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SEBI Guidelines for Algo Trading in India

Algorithmic trading, also known as algorithmic trading or algo trading, refers to the use of computer programs to execute trades in the stock market. These programs follow pre-set instructions written by people. SEBI, which stands for the Securities and Exchange Board of India, has established important rules to ensure that this type of trading remains safe and fair for all parties. This blog will guide you through the SEBI regulations on algo trading and other important factors associated with this. 

Revised SEBI Rules and Framework

SEBI created a new set of rules in 2022 and 2023. These rules help ensure that all types of algorithmic trading, whether conducted by large firms or individual traders, follow the same safety protocols. Below are the main parts of the updated framework:

1. Mandatory Exchange Approval for All Algorithmic Strategies

  • Every algo program must be approved by the stock exchange.

  • This applies to all users, including both large companies and small traders.

  • The exchange checks the logic and safety of the program.

  • If a program is not approved, it cannot be used.

  • This stops unsafe or faulty code from being used.

  • Helps keep the trading system safe for everyone.

  • This applies even to programs made by individuals at home.

  • Traders must go through brokers to get approval.

  • This rule adds an important layer of security.

  • Keeps all algo tools under regular monitoring.

2. Unique Algo ID Tagging

  • Once approved, each algo program gets a unique ID.

  • This ID must be linked to every order it places.

  • Helps track how each algo behaves in the market.

  • Makes it easier to find problems if anything goes wrong.

  • Provides SEBI and brokers with a comprehensive view of each strategy.

  • Prevents people from hiding what their algo is doing.

  • Adds transparency to the entire trading process.

  • Brokers can stop or review trades based on the ID.

  • Makes audit and review much easier and faster.

  • Builds trust in the algo trading system.

3. Classification: White Box vs Black Box Algos

  • SEBI separates algos into two types.

  • White Box: Logic is transparent and publicly disclosed to brokers.

  • Black Box: Logic is hidden but still requires approval.

  • Both types must follow the same safety steps.

  • Developers must provide proper documents and tests.

  • Even secret logic must go through checks.

  • Brokers need to know the basic risks involved.

  • No strategy can skip rules because it is a Black Box.

  • Encourages fairness and safety for all users.

  • Ensures that no algorithm is above the system.

4. Registration of Algorithm Provider

  • Anyone who creates algo programs for others must register.

  • SEBI checks the background and setup of the provider.

  • Only registered providers can offer algos to brokers.

  • Unregistered vendors are not allowed to operate.

  • Providers must give full details about the algo.

  • Includes how it works, testing, and safety features.

  • Helps avoid unsafe or fake strategies.

  • Makes providers responsible for the algorithms they sell.

  • SEBI keeps a list of approved developers.

  • Keeps clients and brokers protected.

5. Deployment Only via Broker Infrastructure

  • All algo programs must run on systems managed by brokers.

  • Traders cannot run programs on their personal computers.

  • Brokers must control the full trade process.

  • This makes trade records and safety management easier.

  • Helps avoid the misuse of fast trading systems.

  • Ensures every order is recorded properly.

  • Brokers apply checks before orders go to the market.

  • Only systems that have been tested and approved can be used.

  • Keeps trading safe from outside manipulation.

  • Aligns with global safety standards.

6. Broker Responsibility and Oversight

  • Brokers are fully responsible for all algorithms run through them.

  • They must review and approve every program.

  • Also, check if each algo follows SEBI rules.

  • Must track all trades and store the data.

  • Can stop a strategy if it causes problems.

  • Must teach clients about how algos work.

  • Regular checks and updates are necessary.

  • Can’t allow any unsafe or unknown strategy.

  • Work closely with SEBI to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.

  • Must build a safe and working system.

7. Mandatory Risk Mitigation Controls

  • Each algo must have safety controls built in.

  • It must stop if prices move too fast or far.

  • Limit how many trades happen per minute.

  • Programs must have a contingency plan in place in case things go wrong.

  • Brokers must test these before giving approval.

  • Prevents errors from harming the entire market.

  • Ensures algorithms act calmly during rapid movements.

