SEBI, by way of Notification dated August 26, 2024, has restricted stock exchanges, clearing corporations, depositories and certain other intermediaries regulated by SEBI (and their respective agents) from having direct and indirect association with persons who:
i. provide advice or any recommendation, directly or indirectly, in relation to securities, unless such person is registered with or otherwise permitted by SEBI to provide such advice or recommendation; or
ii. makes any claim, of returns or performance in relation to securities, unless such person has been permitted by SEBI to make such a claim.
The restriction extends to the following: (i) transaction involving money or money’s worth; (ii) referral of a client; (iii) interaction of information technology systems; and (iv) any other association of a similar nature or character. However, a carve-out is provided for associations through any digital platform (to be specified by SEBI) which have mechanisms to take preventive and curative actions to ensure that the platform is not used for the activities specified in (i) and (ii) above.