As many as 23 firms are awaiting approval from the market regulator Sebi to enter the mutual fund space, which is already overcrowded with 37 players managing assets over Rs 7 lakh crore. Companies have filed for regulatory approvals, which are being processed by Sebi, sources said. Some of the Indian companies whose applications are with the market regulator include India Bulls, Future Finance, SREI Infrastructure Finance and ASK Investment Holdings.
Besides, brokerage entities like India Infoline, Prime Securities, Karvy Stock Broking and Jaypee Capital Services have also sought licences from Sebi for asset management. Two state-run banks — Union Bank of India and IDBI Bank — are also planning to venture into the asset management space and have approached the regulatory authority.