Tuhin Kanta Pandey has been appointed as the new Chief of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). His selection was confirmed through a late-night announcement by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet on Thursday. Tuhin will serve a three-year term, succeeding Madhabi Puri Buch, whose tenure concludes today.
Speaking to the media in New Delhi on Friday morning, Tuhin acknowledged the government’s decision but refrained from making any immediate statements about his plans. “I just received the order yesterday. The government has entrusted me with this responsibility. I will take charge at SEBI, but I will decide when to join,” he stated. When asked about his last working day as Finance Secretary, he said there was “no clarity yet.”
Regarding his priorities at SEBI, Tuhin remained reserved, stating, “I am yet to take over. Let me assume office first.” He also declined to comment on the role of the market regulator in the current financial scenario.
Pandey, a 1987 batch IAS officer, steps into the role at a crucial time for the Indian markets, which are experiencing bearish trends due to significant withdrawals by foreign institutional investors. As of January 2025, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have pulled out over ₹1 lakh crore from the Indian market, raising concerns about market stability.
His predecessor, Madhabi Puri Buch, was SEBI’s first female chief and introduced several significant reforms, including stricter regulations for derivative markets to safeguard retail investors. She has been a strong advocate for small-scale investment opportunities and investor protection.
As Tuhin assumes office, the financial sector will closely watch his approach to regulating and stabilizing the markets amid ongoing volatility.
