Meta has introduced new verification requirements in partnership with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for any securities or investment advertisements targeting Indian users, beginning July 31, 2025. This initiative is designed to fortify transparency and elevate compliance within digital financial advertising, as India’s investment landscape experiences rapid growth and regulatory scrutiny.
Why the New Rules?
India’s financial markets are growing at an unprecedented pace, drawing both experienced and first-time investors. With this growth, the risk of misleading or non-compliant digital promotions has increased. Meta’s adoption of SEBI’s regulations signals a firm commitment to investor protection and the promotion of ethical marketing practices.
What Do the SEBI Verification Requirements Entail?
For Advertisers
Those wishing to run ads related to securities or investment products will face new, robust requirements:
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Multi-step Verification: Advertisers must now undergo SEBI-approved processes to prove their legitimacy before their ads are published.
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Enhanced Accountability: Ad content must strictly adhere to SEBI’s guidelines, with increased scrutiny over accuracy and disclosure.
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Compliance Costs: Meeting these standards may entail higher administrative or legal expenses, as thorough documentation and approvals are required.
For Users
Indian users engaging with financial ads on Meta platforms can expect:
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Greater Trust: Only verified, SEBI-approved ads will be shown, lessening the presence of unauthorized or shady offers.
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Protection Against Fraud: Stricter enforcement reduces consumers’ risks of encountering scams or deceptive promotions.
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Elevated Ad Quality: Users will see fewer low-quality or misleading investment promotions, fostering more informed decision-making.
Anticipated Impact on Digital Advertising
| Stakeholder | Change | Expected Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Advertisers | Extra verification and documentation required | Stronger credibility and market access |
| Advertisers | Stricter content accountability | Reduced exposure to regulatory backlash |
| Users | Only approved, trustworthy ads | Reduced risk and increased confidence |
| Users | Transparent financial information | Easier to compare and assess financial offers |
Compliance Checklist for Advertisers
To ensure a smooth transition and maintain access to Meta’s Indian financial audience, advertisers should:
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Register with SEBI: Ensure all relevant registrations are complete and up-to-date.
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Understand SEBI Ad Guidelines: Review latest requirements on ad formats, disclosures, and disclaimers.
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Prepare Documentation: Maintain clear, SEBI-compliant records for all promotional content.
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Monitor Updates: Stay alert to changes in Meta or SEBI policy by regularly consulting authoritative resources.
For more, review SEBI’s official advertising code and Meta’s updated ad policy documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What types of ads are affected by the new SEBI rules?
A: Any ad promoting or referencing securities, stockbroking, investment products, or related services targeted at Indian users is subject to these rules.
Q: What happens if an advertiser fails verification?
A: Ads will be disapproved or removed, and repeat offenders may risk account suspension or SEBI enforcement.
Q: Are these requirements unique to Meta?
A: While Meta has implemented these rules, other platforms may introduce similar standards to comply with SEBI’s nationwide digital advertising mandates.
Q: Where can advertisers get help?
A: Legal counsel, registered ad agencies, and direct consultation with Meta’s ad support can help advertisers navigate these requirements.
