Description

This course is intended for brokers and advisors who are interested in assisting investors in taking advantage of the 1031 Exchange, which provides for the tax deferred exchange of real property. Section 1031 is a part of the IRS Code that permits owners of investment property to defer the capital gains tax on the exchange of property of a like kind. The deferral of capital gains applies to a like-kind exchange of rental real estate but not to like-kind exchanges of stocks, bonds and partnership interests. This course discusses the benefits of exchanges ones property versus selling it, general guidelines surrounding a 1031 exchange and different types of exchanges.

Course ID

10726

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is beneficial for individuals whose employers offer retirement plans, including 401(k)s and qualified plans. One of the most important and meaningful benefits an employer can offer is a retirement plan. This is true whether the employer is a large corporation or a small business. Retirement plans allow employers and employees to save money, in tax deferred accounts, delaying income tax payments until funds are withdrawn at some future date. This course discusses types of qualified plans, eligibility requirements and the importance of selecting the most suitable retirement plan.

Course ID

11543

Number of Pages

50

Est. Completion Time

28

Description

529 savings plans and ABLE programs provide individuals and their families a way to save money on a tax-advantaged basis for qualified expenses. In this course, you'll learn about the characteristics, costs and special care and handling that you must take when recommending these types of plans to your clients.

Course ID

11084

Number of Pages

49

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17643

Number of Pages

62

Est. Completion Time

38

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, sales personnel, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional interested in learning new advances in prospecting techniques. The objective of this course is to provide representatives with a summary of the current rules on prospecting for these financial services and products. Covered are the most current FINRA rules, communication standards, SEC rules governing variable annuity prospecting, and general compliance standards.

Course ID

10890

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

22

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors that primarily work with retail clients. Representatives play a valuable role in customer satisfaction. A customer's positive or negative experience with your firm usually depends on the quality of service on the front line. Firm impressions are long lasting and difficult to change; therefore, it is extremely important that customer service in this area is consistently excellent. In taking this course, representatives will gain an understanding of the skills, attitudes and thinking patterns needed to win customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Course ID

10246

Number of Pages

82

Est. Completion Time

45

Description

This course is intended for supervisors that are responsible for monitoring registered representatives' use of the various types of electronic communications, such as blogs, bulletin boards, chat rooms, social networking sites and websites. This course also reviews the various rules and standards that encompass electronic communications. Additionally, specific issues are covered concerning the different methods/forms of electronic communications. It reviews the various rules and standards that cover electronic communications. Additionally, the course will cover FINRA's rules and views regarding electronic communications in the various forms available today.

Course ID

10221

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17644

Number of Pages

18

Est. Completion Time

10

Description

This advanced-level firm element course provides a higher level look at AML for all types of financial services representatives and agents, and includes real-world case studies to illustrate the concepts discussed. Topics covered by this course include: Understanding the evolution of AML laws in the US; Real-world examples of red flags; How reporting tools are used by FinCEN and law enforcement; and Examination of case studies, focusing on red flags that were caught or missed, and how the criminals involved were abusing financial services to launder money for illegal endeavors.

Course ID

9746

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors that maintain a solid understanding of mutual fund basics and/or are involved in managing mutual fund accounts. This course provides participants with an advanced look at the terminology and measures involved with risk/return concepts used in portfolio management. A more thorough understanding of the investor's portfolio can be gained through the application of this course.

Course ID

11098

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

This course provides a refresher on essential knowledge and history of cryptocurrencies alongside a deeper look into the regulatory responses at both state and federal levels as it relates to understanding the ever-changing environment surrounding digital assets in the financial services sector. We will cover custody requirements, cryptocurrency as payment, and a brief look at the crypto marketplace at the end of 2021. OCC guidance will be a primary focus with some discussion on the words of the SEC Chairman Gary Gensler.

Course ID

17171

Number of Pages

33

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

Collective Investment Funds (CIFs) are tax-exempt pooled investment vehicles maintained by a bank or trust company. The general attributes, regulation and investment risks and rewards of CIFs are discussed in this course. This course will also focus on CIF administrative requirements, internal controls, risks and risk management and the use of third-party vendors.

Course ID

12262

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, investment advisors, institutional representatives, traders, analysts and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in the issuance, distribution and risk-analysis of conventional securities. Those taking this course should already have an intermediate understanding of the securities markets and economic analysis. Insider trading is a term that most financial professionals have heard and usually associate with illegal conduct. In reality, the term actually includes both legal and illegal conduct. The legal version is when corporate insiders, officers, directors and employees buy and sell stock in their own companies. When corporate insiders trade in their own securities they must report their trades to the SEC. Illegal insider trading refers generally to buying or selling a security in breach of a fiduciary duty or other relationship of trust and confidence while in possession of material, nonpublic information about the security. This course covers the definition of insider trading, why insider trading is important, and insider trading rules. Individuals taking this course will also learn how to identify key terms related to insider trading, rules and regulations governing insider trading, and consequences of insider trading.

Course ID

10110

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, investment advisors, institutional representatives, traders, analysts and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in the issuance, distribution and risk-analysis of conventional securities. Those taking this course should already have an intermediate understanding of the securities markets. This course will cover the topic of mutual funds, beginning with basic features, characteristics and benefits. The course will wrap-up by discussing tax considerations, breakpoint abuse and asset allocation.

Course ID

10998

Number of Pages

116

Est. Completion Time

61

Description

Derivative investments, such as swaps, forwards, futures, and options play a varied and unique role in the securities industry within both institutional and retail portfolios. This course is designed to expand upon the student's intermediate understanding of options by exploring different types of options strategies. Options strategies may be employed as a means to protect account holdings as well as the potential to generate a profit. This course focuses on advanced options strategies that may be encountered by the investment professional, as well as the potential risks and rewards involved when investing in this type of derivative.

Course ID

10996

Number of Pages

29

Est. Completion Time

17

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors working with private placements. The term "private placement" refers to the offer and sale of any security by a brokerage firm not involving a public offering; hence it's a "private offering." Private placement offerings are not the subject of a registration statement filed with the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933. Any registered representative involved in the private placement process, is expected to have a working familiarity with Regulation D. This course will take an advanced look at this type of offering, providing insight as to its genesis and the rules and advantages they offer to investors.

Course ID

10048

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

This course is designed to educate representatives about the various concepts regarding structured products. The course assumes at least a basic level of understanding of structured products and portfolio management in general. Once a refresher of the basics has been covered, the course describes structured products usage within a portfolio, special risk considerations and how it can be used as an alternative to direct investments in limited partnerships.

