In A Big Move, SEBI Bars Registered Entities From Dealing With Unregistered Finfluencers

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has set ground rules for unregistered financial influencers, or 'finfluencers,' prohibiting regulated entities from dealing with them. This move marks a significant step in protecting investors from misleading financial advice and ensuring that all financial influencers operate within a regulated framework. "Entities regulated by SEBI and their agents are prohibited from associating, directly or indirectly, with any individual or entity that offers financial advice or makes performance claims without SEBI’s permission. This includes any form of monetary transactions, client referrals, or IT system interactions”, says the new SEBI rules. The responsibility lies with the registered entities to ensure their associates do not engage in such prohibited activities. Finfluencers, who provide advice on topics like investing, personal finance, and real estate through digital platforms, have gained significant influence over their followers’ financial decisions.