SEBI Expands Regulatory Scope Beyond Equities to Bonds, AIFs and Digital Assets

Business Today

Friday, April 3, 2026·5 min read·Regulation

SEBI Expands Regulatory Scope Beyond Equities to Bonds, AIFs and Digital Assets

Key Takeaways

SEBI is expanding its regulatory focus beyond traditional equities to encompass bonds, Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), and asset monetization opportunities.
From April 1, 2025, SEBI began monitoring crypto tokens resembling securities as part of this broader regulatory approach.

SEBI is expanding its regulatory focus beyond traditional equities to encompass bonds, Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), and asset monetization opportunities. The regulator is shifting toward 'optimal regulation' that balances ease of doing business with strong enforcement mechanisms. This expansion includes increased monitoring of crypto tokens that resemble securities, aligning with a multi-agency regulatory model that includes RBI and the Finance Ministry.

From April 1, 2025, SEBI began monitoring crypto tokens resembling securities as part of this broader regulatory approach. The regulator is also exploring sandbox programs for DeFi, NFTs, and smart contracts, indicating a more structured approach to emerging digital asset categories. Industry observers note this represents a significant evolution in SEBI's regulatory philosophy toward digital innovation.