India Finance Conference 2012: A Retrospective

The India Finance Conference (IFC) 2012, a joint initiative of the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIMC), Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB), and Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIML), convened at IIM Calcutta, offering a prominent platform for disseminating cutting-edge research in finance and accounting. The conference brought together academics, practitioners, and policymakers to discuss pressing issues confronting the Indian financial landscape and the global economy.

A key theme that resonated throughout the conference was the need for enhanced financial inclusion and literacy in India. Several presentations explored innovative models for extending financial services to underserved populations, particularly in rural areas. Microfinance, mobile banking, and self-help groups were discussed as potential avenues for bridging the gap in access to financial resources. The importance of financial literacy programs in empowering individuals to make informed financial decisions was also emphasized.

Another significant area of focus was corporate governance and ethical behavior within financial institutions. The conference featured discussions on the role of independent directors, the effectiveness of audit committees, and the impact of corporate social responsibility on firm performance. The aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis highlighted the critical need for robust corporate governance mechanisms to prevent excessive risk-taking and ensure accountability.

The impact of macroeconomic factors on the Indian financial markets also received considerable attention. Researchers presented studies on the relationship between inflation, interest rates, and stock market performance. The implications of global economic uncertainties, such as the Eurozone crisis, for the Indian economy were also debated. The conference served as a forum for analyzing the effectiveness of monetary and fiscal policies in stabilizing the economy and promoting sustainable growth.

The IFC 2012 also provided a valuable opportunity for young researchers to present their work and receive feedback from established scholars. Several doctoral tutorials were conducted, offering guidance on research methodologies and publication strategies. These sessions aimed to nurture the next generation of finance academics and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field.

Beyond the formal presentations, the conference facilitated informal networking among participants. Attendees were able to exchange ideas, forge collaborations, and build relationships that extended beyond the duration of the conference. The IFC 2012 undoubtedly played a crucial role in fostering a vibrant research community and contributing to the development of the Indian financial sector. By bringing together diverse perspectives and promoting rigorous research, the conference helped to shape the discourse on key financial issues and inform policy decisions.