The answer in plain English
A distributor can facilitate schemes and receive distribution remuneration. A registered investment adviser operates under a separate advisory framework. A stockbroker can provide exchange access, including ETF trading. The right question is what service you need—advice, execution, account servicing or public research—and which authorised entity supplies it.
What to check
- Use the relevant official registration or AMFI distributor verification route.
- Ask for the full entity name and service scope in writing.
- Identify product expenses, any separate fee and the plan selected.
- Retain official statements; avoid paying investment money into an unverified individual’s account.
A useful comparison
| Need | Entity to verify | Research question |
|---|---|---|
| Scheme management | AMC | What does the scheme own? |
| Distribution service | Registered distributor | How is service paid for? |
| Personal advice | Registered investment adviser | What suitability assessment and fee apply? |
| ETF exchange access | Registered stockbroker | What are trading/account costs? |
Make the distinction clear
Example: a bank selling a mutual fund acts through a distribution route; the scheme is not automatically backed by a deposit guarantee. Compare the product and service independently. MF Analyser’s tools help organise evidence and compare fund data; they should not be described as a brokerage account or a personalised advisory mandate.
One final question before acting
Does the figure or document match the exact scheme, plan, option, period and purpose in your question? Keep the source date with the answer. For a real transaction or personal decision, the current scheme documents and your own records take priority over a saved educational example.