By outlining the basics of professional ethics, this course gives an explanation of the importance of ethics to today's financial professional.
30
10
- Introduction to Ethics
- Important Concepts: Efficiency, Reliability, Knowledge, and Due Diligence
- Valuing Professionalism
- Industry Ethics
- Helping the Client
- Compliance and Ethics
Annual Compliance Reminders for Institutional Representatives - Vol. 2 (Module)
Intermediate
This course is designed to remind institutional representatives of their compliance obligations and draws on recent FINRA enforcement actions to demonstrate the consequences of failing to meet those obligations.
40
29
- Reminders related to: - Social media and Public communications - Email - Trade authorizations - Form U4 disclosures - Outside business activities - Private securities transactions - Handling customer funds related to borrowing money from customers - Insider trading and Information barriers - Maintaining ethical behavior
Annual Compliance Reminders for Institutional Representatives - Vol. 2 (Module*)
Intermediate
This course is designed to remind institutional representatives of their compliance obligations and draws on recent FINRA enforcement actions to demonstrate the consequences of failing to meet those obligations.
41
29
- Reminders related to: - Social media and Public communications - Email - Trade authorizations - Form U4 disclosures - Outside business activities - Private securities transactions - Handling customer funds related to borrowing money from customers - Insider trading and Information barriers - Maintaining ethical behavior
Anti-Money Laundering for Financial Professionals (Module)
Overview
Examines money laundering regulation in the broker/dealer industry focusing on the USA PATRIOT Act and FINRA Rules.
The most significant topics covered are: identifying suspicious activities and filing Suspicious Activity Reports (SAR-SF),
Customer Identification Program content (CIP), and the Know Your Customer requirements. [42 minutes; 62 pages]
69
53
- What is Money Laundering?
- The Scope of the Problem
- The Process of Money Laundering
- Money-Laundering Techniques
- Documentary/Non-Documentary
- Potential Indicators of Suspicious Activity
- Filing Requirements
- Know Your Customer
- Criminal and Civil Penalties
- CEO and CFO Responsibilities under SOX
Anti-Money Laundering Regulations and Ramifications (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional interested in learning about industry rules regarding anti-money laundering rules and regulations. The course discusses red flags that may indicate potential money laundering activities, as well as the penalties that can be imposed for violating federal money laundering laws.
44
26
Books and Records (Module)
Overview
An audio module that covers one-of-four topics that could be selected for your Annual Compliance Meeting.
This course explains regulatory rules governing record keeping and retention of customer account records, memoranda, correspondence, communications and other documentation. Participants review registered persons' obligations to maintain records of actions undertaken in their capacity as representatives of the firm. Scenarios illustrate and reinforce
compliance with record keeping and retention requirements involving electronic media.
48
19
- SEC Record Retention Rules - SEC Rule 17a-3 - SEC 17a-4 - Rule 3110 - Client Privacy - FINRA Audit Requirements - Order Tickets - Record Retention and Privacy
Changes to FINRA Supervision Rules (Module)
Overview
This course provides information for registered principals and registered representatives regarding four new FINRA rules related to supervision and supervisory procedures.
37
34
- FINRA Rule 3110 (Supervision)
- FINRA Rule 3120 (Supervisory Control System)
- FINRA Rule 3150 (Holding of Customer Mail)
- FINRA Rule 3170 (Tape Recording of Registered Representatives by Certain Firms)
Client Suitability (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional that makes investment product recommendations to clients. When a client wishes to open any account with a brokerage firm, the registered representative must fill in the account form with the client's personal information, including his or her income levels, investment objectives, and financial goals. The registered representative uses this information to help the client evaluate the appropriate investments to fit his or her needs. This
course discusses how to determine the suitability of the various investments to different clients and examines the risk characteristics associated with an investment company portfolio.
37
15
- Current Income and Preservation of Capital - Current Income and Growth of Capital - Financial Status of Client - Risk Tolerance of Client - Risk Characteristics
Code of Conduct (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional. All professions have a code of conduct to which its members must adhere. This course stresses the importance of holding each representative of the company accountable for maintaining a standard that all must comply with.
17
6
- How to work with Prospects and Clients - How to work with other representatives - How to work with your firm and its employees
Communications with the Public: Best Practices for Wholesalers (Module)
Overview
This course provides an overview of FINRA's rules for public communications, tailored for wholesalers. It focuses on the necessity for wholesalers to be familiar with and to follow the public communication rules even when not communicating directly with the public due to the potential for materials to be forwarded to investors.
33
27
Compliance Safety Measures when Working with Senior Investors (Module)
Overview
FINRA and the SEC have both made senior investor abuse a top examination priority. This course discusses the unique needs of senior investors, steps advisors should take when working with this growing demographic, and the serious implications of FINRA and the SEC's recent influx of disciplinary actions and investor alerts.
37
20
Conflicts of Interest (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional. A registered representative wants clients to trust his or her recommendations. Past studies show that trust is the number one reason cited by investors for choosing their financial advisor. In this course, potential conflicts of interest will be discussed, how they can be avoided and the importance and benefits of navigating through these challenges.
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how industry rules apply to the use and supervision of customer data.
Under SEC Rule 30 of Regulation S-P, member firms as well as other financial institutions are required to adopt written policies and procedures that address safeguards for the protection and disposal of customer records and information. As a registered representative, you need to know and follow your firm's policies and procedures for customer data protection. Failing to protect non-public customer information can make your customer vulnerable to identify theft. This is a serious issue for many businesses within as well as outside the securities industry. There are several important steps that should be taken to ensure that your customer's data is not compromised.
22
9
- SEC Rule 30 of Regulation S-P - Data Vulnerability - Registered Representative Responsibilities - Examples of Customer Data Protection - You are a Custodian to Your Customer's Information
Cybersecurity (ALP)
Intermediate
This course will examine various targets and types of cyber-attacks, their threat to the financial industry, disclosure requirements for FINRA registered firms, regulatory measures to prevent cybercrimes and practical steps toward cybersecurity. We will also discuss recent FINRA guidance, including the presence of cybersecurity in the 2015 Regulatory and Examinations Priorities Letter, the Report on Cybersecurity Practices released in February 2015, and Investor Alerts warning investors about cyber threats. Practical advice for representatives on steps to reduce risk will be discussed, as well as the consequences to firms for failing to protect against cybersecurity threats.
31
33
- Unauthorized access
- Operational disruption
- Disclosure of risk factors and cyber-attack events
- Regulatory guidance and rulemaking
- FINRA 2015 Regulatory and Examinations Priorities Letter
- FINRA Report on Cybersecurity Practices
- FINRA Investor Alerts
- Steps toward cybersecurity
Cybersecurity (Module)
Intermediate
This course will examine various targets and types of cyber-attacks, their threat to the financial industry, disclosure requirements for FINRA registered firms, regulatory measures to prevent cybercrimes and practical steps toward cybersecurity. We will also discuss recent FINRA guidance, including the presence of cybersecurity in the 2015 Regulatory and Examinations Priorities Letter, the Report on Cybersecurity Practices released in February of 2015, and Investor Alerts warning investors about cyber threats. Practical advice for representatives on steps to reduce risk will be discussed, as well as the consequences to firms for failing to protect against cybersecurity threats.
31
33
- Unauthorized access
- Operational disruption
-Disclosure of risk factors and cyber-attack events
- Regulatory guidance and rulemaking
- FINRA 2015 Regulatory and Examinations Priorities Letter
- FINRA Report on Cybersecurity Practices
- FINRA Investor Alerts
- Steps toward cybersecurity
Deterring the Spreading of False Rumors and Market Manipulation (Module)
Intermediate
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional. This course will look at the problems of the spreading of false rumors and the aftermath that has followed. It will review the SECs response to this matter and the steps regulators are taking to stop the rumors. Specifically the course will look at Rule 2210 and Rule 5120(e). Lastly, this course will identify steps organizations must take to ensure their employees are not a party to the spreading of false rumors.
