LIC's ₹5,000 Crore Bond Deal with Adani Ports Raises Eyebrows
Research by Aero Nutist| June01,2025
In a major financial move, the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has invested a staggering ₹5,000 crore in bonds issued by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ). The bond, privately placed at a 7.75% annual coupon rate, had no other institutional takers, making LIC the sole investor. This development has triggered a wave of concerns about transparency, risk to public funds, and alleged favoritism.
Key Highlights of the LIC-Adani Ports Bond Deal
- Issuer: Adani Ports and SEZ (APSEZ)
- Investor: LIC of India
- Amount: ₹5,000 crore
- Interest Rate: 7.75% (annual)
- Issue Type: Private placement
According to Moneycontrol, the bond issue was not widely marketed, and no other financial institution participated. This raises serious questions about the rationale and risk management behind LIC's decision.
Backdrop: U.S. DOJ Bribery Charges Against Adani Entities
Adding to the controversy, a recent Reuters investigation revealed that the U.S. Department of Justice is investigating Adani Group companies over alleged bribery in India. While the spotlight is on Adani Green Energy, the proximity of this scandal casts a shadow over the entire conglomerate, including APSEZ.
LIC’s Mounting Exposure to the Adani Group
As of March 2024, LIC held equity worth ₹61,210 crore in various Adani companies. That’s a 59% increase from the previous year. With the recent bond purchase, LIC’s total exposure — both debt and equity — to the group has significantly grown. Below is a breakdown:
| Adani Group Company | LIC Equity Holding (₹ Cr) | Debt/Bond Exposure (₹ Cr) |
|---|---|---|
| Adani Ports & SEZ | ₹17,914 | ₹5,000 |
| Adani Green Energy | ₹14,089 | - |
| Adani Enterprises | ₹14,748 | - |
| Adani Energy Solutions | ₹8,772 | - |
| Adani Power | ₹4,795 | - |
Source: Business Standard
What About Credit Quality?
Despite the controversy, APSEZ maintains an investment-grade rating from domestic agencies. However, global scrutiny, including the SEBI probe and the U.S. bribery investigation, may affect investor confidence. APSEZ claims strong financials, but critics argue that the timing and structure of the bond deal create the perception of a bailout using public money.
Public and Political Backlash
Social media and political leaders have accused the Modi government of favoring Adani Group yet again. Hashtags like #CronyCapitalism and #SaveLIC are trending. Opposition parties argue that such moves erode the trust of millions of LIC policyholders who expect prudence, not political proximity, in investment decisions.
Our Opinion: Transparency Must Come First
The ₹5,000 crore LIC investment in Adani Ports may be financially viable on paper, but the lack of competitive bidding, timing amid ongoing international investigations, and growing LIC exposure to one conglomerate raise significant red flags. While the bond yields 7.75%, the risk to public funds in India is far greater if corporate governance fails.
Public financial institutions like LIC must be more transparent, diversified, and insulated from political influence. Every rupee invested from a common policyholder deserves the highest standard of risk assessment and accountability.
For more detailed financial disclosures, visit Adani Ports and LIC India.
Stay informed, stay alert. Public money is your money.
