Financial Awareness Level
What is ISIN Number in a Demat Account? Meaning, Purpose & How to Find It
Introduction
If you’ve ever traded in stocks, bonds, or mutual fund schemes, you might have come across the term ISIN number. It plays a crucial role in the identification and management of securities in your Demat account. In this blog, we explain what an ISIN number is, why it matters, and how to find the ISIN linked to your investments.
What is ISIN Number?
ISIN stands for International Securities Identification Number. It is a unique 12-character alphanumeric code assigned to each financial security such as shares, bonds, debentures, and mutual fund units.
ISIN Meaning in Simple Terms:
An ISIN is like a security’s passport number. It uniquely identifies every stock or bond in your Demat account across the globe.
Structure of an ISIN Code A typical ISIN looks like this: INE123A01016
- First two characters: Country code (e.g., IN for India)
- Next nine characters: Unique security identifier
- Last character: Check digit for validation
Purpose of ISIN in a Demat Account
- Helps identify and track individual securities
- Used by depositories (NSDL/CDSL), brokers, and exchanges for smooth settlements
- Essential for issuing, transferring, and redeeming securities
- Ensures accuracy and avoids duplication in financial transactions
Where to Find ISIN in a Demat Account
1. Through Your Broker Platform
- Login to your trading or Demat portal
- Go to holdings or portfolio section
- Click on a specific security to view its ISIN
2. NSDL/CDSL Statement
- Your periodic Demat statement (email or downloaded) will list securities with corresponding ISINs
3. Company Filings or Mutual Fund Factsheets
- Visit the company’s investor section or AMFI for ISIN references
4. NSDL & CDSL Website Search
- Use the ISIN search tool on nsdl.co.in or cdslindia.com
Why ISIN Is Important for Investors
- Required for transfers and pledges in the Demat system
- Helps in tracking and reporting holdings accurately
- Used in corporate actions like bonus issues, rights, dividends
- Prevents fraud by ensuring precise identification of securities
The option of investing in mutual fund schemes has been made even more accessible with the introduction of 3-in-1 accounts that provide the functions of Demat, savings, and trading account. However, opening a Demat account is also relatively easy and hassle-free.
You may also invest through an Demat + Trading Account
- You must log on to Demat+Trading Account
- You then select the mutual fund house from the list of fund houses
- Pick the mutual fund scheme based on your investment objectives and risk tolerance and click on Invest now
- You must select the amount you plan to invest in the mutual fund scheme and the mode as either One Time or Monthly SIP.
One can also buy mutual funds units through NSE – MFSS and BSE - StAR MF just like a company stock. To avail this facility, one must complete a one-time online registration with NSE or BSE, as the case may be. For more information on NSE – MFSS and BSE - StAR MF, please visit www.nseindia.co / www.bseindia.com
Further, ISIN also forms part of each and every mutual fund scheme.
(Please note that it may vary as per brokers requirements, thereby you are recommended to seek advice from financial advisor before you take any/refrain from any action)
Conclusion
The ISIN number is a critical identifier in your Demat account, helping you and your depository distinguish each security with precision. Knowing how to find ISIN and understanding its purpose can improve how you track and manage your investments.
Additional links:
What is a Mutual Fund? - Beginner's Guide to Investing
AMFI - Introduction to Mutual Funds
FAQ Section
What is the full form of ISIN?
ISIN stands for International Securities Identification Number.
How many digits are there in an ISIN number?
ISIN consists of 12 alphanumeric characters.
Where can I find the ISIN for a stock?
Through your broker's dashboard, Demat statement, or NSDL/CDSL website.
Is ISIN the same as stock ticker or symbol?
No. A ticker is used for trading; ISIN is for identification and back-end processing.
Can two securities have the same ISIN?
No. Each security (including different series or classes) has a unique ISIN.
Does every mutual fund have an ISIN?
Yes. Every mutual fund scheme and plan has a unique ISIN.
Can ISIN help in transferring shares between Demat accounts?
Yes. ISIN is mandatory when filling out Delivery Instruction Slips (DIS).
What happens if I enter the wrong ISIN in a transfer?
It may result in a failed or incorrect transaction. Always double-check.
Do unlisted shares have ISIN numbers?
Yes. Even unlisted and private placements are assigned ISINs for compliance and tracking.
Why should investors be aware of ISIN numbers?
For better portfolio tracking, accurate reporting, and smooth share transfers.
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An Investor Education And Awareness Initiative
Visit https://www.hdfcfund.com/information/key-know-how to know more about the process to complete a one-time Know Your Customer (KYC) requirement to invest in Mutual Funds. Investors should only deal with registered Mutual Funds, details of which can be verified on the SEBI website (www.sebi.gov.in/intermediaries.html). For any queries, complaints & grievance redressal, investors may reach out to the AMCs and / or Investor Relations Officers. Additionally, investors may also lodge complaints directly with the AMCs. If they are not satisfied with the resolutions given by AMCs, they may raise complaint through the SCORES portal on https://scores.sebi.gov.in/scores-home/. SCORES portal facilitates investors to lodge complaint online with SEBI and subsequently view its status. In case the investor is not satisfied with the resolution of the complaints raised directly with the AMCs or through the SCORES portal, they may file any complaint on the Smart ODR on https://smartodr.in/login.
The information is for general purposes only and not an investment advice. Readers should seek professional advice before taking any investment related decisions.
MUTUAL FUND INVESTMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO MARKET RISKS, READ ALL SCHEME RELATED DOCUMENTS CAREFULLY
