SEBI Insider Trading Case in IEX Stock Could Set New Precedent: Insights from Athira T S
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has recently taken action in an insider trading case involving IEX stock, potentially marking a significant development in enforcement against breaches of market-sensitive information.
In a Business Standard article, Athira T S observed:
“The SEBI order addresses the beneficiaries of the leak, but the real test lies in how the system deals with the source of the information. If CERC officials indeed passed on unpublished price-sensitive information, they can face departmental proceedings under service rules and even criminal investigation under the SEBI Act, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and Prevention of Corruption Act. The regulator can share its findings with the parent ministry or CVC for disciplinary and penal action this goes well beyond SEBI’s market jurisdiction.
While SEBI has rarely proceeded directly against government officials for insider leaks, there are precedents where it held institutions accountable, like in the NSE co-location and WhatsApp leak cases. However, action against public servants usually follows through the vigilance and administrative route. If pursued, this case could mark a precedent where both market participants and government functionaries are held answerable for a breach of fiduciary confidentiality in a market-sensitive matter.”
Athira’s commentary highlighted the widening scope of regulatory scrutiny in India’s securities market and the potential for greater accountability of both market participants and government functionaries. Read more updates:
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