Regulatory News — SEBI & RBI
Track regulatory developments from SEBI, RBI, and government ministries that affect investors and markets. This section covers new circulars, policy changes, enforcement actions, and compliance requirements in plain language. Regulatory shifts — from margin rule changes to mutual fund expense ratio caps to new tax norms — can have a significant impact on how you trade and invest. Staying informed helps you adapt your strategy before changes take effect rather than reacting after the fact.
Promised 30% monthly returns? SBI warns investors against fake investment schemes
SBI has warned investors against fraudulent investment schemespromising 30% monthly returns. Identify these four warning signs, verify SEBI registration and protect your savings from online financial scams.
Canara HSBC Life Shares: Nirmal Bang Cuts Target Price, Yet Sees 33% Upside; Here's Why
Nirmal Bang remains bullish as the company continues to demonstrate above-industry growth and as it sees Canara HSBC as less exposed than peersto the proposed distribution and commission regulations.
Can AI Drive Humanity To Extinction? Google DeepMind's Lila Ibrahim On Risks And Safeguards
On the question of regulation amid the rapid pace of technological advancement and competition among frontier AI laboratories, Ibrahim said AI's transformative potential demands exceptional care.
China's trade restrictions for services exporters under review
India is proactively gathering insights on the trade hurdles faced by its services exporters in China, engaging with industry representatives to address concerns. The investigation encompasses aspects like licensing, data regulations, and the challenges faced by Indian professionals in movement. Despite a potential of $8.95 billion in services exports to China in 2024, there's room for improvement through better partnerships and streamlined regulations, especially in mutual recognition and certi
GST e-invoicing may cover services imports from unregistered companies
The Indian government is set to enhance GST reporting for imported services through e-invoicing. This expansion will affect businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹5 crore. Companies will need to modify their documentation processes to comply with the new regulations. Proposed changes aim to reduce mismatches between tax liabilities and input tax credits. The consultation on these changes is expected to begin shortly, with implementation likely in April 2027.
GST registration FAQs: Application process, name change and modifications recommended at 57th Council meeting
Planning to get GST registration or update your existing details? The government has outlined changes to the registration and amendment process in 57th GST Council meeting, including simpler online procedures. Here is what taxpayers need to know about the application process. 
AI Regulation Must Balance Safety With Innovation: Google DeepMind's Chief AI Readiness Officer
On AI in education, Ibrahim said the technology could enable personalised learning if it complemented teachers and not replace the learning process.
SEBI To Issue CAS Guidelines Within A Week, Introduce Tiered Framework For AI, Machine Learning
SEBI's proposed AI and machine learning guidelines will include tiered oversight, data controls, kill switches and human accountability, aligned with the IOSCO Supervisory Toolkit.
Sebi’s CAS guidelines likely within a week, says chief Tuhin Kanta Pandey
Sebi chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey said the regulator expects to issue guidelines on the settlement-price mechanism for derivatives on expiry days within a week. The move follows a review of the Closing Auction Session. Sebi is also working on simpler regulations, easier market access, lower compliance costs and stronger technological resilience.
Sebi to issue norms on closing auction soon: Sebi chief
Sebi chief Tuhin Kanta Pandey said the regulator will issue fresh norms for derivatives settlement during the closing auction session within a week after reviewing market feedback. 
SEBI Settlement Regulations 2026: New formula, ₹10 lakh fast-track, and other key changes investors must know
SEBI’s Settlement Regulations, 2026, revise how settlement amounts are calculated, separate disgorgement from settlement payments and introduce two fast-track routes for eligible cases. 
Sebi notifies new settlement rule; unveils formula, fast-track route. Check details
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has rolled out fresh regulations that modify how settlement amounts for securities violations are calculated. This revamped formula curtails the double counting of unjust gains in settlement assessments. Moreover, it introduces a fast-track process for cases where settlement amounts are less than ₹10 lakh, aiming for quicker resolutions while ensuring regulatory efficiency in handling securities issues.
CBDT amends Income Tax Form 161 on 8 October: What changes for taxpayers seeking penalty waiver? Expert explains
The CBDT has revised Income Tax Form 161 through a notification dated 8 October. The amendment updates the rules governing applications for penalty waiver. What does the revised form mean for taxpayers, and what conditions should they meet?
Delhi-bound Train Cancellations Leave UP Passengers Scrambling For Alternatives
According to a Railway Board circular, trains departing from their originating stations after 2 pm on October 9 and scheduled to arrive at either New Delhi or Hazrat Nizamuddin stations between 4 am and 2 pm on October 10 have been cancelled.
