From Tips to Stars: Sanjiv Bhasin’s Sudden Shift Before SEBI Ban
In a dramatic shift that has shocked financial circles, veteran market analyst and IIFL Securities’ former poster boy, Sanjiv Bhasin, has seemingly traded stock tips for astrological predictions. The transition occurred just months before the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued a severe regulatory ban against him for alleged manipulation of stock prices. The transformation has sparked widespread debate, raising questions about credibility, investor trust, and the strange intersection between finance and mysticism.
The Rise of Sanjiv Bhasin: A Market Icon
Sanjiv Bhasin built a reputation over the years as a bold, confident market commentator. His presence on business news channels made him a familiar face among Indian retail investors. With decades of experience in equities and derivatives, Bhasin’s stock recommendations often influenced trading behavior across platforms. His insights were sought after, and many regarded his words as gospel. However, the journey From Tips to Stars has taken a sharp and unexpected turn.
From Market Strategies to Horoscope Advice
In a surprising pivot, Sanjiv Bhasin began posting astrology-based life advice and predictions on his social media platforms. From daily horoscopes to Vastu Shastra guidance and planetary alignment analyses, Bhasin’s new avatar raised eyebrows. For a man long synonymous with sharp market acumen, this spiritual detour seemed not only uncharacteristic but oddly timed. This unusual transition from stock tips to astrological insights now appears to have coincided with an imminent regulatory storm — making the narrative From Tips to Stars all the more intriguing.
SEBI’s Crackdown: The Pump-and-Dump Allegations
On June 2025, SEBI cracked down on Sanjiv Bhasin, accusing him of serious financial malpractice. The regulator’s order alleges that Bhasin was involved in front-running trades and misleading retail investors through orchestrated schemes. Specifically, SEBI pointed out that Bhasin and his associates engaged in a classic pump-and-dump operation: promoting certain stocks aggressively and then selling them at inflated prices.
The investigation led to an order for disgorgement of Rs 11.37 crore — the alleged illegal gains made by Bhasin. In addition to monetary penalties, SEBI imposed a market activity ban on him. With such stringent action, the phrase From Tips to Stars began symbolizing not only a content shift but also a possible strategic retreat from impending scrutiny.
Astrology as a Diversion or a New Venture?
While astrology is widely followed in India, Sanjiv Bhasin’s abrupt adoption of this field raises more questions than answers. Was this shift From Tips to Stars a calculated diversion? Did Bhasin anticipate SEBI’s clampdown and attempt to rebrand himself in a completely unrelated niche? Some analysts suggest it was a psychological or reputational shield — designed to distance himself from his market persona while staying in the public eye.
Others believe this change reflects genuine personal interest. Over the past few years, several prominent figures have dabbled in spirituality, mindfulness, and Vedic sciences as a way to manage stress or seek purpose beyond commercial success. Whatever the motivation, the move has added a new layer to Bhasin’s already complex public image.
Investor Sentiment: Confusion and Concern
Retail investors, especially those who once relied on Bhasin’s market calls, have expressed confusion and concern over his actions. Social media forums are abuzz with mixed reactions. Some feel betrayed, citing trust violations and monetary losses from stocks he allegedly manipulated. Others mockingly dub the transition From Tips to Stars as a move worthy of a Netflix documentary.
More serious voices are urging financial influencers and analysts to maintain transparency and regulatory compliance. “This is a wake-up call,” said a Mumbai-based trader. “You can’t just flip from finance to fortune-telling when caught in a bind. It undermines the credibility of the entire industry.”
Regulatory Implications and Public Trust
SEBI’s action against Bhasin sends a strong message to other financial influencers. The move reinforces that even high-profile names will not be spared if found engaging in manipulative practices. The situation also puts the spotlight on the blurred lines between financial guidance and social media promotion. As more influencers blur these boundaries, regulators are expected to increase vigilance.
Interestingly, the shift From Tips to Stars might complicate regulatory oversight. If an individual no longer offers financial advice but instead positions themselves as a lifestyle or astrology content creator, existing laws may fall short of providing comprehensive checks. This grey area needs attention.
Media and Meme Culture: A Field Day
Unsurprisingly, the internet has had a field day with this development. Memes comparing Bhasin’s former CNBC stock predictions with his current moon-phase posts are going viral. Twitter threads juxtaposing his market jargon with zodiac signs are drawing thousands of likes and retweets.
However, beyond the humor lies a more serious undercurrent — that of a public disillusioned with those in positions of influence. The phrase From Tips to Stars is being adopted both as satire and social commentary, highlighting the precarious state of trust in financial advisors.
Lessons for the Financial Community
This episode provides multiple lessons for investors and market commentators alike. For investors, the key takeaway is to diversify sources of information and avoid over-reliance on charismatic voices. Due diligence and skepticism should always accompany financial decisions.
For influencers and analysts, the message is even louder: with great influence comes great responsibility. Market participants must adhere strictly to transparency and compliance standards. A reputation can take decades to build but mere minutes to lose — especially in the era of instant virality.
The Future for Sanjiv Bhasin
What lies ahead for Sanjiv Bhasin is uncertain. His financial career has suffered a major blow, and the new astrological avatar has so far drawn more ridicule than respect. However, in a country where astrology has deep cultural roots, Bhasin might yet carve out a niche if he shows genuine commitment and expertise.
That said, rebuilding public trust will be a monumental task. From Tips to Stars may offer poetic cover for now, but unless backed by authenticity, it risks being dismissed as a gimmick or evasion.
Conclusion
The story of Sanjiv Bhasin’s fall from financial grace is as compelling as it is cautionary. His journey From Tips to Stars encapsulates the strange and sometimes surreal intersections between money, influence, regulation, and reputation. Whether this marks a new beginning or the twilight of a once-bright career remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that in the world of finance, credibility remains the most valuable currency of all.