Curbing unlicensed advice on social media

The question is, is the Securities Commission (SC) equipped to monitor the vast corners of the Internet where these players operate in?

ONE of the biggest challenges facing regulators here and elsewhere is the rise of unlicensed investment advisers using social media to reach unsuspecting investors.

The situation in Malaysia is no different, with hundreds of groups on the telegram messaging service alone, promoting stocks and sometimes even seeking membership fees for those who wish to view their so called investment “tips”. The problem is most of the individuals on these platforms are unlicensed to give such advice.