SEBI has introduced a new disclosure requirement that will impact how regulated intermediaries use social media for business communication.
As per the circular issued by the SEBI, all regulated entities including IAs, RAs, PMS, AIF and others and their agents will be required to display their registered name and SEBI registration number on their social media platforms (SMP) and at the beginning of securities market-related content, effective May 1, 2026.
Content which relates to the securities market uploaded on SMPs includes content / videos published / broadcasted / uploaded / posted on any SMP (whether in closed groups or publicly available groups).
What should the regulated entities ensure?
From a compliance perspective, regulated entities should ensure the following:
#1 – Display the SEBI registered name and registration number prominently on social media handle homepages including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, X, LinkedIn, Threads, Telegram, Reddit etc.
#2 – Include the registered name and registration number at the beginning of every content.
#3 – Entities with multiple registrations should provide a link listing all registrations and disclose the relevant registration based on the service being discussed.
#4 – Agents, mutual fund distributors, distributors for PMS services and authorised persons must disclose both their own and the principal entity’s registration details.
From an implementation standpoint, there are a few important compliance clarifications:
• The requirement is prospective, not retrospective
This applies only to content posted on or after May 1, 2026. There is no requirement to revisit or modify previously published content. This allows entities to align their internal processes and content formats going forward.
• This is a disclosure requirement, not a restriction
It places an obligation on SEBI-regulated entities and their agents to clearly identify themselves when communicating in their regulated capacity.
• Intermediaries using social media for client engagement should operationalize this early
This will require simple but structured steps, such as:
– Updating social media handle descriptions
– Incorporating registration disclosures into videos, posts, and investor communication
– Aligning marketing and compliance teams on standardized disclosure formats
– Ensuring correct disclosures where multiple registrations or agency relationships exist
In practice, this is less about changing business activity and more about ensuring proper regulatory identification in digital communication channels.
For regulated entities, the key focus now should be on building this into regular compliance workflows, particularly where social media is used for investor education, outreach, or client acquisition.
Early alignment will ensure smooth compliance without disrupting ongoing digital engagement.
Practical perspective on regulatory intent
The objective is to bring more transparency and help distinguish regulated entities. However, this circular does not prohibit unregistered persons from posting securities market-related content.
From a ground-level standpoint, the effectiveness of this measure will be a thing to watch, especially for Investment Advisers and Research Analysts.