In recent years, the rise of financial influencers, or “finfluencers,” has changed how individuals access and perceive financial advice. Influencers who share their experiences and provide investment recommendations on social media platforms have become immensely popular among people looking to increase their “wealth” with better investment choices. Simply put, the digital generation doesn’t shy away from taking advice from such influencers while deciding whether one should invest in a house or rent it.
However, concerns are being raised about finfluencers’ credibility and the unrealistic expectations they create regarding market returns, especially after the ban on PR Sundar, a prominent influencer in the finance space, by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) from trading in the market for a year (more on this later).
Finfluencers, like influencers in other domains, aim to persuade their audience to take specific actions, such as investing in certain products or ventures. But, the unique nature of financial advice adds an extra layer of complexity and risk. With captivating content and enticing promises of high returns, finfluencers create a culture of quick profits and easy wealth. However, such claims often overlook the inherent risks involved in investing.
The burgeoning community of finfluencers, some with a cult following, has faced considerable backlash from critics and the investor community due to their tendency to provide unsolicited stock tips and financial advice on various social media platforms, often without being registered as investment advisers.
Becoming a finfluencer doesn’t necessarily require qualifications, certifications, or expertise to provide accurate financial guidance. Because of this, the information they offer may be incorrect, biased, or driven by ulterior motives, potentially leading people impressed by them astray. Investors who place blind trust in such advice may find themselves disappointed when their investments fail to deliver the promised results. Unthought financial decisions can also lead to distress and a loss of confidence in the investment process.
Not very long ago, cryptocurrency was all the rage. In India, many people invested in it through Vauld, a Singapore-based crypto firm. The company promised high returns on crypto investments. However, Vauld ultimately went bankrupt in July 2022, resulting in significant losses for those who trusted the endorsements made by popular influencers like Ankur Warikoo, Akshat Srivastav, and PR Sundar. This serves as a stark example of the risks associated with following finfluencers’ advice without proper scrutiny.
Regulators and Finfluencers
P.R. Sundar, who had a million followers on YouTube, was barred by SEBI from the securities markets for a year for allegedly providing advisory services without registering with the regulator. He was also directed to disgorge the fees he had taken, amounting to Rs 6.08 crore, along with interest.
A recent front-page advertisement featuring a financial influencer, alongside the logos of YouTube and the IT Ministry, has sparked a heated debate within the online community. While the advertisement primarily directs viewers to a YouTube playlist focusing on online safety hygiene and spotting misleading content, the controversy stems from the inclusion of Rachna Ranade, a well-known financial influencer, the accompanying tagline, and the logos of YouTube and the IT Ministry.
Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the Minister of State for Electronics and IT, clarified that the advertisement should not be construed as an endorsement of any individual or social media platform. Acknowledging the potential for misinterpretation, Chandrasekhar emphasized the need for private platforms to exercise caution when utilizing government logos in their advertising campaigns.
Recognizing the need to address this issue, regulatory authorities have taken steps to regulate this growing community. SEBI has implemented guidelines and regulations to ensure compliance with investment advisor regulations. The regulator’s actions aim to hold finance influencers accountable for the advice they provide and protect investors from misleading information. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently cautioned individuals to exercise caution when relying on advice from finfluencers.
To mitigate the risks associated with influencer marketing in the financial sector, the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has established guidelines for influencers. If influencers receive compensation from brands or products they promote, they must provide clear and noticeable disclaimers to inform their audience about any potential biases or conflicts of interest. While these guidelines are a step in the right direction, it remains essential for individuals to exercise critical thinking when evaluating investment advice.
In a country like India, where the majority of the population comprises youngsters, financial literacy is important in making society financially strong and secure. Nonetheless, responsible finfluencers also play a crucial role in bridging the gap between financial education and actionable advice by encouraging informed decision-making and financial literacy.
Amidst concerns about unrealistic expectations, some finfluencers are shifting their focus toward promoting responsible investing practices. They emphasize the importance of long-term investment strategies, risk management, and diversification. Investors should take the time to understand the risks and rewards associated with investments, conduct thorough research, and seek advice from qualified professionals. By actively participating in their financial journey, investors can navigate the investment landscape more effectively and safeguard their interests.
By addressing unrealistic expectations and ensuring regulatory compliance, the investment market can become more secure and reliable for investors. With the combined efforts of regulators, responsible finfluencers, and educated investors, India can create a thriving investment ecosystem that promotes financial literacy, responsible investing practices, and long-term wealth creation.
Investing is a complex endeavor
In the era of social media, where information spreads rapidly and trends can change overnight, it is crucial for investors to exercise caution and critically evaluate the advice they receive from finfluencers. It is important to remember that investing is a complex endeavor, influenced by numerous factors such as market conditions, economic indicators, and individual risk tolerance. Relying solely on the recommendations of finfluencers without conducting thorough research and seeking guidance from qualified professionals can lead to costly mistakes.
Moreover, investors should be wary of the herd mentality that can be perpetuated by finfluencers. Following the crowd blindly without understanding the underlying fundamentals of investment can lead to a lack of diversification and increased exposure to risk. It is essential to make investment decisions based on one’s own financial goals, risk appetite, and thorough analysis of available information.
By fostering a culture of critical thinking, responsible investing practices, and financial literacy, individuals can empower themselves to make informed decisions about their investments. It is crucial for regulators, educators, and influencers to work together to ensure that the information provided is accurate, transparent, and aligned with the best interests of investors. Ultimately, by promoting responsible practices and encouraging investors to take an active role in their financial journey, we can create a more secure and resilient investment landscape that benefits individuals and society as a whole.
