On August 17, 2026, SEBI issued a fresh caution to investors regarding “live trading strategies” displayed on social-media platforms.
The regulator has highlighted the risks of following real-time stock tips and trading strategies shared online. Persons providing such recommendations may, depending on the activity, be offering unregistered investment advisory services.
For example, an influencer may tell viewers during market hours to buy a stock at ?500 with a target of ?520. Acting purely on such a live call without checking the provider’s registration, credentials and risks can expose investors to losses.
Who is affected: Retail investors and traders following live stock tips on YouTube, Telegram, Instagram and other social platforms.
This is an investor caution, not a new tax or trading rule. It reiterates SEBI’s existing regulatory restrictions concerning real-time market data and investment recommendations.
Action: Verify whether the adviser or intermediary is SEBI-registered before acting on recommendations.
Official Source: SEBI, PR No. 48/2026, August 17, 2026.
Access the official source here: https://www.sebi.gov.in/media-and-notifications/press-releases/aug-2026/caution-to-investors-regarding-display-of-live-trading-strategies-on-social-media-platforms_103729.html
