Mumbai: SEBI Chairman Shri Tuhin Kanta Pandey said that Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) are becoming an important pillar of India’s capital markets and play a key role in supporting the country’s long-term capital formation. He made these remarks while delivering the keynote address at the 15th edition of the IVCA Conclave 2026.

Speaking on the theme “The Evolving Agenda for Alternative Investment Funds,” Pandey highlighted the rapid growth of the AIF sector and its increasing contribution to financing areas such as startups, infrastructure and special situation investments.

“Alternative investment funds are no longer at the margins of our financial system. They are now an important pillar of India’s capital markets, connecting patient capital with sectors that need it most,” he said.

Pandey also emphasised that SEBI will continue to follow a balanced and consultative regulatory approach. While systemic risks will be addressed firmly, regulations will be designed in a way that supports innovation and capital formation.

He noted that both the regulator and the industry have a shared responsibility to build a credible, transparent and well-governed AIF ecosystem that aligns with India’s long-term development goals.

The message reflected the broader theme of the IVCA Conclave 2026 – “Vision to Value: The New Era of Indian Alternate Capital.” The event brought together policymakers, regulators, investors and industry leaders to discuss the evolving role of alternative capital in India’s economic growth.

Pandey’s keynote set a positive tone for the conclave, highlighting the importance of strong governance, institutional discipline and long-term value creation in building a globally competitive AIF ecosystem.