Are we entering a new era of deregulation?
With regulators shifting focus away from enforcement and emphasizing the benefits of self-reporting early, are we entering a period of deregulation in financial services – and what does this mean for firms?
The Conduct Chronicles – SEC Renegotiation? Not a chance!
Regulators are reviewing and revising regulations by creating a less intense process for financial services looking to comply with the rules, and while the SEC has refused revisiting past settlements, FINRA seems to be on the case.
Regulatory Wrap episode 67: The $80K cover-up FINRA didn’t miss
In Regulatory Wrap for the week to August 1, Jay Hampshire reviews a FINRA fine against a firm rep for concealing misconduct using off-channel communications.
FCA and FINRA shift attention to individual accountability with misconduct fines
Regulators are taking a hardline stance on personal conduct and accountability, as shown by the latest FINRA enforcement action against a broker for exam cheating, as well as a £1 million FCA fine against a CEO for “lack of integrity through misleading statements.
$15,000 FINRA fine for concealing profit-sharing via off-channel communications
A former Charles Schwab representative has been fined $15,000 and suspended for concealing an unauthorized profit-sharing agreement in “thousands” of off-channel text messages and emails.
Regulatory Wrap episode 64: Global regulators crack down on finfluencer violations
In Regulatory Wrap for the week to June 20, Kathryn Fallah covers the international crackdown on financial influencers, also known as “finfluencers.”
FINRA fine shows off-channel comms are still on the record
Despite a global push towards reduced regulation, a recent FINRA-issued fine for off-channel communication shows that recordkeeping and surveillance remain a regulatory priority.
Is FINRA focusing on fairness by reducing HSP compliance burdens?
The SEC's January 2025 settlements for off-channel comms violations introduced lighter compliance terms, creating a divergence between earlier enforcement actions that imposed stricter membership oversight requirements on FINRA firms. After the SEC's rejection of a petition to review the pre-2025 settlements, FINRA is now looking to level the field by easing collateral consequences.
Communication Surveillance
Organizations in 2025 are juggling hundreds of customer communication touchpoints. While traditional phone calls and emails are still in use, it’s the specialized investment apps, social media channels, and messaging apps that regulated companies are now using to stay connected to clients.
Regulatory Wrap Episode 58: Oracle Cloud breach calls for a cybersecurity wake-up call
In Regulatory Wrap for the week to April 11, Ryan Sheridan discusses the alleged Oracle Cloud data breach that affected over 140,000 customers.
Regulators give firms a thumb’s down for not capturing emojis
Regulators are increasingly scrutinizing the use of emojis and avatars in communications within financial services, due to their potential for ambiguity and misuse. There is a growing need for enhanced monitoring to circumvent any risks and to capture misconduct.