An IDR is an instrument that allows foreign companies to raise funds from the Indian market. It represents shares of an overseas company that are held in custody overseas while IDRs are issued and traded in India. Standard Chartered was the first company to issue IDRs in India. IDRs provide benefits like diversification for Indian investors but also have limitations like tax treatment and currency risk. Some key individuals that operate in the grey areas between companies and investors are known as "fixers". They facilitate under-the-table deals and trades.