But success came crashing down when the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) acted decisively against him on allegations of market manipulation.

Early Career & Rise to Prominence

• Start of the Journey
  Upon finishing his CA and half-time LLB studies, Bhasin ventured into the stock market in the 1980s. His initial success was through investments in large‑cap and pharma shares, which earned him the respect of investors.
  
• Corporate Career Path
  He served in executive roles at Deutsche Bank and subsequently at IIFL Securities, Director from 2017 to 2022 and consultant up to June 2024.
  
• Media Fame
  Bhasin became the go-to market guru, frequently appearing on TV channels like Zee Business, CNBC Awaaz, and ET Now. He also shared predictions via IIFL’s Telegram channel and built a strong following of retail investors .

The Methods Behind the Fame

• Front‑Running Allegations
  SEBI accused Bhasin of front‑running—buying stocks through entities linked to him (Gemini Portfolios, Venus Portfolios, HB Stockholdings) before recommending them to the media .
  
• Pump‑and‑Dump Strategy
  After his bullish calls publicly drove stock prices higher, he would sell his positions to pocket the profits .
  
• Organized Scheme
  SEBI’s investigations, covering January 2020 to June 2024, revealed a co‑ordinated network including his cousin Lalit Bhasin, RRB Master Securities, and several dealers executing trades under his influence .

SEBI’s Action & Unraveling the Regime

• Trading Ban & Asset Impoundment
  On June 17, 2025, SEBI barred Bhasin and 11 associates from the markets and seized ₹11.37 crore in alleged illegal profits .
  
• Evidence from Seizure Operations
  In June 2024, SEBI carried out searches in the Delhi NCR region. They uncovered WhatsApp chats and call logs confirming the front‑running modus operandi .
  
• Market Integrity Measures
  The regulator’s strict interim order highlighted that even well-known experts must follow Prohibition of Fraudulent and Unfair Trade Practices (PFUTP) regulations .

The Aftermath & Shift to Astrology

• From Stocks to Stars
  Just before SEBI’s action, Bhasin changed course—switching from market tips to astrology advice on social media. He shared forecasts on planetary movements and life predictions, surprising his followers .
  
• Public Reaction
  This transformation sparked mixed reactions. Some saw it as a diversion; others viewed it as his way of staying relevant after the SEBI probe surfaced .

Lessons for Investors & Financial Media

• Beware of Influencer-Based Tips
  SEBI makes sure that TV and social media analysts do not trade before they give a public call so as to avoid abuse of trust.
  
• Increased Regulatory Monitoring
  The Bhasin case points out the determination by SEBI in maintaining integrity of the market. It recommends stronger laws regarding financial influencers and normative standards regarding media reveals as well.
  
• Investor Vigilance is Key
  Individual investors are advised to conduct their own research and not depend on tips from celebrities who may be biased.

Where Bhasin Stands Now

• Pending Legal Proceedings
  SEBI has asked Bhasin and others to respond within 21 days and aims to reclaim the ₹11+ crore confiscated. A hearing will decide long-term penalties.
  
• Contemplating Appeal
  His defense may challenge SEBI’s order in the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT), potentially questioning the linkage between his media presence and market impact .

Key Takeaways

Conclusion

Sanjiv Bhasin's tale is a cautionary one in the new stock market era. What started as a winning career and respected personality became a dramatic tumble due to accused abuse of influence. To investors, it's a reminder: do your research, be wary of flashy advice, and treat influencers the same as professionals. As SEBI tightens its fist on manipulation and social media frenzy, the days of unrestricted guru trading are numbered.

Stay with us for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Who is Sanjiv Bhasin?

Ans-  A Former IIFL Securities Director, Bhasin gained a prominent market voice on TV   and social media before being banned by SEBI.

Q2. Why did SEBI ban him?
Ans-  He was accused of front-running trades, purchasing shares ahead of publicly touting them and selling for a profit—a breach of market conventions.

Q3. How much money did SEBI impound?
Ans-  SEBI seized ₹11.37 crore in alleged illegal gains .

Q4. Did Bhasin respond or appeal?
Ans-  He has 21 days to submit a reply. He may challenge SEBI’s interim order in the Securities Appellate Tribunal .

Q5. What’s next for financial influencers on TV/social media?

Ans- Anticipate stricter regulation and disclosure standards. SEBI might compel influencers to register, report trades, and eschew trading on recommendations ahead of time.