Form CRS Observations

Form CRS Observations

Broker dealers, specifically the Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”), are required to review their firm’s compliance programs and procedures at least annually to ensure that all compliance areas are working in accordance with the rules and regulations set forth by the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”). Per the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 under rule 17a-14, one area of review for broker dealers who maintain retail clients is Form CRS, the customer relationship summary. Form CRS contains various information regarding the broker dealer that is important for retail clients to know. Over the past Read more about Form CRS Observations[…]

Three Main Focal Points of Newly Registered Firms

Exam Observations for New Firms

In March 2023, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) released an alert article with some observations that they have seen when examining newly registered firms. Note that these alerts are not rules or regulations of any regulatory authority. However, investment advisory firms and broker dealers can garner many important takeaways that may assist the firm during an examination. It is important for any new firm – whether broker dealer or registered investment advisor – to start communicating and engaging with its regulatory contacts. Having an open line of communication can provide value to investment advisors and/or broker dealers in building Read more about Exam Observations for New Firms[…]

This is a summary of the key findings of the SEC's charges regarding electronic communications.

Electronic and Technology Takeaways from SEC’s Billion Dollar Penalties

On September 22, 2022, the Securities and Exchange Commission announced charges against 15 wall street broker-dealers and one affiliated investment adviser for widespread and longstanding failures by the firms and their employees to maintain and preserve electronic communications during January 2018 through September 2021 review period. You can read the commissions summary and links for all 15 orders here. Below are some of the key finding and takeaways.  Attestations Alone Don’t Protect the Firm   What’s key about these charges is that many of the Firm’s had procedures, training and even attestations in place for all Associated Persons to document and Read more about Electronic and Technology Takeaways from SEC’s Billion Dollar Penalties[…]

What’s ‘New’ about the SEC’s New Marketing Rule for Investment Advisers?

What’s ‘New’ about the SEC’s New Marketing Rule for Investment Advisers?

Marketing and advertising in the mid-20th Century was very different then what exists in today’s world of social media. Marketing and advertising are constantly evolving. Today’s social media influencers, hashtags, comments, likes, and posts can all be used for marketing purposes. With this in mind, it makes sense that regulations should evolve as well and not be stuck in the past. In December 2020, the SEC adapted regulations to better align with the 21st Century’s marketing environment. The 1961 Advertising Rule 206(4)-1 2021 combined with the Cash Solicitation Rule206(4)-3 will now be regulated under a single rule referred to as Read more about What’s ‘New’ about the SEC’s New Marketing Rule for Investment Advisers?[…]

Amendments to FINRA Rules for Security-Based Swaps

Amendments to FINRA Rules for Security-Based Swaps

In an effort to clarify the rules regarding security-based swaps (SBS), FINRA has adopted amendments to rules 0180, 4120, and 4220. FINRA had previously adopted temporary relief from the application of most FINRA rules to SBS (Rule 0180), in tandem with temporary exemptive orders issued by the SEC relating to the definition of SBS as securities, as well as an interim pilot program with respect to margin requirements for transactions in CDS held in an account at a member (Rule 4240). These rules expire on February 6, 2022, and April 6, 2022, respectively. Amendments to Rule 0180 FINRA has adopted Read more about Amendments to FINRA Rules for Security-Based Swaps[…]

SEC Rule 17f-2: Fingerprinting Of Securities Industry Personnel

SEC Rule 17f-2: Fingerprinting Of Securities Industry Personnel

Under SEC Rule 17F-2, every member of a national securities exchange, broker, dealer, registered transfer agent and registered clearing agency, and national securities association (as well as others), shall require that each of its partners, directors, officers, and employees be fingerprinted and submit appropriate and complete fingerprint cards to FINRA. FINRA then transmits these fingerprints and identifying information to the FBI to identify and process, consistent with protocols and requirements established by the Attorney General. Who is Required to be Fingerprinted? SEC Rule 17f-2 requires that the following associated persons be fingerprinted: Persons applying for registration. A fingerprint card must Read more about SEC Rule 17f-2: Fingerprinting Of Securities Industry Personnel[…]