Understanding SEBI’s Part-Time Research Analyst Registration Rules (SEBI CIRCULAR DATES: 8 TH JAN, 2025)

Sun Feb 9, 2025

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced regulations for individuals and firms who wish to register as Part-Time Research Analysts (RA). Here's a simple breakdown of the rules and eligibility criteria:


Who Can Register as a Part-Time Research Analyst?
A Part-Time Research Analyst is someone who:
• Is engaged in another business or employment unrelated to securities.
• Does not handle client funds or provide financial/investment advice.

Eligible applicants include:
• Members of ICAI, ICSI, or ICMAI providing their statutory services.
• Insurance agents licensed by IRDAI.
• Professors or teachers, provided they have a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer.
• Professionals such as doctors, lawyers, or architects.
• Individuals engaged in education businesses, as long as they do not violate SEBI's 

Intermediaries Regulations.
Qualification & Compliance Requirements
• Same qualification and certification requirements as full-time RAs.
• Must maintain a clear separation between RA activities and other business/employment.
• Must provide a disclaimer (minimum font size 10) on invoices and services, stating that non-RA services are not under SEBI's purview.
• Required to disclose all other business activities and ensure no conflict of interest
With RA services.

Who is NOT Eligible for Part-Time RA Registration?
• Anyone engaged in financial advisory services related to gold, real estate, cryptocurrency, or other assets.
• Those making investment-related performance claims without SEBI approval.

Who Must Register as a Part-Time RA?
• Chartered Accountants (CAs) giving tax planning advice that includes securities as an asset class do not require RA registration.
• However, if a CA provides specific security recommendations (even as part of tax planning), they must register as a Part-Time RA.

Takeaways:

• SEBI allows professionals to work as Part-Time RAs if they follow strict compliance guidelines.
• It is essential to maintain transparency, disclose business activities, and adhere to SEBI regulations.
• If your profession involves securities recommendations, ensure that you register as required.
For further details, always refer to SEBI's official guidelines or consult a compliance expert.

Prof. Sheetal Kunder

SEBI® Research Analyst. Registration No. INH000013800 M.Com, M.Phil, B.Ed, PGDFM, Teaching Diploma (in Accounting & Finance) from Cambridge International Examination, UK. Various NISM Certification Holders. Ex- BSE Institute Faculty. 16 years of extensive experience in Accounting & Finance. Faculty Development Programs and Management Development Programs at the PAN India level to create awareness about the emerging trends in the Indian Capital Market and counsel hundreds of students in career choices in the finance area.