23
12
- Deterring False Rumors & Market Manipulation: Background
- Market Manipulation & Short Selling
- Spreading of False Rumors
- SEC Action Taken & SEC Emergency Order
- Rules Regulating the Spread of False Rumors
- Steps Required to Ensure Compliance
- Supervision of Registered Representatives
- Review of policies and other controls
Electronic Communicaitons for Registered Representatives (ALP)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how industry rules apply to the use and management of electronic communications with the public. FINRA has developed a number of guidelines regarding electronic communications for registered representatives (RRs). This course is designed to make registered representatives aware of the compliance requirements and potential liabilities when using the Internet and electronic communications.
46
19
- Changes with New Technologies - The Rules of Yesterday and Today - General Compliance Requirements - Conduct Rules that Apply to Internet Usage - Use of Current Information - Supervision: Conduct Rule 3010 - Surveillance - Use of E-mail and Instant Messaging - Conduct Rule 2210 - Rule 2211 and Conduct Rule 2210(b) - Chat Rooms & Web Sites
Electronic Communications for Registered Representatives (Module)
Intermediate
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how industry rules apply to the use and management of electronic communications with the public. FINRA has developed a number of guidelines regarding electronic communications for registered representatives (RRs). This course is designed to make registered representatives aware of the compliance requirements and potential liabilities when using the Internet and electronic communications.
46
19
- Changes with New Technologies - The Rules of Yesterday and Today - General Compliance Requirements - Conduct Rules that Apply to Internet Usage - Use of Current Information - Supervision: Conduct Rule 3010 - Surveillance - Use of E-mail and Instant Messaging - Conduct Rule 2210 - Rule 2211 and Conduct Rule 2210(b) - Chat Rooms & Web Sites
Electronic Communications for Registered Representatives NEW (Module)
Intermediate
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisers, supervisors or any financial services industry professionals interested in learning how industry rules apply to the use and management of electronic communications with the public. FINRA developed a number of guidelines regarding electronic communications for registered representatives. This course is designed to make registered representatives aware of the compliance requirements and potential liabilities when using the Internet and other electronic communications.
37
21
- Changes with Technologies
- The Rules of Yesterday and Today
- General Compliance Requirements
- Conduct Rules that Apply to Internet Usage
- Use of Current Information
- Supervision: Conduct Rule 3110
- Surveillance
- Use of Texting, E-mail and Instant Messaging
- Communications with the Public: Conduct Rule 2210
- Institutional Communications: Conduct Rule 2210(b)
- Chatrooms and Websites
- BrokerCheck Reference and URL Requirement
FACT Act of 2003 - The Red Flags Rule (Module)
Overview
This course provides information on the regulations of sections 114 and 315 of the FACT Act program regarding the detection, prevention, and mitigation of identity theft.
27
23
- Defining financial institutions, creditors, and covered accounts
- Development of Identity Theft Prevention Programs
- Changes of address for debit and credit cards
- Notices of address discrepancies in regards to credit reports
FINRA Suitability Rule 2111: An Institutional Focus (ALP)
Overview
New FINRA Rules 2111 and 2090 took effect on July 9, 2012. Firms should review their current client-gathering information procedures, client record-keeping systems, and supervisory review procedures with these rules in mind. Firms should assess whether and where changes are required and work with legal counsel to adapt firm policies and procedures to the new rules. Firms may also want to update their training procedures to ensure that associated persons understand the new know-your-customer and suitability obligations.
29
23
FINRAs Suitability and Know Your Customer Rules (FINRA Rules 2111 and 2090) (Module)
Overview
In this course we will discuss two new FINRA Rules that were approved by the SEC to be incorporated into the FINRA consolidated rulebook: FINRA Rule 2090 Know Your Customer, and FINRA Rule 2111 Suitability. Both rules incorporate and expand upon standards that were contained in earlier NASD and NYSE Rules. The Rules were initially slated to take effect in October of 2011, but the effective date was delayed until July of 2012 in response to industry questions and concerns.
FINRA has released two Regulatory Notices to explain the new Rules: Regulatory Notice 11-02 which outlines the provisions of the Rules and the rationale behind them, and Regulatory Notice 11-25, announcing the later effective date and providing additional guidance on real-world implementation of the Rules, in response to questions from FINRA member firms.
37
33
Guide to Electronic Communications: Blogs, Bulletin Boards, Chat Rooms, Social Networking Sites, and Websites (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how industry rules apply to the use and management of electronic communications with the public. FINRA has developed a number of guidelines regarding electronic communications for registered representatives(RRs). This course is designed to make registered representatives aware of the compliance requirements and potential liabilities when using the Internet and electronic communications. Additionally the course will cover FINRA's rules and views regarding electronic communications in the various forms available today.
43
17
- An Overview of Electronic Communications - Definitions of Electronic Communications - Electronic Sites - FINRA's Views on Websites
Harassment and Discrimination in a Professional Environment (Module)
Overview
This course provides an overview of sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace: prohibited conduct, employee responsibilities, and the remedies available for employment discrimination.
33
27
Heightened Supervision: Who, When, Why, and How (ALP)
Overview
This course provides an overview of heightened supervision of representatives for all levels of supervisory management and compliance personnel. Specific topics covered in this course include: Recognizing situations involving new-hires and existing representatives that may call for heightened supervision; Recognizing the risks to the firm presented by these situations; Understanding how a heightened supervision plan should be designed to address the specific representative's situation and the risks to the firm thereof; Understanding who should (and should NOT) have knowledge of and involvement in a heightened supervision plan.
29
29
- Recognizing situations involving new-hires and existing representatives that may call for heightened supervision - Recognizing the risks to the firm presented by these situations - Understanding how a heightened supervision plan should be designed to address the specific representatives situation and the risks to the firm thereof - Understanding who should (and should NOT) have knowledge of and involvement in a heightened supervision plan
Identity Theft Prevention and the Financial Services Industry (Module)
Overview
An audio module that covers one-of-four topics that could be selected for your Annual Compliance Meeting. This course is designed for anyone working in the financial services industry and having contact with sensitive customer information. This course is beneficial for all firms required to comply with the Federal Trade Commission FACT Act Identity Theft Rules. The course is a useful tool in fulfilling a firms training requirements prescribed for firm element continuing education, as well as the FACT Act Red Flag training required by the Federal Trade Commission. This course examines the primary rules that protect customer information and the role that employees play in identifying identity theft red flags. Finally, the course covers various methods used by hackers that steal customer identities.
61
25
- Definition of Identity Theft
- Asses Your Business Risk
- Data Collection & Best Practices
- Tips for Reducing Risk
- Disclosure & Systems Security
- Proper Data Disposal
- What to do When a Thief Strikes
- Investigation & Informing Customers of Problems
- Dealing with the Media
Information Security: Protecting You, Your Clients and Your Firm (Module)
Overview
The Annual Compliance Meeting discusses important issues and topics that are relevant to its business. In order to receive credit for attendance, the audio modules within the content portion must be completed in their entirety. The final exam is an attestation statement which must be completed to signify that you understand and will abide by the meeting content.
NOTE: To meet FINRA Requirements, online Annual Compliance Meetings have an Audio requirement and do not allow you to proceed to the next slide until the audio on each page of the presentation has played completely. You must actively click through each slide of the presentation and should avoid toggling between or opening and closing multiple browser windows while within the Annual Compliance Meeting. Due to the inability to proceed through the ACM at any pace, the ACM may take you longer than an average Firm Element Course to complete.
24
9
Insider Trading (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional. All professions have a code of conduct to which its members must adhere. This course stresses the importance of holding each representative of the company accountable for maintaining a standard that all must comply with.
34
16
Insider Trading: The Illegal Side (Module)
Overview
An overview of what insider trading activity is and is not allowed, how insider trading laws evolved, prevention of illegal activity through policies and education, the challenges of prosecuting criminal insider trading, and a discussion of reasons for and against the legalization of insider trading.
32
26
NEW! - NEW - A Guide to Professional Ethics (Module)
Overview
By outlining the basics of professional ethics, this course gives an explanation of the importance of ethics to today's financial professional.
30
10
- Introduction to Ethics
- Important Concepts: Efficiency, Reliability, Knowledge, and Due Diligence
- Valuing Professionalism
- Industry Ethics
- Helping the Client
- Compliance and Ethics
NEW! - NEW - A Professionals Guide to Ethical Decision Making (Module)
Overview
This course provides representatives with an overview of the characteristics of ethics and professionalism. This course discusses the standards by which a professional should be judged and a study of ethics on its philosophical and compliance levels. The objective of this course is to provide participants with a reasoned analysis of the connection between professionalism and ethical practices.
