Taking a Tough Stance

A recent consultation paper by Sebi hints at an era wherein broking firms will have absolutely no access to client funds

- BY ASHISH RUKHAIYAR

Not only has stockbroking become a difficult business, many in the industry also feel that it is no longer a lucrative one. The regulatory framework regarding the manner in which broking houses can use—or just keep—client funds has been tightened over the years and a recent consultation paper by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) hints at an era wherein broking firms will have absolutely no access to client funds.

The capital markets regulator has proposed a mechanism where these funds will remain blocked in the bank account and will directly go to the clearing corporation as and when the trade is executed.

This represents a marked shift from the current system where the funds move from the client’s bank account to that of the broking firm and then ultimately to the clearing corporation.