Course ID

10220

Number of Pages

27

Est. Completion Time

17

Description

Investment Advisers have a complex web of guidelines and regulations to navigate when it comes to communicating with the public, potential investors, and existing clientele. In this course, users will learn about advertising regulations while picking up some tips and best practices for dealing with these types of communication. Additionally, the course will cover advertising-related regulations, federal enforcement actions, and regulatory organization guidelines.

Course ID

13026

Number of Pages

59

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course takes a closer look at the policies, practices, corporate governance and marketing of alternative mutual and exchange-traded funds

Course ID

11580

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This important course is intended for Investment Adviser Representatives (IARs) and Chief Compliance Officers (CCOs) who utilize alternative investments in their business model. It provides practical advice on how Registered Investment Advisers (RIAs) can evaluate alternative investments and determine if they are the right choice for their clients. Advisers will receive guidance on how to conduct due diligence of alternative investments and their managers. In addition, the course will discuss the Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) observations regarding the due diligence practices of certain RIAs that manage or recommend alternative investments. It will also identify the red flags that advisers should watch out for when evaluating alternative investments and their managers.

Course ID

18196

Number of Pages

27

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

This course will provide detailed information on the topic of currency, which can be used as an Alternative Investment Strategy. The basic structure of a currency investment will be discussed, as well as its risks and potential benefits. Then, an in-depth look at how a currency investment will react to various market movements and conditions. At the conclusion of this course, you should have a solid understanding of how to effectively use and recommend a currency investment strategy to clients.

Course ID

12342

Number of Pages

46

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course will provide detailed information on using a Long / Short Investment Strategy. The basic structure of a Long / Short strategy will be discussed, as well as its risks and potential benefits. Then, an in-depth look at how a Long / Short strategy will react to various market movements and conditions. At the conclusion of this course, you should have a solid understanding of how to effectively use and recommend a Long / Short Alternative Investment Strategy to clients.

Course ID

12205

Number of Pages

45

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course will provide detailed information on using a Market Neutral Alternative Investment Strategy. The basic structure of a Market Neutral strategy will be discussed, as well as its risks and potential benefits. Then, an in-depth look at how a Market Neutral strategy will react to various market movements and conditions. At the conclusion of this course, you should have a solid understanding of how to effectively use and recommend a Market Neutral Alternative Investment Strategy to clients.

Course ID

12760

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course will provide detailed information on using a Multi-Alternative Investment Strategy. The basic structure of a Multi-Alternative strategy will be discussed, as well as its risks and potential benefits. Then, an in-depth look at how a Multi-Alternative strategy will react to various market movements and conditions. At the conclusion of this course, you should have a solid understanding of how to effectively use and recommend a Multi-Alternative Alternative Investment Strategy to clients.

Course ID

11927

Number of Pages

42

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, investment advisers, institutional representatives, traders and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in the issuance, distribution and risk-analysis of conventional securities. Those taking this course should have an intermediate understanding of the securities markets and the wide variety of securities products that are offered for sale to investors. This course will cover the most often utilized alternative investment options, such as Futures, Options, ETFs, Hedged Funds, REITS and Gold.

Course ID

10560

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course will provide the student with an overview of correlation, diversification, suitability and a variety of alternative investment products including their requirements, risks and rewards.

Course ID

10878

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course will discuss Alternative Mutual Funds, starting with a high-level overview of mutual funds so that we can further discuss alternative mutual funds. The course will follow with examples of the alternative investments found in alternative mutual funds. After an understanding of the assets that will be involved, we'll discuss the investment objectives and strategies. The class will then cover the regulation of alternative mutual funds. We'll examine FINRA Rule 2111 and how it pertains to suitability. The final topic will be the key topics to discuss with clients while selling an alternative mutual fund. The course will wrap up with three case studies on FINRA violations in regards to alternative mutual fund sales.

Course ID

17656

Number of Pages

43

Est. Completion Time

35

Description

This training segment is to ensure registered representatives are knowledgably working with alternative mutual funds and educating suitable clients in the products before making recommendations.

Course ID

10937

Number of Pages

34

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course was developed to address concerns of the Financial Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding the sale and suitability of alternative mutual funds. The alternative funds market has skyrocketed since the economic crisis of 2008. Such explosive numbers in the alternative funds sector have caused the market, retail investors, and media to stand up and take notice; and so have FINRA and the SEC. FINRA and the SEC are the regulating agencies of registered mutual funds.

Course ID

10729

Number of Pages

68

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is designed to educate employees at financial institutions regarding so-called Alternative Mutual Funds. Although there will be some discussion of alternative investments in general and alternative funds such as hedge funds and ETFs, the main focus will be on mutual funds that invest in alternative assets and/or employ alternative trading strategies. This course will give an overview of the types of funds available, and the pros and cons associated with investing in these funds. It will also discuss the regulatory environment surrounding recommendations and sales of alternative mutual funds.

Course ID

16332

Number of Pages

34

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is designed to educate employees at financial institutions regarding the opening and maintaining of accounts for foreign persons who hold or have held political positions, or who are associated with those who hold such positions. So called Politically Exposed Persons and Senior Foreign Political Figures present firms with risks associated with money laundering and other crimes related to government corruption. This course explores those risks, discusses the regulatory requirements related to assessing and managing those risks, and the ways that firms and agents can mitigate those risks.

Course ID

15696

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

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 concludes with a case study involving a US broker-dealer's AML failures relating to institutional customer accounts.

Course ID

9954

Number of Pages

38

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

Collective Investment Funds (CIFs) are tax-exempt, pooled investment vehicles maintained by a bank or trust company. The federal securities laws generally require entities that pool securities to register those pooled vehicles (such as mutual funds) with the SEC. This course provides an introduction to CIFs, the different types, regulations and other basic information about this type of investment.

Course ID

4170

Number of Pages

28

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives that primarily work with clients interested in investing in non-traded REITs. Ideal investors include individuals seeking to add income and/or reduce portfolio volatility as part of a broader financial plan. This course will explore REITs as an asset class and will look specifically at non-traded or non-listed REITs, a subset of the REIT market. The course will explore the benefits and risks of investing in the non-traded REIT market and the type of investors who can benefit from these investment products.

