Big news for mutual fund investors! The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has announced that insider trading rules for mutual fund units will take effect on November 1, 2024.
These rules were first decided in November 2022, but their implementation was delayed to allow the industry to prepare.
Key Changes Under the New Rules
With the new rules, extra care will be needed for employees who have access to sensitive information.
Companies must maintain a list of these employees and others who can access such information.
Additionally, these employees will need to sign an agreement to help SEBI prevent insider trading.
In July 2022, SEBI had proposed a consultation paper on insider trading related to mutual funds. However, the implementation faced delays due to industry opposition.
Now, SEBI has confirmed that the new rules will start on November 1, 2024. Under these rules, asset management companies must regularly review their internal controls.
Importantly, individuals with price-sensitive information will no longer be allowed to trade mutual fund units.
This information can influence the net asset value of the fund and impact the interests of unit holders.