1 week ago

Sebi Proposes Channel Partner Framework to Expand Retail Bond Access

Sebi is considering a new way to help more people buy bonds.

Bonds are investments that can provide money to companies or other borrowers.

Under the plan, approved channel partners could help people use online bond platforms.

They could assist with forms, identity checks and placing orders.

The plan is especially meant to help people in smaller cities and rural areas.

These partners would not be allowed to hold customers’ money or securities.

They would be paid by the online bond platform, not directly by customers.

Sebi is asking the public and industry participants to comment on the proposal.

Key facts

Proposed intermediaries: Fixed Income Channel Partners, or FICPs, would support online bond platform providers.
Individual eligibility: Applicants would need to be Indian citizens, at least 18 years old, Class 12 pass-outs and holders of a valid NISM Series: Fixed Income Securities certification, among other requirements.
Permitted activities: FICPs could help onboard clients, complete documentation, conduct KYC procedures and facilitate transactions.
Restrictions: FICPs could not handle client funds or securities or receive or pay them in their own name or account.
Client charges: The proposed commission, fee or brokerage charged to clients would be capped at 2.5% of the investment value.
Corporate bond market: Outstanding corporate bonds grew from about Rs 17.5 lakh crore at the end of FY15 to more than Rs 60 lakh crore as of July 31, 2026.
Public consultation: Sebi invited stakeholder comments on the consultation paper until September 11, 2026.

thehansindia.com · 1 week ago