Course ID

10507

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

This course will focus on FINRA rules and regulations related to broker-dealer advertisements. It is designed to provide an overview of general terms, content standards, disclosure requirements, supervision, recordkeeping, and requirements to file certain advertisements directly with FINRA. In addition, SEC rules related to Investment Company, and Investment Adviser advertisements, as well as municipal security advertisements (covered under MSRB rules) will be briefly discussed. This course would be suitable for anyone working in a marketing function, individuals responsible for the internal review and approval of advertisements, compliance staff, and any other individuals seeking a general understanding of advertising regulation. However, it is important that individuals who are directly responsible for the review, approval or filing of firm communications receive additional training. They should also be properly registered with FINRA and/or the MSRB. One form of training is available at FINRA's annual Advertising Regulation Conference (recordings of which are available through FINRA), as well as the FINRA Advertising Boot Camp which is conducted for individuals who are new to advertisement supervision.

Course ID

12791

Number of Pages

45

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is designed to provide representatives with a general understanding of fixed income securities - what they are, how they can be employed in an investor's portfolio, and the risks and rewards involved in investing in fixed income securities.

Course ID

11015

Number of Pages

38

Est. Completion Time

22

Description

This course will review the custody rule, the amendments to it over the years, the different triggers for custody, and who is a qualified custodian. By the end of the course, students will have a better understanding of what it means to take custody, the impact of this, and the regulations surrounding being a custodian.

Course ID

18467

Number of Pages

44

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

A course covering 2020 AML updates and enforcement actions would not be complete without understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the flow of illicit funds and the new ways that criminals found to exploit the confusion and systemic vulnerabilities exposed by the pandemic as both government and private entities pivoted business models over the course of just a few months. This course weaves together COVID-19 related money laundering examples, with enforcement actions, AML trends, and U.S. Legislation directed at improving AML efforts.

Course ID

15475

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course covers 2021 anti-money laundering (AML) updates and things to consider in an everchanging world. The advent of Covid-19 and multiple variants that have come afterwards has created the perfect storm for those who want to conceal dirty (laundered) money. The new environment of remote work and in a lot of cases virtual interactions with new and existing clients further complicates the ability to track and catch these illegal activities. Add cryptocurrency to the mix with its anonymity and life in the financial industry has become complicated in ways never imagined even 10 years ago.

Course ID

17476

Number of Pages

20

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course will review recent Anti-Money Laundering developments including regulatory guidance from the securities and banking industries, FATF cryptocurrency guidance, enforcement actions, a new FinCEN department and several case studies including the Danske Bank AML case and the US' Mueller report. By the end of the course, students will have a better understanding of the front-end of the regulatory environment and how money laundering is detected and prosecuted in modern cases.

Course ID

12604

Number of Pages

48

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course uses facts from actual cases to enable the student to identify regulatory requirements, understand compliance obligations, and recognize the possible consequences of failure to comply with regulatory and firm requirements.

Course ID

10068

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17649

Number of Pages

33

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors who are involved with the sale of annuity products, the servicing of these products, or providing recommendations/guidance to clients that purchase annuities. All deferred annuities come in two contract forms: namely as Owner-Driven (OD) and Annuitant-Driven (AD). By "driven" we are referring to certain actions that occur upon death that are beyond the control of named parties to the contract unless proper structuring is done regarding who owns who is an annuitant and who is a beneficiary to the contract. This course discusses time horizons, advantages of annuities, deferring taxes and annuity contract structuring.

Course ID

11417

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

26

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors involved in the sale of annuity products, the servicing of these products or providing recommendations/ guidance to clients that purchase annuities. Annuities play an important role in retirement planning, enabling investors to save money and taxes, while eliminating the fear that they will outlive their savings. There are many kinds of annuities - some tailored for income some for future growth and some as savings vehicles dependent on the exact income and investment needs of an investor. This course will provide representatives with a basic understanding of the various types of annuities available to investors today and how they work.

Course ID

11204

Number of Pages

27

Est. Completion Time

16

Description

This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisers, supervisors or any financial service industry professional interested in learning about anti-fraud programs and controls and what they need to do to ensure that they, and their clients, are not a victim of this crime. Preventing fraud has always been a concern for organizations; in the new regulatory world it has become a matter of law. While the cost of fraud and penalties for non-compliance are in themselves important considerations, today's zero-tolerance environment means that fraudulent financial reporting or misappropriation of assets can have serious ramifications for an organization, and in some circumstances, even spell the demise of an organization.

Course ID

10894

Number of Pages

57

Est. Completion Time

40

Description

Preventing fraud has always been a concern for organizations; in the new regulatory world it has become a matter of law. While the cost of fraud and penalties for non-compliance are in themselves important considerations, today's zero-tolerance environment means that fraudulent financial reporting or misappropriation of assets can have serious ramifications for an organization, and in some circumstances, even spell the demise of an organization. This course will provide an overview of potential fraud situations and measures that can be taken to avoid fraud and protect customers.

Course ID

10158

Number of Pages

47

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17661

Number of Pages

28

Est. Completion Time

18

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17670

Number of Pages

57

Est. Completion Time

48

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17671

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for retail representatives and provides an overview of broker-dealer AML program requirements, "red flags" and suspicious activities, as well as a registered representative's role in detecting, preventing and reporting suspicious activity.

Course ID

9950

Number of Pages

38

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is designed for tellers, operational staff, compliance, and any employee working directly or indirectly with the banking industry. This course will provide basic background information on U.S. money-laundering laws and international anti-money laundering efforts. It also discusses actions bankers can take to better identify and manage risks associated with money laundering and terrorist financing. It is intended to provide a high-level discussion of concepts and issues.

Course ID

10943

Number of Pages

45

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course provides an overview of AML concepts, tailored for producers. The focus is on the need for front-line brokers and agents to have an understanding of how money laundering works, and the risks and red flags they should be aware of in their role as producers.

Course ID

10692

Number of Pages

71

Est. Completion Time

32

Description

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 objective of this course is to introduce agents to the federal laws and regulations that apply to money laundering, record keeping, and reporting. The course discusses some red flags that may indicate potential money laundering activities, as well as the penalties that can be imposed for violating federal money laundering laws.

Course ID

11212

Number of Pages

41

Est. Completion Time

26

Description

This course is intended for producing agents and registered representatives, and is also suited for investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional needing a basic understanding of industry rules regarding anti-money laundering, and how firms detect and prevent possible money laundering.

Course ID

9881

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is designed for registered representatives of broker-dealers affiliated with banks, credit unions, or similar financial institutions. 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.

Course ID

10159

Number of Pages

36

Est. Completion Time

35

Description

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 objective of this course is to introduce broker-dealer employees to the federal laws and regulations that apply to money laundering, record keeping, and reporting. The course discusses some "red flags" that may indicate potential money laundering activities, as well as the penalties that can be imposed for violating federal money laundering laws.