67
40
- Professionalism - Education - Standards of Professional Conduct - Understanding Ethics - Compliance and Professionalism - Making the Case for Good Business Ethics
NEW! - NEW - A Supervisors Role in Deterring the Spreading of False Rumors and Market Manipulation (Module)
Intermediate
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors or any financial service industry professional. This course will look at the problems of the spreading of false rumors and the aftermath that has followed. It will review the SEC's response to this matter and the steps regulators are taking to stop the rumors. Specifically, the course will look at FINRA Rule 2010 and FINRA Rule 6140. Lastly, this course will identify steps organizations must take to ensure their employees are not a party to the spreading of false rumors. All of the practices outlined in this course will help member firms avoid the pitfalls and problems regarding the spreading of false rumors.
18
16
- Deterring False Rumors & Market - Manipulation: Background - Secured Finding - Market Manipulation & Short Selling - Spreading of False Rumors - SEC Action Taken & SEC Emergency Order - Rules Regulating the Spread of False Rumors - Steps Required to Ensure Compliance - Supervision of Registered Representatives - Review of policies and other controls
NEW - Annual Compliance Reminders For Institutional Registered Representatives - Vol. 2 (Module)
Intermediate
This course is designed to remind institutional registered representatives of their compliance obligations and draws on recent FINRA enforcement actions to demonstrate the consequences of failing to meet those obligations.
29
10
- The reminders related to social media and public communications;
- trade authorizations;
- Form U4 disclosures;
- outside business activities;
- private securities transactions;
- handling customer funds related to borrowing money from customers;
- avoiding insider trading;
- information barriers; and
- maintaining ethical behavior
NEW! - NEW - Anti-Money Laundering and Red Flags for Institutional Clients (Module)
Overview
This course is directed to individuals working with institutional clients who must become more aware of the requirements to detect and prevent money laundering. Specifically, this course complies with the USA Patriot Act requirements for ongoing anti-money laundering training. The course begins with a review of money laundering regulations and the organizations charged with enforcement. The course then outlines the various money laundering stages and suspicious activities that can help personnel detect and prevent money laundering. Finally, the course outlines responsibilities for representatives dealing with institutional clients focusing on knowing your customer, information verification, due diligence, and finally a case study identifying the importance of the following rules and potential problems that may occur if AML procedures are not followed.
26
20
- History of Anti-Money Laundering Regulations
- Historical Federal Legislation
- USA Patriot Act & New Red Flag Requirements
- What is Money Laundering?
- What is at Stake?
- CDD Rule
- Using the Office of Foreign Assets Control
- Responsibilities with Institutional Clients
NEW - Anti-Money Laundering and Red Flags for Institutional Clients - Vol. 2 (Module)
Overview
This course is designed for registered representatives of institutional broker-dealers. The course begins with a review of basic anti-money laundering concepts, and then shifts to the representative's role in preventing, detecting and reporting suspicious activities that may point to illegal money laundering. The course includes a case study based on a real-world example of Anti-Money Laundering failures relating to institutional customer accounts.
53
55
- What is Money Laundering?
- U.S. Anti-Money Laundering Efforts: Laws, Agencies, FINRA requirements
- Customer Identity Verification: Documentary and Non-Documentary
- Customer Due Diligence and Risk Assessment
- CDD Rule
- Detecting and Reporting Red Flags: Behavioral and Transactional Red Flags
- Investigating and Reporting Suspicious Activities
- Case Study
NEW! - NEW - Anti-Money Laundering and the Red Flag Rule (Module)
Overview
This course is designed for registered representatives, supervisors, and institutional sales representatives. The objective of this course is to raise the awareness of anti-money laundering regulations so that representatives have the knowledge to prevent and detect money laundering. This knowledge will help ensure that each representative and their employer do not become involved in investigations or scandals that could harm the company's reputation or risk client relationships. After completing this course, representatives will have a better understanding of anti-money laundering regulations, including the Know Your Customer rule, as well as be able to better recognize suspicious activities to protect themselves from the consequences of being linked in any way to money-laundering activities.
41
20
NEW! - NEW - Anti-Money Laundering for Financial Services Professionals (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, investment advisors, supervisors or any financial service industry professional interested in learning about industry rules regarding anti-money laundering rules and regulations. This course will examine anti-money laundering regulation in the broker-dealer industry, specifically focusing on the USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 and FINRA Rule 3011.
69
35
- What is Money Laundering?
- The Scope of the Problem
- The Process of Money Laundering
- Money-Laundering Techniques
- Impact
- Documentary/Non-Documentary
- Potential Indicators of Suspicious Activity
- Filing Requirements
- Know Your Customer
- CDD Rule
- Criminal and Civil Penalties
- CEO and CFO Responsibilities under SOX
NEW - Anti-Money Laundering Regulations and Ramifications (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how industry rules regarding anti-money laundering rules and regulations. The course discusses "red flags" that may indicate potential money laundering activities, as well as the penalties that can be imposed for violating federal money laundering laws.
39
30
- Overview of Money Laundering
- How Money Laundering is Done
- What is Terrorist Financing?
- Curbing Money Laundering
- Federal Legislation
- USA PATRIOT Act
- Impact on Your Company and Clients
- Enhanced Customer Identification
- CDD Rule
- Office of Foreign Asset Control
- Suspicious Activity Indicators to Consider
- Criminal & Civil Sanctions
NEW! - NEW - Anti-Money Laundering: Beneficial Ownership (Module)
Intermediate
This course will review the customer due diligence (CDD) regulations that have been set by organizations developed to combat criminal use of financial systems around the world. Additionally, the course will focus on the most recent regulations adopted by the U.S. Treasury.
32
20
- AML organizations
- Recommendations and regulations for UBOs
- FinCEN Final Rule 2016
- Covered Financial Institutions
- Ownership and Control
- Customer Due Diligence
- Risk-Based Requirements
- Complex structures
- Offshore challenges
NEW! - NEW - Anti-Sexual Harassment Training (Module)
Intermediate
This training has been developed to specifically cover sexual harassment in the workplace, no matter your role. It covers definitions of sexual harassment, what constitutes sexual harassment, training, the role of culture, and a high level overview of the #metoo movement.
43
30
NEW - Best Execution and Debt Mark Ups (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for registered representatives acting in an agent (broker) capacity, as well as individuals who work as dealers, such as market maker specialists and supervisors. Best execution is an obligation of any dealer working to execute transactions on behalf of their clients. Closely related to best execution in the debt markets are the mark-ups or mark-downs that dealers take in the course of performing a transaction. This course will explore both topics. Additionally, it will discuss the rules and regulations surrounding these rules as well as the processes by which best execution, prevailing market prices and appropriate debt mark-ups/mark-down are determined as well as illustrating how FINRA obligations for best execution are to be applied and demonstrated through regular and rigorous reviews of transactions against both FINRA rules and each member firms established policies and procedures.
52
45
es and Regulations Governing Best Execution
- Best Execution and Technology
- TRACE Reporting System
- FINRA Rule 2010 (Standards of Commercial Honor and Principles of Trade)
- Rules Governing Debt Mark-ups/Mark-downs
- Contemporaneous Cost
- Hierarchy Pricing Factors
- Determining Prevailing Price
- 5% Policy
NEW! - NEW - Books and Records: Representative Responsibilities (Module)
Overview
This course is for registered representatives, supervisors, compliance staff, senior management and firm principals that are required to comply with FINRA Rules regarding Books and Records. This course explains the provisions governing the record keeping and retention of customer accounts, written complaints and other similar correspondences. Participants will review registered persons' obligations to maintain records of actions undertaken in their capacity as representatives of the firm. Scenarios are additionally used to help illustrate and reinforce compliance with record keeping and retention requirements involving electronic media.
29
23
- SEC Record Retention Rules
- SEC Rule 17a-3
- SEC 17a-4
- Rule 4510
- Client Privacy
- FINRA Audit Requirements
- Order Tickets
- Record Retention and Privacy
NEW - Changes to FINRA Supervision Rules (Module)
Overview
This course provides information for registered principals and registered representatives regarding four new FINRA rules related to supervision and supervisory procedures.
