How to Become an Accredited Investor in India: A Guide for HNIs | SEBI Framework

In recent years, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced a framework for Accredited Investors (AIs), aimed at providing High Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) and sophisticated investors with greater flexibility and access to exclusive investment opportunities.

If you’re an HNI looking to diversify your portfolio and gain access to unique investment products, becoming an Accredited Investor could be a game-changer. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of becoming an AI, the eligibility criteria, and the advantages of being an Accredited Investor in India.

What is an Accredited Investor?

An Accredited Investor is an individual or entity that meets specific financial and regulatory criteria set by SEBI. These investors are considered financially sophisticated and capable of understanding and bearing the risks associated with complex and high-value investment products. AIs are granted certain regulatory concessions, such as lower minimum investment thresholds and access to exclusive investment opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria for Accredited Investors

To qualify as an Accredited Investor, you must meet one of the following financial criteria:

For Individuals, HUFs, Family Trusts, and Sole Proprietorships:

• Annual Income: ≥ INR 2 Crore; OR
• Net Worth: ≥ INR 7.5 Crore, with at least INR 3.75 Crore in financial assets; OR
• Combination: Annual Income ≥ INR 1 Crore + Net Worth ≥ INR 5 Crore, with at least INR 2.5 Crore in financial assets.

For Partnership Firms:

• Each partner must independently meet the criteria for accreditation.

For Trusts (other than family trusts):

• Net worth ≥ INR 50 Crore.

For Body Corporates:

• Net worth ≥ INR 50 Crore.

Additional Notes:

• The value of the primary residence is not considered when calculating net worth for individuals, HUFs, or sole proprietorships.
• For joint holdings:
  • If the joint holders are parent(s) and child(ren), at least one person must independently meet the eligibility criteria.
  • If the joint holders are spouses, their combined income/net worth must meet the eligibility criteria.

How to Become an Accredited Investor

Step 1: Application Submission

• Submit an application to an Accreditation Agency (which could also be a KYC Registration Agency or KRA).
• The Accreditation Agency will access your KYC documents and financial information from their database or other KRAs.

Step 2: Documentation

You need to submit the following self-certified documents:

• Proof of Identity and Address:
  • For individuals/HUF/Sole Proprietorship: PAN card and any officially valid document.
  • For Body Corporates: PAN card and incorporation documents.
  • For Trusts: PAN card and registered trust deed.
• Proof of Financial Information:
  • Income Tax Returns (ITR) or ITR acknowledgment (for individuals/HUF/Family Trust/Sole Proprietorship).
  • Audited financial statements.
  • Net worth certificate from a practicing chartered accountant (not older than 6 months).
• Authorization:
  • For Body Corporates/Trusts: A letter from an authorized signatory to apply for accreditation.
• Undertaking:
  • A declaration that the information provided is true and correct.

Step 3: Accreditation Certificate

• If you meet the eligibility criteria, the Accreditation Agency will issue an Accreditation Certificate.
• The certificate will include:
  • A unique accreditation number.
  • Name of the Accreditation Agency.
  • PAN of the applicant.
  • Validity period (start and end date).
  • A disclaimer stating that the accreditation is based on KYC and financial information and does not exempt market intermediaries from due diligence.

Validity of Accreditation

• 2 Years: If the applicant meets the eligibility criteria for the preceding one financial year.
• 3 Years: If the applicant meets the eligibility criteria for the preceding two financial years.
• 2 Years: For newly incorporated entities that meet the net-worth criteria but lack financial information for the preceding financial year.

Advantages of Being an Accredited Investor

1. Access to Exclusive Investment Opportunities

Accredited Investors gain access to investment products that are not available to the general public. These include:

• Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs): AIs can invest in AIFs with lower minimum investment thresholds.
• Portfolio Management Services (PMS): AIs can access customized portfolio management services with relaxed regulatory norms.
• Private Equity and Venture Capital Funds: AIs can participate in high-growth, high-risk investment opportunities.

2. Lower Minimum Investment Thresholds

AIs can invest in certain products with a lower ticket size compared to non-accredited investors. This allows for greater diversification across multiple investment instruments and providers.

3. Regulatory Concessions

AIs benefit from a regulation-light framework, which includes:

• Relaxation from certain regulatory requirements, such as prudential norms, investment conditions, and filing requirements.
• Flexibility in investment strategies and terms, negotiated directly with investment providers.

4. Customized Investment Products

Investment providers can design and offer highly customized investment products tailored to the risk-return profile of Accredited Investors. This includes products with unique features and higher potential returns.

5. Flexibility to Withdraw Consent

AIs have the flexibility to withdraw their consent to avail benefits of accreditation, subject to certain conditions. Investments made before withdrawal are grandfathered, meaning they continue to be treated as AI investments.

Why Should HNIs Consider Becoming Accredited Investors?

For HNIs, becoming an Accredited Investor opens up a world of opportunities to enhance their investment portfolio. The ability to access exclusive investment products, negotiate better terms, and enjoy regulatory concessions makes the AI framework highly attractive. Additionally, the flexibility to withdraw consent ensures that investors retain control over their investment decisions.

Conclusion

Becoming an Accredited Investor in India is a strategic move for HNIs looking to maximize their investment potential. With access to exclusive opportunities, lower investment thresholds, and regulatory concessions, AIs are well-positioned to achieve their financial goals. If you meet the eligibility criteria, consider applying for accreditation today and unlock the benefits of being an Accredited Investor.