It is one of oldest stock exchanges in Asia and third largest bourse in India.

[4] In 1830, bourse activities in Kolkata were conducted under a neem tree.

The exchange was founded on 1 December 1863 by sixteen leading stockbrokers, beginning life in rented premises on 11 Strand Road.

The premises also had a library, open to the public, which could be accessed after paying an admission fee.

The Calcutta Stock Exchange Ltd was granted permanent recognition by the Government of India with effect from 14 April 1980, under the relevant provisions of the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956.