SEBI Proposes Mutual Fund-Only PMS Framework; Seeks Public Comments on Regulatory Changes

Written by: Rakesh DeshmukhUpdated on: 24 Jul 2026, 5:36 pm IST
SEBI has proposed a mutual fund-only Portfolio Management Service (PMS) framework and lower entry barriers as part of a review of the PMS regulations.
PMS Framework
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The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has released a consultation paper proposing a comprehensive review of the SEBI (Portfolio Managers) Regulations, 2020. The proposals include the introduction of a mutual fund-only Portfolio Management Service (MF-PMS) framework, lower investment thresholds and simplified compliance requirements for the portfolio management industry. 

According to SEBI, the proposed changes aim to expand investment opportunities, ease regulatory compliance and align the framework with the evolving needs of investors and the growing PMS industry. 

SEBI Proposes Mutual Fund-Only PMS Category 

One of the key proposals is the creation of a dedicated Mutual Fund-only Portfolio Management Service (MF-PMS) category. 

Under the proposed framework, portfolio managers would manage client funds exclusively through direct plans of mutual fund schemes, including: 

  • Mutual fund schemes  

  • Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)  

  • Specialised Investment Funds (SIFs)  

SEBI said the proposal follows industry representations seeking a simplified PMS framework focused solely on mutual funds. 

Existing portfolio managers would also be permitted to offer MF-PMS through a separate investment approach under a dedicated registration. 

Proposed Changes to Entry Requirements 

SEBI has proposed easing entry requirements for both investors and portfolio managers. 

The regulator has suggested: 

  • Reducing the minimum investment amount for PMS clients from ₹50 lakh to ₹25 lakh.  

  • Lowering the minimum net worth requirement for portfolio manager applicants from ₹5 crore to ₹2 crore.  

According to the consultation paper, these changes are intended to improve accessibility while maintaining an appropriate regulatory framework. 

Cap on Management Fees 

The regulator has also proposed a cap on fixed management fees under the new MF-PMS framework. 

If implemented, portfolio managers offering MF-PMS would be allowed to charge a fixed management fee of up to 2.5% of a client's Assets Under Management (AUM). 

PMS Industry Sees Strong Growth 

SEBI noted that the Portfolio Management Services industry has expanded significantly in recent years. 

As of May 31, 2026: 

  • PMS Assets Under Management (AUM) stood at ₹42.61 lakh crore, up from ₹18.07 lakh crore in April 2019.  

  • The number of PMS clients increased to 2.19 lakh from 1.5 lakh.  

  • The number of registered portfolio managers rose to 515, compared with 226 in 2020.  

The regulator said the review reflects increasing investor sophistication, greater use of technology, and rising demand for personalised investment solutions. 

Conclusion 

SEBI's consultation paper proposes several changes to the PMS regulatory framework, including a dedicated mutual fund-only PMS category, lower investment thresholds and simplified compliance requirements. The proposals are currently open for public feedback and may be considered after the consultation process is completed. 

Read stock market news in Hindi. Head to Angel One's share market news in Hindi for comprehensive coverage.  

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing. 

Published on: Jul 24, 2026, 12:06 PM IST

Rakesh Deshmukh

Rakesh Deshmukh is a financial content specialist with around 3 years of experience writing impactful content across equities, mutual funds, IPOs, and personal finance. At Angel One, he decodes real-time market trends and breaking news, helping investors and traders stay updated. He also helps investors make informed decisions by simplifying market fundamentals and technical analysis. He holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce.

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