Ola, Uber To Swiggy, Zomato: Your Everyday Apps Will Face A 5% GST Rate. CBIC Clarifies What It Means
The CBIC is reviewing blocked input tax credit claims, refund processes and faceless assessments as it seeks to simplify GST compliance and improve predictability for businesses.
GST Council bets on faster refunds, lower penalties to ease business burden
The 57th GST Council meeting has introduced measures to simplify compliance and expedite refunds for businesses. Recommendations include increasing the prosecution threshold and reducing penalties for non-compliance. The proposed framework features faster acknowledgement timelines for claims and provisional refunds for taxpayers. Changes to the inverted-duty structure are set to unlock credits in various sectors including textiles and manufacturing.
GST reforms: Arrest powers, prosecution threshold, penalty changed; what happens to those already facing proceedings?
The GST Council on Thursday approved reforms that are scheduled to take effect on 1 April 2027, aimed at reducing the compliance burden on businesses. Here's the full list of changes and what happens to those already facing prosecution.
GST 2.0 makes it less taxing as govt scrap arrest powers, raise prosecution threshold to Rs 5 crore in major overhaul
The GST Council recently approved substantial reforms to simplify the indirect tax structure and improve compliance. These changes include raising prosecution thresholds and decriminalising several offences, signifying a major shift in GST law. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined plans for these reforms to take effect from April 1 next year. Experts believe these measures will enhance business operations and support economic growth.
ET Graphics: The GST playbook — milestones over 9 years
From its rollout in 2017 to GST 2.0, India’s goods and services tax has evolved into a more digitised and predictable tax regime. Over nine years, the system has seen changes in tax rates, slabs, compliance and technology, reshaping how businesses manage indirect taxes and interact with the tax administration.
GST reforms: 16 lakh small businesses may get annual return option, easier e-commerce selling
More than 16 lakh small businesses with turnover up to Rs 5 crore could benefit from a simplified GST compliance regime, under which they would pay tax quarterly but file one return annually. The overhaul also rationalises penalties, waives late fees and simplifies registration for eligible small e-commerce sellers.
TDS statements can be filed directly through TRACES portal: What changed from tax year 2026–27? Expert explains
TDS and TCS compliance has moved to an online filing setup from Tax Year 2026-27 onwards, changing how deductors submit quarterly statements. The process brings fresh forms, a separate compliance environment, and updated filing steps. Here’s what deductors need to know.
'Faster decisions, lower compliance costs': PM Modi welcomes new round of GST reforms
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday welcomed the new round of GST reforms approved by the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council, saying the measures will enable faster decisions, lower compliance costs, automated refunds and a trust-based administration.
Elon Musk Asks 'Why No Licence?' After 5 Years Of Starlink Compliance In India
Musk's latest comments therefore put the spotlight on the gap between obtaining a licence and completing the remaining regulatory process needed to begin commercial operations.
SAT to pass order in Jane Street ‘manipulation’ case on 21 October
SAT has reserved its verdict on Jane Street's appeal against Sebi's ex-parte interim order, as the US firm pushes for access to withheld trade logs and the regulator argues counterparty data has no bearing on the charges.
GST Council Meeting Key Outcomes: No Rate Changes, Compliance Easing, ITC Relief Expansion And More
The council cut the GST refund acknowledgement timeline to 10 days from 15 days.
GST winners 2026: No rate cuts, but small businesses, exporters and taxpayers have plenty to gain. Here's how
GST Reform Winners 2026: The GST Council has greenlit key reforms intended to simplify compliance for businesses across the board. Small businesses now have the option to file just one GST return per year instead of a series of filings. Exporters stand to gain from expedited refunds and increased input tax credits on eligible manufacturing costs.
One GST return a year? New scheme could ease compliance for 16 lakh small businesses
Small businesses selling only to consumers may soon have the option to file GST returns annually. The GST Council has approved a plan for eligible taxpayers with turnover up to Rs 5 crore. Currently, these businesses file monthly returns under the existing GST structure. The new scheme is expected to ease compliance burdens and allow quarterly tax payments. Changes are set to take effect from April 1, 2027.
