Sebi Chief Madhabi Puri Buch Defends New REIT Regulations Amid Allegations

Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) chief Madhabi Puri Buch addressed the positive reception to small and medium real estate investment trusts (SM REITs) at the Global Fintech Fest 2024, amid allegations from Hindenburg Research. She discussed the regulatory framework and investor protection measures, emphasizing Sebi's commitment to compliance.

Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) chief Madhabi Puri Buch on Thursday noted the positive response to small and medium real estate investment trusts (SM REITs) regulations. Industry players have supported these regulations aimed at boosting fractional ownership of real estate assets.

During her address at the Global Fintech Fest 2024, Buch discussed Sebi's role in regulatory compliance, responding to allegations from US short-seller Hindenburg Research. Hindenburg had accused Sebi of amending the REIT regulations for the benefit of a specific conglomerate, and raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest involving Buch and Blackstone.

Buch emphasized Sebi's commitment to creating a seamless compliance environment for market participants. She also touched on the Futures & Options (F&O) trading regulations, where Sebi has received extensive stakeholder feedback.

(With inputs from agencies.)