Investment Advisers (IAs) are professionals or entities authorized to provide advice on investment products and financial planning to clients, based on their risk profile, financial goals, and time horizons. In India, the role of Investment Advisers is governed by the SEBI (Investment Advisers) Regulations, 2013. These regulations mandate that IAs must be registered with Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and adhere to a code of conduct that emphasizes transparency, fiduciary responsibility, and client-centric service. IAs are required to segregate advisory and distribution services to avoid conflicts of interest and to charge fees directly from clients rather than earning commissions from product providers. This fee-only model ensures unbiased advice tailored to the clients’ best interests. Investment Advisers can be individuals, partnership firms, companies, or family offices, and they often help clients with portfolio structuring, retirement planning, and wealth management. As financial literacy grows and investors seek customized strategies, IAs are playing an increasingly important role in guiding informed and responsible investment decisions.