GST Council Meeting 2026: Tax officers' arrest powers scrapped, prosecution threshold raised to Rs 5 crore; no rate changes
GST Council Meeting 2026: The GST Council concluded that existing GST rates would remain unchanged. It further removed arrest authorities from tax officers while increasing the threshold for prosecution to Rs 5 crore. The Council introduced friendlier regulations for small sellers on e-commerce sites, as well as efforts to enhance tax compliance and registration processes. Collectively, these actions reflect a transformative approach favoring sellers within the GST framework.
GST Council meet: Scrapping tax officers' arrest powers, decriminalisation among reforms on agenda
The GST Council is poised to address significant reforms that could transform GST compliance for businesses. Among the proposed measures are the removal of arrest powers held by GST officers and higher thresholds for criminal prosecution. Small e-commerce sellers might find it easier to register through platform warehouses without needing tax officer intervention.
GST Council meet starts with focus on ease of doing business, ITC overhaul and decriminalisation on agenda
The 57th GST Council meeting is set to consider major GST 2.0 reforms, including wider input tax credit eligibility, protection for genuine buyers from supplier defaults, faster refunds, simpler GST registration and MSME compliance relief. Proposed changes also include removing GST arrest provisions, raising the prosecution threshold, easing export rules and targeted rate tweaks across sectors.
Sebi unveils six-tier credit risk-o-meter for debt securities
The Securities and Exchange Board of India is introducing a mandatory colour coded credit risk-o-meter for debt securities. This new meter categorizes credit risk into six color-coded levels, indicating risk levels accurately. Issuers and online bond platforms will need to adopt these disclosures in their documentation. The measures aim to improve transparency in the investment process for potential investors.
Sebi expands debt maturity limits to help issuers manage cash flow
The regulator raised the annual cap on privately placed debt ISINs from 14 to 17. Separately, it removed the merchant banker mandate for eligible small-value issuers.
GST Council to consider 17-day refund timeline, faster registrations
The GST Council is set to consider measures to speed up refunds and GST registrations, with a proposed 17-day refund timeline and greater automation for registrations. It may also ease compliance for small businesses selling across states through e-commerce platforms, simplify registration cancellations and expand input tax credit eligibility.
Stable institutions, steady pursuit of reforms will steer India to 2047 goal: Jean-Claude Trichet
India's journey to becoming a developed nation by 2047 hinges on institutional stability and sustained economic reforms. Former European Central Bank president Jean-Claude Trichet emphasizes the importance of resilient democratic institutions. He cautions against the risks posed by global over-indebtedness and market corrections. Trichet believes AI will bring challenges and benefits in the long run but highlights the need for global regulations.
Sebi accuses Jane Street of dilatory tactics at SAT, says 'investigator is being investigated'
Securities and Exchange Board of India has expressed concerns about Jane Street's approach to the investigation. The regulator provided over 10 GB of documents but refuses to share more data. Jane Street seeks extensive access to various records and documents related to its case. The proceedings are aimed at resolving alleged index manipulation and trading violations.
Investor awareness key to long-term wealth creation, technology double-edged sword: ANMI President Kamlesh Shroff
Investor education in India is vital for effective market participation and wealth accumulation. The trend of younger investors signifies a promising advantage for early market entry. Nonetheless, the escalating prevalence of online financial scams threatens investor assets. SEBI highlights capital protection through regulated investment pathways and stresses the necessity for investors to cautiously validate the legitimacy of entities before making fund transfers, thereby mitigating scam risks.
Sebi vs Jane Street: 'Dilatory tactic; ulta chor kotwal ko daante' - What the markets regulator's lawyer said in hearing
India’s markets regulator criticized Jane Street Group’s request for additional documents as a delaying tactic. SEBI argues Jane Street should clarify its trading strategy rather than questioning the regulator’s actions amid accusations of market manipulation.
GST 2.0: From stuck tax credit to fewer disputes, industry chambers list key reform demands
GST 2.0 reforms are being advocated by industry chambers to improve input tax credit and streamline compliance processes. Businesses desire changes that would expedite refunds, broaden ITC eligibility, and reduce litigation issues. A more automated GST system is sought to alleviate working capital constraints and simplify registration and returns for small businesses. Real estate developers also seek clarity on ITC and faster credit releases to enhance project viability.
Sebi’s investor protection fund balloons but spending lags amid rising fraud risks
Industry stakeholders said investor protection funds are likely underutilized because of the lack of clear directions and directives.
