The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has issued an interim order prohibiting Axis Capital from undertaking new merchant banking assignments for debt securities due to regulatory breaches. The regulator found that Axis Capital provided guarantees for Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs) in a manner not permitted under existing rules, effectively acting as a debenture trustee rather than a merchant banker. This practice posed risks to the financial system and could disrupt market order. SEBI's order mandates Axis Capital to respond to the allegations within 21 days, while the firm has acknowledged the order and expressed its intention to cooperate with SEBI. The restrictions underscore SEBI's commitment to maintaining market integrity and investor protection in light of Axis Capital's substantial non-compliance with regulatory standards.