Ambition meets controversy in Sebi's 2024 reforms drive

In 2024, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) implemented significant reforms, focusing on cooling down the derivatives segment, enhancing transparency and accountability in small and midsized enterprise (SME) listings, and deepening the fund management ecosystem.

- KHUSHBOO TIWARI

Sebi also introduced the ambitious same-day settlement cycle, a first in global markets. However, the year was marred by controversy surrounding Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, who faced allegations of conflict of interest. These allegations overshadowed some of Sebi's key reform initiatives and somewhat slowed the reform process, experts feel.

Amid concerns over widespread losses suffered by small investors, Sebi introduced six measures aimed at curbing the derivatives frenzy. While still in the early stages, following the implementation of some of these measures, trading activity has decreased by more than 30 per cent in the futures and options segment. The move to discontinue weekly expiries in all but two index derivatives was among the measures that hit speculators hard.

Another major step taken by the regulator was tightening norms on listing and disclosure for SMEs following several cases of alleged manipulation and fictitious transactions. To ensure only companies with a sound track record raise funds and get listed, Sebi has introduced several checks on the quality of companies exploring this route.