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Thus far and no further! The case of Avadhut Sathe proves it like never before.
In today’s world, when people are seeking guidance related to financial security and investments, the words of any seemingly trustworthy face can easily influence them.
With the growing craze for financial freedom, fraud and forgery in the name of financial education are rising rapidly on social media. People are finding it increasingly difficult to identify genuine educators among countless fraudsters, who also portray themselves as real saviours.
But such fraudsters can not go on like this. It is true that when action is taken against such people, trust also suffers a huge setback. In such a case, SEBI has taken massive action against the famous financial influencer Avadhut Sathe and his company, Avadhut Sathe Trading Academy (ASTAPL), and banned them from the stock market.
SEBI’s Big Move: Why Such a Strict Ban?
In its 125-page investigation report, SEBI clearly stated that Avadhut Sathe and his academy were providing investment advice without registration. They were selling this advice under the guise of “education,” motivating millions of people to actively trade in the stock market.
During the investigation, it was found that:
- ₹601.37 crore was raised in the name of courses, tips, and stock guidance.
- This money was taken from more than 3.37 lakh people.
- Students were given direct buy-sell advice for trading.
- The method adopted was to sell courses by showing examples of successful trades.
- The money was continuously deposited directly into the accounts of Sathe and his company.
According to SEBI, all of this falls under the category of “misleading activity.”
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SEBI Bans Influencer Avadhut Sathe: What Restrictions have been Imposed?
With immediate effect, SEBI has:
- Ordered Avadhut Sathe and ASTAPL to stay away from the stock market.
- Prohibited them from providing Investment Advisory or Research services in any form.
- Banned the use of market data in courses, workshops, or live market sessions.
- Prohibited any form of advertising regarding students’ profits, successful trades, or gains.
- And most importantly—ordered the refund of ₹601.37 crore plus interest.
SEBI stated that this action is necessary to prevent more people from being misled.
People’s Hard-Earned Money at Stake: Investors’ Concern Rises
The 3.37 lakh people who spent their hard-earned money based on trust are now concerned about how and when they will get their money back.
SEBI has clarified that the refund will be carried out as per the rules, and guidelines regarding the process will be issued soon. This incident once again reminds us that investment decisions should not be taken emotionally, but only after consulting with registered experts.
What is the lesson learned?
This case is not just an action taken against one individual—it is a deep lesson for every Indian investor.
It is a harsh reality that the glamour and success frequently showcased on social media are often far from genuine. In many cases, they are nothing more than a web of deceit and inducement created to lure potential victims.
Which should be the right path : Only seek advice from SEBI-registered advisors and verify the claims of any individual, regardless of their popularity.
A Strong Warning !
The news of SEBI bans influencer Avadhut Sathe is a warning to all those who blindly trust online “market experts.” This case proves that there are no shortcuts in investment—and every step should be taken thoughtfully and keeping legal regulations in mind.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. The information provided is based on the SEBI order and public sources. This is not investment advice of any kind. Investment decisions should be made based on your own understanding, needs, and consultation with a licensed financial advisor.
Dr. Bidyut Barun Sarmah, with 22+ years of experience in print, electronic, and digital media, holds an MA and PhD in Mass Communication and Journalism. He has worked with AIR, Doordarshan, and the Publication Division under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. A published author and researcher, Dr. Sarmah writes extensively in both Assamese and English. He was also awarded a prestigious fellowship by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, for his study on journalistic literature—an achievement that highlights his depth of scholarship and contribution to media studies. At Nest of News, he leads the editorial team and contributes across diverse topics.