What is the Graded Surveillance Measure?

Graded Surveillance Measure (GSM) is one of several regulatory measures used to maintain market integrity. GSM is a way to classify listed companies into different grades based on their compliance with regulatory requirements and market behaviour.

The grading in GSM ranges from Grade 1 to Grade 7, with Grade 1 indicating the least risk and Grade 7 indicating the highest risk.

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Companies are periodically assessed and graded, and their GSM status can change over time. Companies that improve their compliance and financial performance can apply for reclassification to a lower GSM grade.

Why is GSM Important?

• Companies under GSM may need to implement a comprehensive compliance program.
• Companies in higher GSM grades are generally considered more stable and less risky for investment.
• A company's GSM grade can affect its ability to participate in buybacks, issue bonus shares, or pay dividends.
• Companies with low trading volumes and market capitalization may be more susceptible to GSM actions.
• Companies that consistently violate regulations and fail to improve their GSM grade may face delisting from the stock exchange.

What are the factors affecting GSM?

The following are a few factors that affect GSM:

• Financial performance and health.
• Regulatory compliance and corporate governance.
• Market behaviour and trading irregularities.
• Past track record and transparency.
• Overall risk assessment based on these factors.

How Does GSM Work?

• The grading process in GSM is typically conducted by a team of experts and analysts.
• Companies are assessed and assigned grades periodically.
• Factors include financial health, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance.
• Companies can move between grades based on their performance.
• GSM actions, like trading restrictions, can be imposed on companies in high-risk grades.

What are the Implications of GSM?

• Higher GSM grades (1-3) signify stability and attract investors.
• Lower GSM grades (4-7) can lead to trading restrictions, impacting stock liquidity.
• Companies with a Grade 1 GSM are often seen as blue-chip stocks.
• GSM's actions aim to maintain market integrity and transparency.
• Companies under the GSM may be required to appoint additional independent directors to improve corporate governance.
• Companies under GSM may need to implement strict internal controls and reporting mechanisms.
• Companies under GSM may need to appoint a compliance officer to monitor and report on regulatory compliance.
• Companies that are under GSM may experience a decline in investor confidence.
• Repeated GSM actions can result in delisting.

Is GSM the Same Across All Stock Exchanges and Countries?

While core principles are similar, specifics vary between jurisdictions. Different stock exchanges and regulatory authorities may have variations in GSM criteria.

How Can Investors Check a Company's GSM Status?

Investors can typically find a company's GSM status on the official website of the relevant stock exchange.

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