Course ID

9892

Number of Pages

43

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is designed for registered representatives of FINRA member broker-dealers. The course begins with actual cases involving FINRA member firms that took place in 2015 and then moves into a review of basic anti-money laundering concepts. The course then shifts to the representative's role in preventing, detecting and reporting suspicious activities that may point to illegal money laundering, providing examples from actual cases of what happens when a firm fails to carry out its AML obligations.

Course ID

9877

Number of Pages

38

Est. Completion Time

45

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17672

Number of Pages

62

Est. Completion Time

40

Description

This course is intended for home office personnel, 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 objective of this course is to introduce home office employees to the federal laws and regulations that apply to money laundering, record keeping, and reporting.

Course ID

10693

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for home office personnel, retail representatives, investment advisors, supervisors or any financial service industry professional interested in learning more about the industry rules and regulations regarding anti-money laundering. The objective of this course is to introduce home office employees to the federal laws and regulations that apply to money laundering, record keeping and reporting.

Course ID

10292

Number of Pages

22

Est. Completion Time

35

Description

This course covers proposed anti-money laundering rules for registered investment advisers. Included are highlights of the major features of the proposed rule and the implications the rule will have for investment advisers.

Course ID

9834

Number of Pages

34

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for registered securities representatives and supervisors interested in learning how industry rules regarding anti-money laundering regulations. Every municipal securities dealer must establish and implement an anti-money laundering compliance program designed to achieve and monitor ongoing compliance with the requirements of the Bank Secrecy Act, 31 U.S.C. 5311, et seq. (BSA).

Course ID

11027

Number of Pages

41

Est. Completion Time

27

Description

The objective of this course is to make you aware of the anti-money laundering rules and regulations so that you are able recognize those warning signs and take the correct steps for addressing the questionable issues. After completing this course, you will be able to identify the stages of the money laundering process, understand the development of AML regulations in the U.S., describe Customer Identification Program requirements, and recognize suspicious activities and red flags that could indicate money laundering activity.

Course ID

9828

Number of Pages

39

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

An overview of money laundering, firms' obligations in creating an AML program, red flags of suspicious activity, and the supervisor's role in detecting, preventing and reporting suspicious activity. Real-word examples of AML compliance failures will be presented.

Course ID

10694

Number of Pages

48

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course provides an overview of AML concepts tailored for wholesalers. The focus of this course is on the need for wholesalers to have a better understanding of what money laundering is, how it works and the risks, red flags and reporting requirements they should be aware of in their role as a producer.

Course ID

9902

Number of Pages

33

Est. Completion Time

13

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17673

Number of Pages

38

Est. Completion Time

18

Description

Anti-money laundering (AML) is a phrase used to describe the body of regulations that financial institutions must adhere to in order to detect and report money laundering activities. Although many AML regulations do not directly apply to investment advisers who are not also registered as a covered financial institution (broker-dealer, bank, credit union, etc.), many IARs find themselves at the front lines of AML responsibilities because of the relationships they have with their custodians; who are often required to comply with the entire body of AML regulations. This course will cover AML regulations and Red Flags that Investment Advisers should be aware of within their practice. You may not realize it, but you, as an investment adviser, are your custodian's eyes and ears on the ground in combating the nearly 1.5 trillion dollars that is estimated to be laundered annually.

Course ID

10773

Number of Pages

38

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17674

Number of Pages

34

Est. Completion Time

24

Description

This course covers the topic of Anti-Money Laundering as it applies to the various regulations implemented to prevent, detect and punish the act. Regulations covered are the Bank Secrecy Act, USA PATRIOT Act, and FINRA Rule 3310.

Course ID

11260

Number of Pages

23

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

This course covers requirements for a firm's Customer Identification Program, with emphasis on real-world context for application of a CIP. The course also discusses red flags that every representative should be aware of in their day-to-day dealings with customers and prospective customers, and with accounts. The course concludes with case studies to illustrate the concepts covered in the text.

Course ID

10688

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course provides a brief review of the basics of illegal money laundering and the legislative measures adopted to combat money laundering in the US. The course covers requirements for a firm's AML and CIP programs with emphasis on real-world context. The course also discusses red flags that every representative should be aware of in their day-to-day dealings with customers and prospective customers, and with accounts. The course concludes with examples of enforcement cases that reinforce the concepts covered in the text.

Course ID

9842

Number of Pages

43

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course provides a brief refresher overview of AML programs before focusing on examples of real-world scenarios representatives may encounter in their interactions with customers and prospective customers. The course continues its emphasis on real life application by presenting summaries of actual recent enforcement cases.

Course ID

9873

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course provides a brief refresher overview of AML programs before focusing on examples of real-world scenarios representatives may encounter in their interactions with customers and prospective customers. The course continues its emphasis on real life application by presenting summaries of actual recent enforcement cases.

Course ID

9918

Number of Pages

33

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended to familiarize representatives with the process of money laundering and the laws that make it a crime. At the end of this course, you will have a better understanding of Customer Identification Programs, FINRA Rule 3310, OFAC Sanctions Programs, Foreign Shell Banks, Due-Diligence Programs and much more.

Course ID

9770

Number of Pages

36

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17676

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

17

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors that maintain a solid understanding of mutual fund basics and/or are involved in managing mutual fund accounts. This course discusses different asset types, risk levels and how to determine the return on each asset. The course also touches on important factors to consider in an investment strategy, as well as practical examples of client portfolios, based on risk profiles, risk tolerance, financial goals, and horizons.

Course ID

11154

Number of Pages

55

Est. Completion Time

35

Description

This course is intended for representatives, investment advisers, institutional representatives, traders and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in the issuance, distribution, and risk-analysis of conventional securities. Those taking this course should have an intermediate understanding of the securities markets and the wide variety of securities products being offered to investors. This course provides a detailed review of the first auction rate security for the tax-exempt market, which was introduced by Goldman Sachs in 1988. More specifically, the course provides background on auction rate securities, defines the various types of ARS orders, and uncovers the 2008 auction failures.

Course ID

1591

Number of Pages

29

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

Many individuals within organizations contribute to, or perform functions that fall within the wide scope of back office operations. Back office operations professionals in a FINRA registered broker-dealer play an integral role in today's heavily regulated financial services marketplace. Back-office teams support client on boarding, account opening, receipt and delivery of securities, movements and transfers of funds, and all subsequent processing after the transaction is executed. This course will focus on back office processes and the qualifications of those charged with such functions.

