Unlocking the Power of a Trusted Investment Advisor: The Importance of SEBI Registration

 

With the recent rise of social media influencers and self-proclaimed investment gurus, the lines between informed financial advice and reckless speculation have become increasingly blurred. Many individuals are now dispensing investment advice without proper training, expertise, or even an understanding of financial markets. Unfortunately, this has led to an alarming increase in investment scams and fraudulent schemes, leaving many unsuspecting investors vulnerable to financial ruin.

In this context, it is important to understand the benefit of engaging with a qualified investment advisor in today's complex financial landscape. A reliable investment advisor can help you navigate the ever-changing investment setup and provide you with a personalized strategy that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. They can also help you avoid common investment pitfalls, such as emotional decision-making, market volatility, and investment scams.

Let’s read more about who is a SEBI-registered investment advisor.

Who is an investment advisor?

The SEBI (Investment Advisers) Regulations, 2013 defines an investment advisor as an individual offering investment advice to clients, other individuals, or groups of individuals for a fee.

It is important to note that investment advisors are distinct from financial advisors. While financial advisors may provide investment advice, they may also offer other services such as tax planning, retirement planning, and insurance planning. In contrast, investment advisors specifically provide advice and recommendations related to securities and investment products.

Who is a registered investment advisor?

A SEBI-registered investment advisor is an individual or entity that has obtained registration from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to provide investment advice and related services to clients in India. Introducing the SEBI investment advisor regulations ensured that investors are not duped by unscrupulous individuals or entities that claim to be investment advisors but lack the necessary qualifications, expertise and experience.

SEBI has issued guidelines for investment advisors, which provide detailed requirements for registration, ongoing compliance, and business conduct for registered investment advisors. Read them below.

How to become SEBI registered investment advisor?

SEBI has laid out specific eligibility criteria that must be met to become a registered investment advisor. These criteria help ensure that only qualified and experienced individuals can provide investment advice and related services in the securities market.

Firstly, the individual or entity must hold a professional degree in finance, accounting, business management, economics, or a related field and possess a postgraduate degree or diploma in finance or a related field. In addition, the individual must pass the NISM Series-X-A: Investment Adviser (Level 1) Examination or any other examination approved by SEBI, as well as the NISM-Series-X-B: Investment Adviser (Level 2) certification.

The individual or entity must have at least five years of experience in activities related to the securities market, such as fund management, advisory services and more. Read More About registered investment advisor