From Rs 0 to GIFT: How TPFM is lowering the entry barrier for fund managers
Third-Party Fund Management Services under IFSCA regulations are transforming market entry into GIFT IFSC. By allowing emerging managers to utilize existing Fund Management Entities, TPFM lowers fixed infrastructure costs, shifting focus from building platforms upfront to raising fund capital and accessing established regulatory framework capabilities efficiently.
SEBI chairman warns investors against anonymous tips, finfluencers; launches Project Jagrook
Tuhin Kanta Pandey, Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India, has inaugurated Project Jagrook, which aims to boost investor education and awareness. This initiative addresses the stark difference between market understanding and actual involvement, with only 9.5 percent of the 63 percent of households aware of securities products actively engaged.
Jane Street seeks trading data from Sebi in market manipulation case
US hedge fund Jane Street has petitioned Securities Appellate Tribunal to compel Sebi to disclose the underlying trading and counterparty data backing its ₹4,843-crore market manipulation order.
SEBI Likely To Tweak CAS Mechanism; Upcoming Circular To Address Stakeholder Concerns: Sources
SEBI is examining whether certain provisions need to be modified to address concerns raised by stakeholders and ensure smoother implementation of the mechanism.
Indonesia's mandatory halal rules may raise compliance burden for Indian exporters: GTRI
On October 17, Indonesia’s new halal-certification policies will take effect, significantly influencing Indian exporters across sectors. Encompassing food, cosmetics, medicines, and medical devices, these requirements are projected to increase operational costs. Indian businesses must obtain certifications from accredited entities to prevent customs disruptions and product recalls. This regulation, especially impactful for buffalo meat and pharmaceuticals, highlights the urgency of ensuring prop
Mis-Selling, High Costs, Fragile Trust: Inside IRDAI's Push To Fix Insurance Sector
He went on to clarify that the paper released by IRDAI was a consultation exercise intended to explore possible improvements in the distribution framework and not an exposure draft of a regulation.
SEBI may partly reverse closing auction rules after sharp derivatives price swings: Report
India markets regulator to partly reverse derivative settlement rules after pushback, sources say
Sebi to partly reverse derivative settlement rules after pushback: Report
Sebi is likely to change its closing auction mechanism after sharp derivatives price swings on expiry days. The regulator may stop using the closing auction for derivatives settlement for at least a year, shifting to a 30-minute volume-weighted average price, while retaining the auction for less-liquid underlying stocks.
SEBI Chairman Says One Of Biggest Concerns About First-Time Retail Investors Is Rise In Investment Frauds
Pandey said many of these cases are not actually investment frauds, as the money never enters the securities market. However, victims are made to believe that they are investing in the securities market.
GST Council may scrap arrest provisions, fast-track refunds with 90% automatic payout
The upcoming 57th GST Council meeting on October 7 is set to unveil transformative proposals that could reshape GST regulations. Key suggestions may involve the abolition of arrest clauses related to GST, simplified refund procedures for exporters, and adjustments to the prosecution threshold. Furthermore, small taxpayers could benefit from late fee waivers and quicker registration.
GST 2.0 set to amplify ease, unlock tax credit
India is set to implement significant reforms to the goods and services tax system, which will ease compliance. Changes may include the release of accumulated input tax credit that benefits various industries and supports growth. The GST Council plans to reconsider tax treatment for certain supplier defaults to protect genuine buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does SEBI do and why does it matter for investors?
SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India) regulates the securities market — stock exchanges, brokers, mutual funds, and listed companies. Its rules directly affect how you trade and invest: margin requirements, mutual fund expense ratio caps, insider trading regulations, IPO norms, and disclosure standards. When SEBI tightens rules (like increasing margin requirements), it can reduce trading volumes and affect stock prices. When it introduces investor-friendly reforms, market participation tends to grow.
How do RBI policy changes impact my investments?
RBI controls monetary policy through the repo rate, which influences lending rates across the economy. A rate cut makes loans cheaper and typically boosts equities, real estate, and rate-sensitive sectors like banking and auto. Rate hikes raise borrowing costs, can slow economic growth, and often make fixed-income investments more attractive. RBI also regulates forex flows, banking norms, and liquidity conditions — all of which ripple through financial markets.
How can I stay compliant with new regulations?
For retail investors, the most important compliance areas are KYC updates (keeping your demat and bank details current), tax reporting of capital gains and dividends, and following SEBI's rules on insider trading if you have access to unpublished price-sensitive information through your work. Your broker and fund house handle most regulatory compliance on your behalf, but it is your responsibility to file accurate tax returns and report foreign assets if applicable.