Course ID

10882

Number of Pages

29

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, supervisors, compliance staff, senior management and firm principals that are interested in, or affected by, the rules imposed by the Bank Secrecy Act. This course provides a detailed review of the Bank Secrecy Act. It outlines the history of the Act and its purpose. It also describes the requirements from financial institutions and other businesses to maintain appropriate records and file reports. Common BSA violations are also discussed to help you to guard against them.

Course ID

11125

Number of Pages

55

Est. Completion Time

38

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors that work in the business of retirement planning. This course covers the 403(b) tax-deferred annuity tax advantages, eligible employers, alternative methods of calculating maximum contributions, and investments and special rules.

Course ID

12757

Number of Pages

27

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, supervisors and other financial service professional interested in learning more about the bond markets in general. Individuals taking this course should already have a basic understanding of how bonds are issued, purchased and sold. One of the most common debt instruments used to raise or borrow capital is bonds. This course provides an introduction to corporate bonds, how they are priced, how they are traded and how they can be used to finance specific needs. One of the most common debt instruments used to raise or borrow capital is bonds. This course provides an introduction to corporate bonds, touching on topics from how they are priced, how they are traded, and how they can be used to finance specific needs.

Course ID

12540

Number of Pages

27

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and their supervisors that primarily work with retail clients. In this course, representatives will learn about the concept of investing. An introduction to the concepts of compounding, portfolio diversification and the various types of investments available will all be reviewed.

Course ID

11343

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and their supervisors that primarily work with retail clients. This course covers the different types of stocks available and how they are traded. Additionally, the course discusses bull and bear markets and the impact they have on stock investing.

Course ID

12160

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17677

Number of Pages

50

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course will provide advisors a better understanding of block trading and how it will, if it is used correctly, save questions when the auditors come knocking on your door, whether that be FINRA or the SEC. The course will start by defining what a block trade is, and will then discuss why these probes have been initiated by the SEC and the U.S. Justice Department. The course will then transition to how you and your firm can use block trading in your practice.

Course ID

17905

Number of Pages

28

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

This course is intended for producers, supervisors, sales associates, compliance administrators, new account managers and any financial service professional that needs to abide by the various state compliance requirements. This course will provide an overview of the provisions and scope of the Blue Sky Laws, which state legislatures use to regulate security businesses operating within their states.

Course ID

11932

Number of Pages

34

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

FINRA, in conjunction with the SEC, has published guidance for books and records retention. This guidance is applicable to broker-dealers per Securities & Exchange Act (SEA) Rule 17a-4 and establishes standards for which records to keep, which formats are acceptable, and how long records should be kept. The SEC requires that broker-dealers create and maintain certain records so that, among other things, the SEC, self-regulatory organizations, and state securities regulators may conduct effective examinations of broker-dealers.

Course ID

10863

Number of Pages

54

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17678

Number of Pages

29

Est. Completion Time

17

Description

If an investor's primary goals include principal preservation and income, Certificates of Deposit (CDs) can serve as a sound portfolio foundation. They offer reliable income and, when issued by a bank or an insured credit union, a federally insured return of capital. This course provides an overview of investing in brokered certificates of deposit, including the associated risks, benefits and investing guidelines.

Course ID

11019

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisers, supervisors, or any financial service professional interested in learning more about business continuity planning. The course provides participants with an introduction to the five main phases involved in developing a BCP manual, as well as important factors to consider when investing time and resources into BCP preparations. Business continuity or business resumption planning is necessary to prepare an organization to recover after some interruption of its business operations. This is especially true in the financial services industry, where companies cannot afford to lose working days that would equal millions of dollars in lost trades and investments.

Course ID

10528

Number of Pages

29

Est. Completion Time

19

Description

In today's business environment it is more important than ever for any business to implement a plan that ensures their business can continue to deliver products and services to clients or customers after a catastrophic event. This course will focus on the importance of a Business Continuity Plan, how businesses can best prepare for events , recovery strategies, and how it relates to financial professionals.

Course ID

10839

Number of Pages

25

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course covers the history of business development company regulation, including specific statutes and rules. Also covered are the specific investment guidelines that business development companies must follow. Also covered in the course are two case studies regarding business Development companies. The course assumes that the reader has at least a basic understanding of investments, finance and regulatory concepts.

Course ID

11323

Number of Pages

28

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course provides an overview of FINRA's rules for giving gifts in a business setting, tailored for wholesalers. It focuses on the necessity for wholesalers to be familiar with and to follow the rules and policies of their particular firm in addition to FINRA Rule 3220.

Course ID

10054

Number of Pages

27

Est. Completion Time

12

Description

A buy-sell agreement is a legal contract that details the terms and conditions of the transfer of ownership of a company in the event of the death, incapacity, or other departure of a current owner. Because they address the critical issue of company ownership, buy-sell agreements can be quite complex, addressing each party's responsibilities, rights, financial obligations and tax consequences, they are typically prepared with the assistance of qualified attorneys and CPAs. The goal of a buy-sell agreement is to be prepared in advance to handle such transitions in a predetermined way and avoid costly and time-consuming battles over a business's future; a poorly drafted buy-sell arrangement or one that is underfunded can work counter to this objective, so it is best to invest the time and expense up front to develop a well thought-out contract.

Course ID

11199

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is designed to provide a high-level understanding of the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) of 2018 and its implications for impacted consumers and businesses. By the end of this course, you should have a broad understanding of the key elements of the law, the new consumer rights it grants, the requirements for businesses, and the potential enforcement and civil liabilities businesses face for non-compliance.

Course ID

12347

Number of Pages

43

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

Recognizing Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing red flags in your business is crucial to maintaining the integrity of financial services providers, Canadian trade partners, and the tax base we use to benefit society. The role of financial services providers in the anti-terrorist and money laundering regime is to make it harder for bad actors to integrate ill-gotten funds into legitimate financial systems and to provide data and red flag reporting to FINTRAC. In this course, we'll focus on the 2018 updates to the Canadian Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Regime, trade based money laundering, service based money laundering, and beneficial ownership with real life case studies to help you connect the dots between seemingly "dark" money and the accounts and activity that may come across your desk.

