Reliance on financial advisers has made clarity, transparency, and accountability more important than ever. As more individuals participate in investing, investors are no longer looking only for returns. They also expect clear processes, proper disclosures, and advice that genuinely aligns with their financial goals. Understanding how financial advisory firms operate is essential for making informed decisions and knowing when to raise concerns.
About 90-10 Financial Planners Pvt Ltd
90-10 Financial Planners Pvt Ltd is a SEBI-registered Investment Adviser, holding registration number INA200008291. The firm operates as a fee-only financial advisory, meaning it does not earn commissions from the sale of products. This structure is designed to mitigate conflicts of interest and ensure that advice aligns with the client’s best interests.
This profit-sharing Stock Advisory Company was established in 2008 under the proprietary holding MoneyGuide India. It was founded by Sathish Padakannaya, who serves as the founder and Chief Strategist. Headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka, the firm operates under the regulatory framework applicable to registered investment advisers in India.
90-10 Financial Advisor Services
90-10 Financial Planners follows a structured, goal-based financial planning approach. Its services cover key areas such as:
- Investment planning
- Insurance planning
- Tax planning
- Retirement planning
The advisory process is designed to help clients make long-term financial decisions that are aligned with their goals, time horizons, and risk profiles. The firm follows a documented and process-driven methodology, starting with client onboarding and mandatory regulatory disclosures.
Investment recommendations are typically based on diversified and goal-oriented asset allocation principles. Client portfolios are reviewed periodically to reflect changes in market conditions, personal circumstances, or financial objectives. As a registered investment adviser, the firm operates under a fiduciary obligation, meaning it is legally required to act in the best interest of its clients.
The leadership team holds recognized professional financial planning certifications, reinforcing the firm’s emphasis on structured advice and compliance-driven practices.
From a communication and safety standpoint, 90-10 Financial Planners has clarified that it does not operate advisory services through social media platforms, including Telegram or WhatsApp. The firm does not run official groups or channels on such platforms for advisory communication.
Investors are advised to remain cautious of unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming to represent the firm. Any unverified communication should be treated with caution, and clients are encouraged to rely only on officially confirmed channels. These measures are aimed at reducing the risk of fraud, misinformation, or impersonation.
When Should an Investor File a Complaint Against a Financial Adviser?
Most investor-adviser relationships begin with trust and clear expectations. However, issues may arise over time when actual service delivery does not align with what was promised or documented. It is important to recognize when dissatisfaction crosses the line into a legitimate grievance that warrants a formal complaint.
Investors are encouraged to first seek clarification directly from the adviser. However, if concerns persist or responses remain unclear, initiating a formal complaint becomes necessary. Doing so ensures that issues are documented and addressed through the appropriate regulatory or grievance mechanisms.
Common reasons for filing a complaint in SEBI may include:
- Delays or lack of response in communication or portfolio reviews despite agreed timelines
- Unclear or inconsistent fee structures, billing, or invoices
- Advice that does not align with the documented risk profile or stated financial goals
- Inadequate explanation of investment strategies or changes in asset allocation
- Receiving messages or calls claiming to be from the adviser that appear unauthorized
- Differences between what was promised during onboarding and the services actually delivered
- Unauthorised trading and assurance of guaranteed profits.
Timely action helps protect investor interests and ensures that concerns follow a structured and traceable process.
Conclusion
In summary, 90-10 Financial Planners Pvt Ltd operates within the regulatory framework applicable to SEBI-registered investment advisers in India and follows a fee-only, fiduciary-based advisory model. The firm offers structured financial planning services across multiple areas, supported by documented processes and regulatory disclosures.
For investors, understanding how advisory firms function helps set realistic expectations and builds confidence in the advisory relationship. At the same time, staying informed and vigilant is essential. Investors should remain cautious of unexpected or unverified communications, maintain proper records of all interactions, and be aware of the formal complaint process if issues arise.
Awareness, documentation, and timely action together create a safer and more transparent environment when engaging with financial advisory services.
