SEBI Board Meet to Review Brokerage Rules, Mutual Funds and FPI Regulations

The upcoming board meeting of SEBI is expected to consider sweeping reforms across the Indian capital market, focusing on equity brokerages and multiple regulatory frameworks, as per the news reports. 

The regulator aims to modernise market practices, streamline fee structures and improve accessibility for foreign investors, as it adapts to evolving market dynamics.  

Key Development: Proposed Structural Reforms 

Among the changes under review is a modernisation of the 1992 stock-broker regulations (SBR), which currently lack an explicit definition of “algorithmic trading.” SEBI aims to codify algorithmic trading definitions and update the SBR to reflect global market practices.  

The board is also set to review reforms to the stock-lending and borrowing (SLB) mechanism, potentially improving liquidity and enabling a more structured regime for short-selling.  

Statements & Broader Regulatory Changes 

In addition to brokerages and SLB, SEBI is reviewing mutual fund fee norms including possible adjustments to the Total Expense Ratio (TER) and brokerage/commission charges for distributors, a move that could impact small distributors and overall industry.  

The regulator is also considering measures to ease foreign portfolio investor (FPI) access, aiming to attract long-term global capital.  

Read More: SEBI Extends Deadline for Angel Funds to Disclose Investment Allocation Methodology 

Conclusion 

SEBI’s impending reforms reflect a strategic pivot toward modernising India’s capital markets infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. By updating legacy brokerage rules, refining mutual fund regulations and facilitating smoother FPI participation, the board’s proposals aim to strengthen market integrity, enhance liquidity and promote broader investor access. If executed effectively, these measures could enhance India’s attractiveness as an investment destination and foster sustainable growth in the capital markets.