Course ID

10759

Number of Pages

52

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, supervisors, compliance staff, senior management and firm principals. Cash alternatives, sometimes called cash equivalents, are vehicles that are considered safe and are highly liquid (i.e. investors can convert them to cash quickly if needed). Thus, cash alternatives are often used to fund a cash reserve. FINRA has warned that not all "cash equivalent" investments are risk-free and that in the current market, investors may be drawn to higher-yielding securities without realizing the potential dangers. This course will define the term "cash equivalent" and look at the potential risks associated with the various investment options in this investment category.

Course ID

1980

Number of Pages

45

Est. Completion Time

24

Description

In any regulatory or economic environment, CCOs have a difficult job. New CCOs may feel overwhelmed by the complexity of their position, especially when clients and employees are being pulled in many directions as they face the new normal. This course is designed to help you deal with the challenges you face as CCO and the responsibilities that go hand-in-hand with the position. Along with giving an overview of the wide range of responsibilities of CCOs, we will touch on the applicable compliance rules and regulations.

Course ID

18449

Number of Pages

55

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course provides information for registered principals and registered representatives regarding four new FINRA rules related to supervision and supervisory procedures. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17679

Number of Pages

39

Est. Completion Time

33

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17680

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

22

Description

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 supervisors with a better understanding of the recently-approved changes to the rules relating to public communications by a firm's associated persons.

Course ID

11331

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors or any financial service industry professional interested in learning about mutual fund investing, available share classes, and potential fees and expenses. The course also explains how an investor's profile needs to be analyzed and goes into detail about investor breakpoints and suitability obligations.

Course ID

0070

Number of Pages

25

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17682

Number of Pages

25

Est. Completion Time

10

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17689

Number of Pages

28

Est. Completion Time

14

Description

This course provides an overview of how closed-end funds are structured, launched, discounted, traded, managed and leveraged, including descriptions of the range of available strategies and objectives, distribution plans, applicable fees and investment benefits and risks.

Course ID

12206

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17691

Number of Pages

15

Est. Completion Time

5

Description

This course is intended for representatives, investment advisers, institutional representatives, traders and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in the issuance, distribution, and risk-analysis of conventional securities. Those taking this course should have an intermediate understanding of the securities markets and the wide variety of securities products being offered to investors. This course provides an introduction to collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs) and examines the basics of this form of securities, as well as the ways in which the risks associated with them can be mitigated or controlled. This course begins with an examination of mortgage backed securities, including "Fannie Maes," "Ginnie Maes," "Freddie Macs," and "Non-Agency" CMO's. Because there is a wide range of CMOs designed to meet the needs of a wide range of investors, and they are not a one-size-fits-all investment, it's vital to understand the basics of the CMO product and its many variations in the market today.

Course ID

11214

Number of Pages

21

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for representatives, investment advisors, institutional representatives, traders, and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in the issuance, distribution, and risks of conventional securities. Common stock investing has become more popular as more investors have become knowledgeable in the way that stocks trade and can be used to generate a profit. Common stock investing has become more accessible to small investors through the advent of online trading accounts and through multi-faceted broker/dealers that offer various trading options. This course will provide students with a good understanding of common stock investing highlighting the advantages and disadvantages to be aware of.

Course ID

11070

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is a review of the 2200-series of rules for Communications with the Public. The core rule for these communications, FINRA Rule 2210, is covered, along with subsequent rules 2212, 2213, 2214, 2215, 2216 and a few nonconsecutive rules to ensure a complete study of FINRA's requirements for properly communicating with retail and institutional investors.

Course ID

10120

Number of Pages

54

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

18046

Number of Pages

48

Est. Completion Time

21

Description

This course provides information for representatives and supervisors regarding the use of complex/alternative investment strategies.

Course ID

11466

Number of Pages

36

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course was developed to address concerns of the Financial Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding complex products and heightened supervision. Complex products sold to retail customers are all the rage, but the result for regulators is heightened supervision of the firms, registered representatives, and the status of the products' performances.

Course ID

11249

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course will cover fixed-income investing from multiple angles. Prior to this century, fixed-income investing was uncharted territory for many retail investors because real-time pricing information was not available. Focus shifted in the early 2000s when regulators put an emphasis on the need for price fairness for retail investors. We will discuss the introduction of electronic platforms from FINRA and the MSRB, which required that broker-dealers report transactions in close to real-time, among other changes brought about including increased customer disclosures, application of best execution requirements, and more price transparency in general for the average investors.

Course ID

15869

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17696

Number of Pages

39

Est. Completion Time

27

Description

What happens when disaster impacts every single broker-dealer and regulator at the same time? How can we respond, pivot, and ensure business goes on? This course covers the Business Continuity Plan requirements for U.S.-based broker-dealers and the regulatory response from FINRA to the COVID-19 crisis in 2020.

Course ID

15391

Number of Pages

41

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17697

Number of Pages

26

Est. Completion Time

12

Description

This course discusses the most likely ways that conflicts arise for investment advisers and how to effectively manage and disclose them. Additionally, the course focuses on adhering to your firm's Code of Ethics and identifying any conflicts of interest pursuant to Rule 206(4)-7.

Course ID

9849

Number of Pages

29

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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, as well as the importance and benefits of navigating through these challenges.

Course ID

10865

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course will cover how 1031 exchanges can be used as a tool by real estate investors to delay paying taxes. This will include topics such as qualified intermediaries, depreciation, like-kind exchanges, tenancy-in-common property exchanges, 721 exchanges, and more. The course will also focus on conservation easements, which is a way to create tax deductions on real estate that's currently owned. We will discuss qualified conservation contribution, drafting considerations, federal income tax deductions, and securitized transactions, among other things.

Course ID

17867

Number of Pages

53

Est. Completion Time

50

Description

This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors, or any financial service industry professional. The course visits the history of regulatory agency audit systems used to monitor the integrity and industry compliance of securities transactions. You'll discover the impetus, details, and evolution of audit processes through the lenses of regulatory bodies, the SEC and FINRA. Historical and recent activity around the primary subject of this course, the Consolidated Audit Trail (known as CAT) are detailed. Additionally, related securities violations and criminal activity are included, particularly a case that inspired the development of CAT. Upon completing this course, one should also gain a more acute appreciation of the people who work in and oversee the securities industry. Their dedication and diligence to protect and serve investors is truly exemplary.

Course ID

17592

Number of Pages

38

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, supervisors, market makers, traders, financial professionals and anyone working with, or interested in the sale of, convertible securities. A convertible security is characteristically a bond or a preferred stock that can be converted into a different security and typically shares in the company's common stock. In most cases, the holder of the convertible determines whether and when a conversion occurs. In other cases, the company may retain the right to determine when the conversion occurs. This course will introduce representatives to the concept of investments in convertible securities, covering step-up income, trading at parity, conversion price vs. call price, and the differences between convertible securities, bond and stock investments.