38
40
- FINRA Rule 3110 (Supervision)
- FINRA Rule 3120 (Supervisory Control System)
- FINRA Rule 3150 (Holding of Customer Mail)
- FINRA Rule 3170 (Tape Recording of Registered Representatives by Certain Firms)
NEW! - NEW - Changes to FINRAs Public Communication Rules for Registered Representatives (Module)
Overview
Following a multi-year effort by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) to streamline and organize its Communication Rules and incorporate portions of the interpretive information from former NASD Rules, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has approved a substantial reworking of the current rules governing communications with the public. This course provides registered representatives with an understanding of the recently-approved changes to the rules relating to public communications by a firm's associated persons.
29
16
- The restructuring of the communication categories
- Changes to the pre-use approval and filing requirements
- Changes to the content standards
- Changes to the definition of correspondence
- Applying the recordkeeping rules
NEW! - NEW - Client Suitability (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors or any financial service industry professional that makes investment product recommendations to clients. Various investments have different characteristics. Some provide a steady current income, while others give their total return in capital appreciation. Some are very unlikely to decline in value, while others may be more risky. This course discusses how to determine the suitability of the various investments to different clients and examines the risk characteristics associated with an investment company portfolio.
26
20
- Current Income and Preservation of Capital - Current Income and Growth of Capital - Financial Status of Client - Risk Tolerance of Client - Risk Characteristics
NEW! - NEW - Client Suitability for the Investment Advisor (Module)
Overview
When a client wishes to open any account with a brokerage firm, the investment adviser must fill in the account form with the clients personal information, including his or her income levels, investment objectives, and financial goals. The investment adviser uses this information to help the client evaluate the appropriate investments to fit his or her needs. This course discusses how to determine the suitability of the various investments to different clients and examines the risk characteristics associated with an investment company portfolio.
28
20
- Objectives - Current Income - Growth of Investment Capital - Income & Expenses - Net Worth - Insurance Needs - Tax Status - Risk
NEW - Code of Conduct (Module)
Overview
his course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisers, supervisors or any financial service industry professional. All professions have a code of conduct to which its members must adhere. This course stresses the importance of holding each representative of the company accountable for maintaining a standard that all must comply with.
15
10
- How to work with Prospects and Clients - How to work with other representatives - How to work with your firm and its employees
NEW - Communications with the Public: Best Practices for Wholesalers (Module)
Intermediate
As a registered representative who markets or sells financial products to other broker-dealers, you probably do not communicate directly with the public. Even so, it is still important to understand FINRA's rules surrounding communications with the public, as the communications you create may end up in the hands of a retail customer. This course discusses FINRA's three communication categories, which include retail communications, institutional communications and correspondence.
33
17
- Communication Categories
- Content
- Approval
- Recordkeeping
- Filing
- Social Media
- Best Practices
NEW! - NEW - Compliance Safety Measures When Working With Senior Investors (Module)
Overview
FINRA and the SEC have both made senior investor abuse a top examination priority. This course discusses the unique needs of senior investors, steps advisors should take when working with this growing demographic, and the serious implications of FINRA and the SEC's recent influx of disciplinary actions and investor alerts.
42
20
- Needs of Senior Investors
- Senior Safe Act
- Working with Senior Investors
- Disciplinary Actions
- Investor Alerts
NEW - Conflicts of Interest (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisers, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional. A registered representative wants clients to trust his or her recommendations. Past studies show that trust is the number one reason cited by investors for choosing their financial adviser. In this course, potential conflicts of interest will be discussed, how they can be avoided and the importance and benefits of navigating through these challenges.
27
15
- Overview of Conflicts of Interest in the Securities Industry
- Fiduciary Duties
- Applicable FINRA Rules
- Common Conflicts of Interest
- Churning
- Insider Trading
- Anti-fraud Provisions
- Minimizing Risk
NEW! - NEW - Customer Data Protection (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisers, supervisors or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how industry rules apply to the use and supervision of customer data. Under SEC Rule 30 of Regulation S-P, member firms and other financial institutions, are required to adopt written policies and procedures that address safeguards for the protection and disposal of customer records and information. As a registered representative, you need to know and follow your firm's policies and procedures for customer data protection. Failing to protect nonpublic personal information (NPI) subjects customers to identify theft. This course discusses ways in which client data can be compromised should you fail to recognize and implement security measures in your practice. Making certain to implement firm requirements with an ability to recognize and avert potential vulnerabilities will help ensure proprietary and customer data is not compromised.
42
30
- Identity Theft
- Federal Customer Data Safety Requirements and their Sources
- FACTA Red Flags Rule
- Privacy and Protection
- Exploitation of Data, Systems, Firms, and Customers
- Cyber Criminals vs Traditional Criminals
- Technology and Software/Hardware Breaches
- Examples of System Failures
NEW! - NEW - CYBERSECURITY & FINRA
Overview
This course will examine various targets and types of cyber-attacks, their threat to the financial industry, disclosure requirements for FINRA registered firms, regulatory measures to prevent cybercrimes and practical steps toward cybersecurity. We will also discuss recent FINRA guidance, including the presence of cybersecurity in the Regulatory and Examinations Priorities Letter, the Report on Cybersecurity Practices, and Investor Alerts warning investors about cyber threats. Practical advice for representatives on steps to reduce risk will be discussed, as well as the consequences to firms for failing to protect against cybersecurity threats.
31
22
- Unauthorized access
- Operational disruption
- Disclosure of risk factors and cyber-attack events
- Regulatory guidance and rulemaking
- FINRA Regulatory and Examinations Priorities Letter
- FINRA Report on Cybersecurity Practices
- FINRA Investor Alerts
- Steps toward cybersecurity
NEW - Cybersecurity (Module)
Intermediate
This course will examine various targets and types of cyber-attacks, their threat to the financial industry, disclosure requirements for FINRA registered firms, regulatory measures to prevent cybercrimes and practical steps toward cybersecurity. We will also discuss recent FINRA guidance, including the presence of cybersecurity in the Regulatory and Examinations Priorities Letter, the Report on Cybersecurity Practices, and Investor Alerts warning investors about cyber threats. Practical advice for representatives on steps to reduce risk will be discussed, as well as the consequences to firms for failing to protect against cybersecurity threats.
36
30
- Unauthorized access
- Operational disruption
-Disclosure of risk factors and cyber-attack events
- Regulatory guidance and rulemaking
- FINRA Regulatory and Examinations Priorities Letter
- FINRA Report on Cybersecurity Practices
- FINRA Investor Alerts
- Steps toward cybersecurity
NEW! - NEW - Cybersecurity for Registered Representatives (Module)
Intermediate
This course examines the various targets and types of cyber attacks, their threat to the financial industry, disclosure requirements for FINRA registered firms, regulatory measures to prevent cyber crimes and practical steps toward cybersecurity.
43
30
- Unauthorized access - Operational disruption - Disclosure of risk factors and cyber attack events - Regulatory guidance and rulemaking - Steps toward cybersecurity
NEW! - NEW - Cybersecurity: Phishing (Module)
Intermediate
As firms increase reliance on technology to conduct their operations, the risks to firms associated with cybersecurity continue to increase. This course provides representatives with background knowledge of cybersecurity risks and best practices, including phishing tactics, vendor management controls, information sharing and much more.
22
20
- Cybersecurity
- Phishing
NEW! - NEW - Electronic Communications for Registered Representatives (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisers, supervisors or any financial services industry professionals interested in learning how industry rules apply to the use and management of electronic communications with the public. FINRA developed a number of guidelines regarding electronic communications for registered representatives. This course is designed to make registered representatives aware of the compliance requirements and potential liabilities when using the Internet and other electronic communications.