  • Protects both the trader and the system.

  • Encourages smart planning before launch.

  • Prevents unwanted trades or money loss.

8. Self Developed Algorithms

  • If someone writes their own algo, they still need approval.

  • Must submit their code to the broker.

  • Brokers will test and review before use.

  • No one can skip rules even if they code themselves.

  • Must explain what the program does.

  • Include test results and safety details.

  • Only after approval the algo can go live.

  • Encourages responsible coding.

  • Puts the same rule on all traders.

  • Builds fairness between large firms and individuals.

9. Regulations for Black Box Algorithms

  • Black Box algorithms also need approval.

  • Even if logic is hidden, rules still apply.

  • Brokers must host and control the strategy.

  • Must submit the logic outline and test reports.

  • Trade safety tools must be included.

  • Developers stay responsible for strategic behaviour.

  • Cannot host the code outside the broker systems.

  • SEBI will review if problems occur.

  • Hidden logic doesn’t mean a free pass.

  • Keeps even secret strategies under control.

10. Disclosures to Clients

  • Clients must be told about the algo being used.

  • You must understand how it works and be aware of the associated risks.

  • Brokers must take written permission.

  • All details should be provided in simple language.

  • Clients must be aware of their rights to stop or opt-out.

  • Brokers need to share regular reports.

  • Helps clients make informed choices.

  • Builds trust in the algorithm.

  • Must follow the SEBI format for disclosure.

  • Makes sure clients stay protected.

Reasons Behind Regulatory Updates

SEBI made these changes for some clear reasons:

More Retail Traders Using Algos

  • Many people started using algo tools after 2020.

  • Easy access to free coding tools made it simpler for everyone.

  • This control was necessary to ensure trading safety.

No Supervision on Custom Codes

  • Traders were using codes without informing brokers or exchanges.

  • This made it hard to track trades and keep order.

Risk of Market Misuse

  • Poorly written code can quickly result in hundreds of incorrect trades.

  • This could disturb the whole market.

Need for Fairness

  • Rules now apply equally to big firms and small traders.

  • Everyone must follow the same safety steps.

Effects on Traders, Brokers, and Algo Developers

These rules affect all the main people involved in algo trading:

Traders

  • Traders must use only approved algo tools.

  • They can no longer run codes directly from their laptops.

  • They must go through a broker to get their strategy approved.

  • They need to keep all documents and proofs ready for review.

  • If they change the code, it must be checked again.

  • Even home coders must follow the same process.

  • Traders must obtain written approval from clients before using algorithms.

  • If a client wants to stop, that must be recorded.

  • Traders must track how their algo performs daily.

  • Training is advised to understand risks and systems.

Brokers

  • Brokers must check and approve every algo code.

  • They must host the strategy on their systems.

  • They are responsible for tagging every trade with the algo’s unique ID.

  • They must quickly identify and stop any suspicious trade patterns.

  • Must offer clear information to clients using algorithms.

  • Maintain backup systems and data logs for safety and security.

  • Coordinate with SEBI for audits or reviews.

  • Tech teams and compliance teams must work together.

  • Cannot let traders use external or cloud servers.

  • Brokers are responsible for any misuse of the system.

Algorithm Developers

  • If someone builds algo tools for others, they must register with the exchange.

  • Their software must pass a review.

  • Only registered developers can partner with brokers.

  • They must show how their software works, including test reports.

  • If anything goes wrong, they are responsible.

  • They must stay up to date with SEBI’s latest rules.

  • Should fix bugs and share updates quickly.

  • Cannot run their strategy on servers outside the broker’s system.

  • Must reply to any question from the broker or SEBI.

  • Maintain accurate records of client interactions.

Final Thoughts

SEBI’s new rules for algorithmic trading bring more order and safety. Now, whether a big company or an individual creates a trading program, the steps are the same. This makes the system fair and transparent. People now clearly understand how to start algorithmic trading under SEBI’s guidance. While it may feel like extra work, these rules help avoid sudden losses, system misuse, or unfair advantage. Everyone involved — traders, brokers, or developers — now has a well-defined role.

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