Understanding Contravention, Penalties, Adjudication and Appeals mechanism under FEMA

Under FEMA, contraventions, penalties, adjudication, and appeals are handled through a structured legal process to ensure fairness and regulatory compliance in foreign exchange dealings. Contravention Under FEMA A contravention occurs when any person, company, or entity violates the provisions, rules, regulations, or directions issued under FEMA, or acts against the conditions attached to any authorization…

Key RBI Powers over Authorized Persons

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has extensive powers with respect to authorized persons under FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999), enabling it to regulate, supervise, and enforce compliance in the conduct of foreign exchange transactions. Authorization & Licensing RBI is empowered to authorize any person or entity (banks, money changers, financial institutions) to act…

Regulatory Framework of Payment and Settlement Systems in India: Overview of the PSS Act, 2007

The Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 (PSS Act) governs the regulation and supervision of payment systems in India and designates the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as the regulatory authority for this purpose. The Act empowers the RBI to establish a committee, namely the Board for Regulation and Supervision of Payment and Settlement Systems…

Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), 1999 – A Simplified Guide

The Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA) is India’s primary legislation governing foreign exchange. It was introduced to replace the restrictive **Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA)**, with the goal of creating a more open, transparent, and investor-friendly environment for international trade and payments. FEMA empowers the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to regulate foreign exchange…