32
20
- Changes with Technologies
- The Rules of Yesterday and Today
- General Compliance Requirements
- Conduct Rules that Apply to Internet Usage
- Use of Current Information
- Supervision: Conduct Rule 3110
- Surveillance
- Use of Texting, E-mail and Instant Messaging
- Communications with the Public: Conduct Rule 2210
- Institutional Communications: Conduct Rule 2210(b)
- Chatrooms and Websites
- BrokerCheck Reference and URL Requirement
NEW! - NEW - ERISA Qualified Plans - The Financial Advisor's Role (Module)
Overview
This course provides an overview of an ERISA fiduciary, the obligations of a fiduciary, and DOL guidance for financial advisors who provide non-fiduciary information and services. It also discusses IRA rollovers from qualified plans, and the DOL's proposal to expand the definition of a fiduciary to those who recommend such rollovers or otherwise provide advice to IRA clients.
33
30
- ERISA covered plans
- DOL rules regarding ERISA plans
- Fiduciary and non-fiduciary services
- IRS prohibited transactions
- Qualified plan rollovers to IRAs
- Rollover suitability
- Proposed expansion of fiduciary definition
NEW! - NEW - Ethics and Professional Conduct (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for registered representatives, investment advisers, compliance staff and supervisors that work with retail investors. This course covers some of the basics of ethics and offers a glance at past legislation that has brought us to where we are today. By also outlining the responsibilities of each professional, this course sheds light on why it is imperative that all members of any profession maintain and adhere to professional ethical standards.
66
35
- An Introduction to Ethics
- Important Concepts: Efficiency, Reliability, Knowledge and Due Diligence
- Valuing Professionalism
- Characteristics of a Professional
- Why look at the Past?
- The Armstrong Investigation of 1905
- Stock Market Reforms
- Suitability Rule
- Industry Ethics
- Compliance and Professionalism
- Good Business Ethics
- What is Professionalism?
- Good Business Ethics
- The Pursuit of Excellence
- Due-Diligence
-Helping the Client
- Understanding Ethics
NEW! - NEW - FACT Act of 2003 - The Red Flags Rules (Module)
Overview
This course provides information on the regulations of sections 114 and 315 of the FACT Act program, regarding the detection, prevention and mitigation of identity theft. Topics discussed include: regulations, guidelines, identification of red flags and much more.
27
15
- Defining financial institutions, creditors, and covered accounts
- Development of Identity Theft Prevention Programs
- Changes of address for debit and credit cards
- Notices of address discrepancies in regards to credit reports
NEW! - NEW - Fails and Fines: Regulatory Do's and Don'ts (Module)
Overview
In this course, we'll review some of the most outlandish disciplinary cases from 2015 and identify the source of each violation.
30
30
- Ex-employee terminates boss through Web CRD
- Broker fakes death to avoid FINRA investigation
- Stockbroker takes selfies with confidential data
- Man eats Post-Its to conceal insider trading information
- SEC sanctions for attempting to silence whistleblowers
- Broker steals $6.5M, purchases $22k lawn statue
- Broker swindles $1.8M from client with Alzheimer's
NEW! - NEW - Financial Exploitation of Specified Adults & Customer Account Information (FINRA Rules 2165 & 4512) (Module)
Overview
New FINRA Rule 2165 addressing protection of 'specified adults,' including seniors, takes effect February 5, 2018. The new Rule, as well as related amendments to books and records requirements in Rule 4512, impose new requirements on FINRA member firms designed to avoid and mitigate financial exploitation of seniors and other vulnerable adults.
30
20
- Background
- Customer Accounts
- Financial Exploitation
- Specified Adults
- Temporary Holds on Disbursements
- Trusted Contact Persons
- Diminished Capacity
- Red Flags for Financial Exploitation
NEW! - NEW - FINRA Suitability Rule 2111: An Institutional Focus (Module)
Overview
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) recently implemented a new securities industry rule governing the obligation of broker-dealers and their registered representatives to make "suitable" investment recommendations to customers. FINRA Rule 2111, which went into effect on July 9, 2012, broadens the scope of the predecessor suitability rule, NASD Rule 2310, in a number of important respects. This course highlights the key provisions of FINRA's new suitability rule and recommends a number of ways to document compliance and mitigate risks related to unsuitable investments.
31
17
- The New Rule
- Investment Strategies and Hold Recommendations
- Increased Need for Additional Customer Information
- Different Suitability Assessments
- Reasonable Basis Suitability
- Customer-Specific Suitability
- Quantitative Suitability
- Additional Requirements Under New Rule
- Know Your Customer
- Compliance Considerations
NEW! - NEW - FINRAs Suitability and Know Your Customer Rules (FINRA Rules 2111 and 2090) (Module)
Overview
In this course, representatives will discuss the two new FINRA Rules that were approved by the SEC to be incorporated into the FINRA consolidated rulebook: FINRA Rule 2090 - Know Your Customer and FINRA Rule 2111 - Suitability. Both rules incorporate and expand upon standards that were contained in earlier NASD and NYSE Rules. Upon completion of this course, representatives will have a better understanding of the Know Your Customer requirements stated in FINRA Rule 2090, including what is meant by the terms reasonable diligence and essential facts, as well as FINRA Rule 2111's suitability requirements, including: identifying the three levels of suitability; knowing when the suitability requirements apply to a customer relationship; and recognizing the obligations of the firm and the associated person under the Rules.
37
19
NEW! - NEW - Gifts and Gratuities: Guidance on FINRA Rule 3220 (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for registered representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisers, supervisors or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how to achieve compliance with FINRA rules on gifts and entertainment. FINRA Rule 3220 strictly prohibits broker-dealers from giving gifts or gratuities in excess of $100 per year to any person where that gift is in relation to the business of the recipient's employer. As such, this course helps distinguish what types of items need to be recorded to avoid the unsavory practice of giving kickbacks or paying to obtain business.
22
15
- Overview of FINRA Rule 2330 - Rule 3220 in Regards to Personal Gifts - De minimis and Promotional Items - Aggregation of Gifts & Valuation of Gifts - Gifts Incidental to Business Entertainment - Supervision, Recordkeeping, and Compliance - Training and Education
NEW! - NEW - Guide to Electronic Communications: Blogs, Bulletin Boards, Chat Rooms, Social Networks and Websites (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisers, supervisors or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how industry rules apply to the use and management of electronic communications with the public. FINRA has developed a number of guidelines regarding electronic communications for registered representatives. This course is designed to make registered representatives aware of the compliance requirements and potential liabilities when using the Internet and electronic communications. This course reviews the various rules and standards that cover electronic communications. Specific issues are covered concerning different methods of electronic communications. Additionally, the course will cover FINRA's rules and views regarding electronic communications in the various forms available today.
28
20
- An Overview of Electronic Communications - Definitions of Electronic Communications - Electronic Sites - FINRA's Views on Websites
NEW! - NEW - Harassment and Discrimination in a Professional Environment (Module)
Overview
This course provides an overview of sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace: prohibited conduct; employee responsibilities; and the remedies available for employment discrimination.
71
60
- Sexual Harassment
- Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment
- The Dollar Cost of Sexual Harassment
- EEOC Sexual Harassment Guidelines
- Avoiding Sexual Harassment Claims
- What is Sexual Harassment...Really?
- Workplace Do's and Don'ts for Employees
- Types of Discrimination
- Procedures to Report a Claim of Harassment or Discrimination
- #MeToo
- Repeated or Severe
NEW! - NEW - Heightened Supervision: Who, When, Why, and How (Module)
Overview
This course provides an overview of heightened supervision of representatives for all levels of supervisory, management, and compliance personnel. Specific topics covered in this course include: Recognizing situations involving new-hires and existing representatives that may call for heightened supervision; Recognizing the risks to the firm presented by these situations; Understanding how a heightened supervision plan should be designed to address the specific representative's situation and the risks to the firm thereof; Understanding who should (and should NOT) have knowledge of and involvement in a heightened supervision plan.
31
15
NEW! - NEW - How to Work with Millennial Investors (Module)
Intermediate
Generation Y, Echo Boomers, Generation Why?, Boomerang Generation or Millennials, whichever term used will define roughly the same thing: the youngest of the US working population. They are a new breed of investors that require new methods of investing their money, different than the strategies used with their parents. Learning to understand millennials helps to understand their financial goals. The biggest hurdle to jump: Millennials tend to be cynical of the importance and value of using financial advisors. This course prepares you to recognize and work with millennial clients the way they want to be worked with.
