MOHALI: CFA Institute, the global association of investment professionals, today unveiled its much-anticipated India Finfluencer Report titled ‘Clicks and Credibility: Understanding Finfluencers’ Role in Investment Decisions’, offering a comprehensive analysis of the evolving role of financial influencers, or “finfluencers,” in shaping investment decisions across India’s retail investor landscape. The study, based on a survey of over 1,600 investors and an in-depth analysis of 51 prominent financial influencers, reveals both the potential and the pitfalls of this growing phenomenon.
Notably, only 2% of the financial influencers analysed in the report are registered with SEBI, yet 33% still offer explicit buy or sell recommendations, raising questions about accountability and credibility in the advice being shared.
Arati Porwal, Country Head, CFA Institute – India, commented: “India’s financial influencer ecosystem holds tremendous promise for awareness and in making financial knowledge more accessible and relatable to a broader audience. However, the report’s insights underscore the importance of responsible practices and informed decision-making. Investors must remain vigilant, seek investment guidance from SEBI-registered advisors, and evaluate the credentials of the influencers they follow. At CFA Institute, we are committed to encouraging greater transparency and collaboration between regulators, platforms, and influencers to build a trustworthy financial ecosystem.”
