SEBI Cracks Down on Finfluencer Avadhut Sathe

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has taken action against financial influencer Avadhut Sathe over allegations related to investment advisory and research analyst services offered under the guise of stock market education. SEBI has directed Avadhut Sathe Trading Private Limited (ASTAPL), associated with Sathe, to refund ₹546.17 crore collected from investors, along with ₹67.87 crore in interest. The order concerns money allegedly collected from investors for services that went beyond stock market education and included investment advice and research analyst activities. The regulator’s action highlights the importance of complying with securities market regulations when providing financial guidance to investors through social media and educational platforms.

In addition to the refund order, SEBI has barred Sathe and ASTAPL from the securities market for two years or until the investors’ money is refunded, whichever is later. The regulator has also imposed a total penalty of ₹11.5 crore on the academy, its founder Avadhut Sathe and director Gauri Avadhut Sathe. The action underscores SEBI’s efforts to regulate financial advice and protect investors from services that may be offered without the required authorisation. Investors are generally advised to verify the registration status of financial advisers and research analysts before paying for investment-related services.