63
45
- Who are the Millennials
- Where are the Millennials
- What Can be Done for Millennials
- Why work with Millennials
- When to Approach Millennials
- How to Communicate with Millennials
NEW! - NEW - Identifying and Mitigating Conflicts of Interest (Module)
Overview
Financial professionals need to identify the conflicts of interest that may be associated with their business activities, understand how to reduce or remove conflicts, and the necessity of disclosing any unresolved conflicts. This course outlines various types of conflicts of interests for various financial professionals, and methods of mitigating those conflicts.
26
30
- Conflicts Associated with Business Activities
- Corporate and Individual Conflicts
- Fiduciary Obligations
- Product Suitability
- Financial and Investment Relationships
- Favorable Dealing
- Mitigating Various Risks
NEW - Identity Theft Prevention and the Financial Services Industry (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for anyone working in the financial services industry that may have contact with sensitive customer information. This course is beneficial for all firms, as training is required to comply with the Federal Trade Commission FACT Act Identity Theft Rules. This course examines the primary rules that protect customer information and the role that employees play in identifying identity theft red flags. Finally, the course uncovers the various methods used by hackers to steal customer identities.
31
30
- A Consumer Issue for Business
- Definition of Identity Theft
- Asses Your Business Risk
- Data Collection & Best Practices
- Tips for Reducing Risk
- Disclosure & Systems Security
- Proper Data Disposal
- What to do When a Thief Strikes
- Investigation & Informing Customers of Problems
- Dealing with the Media
- Customer Trust and Loyalty
NEW! - NEW - Identity Theft: It's Everyone's Business (Module)
Overview
The federal financial regulatory agencies have adopted and enforced robust data security standards for entities under their jurisdiction. Protection of financial and personal customer information is a key responsibility and obligation of FINRA member firms. This course provides representatives with a comprehensive overview of identity theft, as well as the things they can do while conducting their day-to-day business to help ensure consumer data is kept out of the hands of criminals.
24
15
- Who pays the price?
- What is identity theft?
- Ways to Steal an Identity
- Mitigating the Risk
- Steps to Recover from Identity Theft
NEW! - NEW - Information Security: Protecting You, Your Clients, and Your Firm (Module)
Overview
This course covers concepts to help registered representatives and supervisors understand procedures for protecting confidential personal customer information and detecting possible breaches in information security. It provides suggestions for what to do if customer information is compromised and steps to take to better protect this information. The objective of this course is to educate representatives on the importance of protecting client information. Information assets and physical property are constantly exposed to threats such as natural disasters, computer viruses and criminal actions. We can all contribute to managing the risks that come with these threats. Understanding your individual and professional responsibility is the first step in this contribution. Information security is an integral part of the services we provide and helps to protect our reputations and brands.
18
13
- Definition of Sensitive Information - Public Information & Restricted Information - Confidential Information & Information Security - Computer Passwords - Storage of Electronic Information - Social Engineering and Identity Theft - Rules to Follow
NEW! - NEW - Insider Trading (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for registered representatives, supervisors, sales associates, compliance administrators, new account managers and any financial service professional who is exposed to customers who may be corporate insiders or individuals who may possess material nonpublic information about their companies. This course reviews the background and scope of SEC anti-fraud standards prohibiting insider trading. Representatives will gain a thorough understanding of what is deemed illegal and legal insider trading. They will learn about the penalties imposed when violators are found guilty and who is harmed by illegal insider trading.
28
17
- SEC Governance - Division of Corporate Finance - Division of Market Regulation - Division of Investment Management - Division of Enforcement - Common Violations - Definition and Impact of Insider Trading - Penalties for Insider Trading - Rule 10b5-1 - Who are Insiders - Legal Insider Trading
NEW! - NEW - Insider Trading: The Illegal Side (Module)
Intermediate
This course provides an overview of what insider trading activity is and is not allowed, how insider trading laws have evolved, prevention of illegal activity through policies and education, the challenges of prosecuting criminal insider trading and a discussion of reasons for and against the legalization of insider trading.
35
15
- Definition of Illegal and legal insider trading - The laws surrounding insider trading - Prevention of illegal insider trading activity - Prosecuting illegal insider traders - Legalization issues for insider trading
NEW! - NEW - Institutional Ethics (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for registered representatives acting as institutional sales representatives, as well as investment advisers and their supervisors. This course focuses on ethical behavior and how it fits into the moral framework of industry rules. It explores both unethical practices and ethical practices for institutional sales representatives and outlines the ethical standards required when interacting with institutional clients.
26
14
- Definition
- Important Concepts
- Valuing Professionalism
- Industry Ethics
- Helping the Client
- Compliance and Ethics
NEW! - NEW - Investment Adviser - Fiduciary Responsibilities (Module)
Overview
An investment adviser stands in a special relationship of trust and confidence with, and therefore is a fiduciary to, its clients. Understanding "fiduciary responsibility" is critical, because it is at the core of being a good investment adviser. In a very practical sense, if an adviser and the adviser's employees understand the meaning of being a fiduciary and incorporate this understanding into daily business operations and decision-making, clients should be well served. This course will clarify the history, scope, and liability associated with the fiduciary responsibilities of an investment adviser.
26
15
- Fiduciary standard
- Conflicts of Interest
- Disclosure requirements
- Inadequate disclosures
- Fraudulent acts and omissions
- Fiduciary liability and prosecution
NEW! - NEW - Investment Advisor Code of Ethics (Module)
Intermediate
This course provides an introduction to the basics of the Investment Adviser's Act and is intended for Investment Advisor's, Investment Advisor Representatives, and Certified Financial Planners. Also of interest and beneficial to financial service industry professionals is how the standards may be changing as well as the latest developments in law(s). The objective of this course is to provide an overview of various definitions and regulations to define what is required of a financial services professional who falls under the Investment Adviser Act.
38
28
- Rule 204 - Requirement for Written Code of Ethics - Compliance/Supervisory Manual - Standards of Conduct - Reporting - Violations - Enforcement and Penalties - Implementation and Education - Access Persons - Personal Trading - Recordkeeping
NEW! - NEW - Market Making (Module)
Advanced
Market making is an important function in the stock trading industry. Market makers provide vital liquidity and ensure orderly markets. Furthermore, by reducing costs, increasing efficiency and broadening access, NASDAQ and its market makers have leveled the playing field for all investors, great and small. Market making requires a level of expertise and diligence not found in many firms. However, if these challenges can be met, a broker-dealer can earn substantial revenues and provide a very valuable service. This course provides an overview of the electronic communication network that links market makers together, as well as the varying price quotes and Market Maker Rules imposed by FINRA, NASDAQ and the SEC.
NEW! - NEW - Monitoring and Supervision of Personal Securities Transactions (Module)
Overview
The associated persons of broker-dealers have every right to invest and manage their own money any legal way they see fit. The full spectrum of investment options is available to industry professionals. However, the personal trading accounts of associated persons of broker-dealers are subject to disclosure, reporting and other restrictions. These rules are to ensure that associated persons do not take advantage of their position and gain an unfair edge on the investing public, and that any conflicts of interest are either avoided or disclosed. Failure to observe these rules could harm customers financially, and damage the credibility of a representative, a firm, or even the entire industry.
33
20
- Specific FINRA regulations regarding personal securities transactions - What accounts and securities are subject to disclosure - Procedures for reviewing employee trading
NEW! - NEW - Mutual Fund Fee Waivers (Module)
Intermediate
This course covers the importance of applying mutual fund fee waivers that may be available to investors. Some mutual funds waive the front-end load (the commission or 'sales charge') on certain charitable and retirement accounts. When brokers fail to waive the fees or sell customers Class B and C shares that do not have upfront sales charges but are more expensive overall than Class A shares, FINRA violations occur. How this can occur - especially on a large scale, calls supervision into question.
44
30
- Review of mutual funds
- Review of class shares
- Relevant Disciplinary actions
- Fines and fees
- Breakpoints and discounts
- Applicable FINRA rules
- Supervisory requirements
- Developing a plan
NEW! - NEW - Online Identity Theft Scams (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisers, supervisors or any financial service industry professional interested in learning more about how to prevent online identity theft and what they need to do to ensure that they and their clients are not a victim of this crime. Identity thieves are stealing information from unsuspecting consumers in a number of ways. This course will show representatives how to spot some of the latest online identity theft scams targeting financial sector customers and how to avoid them.
