2.11What is an ISIN number?
1What is it?
An ISIN (International Securities Identification Number) is a unique 12-character code that identifies a specific security worldwide.
2Why does it exist?
Names can be confusing (Tata has many companies) and symbols differ across exchanges. The ISIN is the same everywhere and never confused.
3Real-life example
Like your Aadhaar number: many people can be called "Rahul Sharma", but only one has your Aadhaar number.
4Stock market example
Indian ISINs start with IN. For example, Reliance Industries’ equity ISIN is INE002A01018. The "E" after IN means the issuer is a company; mutual fund units start with INF. You’ll see the ISIN on contract notes and demat statements.
5Quick revision
- ISIN = unique 12-character security ID.
- Indian ISINs start with "IN".
- Same across NSE and BSE.
6Knowledge check
Q1. How many characters does an ISIN have?Show answer
12.
Q2. Is a company’s ISIN different on NSE and BSE?Show answer
No, the ISIN is the same.
Q3. What do mutual fund ISINs in India usually start with?Show answer
INF.
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