Govt may offload up to 25% of its share in LIC in next 5 years

New Delhi (TIP)-Even as the finance ministry is keeping an eye on global market conditions and whether they warrant deferring the initial share sale of the state-run Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), it is firming up a long-term, five-year plan to divest up to 25% of its equity in the firm, two officials familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity. That may mean the initial share sale of 5% being followed up with a so-called FPO or follow-on public offer of 5-10% more within a year, they added. Wide participation of policyholders, employees, retail investors and financial institutions will enhance transparency and efficiency in managing affairs of LIC, in which the government will always hold the majority stake and exercise management control, the two people confirmed, speaking on condition of anonymity. “After the IPO, which has been scheduled this month, government may gradually reduce its shareholding in LIC depending on its disinvestment targets and market appetite. The size and the timing of such offerings cannot be decided in advance,” one of the two said.