24
20
- Impact of Technology
- Growing Problem
- Definition of Phishing
- Thieves Mimicking Legitimate Websites
- Trojan Horses
- Hidden Software
- How to Prevent and Protect Yourself from Online Identity Theft
NEW! - NEW - Outside Business Activities and Private Securities Transactions (Module)
Overview
This course is intended to familiarize registered representatives and general securities supervisors with the rules regarding outside business activities and personal trading. It clearly defines what these activities can be and illustrates the importance of full disclosure and thorough supervision of these activities. FINRA's rule on outside business activities of an associated person provides regulatory guidelines for representatives to follow when engaging in a business activity that is not part of their work for the firm. This course will cover Rule 3270 and Rule 3280, outlining representatives' compliance responsibilities.
17
15
- FINRA's Rule on Outside Business Activities - Outside Business Activity Examples - Private Securities Transactions - Rule 3227, Rule 3270, Rule 3280 - Representative Considerations - Situational Example
NEW! - NEW - Outside Business Activities and Private Securities Transactions - Vol. 2 (Module)
Intermediate
This course provides an overview of the restrictions and disclosure requirements surrounding registered representatives' business activities and private securities transactions, outside the scope of their employment. It focuses on the necessity for registered representatives to follow the regulations and firm policies that surround these activities, regardless of compensation, and to disclose those activities on their Form U4.
24
20
- Scope of activities - Conflicts of interest - Preapproval - Disclosure
NEW! - NEW - Preventing Customer Complaints: A Guide for Registered Representatives (Module)
Overview
This course discusses the topic of customer complaints from a preventative standpoint, emphasizing best practices that representatives can embrace to reduce the likelihood of a complaint. The course also looks at steps that can be taken with an unhappy customer to avoid negative escalation, without resorting to unethical or noncompliant solutions. Specific topics covered in this course include: recognizing, avoiding and managing a situation that may lead to a complaint, the importance of documentation in preventing complaints, the right way to handle a pre-complaint grievance to make escalation to a complaint less likely, and a review of what to do when a customer does lodge a complaint.
28
21
- Knowing the Basics
- Mitigating the Risks
- Steps to Recover from Identify Theft
NEW! - NEW - Privacy, Confidentiality, and Information Security (Module)
Advanced
This course outlines privacy and confidentiality rights and protections, as well as some of the latest threats and methods for protecting electronic data, including emails, wireless networks and mobile devices.
31
15
- Privacy rights
- Confidentiality protections
- Information security programs
- Assessment of risk exposures and tolerances
- Adoption of an information governance system
- Creation of an information management program
- Training
- Limiting liability
- Trend watching for new threats and developments
NEW! - NEW - Qualified Plan Rollovers (Module)
Intermediate
This course discusses the benefits and risks associated with different types of rollovers, eligible assets, options for rollover destinations and providers, and the focus by regulators on rollover-related advertising.
36
20
- Rollover risks and benefits
- The different types of rollovers
- Regulatory Notice 13-45: firms' responsibilities concerning IRA rollovers
- Rolling over to IRAs vs. to another employer-sponsored retirement plan
- Rollovers to Roth IRAs
- Rollover-related conflicts of interest
- FINRA guidelines for rollover advertising
NEW! - NEW - Quest Annual Compliance Reminders for Registered Representatives - Vol. 2 (Module)
Overview
There are many rules and regulations that you as a registered representative must keep in mind when conducting business. They cover a wide variety of topics that you see every day and are related to sales practice issues, ethical decisions you make and even administrative and operational issues. This course uses scenarios adapted from actual FINRA disciplinary actions to remind registered representatives about their compliance obligations. Topics covered include: social media and public communications; trade authorizations; form U4 disclosures; outside business activities; private securities transactions; handling customer funds related to borrowing money from customers; and maintaining ethical behavior when fulfilling continuing education requirements.
33
25
- Social media and public communications;
- Trade authorizations;
- Form U4 disclosures;
- Outside business activities;
- Private securities transactions;
- Handling customer funds related to borrowing money from customers; and
- Maintaining ethical behavior when fulfilling continuing education requirements.
NEW! - NEW - Regulation Best Interest (Reg BI) and Associated Materials (Module)
Overview
On June 5, 2019 the SEC approved a package of new rules and interpretations designed to improve transparency for retail investors. Included in this package are Regulation Best Interest (Reg BI), New Form CRS Relationship Summary (Form CRS), the Investment Adviser Interpretation, and a Solely Incidental Interpretation. This course will cover each of these rules in depth along with potential scenarios that one could encounter.
39
30
NEW! - NEW - SEC Large Trade Rule 13h-1 (Module)
Overview
The SEC's Large Trader Reporting Rule should be reviewed by corporations and individuals that exercise discretion over transactions in U.S. listed stocks and options. Affecting even a single trade can require a corporation or individual to register as a large trader. Rule 13h-1 requires large traders to register with the SEC by December 1, 2011 by filing Form 13H. Upon completion of this course, representatives will be able to define and explain SEC Rule 13h-1, be aware of trade and business criteria that would compel registration, assist in the implementation of 13h-1 policies and procedures and be better versed to monitor compliance with 13h-1 requirements.
33
17
- Rule 13H-1 Overview
- Is your Client a Large Trader?
- Exempt Transactions
- Form 13H
- Large Trader Rule 13H-1 Compliance
In 2010, the SEC adopted a new market access rule, SEC Rule 15c3-5, which focuses on a practice through which broker-dealers allow their customer to gain direct access to the applicable exchange or alternative trading system or ATS, also known as "sponsored access". 15c3-5 prohibits broker-dealers from providing customers with "unfiltered" or "naked access" to an exchange or ATS and requires brokers with market access - including those who sponsor customers' access to an exchange or ATS - to put in place risk management controls and supervisory procedures to help prevent erroneous orders, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and enforce pre-set credit or capital thresholds. This course discusses how Rule 15c3-5 is designed to meet the following goals: prohibiting all markets from displaying marketable flash orders; requiring that information about an investor's interest in buying or selling a stock be made publicly available, instead of just to a select group operating within a dark pool; identifying and providing information on certain large traders; promoting fair and efficient access to listed options markets and requiring a consolidated audit trail system to enable regulators to track information related to trading orders received and executed across the securities markets.
NEW! - NEW - Senior Exploitation & Regulatory Concerns (Module)
Overview
In this course, we'll discuss some of the major compliance concerns associated with today's aging population. More specifically, we'll highlight early warning signs of financial exploitation, recent disciplinary actions, and a survey conducted by NASAA. We'll also touch on FINRA's recent rule amendments and changes aimed at helping prevent elder financial abuse.
NEW! - NEW - Social Media: Best Practices for Registered Representatives (Module)
Overview
More than a fad, social media has emerged as a vital channel for communication and information exchange. Whether you are with a financial services firm that already is active in social media or one that is watching from the sidelines, advisors and firms are beginning to truly acknowledge the benefits that social media platforms offer. This course provides registered representatives with a few best practices to follow when getting started on LinkedIn.
26
11
- Getting Started with Social Media
- Building a Brand
- Prospecting
- Status Updates
- Join Groups
- Using LinkedIn as an Intelligence Gathering Tool
- A Guide to LinkedIn
NEW! - NEW - Social Media: Communications with the Public in an Electronic Environment (Module)
Overview
This course discusses the many considerations that representatives and firms face when it comes to the use of social media, including social networking sites, blogs, chat rooms, online forums, static and interactive sites, and the management of third-party content and links. The course offers an overview of FINRA's guidance on the use of social media by registered representatives and other associated persons. More specifically, it highlights FINRA's categories of communication with the public, FINRA rules that apply to electronic communications, as well as considerations for use, supervision, and recordkeeping regarding social media web sites, blogs, chat rooms, and online forums.
