Avadhut Sathe Trading Academy clarifies focus remains on training, not advisory, amid SEBI action

Pune-based trader and trainer Avadhut Sathe has responded to the Securities and Exchange Board of India’s (SEBI) recent search-and-seizure operation at his Karjat academy, emphasising that his institute is a training platform and not a financial advisory or influencer service.

"This statement is being issued in response to several enquiries we have received over the past few days. We wish to clarify and reaffirm our position and to provide transparency to our student, and community network," Avadhut Sathe Trading Academy (ASTA) said in a statement.

The academy added that it is "fully cooperating with SEBI" and "remains committed to providing any additional information or assistance they may require." It further said, "We welcome their guidance to ensure the highest standards of compliance and transparency."

On August 20, SEBI officials carried out search operations at Sathe’s Karjat training centre as part of a wider crackdown on unregistered financial influencers. Sathe has built a wide following over the years. His YouTube channel has 9.4 lakh subscribers, and ASTA says it has trained more than 62,000 students across 51 countries and all 35 Indian states and UTs.

Founded in 2008, ASTA now has 17 branches in India, with courses ranging from free webinars to programmes priced between ₹21,000 and ₹1.7 lakh. Some mentorship packages have reportedly been sold for as much as ₹5 lakh.

Addressing what it called "misinformation," ASTA said, "Avadhut Sathe Trading Academy is a training institution and not an advisory service provider or a FinInfluencer."

"We do not publish or circulate research reports or stock recommendations. We do not provide personalised investment advice for consideration. We also do not give trade tips, stock calls, or promise assured returns," the statement read.

"Our focus has always been to develop independent traders and investors through structured training programs," the statement said. "Our sessions are designed to build analytical, execution, and decision-making skills, ensuring that our students are equipped to trade with knowledge, discipline, and confidence."

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