Regulatory reform

The Wall Street watchdog looks for factors like repeat violations and staff members with a history of disciplinary troubles.

Under the proposal, critics argue, investment ads could be considered recommendations triggering advisors' obligation to look out for clients' best interests.

The fees will vary depending on whether they're assessed on equities, options or over-the-counter equities.

The regulator accused a broker-dealer of not having proper supervisory procedures to prevent $533,500 in excessive transactions.

The state regulators group plans eventually to introduce a similar system for independent advisor representatives.

Other states are likely to look to Massachusetts for guidance on how far they can go in holding broker-dealers to a higher standard than Regulation Best Interest.

Commissioner Hester Peirce warns an unintended consequence of the new regulation could be less thorough internal compliance reviews.

Missouri requires brokers who recommend investing on environmental, governance or social principles to sign statements saying they "are not solely focused on maximizing" returns.

Many advisors use real estate investment trusts to hedge against inflation while also providing steady dividend income. But private funds still provoke skepticism.

A lawyer representing advisors warns the new rule will drive the forum fees of arbitration hearings well above $10,000.

The proposal to replace in-person inspections still drives a wedge between investor advocates and brokerage industry groups.

The move comes amid predictions that clients will increasingly base wealth management decisions on online testimonials and ratings.

A prominent compliance consultant lists the top reasons firms turn to outside experts for regulatory assistance.

The Wall Street regulator is targeting technology that offers advice that might be against clients' best interests — even if advisors are unaware of the conflict.

The large RIA will rely on the new relationship for loans against private and illiquid investments and other specialized services.

The latest proposed changes tweak criteria that would disqualify firms from having 'residential supervisory locations.'

The plaintiffs plan to argue the current system deprives them of their right to a jury trial in cases involving securities allegations.

The broker-dealer self-regulator said the shortfall is partly the result of increased spending on staff coupled with a decline in the value of its investment portfolio.

The bill would not only ban non-competes but also limit the scope of non-solicit agreements.

The panel's recommendation would also seek comments on the possibility of outsourcing some review functions to third-party firms.