Course ID

1983

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course provides an overview of corporate and government bonds, including those issued by government agencies, GSEs, and the US Treasury. The course discusses the risks of bond investing, and compliance considerations including those centering on suitability, know-your-customer, communications with the public, and best execution obligations.

Course ID

11065

Number of Pages

61

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for registered, supervisors and other employees of broker/dealers. The individual who will gain the most from this course should have a basic understanding of how bonds are issued, purchased, and sold. Companies seeking to raise capital have the choice of using equity or debt instruments to do so. One of the most common debt instruments used to raise or borrow capital is bonds. This course provides an in-depth overview of corporate bonds, touching on topics from how they are priced, how they trade, and how they can be used to finance specific needs.

Course ID

12403

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course will discuss the progression of regulators' focus on corporate culture and expectations for creating and maintaining a culture that promotes compliance with securities regulations and company policies.

Course ID

9882

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course discusses regulators' expectations for creating and maintaining a culture that promotes compliance with securities regulations and company policies. Furthermore, the course provides best practices for managing these unique challenges and supervising those dealing directly with the public, all while maintaining a culture of compliance.

Course ID

17133

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course describes the methods, goals and regulations for raising capital via the internet by small investments from a large number of donors/investors.

Course ID

11229

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

Along with enormous potential and extraordinary market volatility, cryptocurrency comes with the threat of abuses and criminal activity. This course will discuss the development of this new technology, its explosive growth and subsequent setbacks, the nascent development of regulations to provide investor protections and some of the criminal cases that highlight cryptocurrency's vulnerability.

Course ID

9887

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is primarily designed for registered representatives of FINRA regulated broker-dealer firms. It may also be appropriate for registered principals and compliance staff at a broker-dealer, as well as registered persons of Registered Investment Advisors and their supervisory staff. The course begins with an overview of the many regulatory requirements surrounding customer complaints. It then looks at Dispute Resolution in the securities industry, in particular the systems of arbitration and mediation that are sponsored by FINRA.

Course ID

12635

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17698

Number of Pages

42

Est. Completion Time

36

Description

This course is intended for municipal representatives, supervisors, investment advisers or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how industry rules apply to the use and supervision of customer data. As a municipal 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 of, the securities industry.

Course ID

11467

Number of Pages

19

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing investigations are never simple. The web of relationships, accounts, and entities is typically complex and deep with true ownership of the underlying assets hidden beneath shell entities. The regulatory environment is often reactive, relying on past examples to create framework for the future. The United States regulatory environment is not immune to this mode of operation. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has updated the requirements for customer due diligence in an attempt to be more proactive in requiring the financial system's participants to take steps in identifying high risk clients based on ownership structure. This course examines the 2018 Financial Crimes Enforcement Network's (FinCEN) Customer Due Diligence Rule through case studies and real life examples of how broker-dealers and financial institutions are examining client relationships through this new lens.

Course ID

11256

Number of Pages

39

Est. Completion Time

40

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17703

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

22

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17700

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

27

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17704

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

32

Description

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.

Course ID

10263

Number of Pages

38

Est. Completion Time

40

Description

This course is focused on two related cybersecurity topics facing FINRA member firms: Regulatory guidance deriving from the exam and risk monitoring program cycle and the regulatory resources available to help prevent the loss of data, loss of customer confidence, increased reputation risk, and regulatory discipline. The course utilizes regulatory guidance, notices, and case studies to help firms and their associated persons understand the risk monitoring required for a robust cybersecurity program.

Course ID

16016

Number of Pages

33

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17706

Number of Pages

21

Est. Completion Time

17

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and their supervisors involved in the recommendation and placement of variable annuities. The course presumes a basic understanding of variable annuity suitability and exchanges. This course covers a broad range of issues relating to variable annuities to help representatives learn ways to guide clients through the various annuity products available in the market today. The course will educate representatives about the risks associated with variable annuity investing. It will also discuss purchasing variable annuities and the importance of following annuity suitability requirements.

Course ID

11290

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

26

Description

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.

Course ID

10392

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is directed to registered representatives, office support staff, investment advisors and supervisors that primarily work with retail clients. Students will gain an understanding of the skills, attitudes, and thinking patterns needed to win customer satisfaction and loyalty. The process includes developing: 1) a heightened awareness of the challenges and opportunities, 2) the tools for dealing with unhappy customers by using the power of customer expectations and by creating loyalty, 3) specific skills for professional success. This course will provide students with a solid foundation in the areas of customer service and service excellence.

Course ID

10891

Number of Pages

126

Est. Completion Time

65

Description

This course will provide an overview of the Department of Labor Prohibited Transaction Exemptions. It will start with the origins of prohibited transactions by discussing the Department of Labor and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, otherwise known as ERISA. It will explain what are prohibited transactions, those transactions that are exempt and penalties that may be incurred if there is a violation. This course will also cover PTE 2020-02 the exemption process and will wrap with examining the most recent exemptions that have been made for prohibited transactions.

Course ID

17172

Number of Pages

45

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

Broker-dealers and others in the financial industry are dealing with a world that is rapidly changing. With the rise of technology and digital assets, including cryptocurrency, social media accounts, subscriptions, apps, photos, file storage, websites and more, broker-dealers are learning that clients' physical and financial assets are just one aspect of their lives that need to be evaluated and secured. As FINRA becomes more involved with how the financial industry handles digital assets, education is needed. This course will cover what must be reported to FINRA, what constitutes a digital asset, how to help clients secure and plan for the future, and other important issues.

Course ID

11410

Number of Pages

25

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

Limited partnerships are risky, illiquid investments. While the risk is limited to the amount invested, all of the money is at risk. The transfer of limited partnership units is usually restricted by contract, especially for private placement units. Therefore, these investments are suitable for those investors that have long-term investment goals, who will not need the money during the term of the investment and are willing to risk the entire amount invested. The main tax advantage of a limited partnership is that it is a flow-through instrument - all profits and losses flow directly to the individual limited partners. In other words, the limited partners directly participate in the profits and losses of the limited partnership but not the business itself. This course discusses types of DPPs, tax considerations, regulatory considerations and things to consider when evaluating a DPP as an investment.

