How a New RA Gets Their First 100 ClientsHow to get clients as a new research analyst: pick a clear niche, make yourself easy to verify, publish educational content that follows SEBI's rules, rely on word of mouth rather than paid finfluencers, and onboard interested people properly. No method guarantees a number of clients, but this avoids the mistakes that cost RAs.  Last updated: 21 October 2026 A new SEBI research analyst (RA) usually gets the first 100 clients through being easy to verify, specific about what they cover, and steady in publishing useful content. That means a clear niche, a complete public profile and website, educational content that follows SEBI's rules, word of mouth from satisfied clients, and a simple, compliant way for interested people to sign up. There is no shortcut, and nothing here guarantees a number of clients. What it does is avoid the mistakes that get new RAs into trouble: performance claims, paid finfluencer promotions and pressure tactics. A CRM for research analysts helps you follow up every lead without losing track. This post is practical guidance, not legal advice. Advertising rules for RAs are changing in 2027, so check the current SEBI rules and RAASB guidance before you start a campaign. Who are you for? Pick a clear position first"SEBI-registered RA" describes thousands of people. Prospective clients choose someone whose coverage fits them. SegmentEquity cash, derivatives, a sector, small companies or model portfolios. Choose what you research best. HorizonIntraday, short term or long term. Each attracts different clients with different expectations. FormatDetailed reports, short recommendations with rationale, or a model portfolio. Say exactly what a client receives and how often. Language and regionResearch in Hindi or a regional language can serve clients that English-only RAs do not reach. How do you make yourself easy to verify?Many investors have been burnt by unregistered tip sellers, so the first thing a careful prospect does is check you. Claim your directory profileFinuro runs a free directory of SEBI-registered research analysts where you can claim your profile, and investors can browse RAs by state and city. A functional websiteRegulation 19A of the RA Regulations requires one. Show your registered name, registration number, address, compliance and grievance officer details, the investor charter and monthly complaints data. Consistent details everywhereUse the same registered name and registration number on your website, social profiles and channel descriptions, along with the term "research analyst". Our post on RA website requirements has the full list. What content can a new RA publish to attract clients?Content builds trust over time, but the line between education and promotion matters. Write for the client you want, not for virality. A monthly sector note or a plain explanation of a market event, published on a schedule, does more for trust than daily hype. Our guide to the SEBI advertisement code for RAs covers the details. Can you use referrals and partnerships?Yes, within limits. Word of mouthClients who value your research will mention you to friends and family. Make it easy by being clear about what you offer and how to sign up. No paid finfluencer promotionSEBI-regulated entities must not be associated with anyone who gives securities advice without registration or makes unpermitted performance claims. SEBI's FAQs say association includes payments and referrals of clients, so paying such a person to send you clients is prohibited. Referral rewards to clientsFrom around April 2027, Regulation 16L(1)(g) of the amended Intermediaries Regulations bars incentives, vouchers, coupons or subscription plans given to clients as an inducement to avail services. Check any referral reward scheme with your compliance adviser. Influencer endorsementsUnder the same amendment, an influencer above the ASCI follower threshold counts as a celebrity. Celebrity endorsements are allowed only at brand level and need prior approval from RAASB. How do you turn followers into clients?Interest is not a client until onboarding is done properly. Every step should be easy and in the right order.
What should a new RA avoid?
What changes as you approach 100 clients?Growth brings obligations. Your RAASB deposit is ₹1 lakh for up to 150 clients and ₹2 lakh for 151 to 300, so plan for the next slab. Complaints handling, monthly complaints disclosure and record keeping all take more time as client numbers rise. Set up processes before you need them. Track every lead and client in one placeThe first 100 clients come from many small conversations. A CRM built for SEBI research analysts lets you import leads, group them into segments, use message templates and reply from one inbox across email, WhatsApp and Telegram, with online KYC, MITC and e-sign before payment. Related Finuro features
Frequently asked questionsAnswers to common questions on this topic. Built for SEBI RAs and IAs Follow up every leadImport leads, segment them and reply from one inbox across email, WhatsApp and Telegram. |
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