Why are we uncomfortable with using the word ‘feminist’?
Opinion
Feminism is highly misunderstood. Even among self-proclaimed feminists, the term is so wildly debated and vastly interpreted, that at the end of the day, I understand if someone doesn’t like calling themselves a feminist. It is because they don’t know what it really means.
This question is a make-or-break for me when I start a relationship or a friendship. My understanding of people’s answers, though, has evolved over the years.
I don’t look for a yes or no anymore. I look at what their stance is on the issue, what they think about it. A lot of times, their answer is exactly what feminism is (at least, my definition of it). They are just not comfortable with using the word.
Clearing a misconception
Feminism is not misandry. The current structure is misogynistic. Feminists are opposing this structure. Someone who feels they will lose the elevated power they hold right now will find this misandrist.
What about men?
Men have as much to gain from feminism as women do. Men raising voices against their stipulated role as the bread-earner are actually opposing the patriarchal structure itself.
Representation matters
Let us pick a simple example of the judiciary. If women do not hold a voice in the decision-making unit of the country, a number of issues will never be brought up. Luxury taxes on tampons, period leaves, safe abortion are issues that would never have been discussed - let alone been brought into policy - if we did not have that representation.
The sample set has to be an accurate representation of the population. And it is up to the system to correct itself - by reserving some of these seats.
Now, there is a way of doing this right - there is a right time and a right place, and a right manner in which reservations need to be implemented in order to be effective. The how is a separate discussion, what is important right now is the why.
So why do we need feminism?
We need feminism because women are currently under-represented and do not have enough opportunities to raise these issues. We need platforms and events like Women’s Day where women can come out and speak, where these historical acts of injustice can be talked about, and growth can be celebrated. We need speaker panels that invite women to come and talk, because how else will those voices be heard?
If you are starting on your path of feminism, you should be prepared for a number of versions of this definition. Be prepared to meet people who claim to be feminists, but are not. And to meet people who claim that they are not, but really stand for the same values as you do.
Feminism is a path of listening, learning, and growing. And the best of us are still doing that. Honestly, if you feel that this systematic discrimination exists, and we all should do our bit in fixing that - proudly call yourself a feminist. Move onwards and ahead from saying, “I am a feminist, BUT…”
Infosys announces share buyback
Finance
On June 23, Infosys announced that it would start its program to buyback shares from June 25, 2021. was Infosys initially announced the plan to buyback shares worth INR 9200 Cr. through the open market on 14 April 2021.
The company will be buying back over 5.25 crore shares which are 14.87% of its total outstanding shares. The buyback period will last six months till December 24, 2021, or when the buyback amount is entirely utilized.
The maximum price to buyback the shares has been fixed at INR 1,750 per share.
What does a share buyback mean?
When a company goes for an IPO, they invite the investors - people like you and me - to buy their shares in the open market. In normal situations, we can sell these shares to other investors in the open market if we are holding them. However, a share buyback means that we can sell those shares back to the company.
Can you sell your shares to Infosys at INR 1750 today?
Since the buyback is planned through an open market route and not a tender offer, the existing shareholders cannot directly sell their shares to the company. The company will be buying directly from the open markets by placing trades on NSE/BSE, similar to how a normal investor buys shares. However, the existing shareholders will benefit indirectly, as the market will already have a buyer – Infosys- who is willing to pay the maximum price of INR 1750 per share.
Note: This doesn’t mean Infosys will buyback all the shares at INR 1750. It will buy shares at lower prices too, if available. However, since Infosys has called out that they’re ready to buy shares at INR 1750, it is expected to boost shareholder confidence and push prices higher.
What happens to the share price during buyback?
Historically buybacks have been seen to boost the prices in the short term. This is primarily because:
There is an increased buying by the company itself, increasing demand
With the number of outstanding shares decreasing, the supply decreases, pushing share prices up.
Also, buybacks are generally announced at a price higher than the prevailing market price, which investors view as a sign of positive corporate health. It also shows the company management’s belief that the shares are currently undervalued.
Are you holding Infosys stocks? Have you ever participated in a share buyback?
Like what you read? Share this article with your friends and follow us on:
Instagram | Medium | LinkedIn