phase of tightening. Amidst this backdrop, consumer sentiments continue to catalyse growth across sectors.

Even amidst challenges, the Indian economy demonstrated resilience, offering opportunities despite adversity. The nation's diverse sectors have captivated global investors, underscoring its immense potential. Fuelled by favourable government policies and robust private consumption, domestic demand continues to flourish. Moreover, India's demographic advantage, epitomised by its youthful population, positions us for unparalleled growth ahead.

The Evolution of Abans Holdings

Our journey traces its roots to modest beginnings as a commodity trading company. Today, Abans Holdings has transformed into a diversified financial services conglomerate with a global footprint. Our strategic focus has propelled us to the forefront as a leading asset manager, built upon the tenets of integration and innovation.

Our range of services encompass a diverse portfolio, offering broking services for global institutional trading across equities, commodities, and currencies. We're not confined to trading; we're champions of asset management, delivering investment advisory services that cater to diverse client needs. Our crowning achievement, the Global Arbitrage Fund, has consistently delivered over 8% average returns in USD terms over the past five years.

8%

Average returns in USD terms over the past five years

Our robust portfolio is amplified by a series of licenses that enable us to act as a Stock and Commodity Exchange Brokers with memberships across all the major stock exchanges in India, including BSE, NSE, MSEI, MCX, NCDEX, ICEX and IIEL through our subsidiaries. We are also a SEBI Registered Portfolio Management company, SEBI Registered Category-I FPI and hold a Category-II & Category-III AIF license.

Our Company through its subsidiary Abans Global Limited (AGL) is a Broker Member on the Dubai Gold and Commodities Exchange (DGCX), an Associate Trade Member on the London Metal Exchange (LME), Trader Member on Dalian Commodity Exchange (DCE), International Energy Exchange (INE-Shanghai), Singapore Exchange (SGX), Shanghai International Gold Exchange (SGEI). AGL is also the only registered Qualified Foreign Institutional Investor (QFII) for Chinese Markets.

This prowess is further augmented by Abans Finance Pvt. Ltd. (AFPL), our subsidiary that acts as a dedicated lending arm. AFPL provides secure and unsecured term financing to both individuals and SMEs. Our commitment to quality lending practices has established an enviable track record of minimal delinquency.

Moreover, AFPL's UK-based subsidiary has been granted an FCA license to facilitate remittance services and foreign currency conversion, expanding our reach into the critical realm of financial services. As a prominent investment manager, we also oversee alternative investment funds that channel resources into domestic Indian companies, thus fuelling growth on home soil. Our strategic positioning equips us to spearhead global asset management.

Shaping a Visionary Future

Our core competency lies in asset management, reflected in our diverse portfolio tailored to varying risk profiles. We're ardent proponents of technology, leveraging it to enhance client service and operational efficiency. Our investments in advanced technology enable us to streamline operations, offering cutting-edge trading platforms and robust risk management.

Our priorities for the future are anchored in expanding our global outreach and amplifying our assets under management. We are driven to fortify our lending business by venturing into new segments. The remittance license in the UK and our IFSC operations hold the promise of long-term growth. These strategic moves, combined with our expanding financial offerings, position us to tap into opportunities and deliver robust returns to investors.

An Ongoing Journey of Collaboration and Achievement

As we reflect on the past year, gratitude fills our hearts for the unwavering efforts of our employees, partners, and stakeholders. Going forward, we remain steadfast in delivering shareholder value, offering unparalleled financial services, and nurturing enduring partnerships.

While global economic uncertainties persist, our readiness, agility, and determination remain resolute. With your unwavering support, Abans Holdings Limited is primed to scale new heights. Our journey has merely commenced, and we're confident that our dedication to excellence will continue to shine.

Thank you for being integral to our remarkable journey.

Warm Regards,

Abhishek Bansal
Chairman and Managing Director