How do I check if an adviser is SEBI registered?

Search the name or INA/INH number in SEBI → Intermediaries → Recognised Intermediaries → Investment Adviser or Research Analyst.

What is the @valid UPI handle?

An NPCI-issued UPI handle reserved for SEBI-registered intermediaries, live since 1 October 2025, verifiable via SEBI Check.

Can a SEBI-registered adviser promise returns?

No. Assured-return promises are a red flag.

Kya Safe Hai? · Research Hub

How to verify a SEBI-registered adviser before you pay

By Sumit Bhardwaj, Angel One Authorised Person · Not SEBI-registered · Updated 22 October 2026

Telegram and Instagram "advisers" often claim SEBI registration. You can check it yourself on SEBI's website — free, in minutes.

Step 1: Search SEBI's list

Go to sebi.gov.in → Intermediaries → Recognised Intermediaries.
Choose Investment Adviser (registration starts INA) or Research Analyst (starts INH).
Search the exact name or registration number. Match name, address, email and validity.
Check SEBI's list of cancelled/suspended intermediaries too.

Step 2: Verify the payment details

Since 1 October 2025, SEBI-registered investor-facing intermediaries can use NPCI's exclusive "@valid" UPI handles (e.g. abc.brk@validhdfc) that show a green-triangle thumbs-up icon.
Use SEBI Check (siportal.sebi.gov.in or the Saarthi app) to verify a UPI ID, QR code or bank account + IFSC before paying.

Red flags

"Assured" or "guaranteed" returns, profit-sharing deals, or "pay only on profit".
Payment to a personal UPI/bank account that SEBI Check cannot verify.
A registration number that doesn't match the name on SEBI's list.
Pressure to act today. See also 6 red flags in stock advice.

Where to complain

SEBI SCORES portal for complaints against registered entities; SEBI toll-free helpline 1800-266-7575 / 1800-22-7575.
Cyber fraud: national helpline 1930 / cybercrime.gov.in.

Transparency: Sumit Bhardwaj is an Angel One Authorised Person and is not a SEBI-registered investment adviser or research analyst, so this site gives education only — never buy/sell calls.

Watch: Sumit explains

Video: SEBI रजिस्टर्ड एडवाइजर कैसे ढूंढें? असली ट्रैक रिकॉर्ड on @sbstocksofficial

Questions? WhatsApp Sumit Bhardwaj →
Educational discussion only · no tips or buy/sell calls

FAQ

How do I check if an adviser is SEBI registered?: Search the name or INA/INH number in SEBI → Intermediaries → Recognised Intermediaries → Investment Adviser or Research Analyst.
What is the @valid UPI handle?: An NPCI-issued UPI handle reserved for SEBI-registered intermediaries, live since 1 October 2025, verifiable via SEBI Check.
Can a SEBI-registered adviser promise returns?: No. Assured-return promises are a red flag.