44
21
- Categories of Electronic Communications with the Public
- FINRA Rules
- Electronic Communications Compliance Issues
- Web and Electronic Communications Compliance Issues
- Third Party Communications
NEW! - NEW - Suitability: Red Flags for Seniors (Module)
Overview
This course is an entry-level course intended for all registered representatives, sales support staff, compliance staff and compliance administrators interested in senior citizen suitability sales practice regulations. This course covers a broad range of issues related to senior investments, including ethics, suitability and products targeted towards seniors. With more and more people nearing retirement age, the issues regarding senior investors are making headlines. Prevention of fraud and questionable business practices are issues that are being addressed by not only FINRA, but also by the states and financial firms as well. Ultimately, the responsibility lies with the registered representative to do what's right for his or her client. This course reminds representatives to always act in the best interests of their clients.
Each FINRA member firm is required to engage the services of a registered financial and operations principal, also known as the "FinOp" or "FINOP". Whether within a clearing firm or introducing broker-dealer, working as a full-time or outsourced provider, the role of the FINOP remains a critical function of the firm. This course is designed to provide an overview of the role and responsibilities of the firm FINOP, highlight various reporting requirements and their mechanisms, and identify more recent regulatory changes that affect the FINOP role and firm reporting.
45
28
NEW! - NEW - Types of Accounts (Module)
Intermediate
In order to effectively and efficiently manage client assets, many advisers recommend that their clients open an account at a custodian - a financial institution usually a broker-dealer or a bank that holds and has legal responsibility for the safekeeping of the customer's securities and/or cash. This custodian will hold client securities and cash facilitate trading and provide tax reporting documentation. The account's type is determined by the client's legal status: whether the client is a real (natural) person or persons, or an entity like a trust or corporation. This course describes the most common account types, as well as the documentary requirements for most accounts.
35
17
- Custodian Information Requirements
- Account Types
- Account Features
- Broker-Dealer Obligations
NEW! - NEW - Understanding Clearing Firms and Risk Management (Module)
Intermediate
This course will primarily focus on the vital role that clearing brokers play in the securities markets, the risks associated with that role, and the means for managing those risks. The processes and regulations relating to clearing agencies and the clearing of commodity futures transactions are complex enough to warrant separate treatment, so only limited highlights will be included within in this course.
NEW! - NEW - Understanding Complex Products (Module)
Intermediate
This course provides financial advisors and their supervisors with a sound understanding of the essential characteristics of complex products and related sales practices issues. Upon completing this course, advisors will be able to easily identify complex products, describe the suitability requirements that surround them, and implement a reasonable compliance program regarding the sale of complex products.
34
17
- The features, benefits, risks, and considerations pertinent to complex products, and their use in a client's investment portfolio.
- Key risks and considerations associated with the sale of complex products.
- Guidelines for determining whether a complex product is suitable for a client.
- Information regarding complex products as markets and products evolve, and new products emerge.
NEW! - NEW - Understanding the JOBS Act of 2012 (Module)
Intermediate
This course provides representatives with an overview of the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act (JOBS Act), a bipartisan effort signed into law by President Obama on April 5, 2012. The JOBS Act is intended to encourage funding of small businesses, partly by providing relief from certain aspects of securities regulation. Specific areas of the Act discussed include: The increase in the number of shareholders a company may have before the requirement to register its common stock with the SEC is triggered; the new registration exemption for certain types of small public offerings; how the Act may encourage "crowd funding" of new companies; amended disclosure requirements for "emerging growth companies;" allowances for general solicitation and advertising for certain types of private placements; changes to the dollar amount limits for securities offerings exempted under Rule 505 of Regulation D; and changes to the number of permitted shareholders in community banks.
29
17
- The Jumpstart our Business Startups Act (Jobs Act)
- Reopening American Capital Markets to Emerging Growth Companies
- Access to Capital for Job Creators
- Crowdfunding
- Small Company Capital Formation
- Private Company Flexibility and Growth
- Capital Expansion
- Outreach on Changes to the Law
Online Identity Theft Scams (ALP)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how to prevent online identity theft and what they need to do to ensure that they or their clients are not a victim of this crime. Identity thieves are stealing information from unsuspecting consumers in a number of ways. This course will show the student how to spot some of the latest online identity theft scams targeting financial sector customers and how to avoid them.
39
19
Online Identity Theft Scams (Module)
Overview
This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how to prevent online identity theft and what they need to do to ensure that they or their clients are not a victim of this crime. Identity thieves are stealing information from
unsuspecting consumers in a number of ways. This course will show the student how to spot some of the latest online identity theft scams targeting financial sector customers and how to avoid them.
39
19
- Impact of Technology - Growing Problem - Definition of Phishing - Thieves Mimicking Legitimate Websites - Real Example - Trojan Horses - Hidden Software - How to Prevent and Protect Yourself from Online Identity Theft
Outside Business Activities and Private Securities Transactions (Module)
Overview
This course is intended to familiarize registered representatives and general securities supervisors with the rules regarding outside business activities and personal trading. It clearly defines what these activities can be and illustrates the importance of full disclosure and thorough supervision of these activities. FINRA's rule on Outside Business Activities of an Associated Person provides regulatory guidelines for representatives to follow when engaging in business activity that is not part of their work for the firm. This course will cover Rule 3030 and Rule 3040 outlining representatives' responsibilities to be compliant.
30
10
- FINRA's Rule on Outside Business Activities - Outside Business Activity Examples - Private Securities Transactions - Rule 3227, Rule 3030, Rule 3040 - Representative Considerations - Situational Example
Outside Business Activities and Private Securities Transactions - Vol. 2 (Module)
Overview
This course provides an overview of the restrictions and disclosure requirements surrounding registered representatives' business activities and private securities transactions, outside the scope of their employment. It focuses on the necessity for registered representatives to follow the regulations and firm policies that surround these activities, regardless of compensation, and to disclose those activities on their Form U4.
20
22
- Scope of activities - Conflicts of interest - Preapproval - Disclosure
There are many rules and regulations that you as a registered representative must keep in mind when conducting business. They cover a wide variety of topics that you see every day and are related to sales practice issues, ethical decisions you make and even administrative and operational issues. This course uses scenarios adapted from actual FINRA disciplinary actions to remind registered representatives about their compliance obligations. Topics covered include: social media and public communications; trade authorizations; form U4 disclosures; outside business activities; private securities transactions; handling customer funds related to borrowing money from customers; and maintaining ethical behavior when fulfilling continuing education requirements.
There are many rules and regulations that you as a registered representative must keep in mind when conducting business. They cover a wide variety of topics that you see every day and are related to sales practice issues, ethical decisions you make and even administrative and operational issues. This course uses scenarios adapted from actual FINRA disciplinary actions to remind registered representatives about their compliance obligations. Topics covered include: social media and public communications; trade authorizations; form U4 disclosures; outside business activities; private securities transactions; handling customer funds related to borrowing money from customers; and maintaining ethical behavior when fulfilling continuing education requirements.
37
25
- Social media and public communications;
- Trade authorizations;
- Form U4 disclosures;
- Outside business activities;
- Private securities transactions;
- Handling customer funds related to borrowing money from customers; and
- Maintaining ethical behavior when fulfilling continuing education requirements.
Security Best Practices for Remote Workers Amid COVID-19 (Module)
Overview
This course discusses the importance of security when working remotely and highlights some simple techniques that employees can employ to protect themselves while working from home. Additionally, we'll discuss the recent influx of phishing emails that have flooded inboxes since the COVD-19 outbreak and tips to avoid falling victim to a hazardous attack.
19
12
Suitability: Red Flags for Seniors (Module)
Overview
This course is an entry level course intended as a starting point for all registered representatives, sales support staff, compliance staff, and compliance administrators interested in senior citizen suitability sales practice regulations. This course covers a broad range of issues related to senior investments to help students learn ways to guide clients through the various deferred annuity products and find solutions which may be the most advantageous to them.
31
15
- Ethics
- Suitability
- Products Targeted Toward Seniors
- Difference Between Non-Discretionary and Discretionary Accounts
- Viatical Settlement
- Equity Indexed Annuity
- Equity Indexed, Fixed, and Variable Annuities
The Role of the FINOP (ALP)
Overview
Each FINRA member broker/dealer is required to engage the services of a registered financial and operations principal. This course is designed to provide an overview of the role and responsibilities of the firm FinOp, the various reporting requirements and their mechanisms, and identifies recent regulatory changes that affect the FinOp role and firm reporting.
