The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has eased the process of launching a mutual fund by introducing a single consolidated application form for registration. The move replaces the existing multi-stage process that required separate submissions for in-principle approval and final registration of a mutual fund.
The revised application form brings together all key information relating to sponsors, ownership structure, financial strength, governance standards, compliance systems and the proposed Asset Management Company (AMC), making the approval process more streamlined and transparent.
The reform is expected to reduce paperwork, eliminate duplication, improve regulatory efficiency and speed up approvals for new entrants. By simplifying registration while retaining stringent compliance and investor-protection requirements, SEBI has taken a significant step towards improving ease of doing business in the mutual fund industry and encouraging greater participation in the sector.