Course ID

11184

Number of Pages

29

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course is intended for producers and supervisors that market and sell insurance products to consumers. This course provides a detailed review of the basics of disability insurance and addresses concerns related to individuals and businesses. Topics include the need for disability insurance, how the policies work and how they are issued. Broad issues of a policy such as underwriting, defining a disability and riders will also be covered. Several case studies provide excellent examples of issuing the most applicable policies. Representatives will be provided with advanced sales solutions to help their clients plan a sound future.

Course ID

2772

Number of Pages

137

Est. Completion Time

69

Description

This course was developed to meet MSRB continuing education requirements. It is titled after MSRB Rule G-32, Disclosures in Connection with Primary Offerings. There is strong focus on the disclosures required of underwriters and issuers, and the transparency afforded to investors.

Course ID

9835

Number of Pages

29

Est. Completion Time

35

Description

This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act affects them and the financial services firms they work for. The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act were signed into law on July 21 2010. The Act affects almost every aspect of the U.S. financial services industry. The objectives of the Act include restoring public confidence in the financial system, preventing another financial crisis, and allowing any future asset bubble to be detected and deflated before another financial crisis occurs. The Dodd-Frank Act greatly increases regulation of the financial services industry. The Act gives U.S. governmental authorities more funding, more information and more power. In broad and significant areas, the Act empowers regulators with complete discretionary authority to write and interpret new rules.

Course ID

12294

Number of Pages

65

Est. Completion Time

35

Description

This course is designed to provide investment advisers with an understanding of their obligations to perform due diligence on third parties. The course discusses due diligence on service providers the firm uses, as well as the obligations and potential liabilities involved when recommending third parties to clients. The course also discusses due diligence as it relates to prospective employees and in the context of the growing use of social media by investment advisers.

Course ID

11227

Number of Pages

42

Est. Completion Time

22

Description

This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors, supervisors or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 affects them and the financial service firms they work for. This course explains the main provisions in the monumental Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act (EGTRRA) of 2001, as amended by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act (JGTRRA) of 2003. It focuses on the critical changes involving income estate and gift tax retirement planning, the implications for individuals, and the opportunities and pitfalls facing financial service professionals over the next decade.

Course ID

0077

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for representatives, investment advisors, institutional representatives, traders, analysts, and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in the issuance and distribution of conventional securities. This course will review the various economic indicators that aid in the analysis of economic performance and predictions of future performance. Although they do not have a perfect record, economic indicators and leading indices of the national economy have been helpful in foreshadowing turning points, especially economic downturns. As such, this course will cover the impact that these indicators have on the market and begin to help industry professionals understand how to interpret and analyze them.

Course ID

11337

Number of Pages

43

Est. Completion Time

32

Description

This course is intended for representatives, investment advisors, institutional representatives, supervisors and marketing staff that work with both clients and prospects in a retail and institutional environment. Social Media use for both business and personal purposes has exploded in the past few years. Recently, the financial services industry has begun to embrace this new way to interact with and market to clients and prospects. With that, there remains doubt and confusion as how to best utilize this exciting medium. This course will provide representatives with an overview of the different social media mediums. It will look at the various types of regulatory requirements that govern these communications. Finally, the course will teach representatives how to utilize social media for marketing communications, customer service and branding.

Course ID

11157

Number of Pages

63

Est. Completion Time

34

Description

This course is directed to registered representatives, Investment advisers and their supervisors that work in the area of retirement planning with clients. This course will help the student understand the Psychological and financial impact that market volatility has on consumers and on the retirement planning process. It will discuss how variable products can provide both tools and solutions to mitigate the effects of market uncertainty on retirement portfolios.

Course ID

2773

Number of Pages

53

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17708

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

16

Description

This course is intended for wholesalers and covers guidelines for communicating with the public and registered representatives. The course emphasizes FINRA guidance on this subject and applicable rules and standards. Specific topics addressed in this course include institutional communications, particular regulations for wholesaler communication and guidance for content and record keeping.

Course ID

10895

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is designed to cover the origins and foundations of ethics and compliance programs in the United States through the lens of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines for Organizations from the United States Sentencing Guidelines Commission. We will explore the evolution of the guidelines and the key elements (commonly referred to as the "7 Elements") to effective compliance programs along with two other elements essential to effective ethics and compliance programs: ethical culture and risk assessments. This course is appropriate for compliance professionals, management, executives, and board members.

Course ID

17829

Number of Pages

49

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and their supervisors that work in the area of retirement planning with clients utilizing annuity products. Offering an understanding of equity indexed annuity contracts, this course explores the market and economic conditions that caused equity indexed annuities to evolve. It also discusses how the contracts work and how they differ from declared interest rate fixed annuity contracts. Finally, the course looks at how the equity-linked concept should be positioned within a client's overall portfolio.

Course ID

10665

Number of Pages

100

Est. Completion Time

45

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17710

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

17

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and firm supervisors that primarily work with retail and institutional clients. The course familiarizes representatives on the terminology commonly used with these types of securities and prepares them with the necessary tools to understand and explain these complex investments to clients. This course looks at ETFs and defines what they are, the size of the market, their history, how they work and the different types. The course also explores FINRA's communications related to ETFs and looks at suitability communication supervision and training related to the use of these investment products.

Course ID

10186

Number of Pages

65

Est. Completion Time

44

Description

This course is appropriate for anyone working in the financial services industry. It begins with a look at ethical issues facing the industry, and briefly defines ethical standards and why they are important. The course then gives an overview of the regulatory requirements from FINRA and the SEC that are designed to promote ethical standards and provides examples of recent charges. The course concludes with the understanding that rules and regulations alone are not enough to ensure ethical behavior.

Course ID

13133

Number of Pages

36

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors that work with clients that are interested in, or currently hold, annuity/ insurance products. Upon completing this course, producers will have a better understanding of the importance of ethics in the insurance industry. Producers will learn the standards and requirements they are to uphold, as well as how to successfully implement these standards when dealing with both clients and insurance companies. This will allow the producers to create both a personal and professional code of ethics, which they can follow in each and every aspect of their business.

Course ID

10683

Number of Pages

114

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17711

Number of Pages

65

Est. Completion Time

36

Description

This course is intended for municipal securities brokers, municipal securities dealers, municipal securities sales representatives, municipal finance professionals (MFPs) and their supervisors. This course is geared towards the municipal securities representative discussing the nature of ethics and to whom the representative has an ethical responsibility. The course explains the importance of increased professionalism and offers practical guidelines for ways representatives can differentiate themselves ethically and professionally on a daily basis.

Course ID

10064

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course is intended for research analysts, their supervisors, managers, and any financial services professional interested in how ethical behavior influences our actions and behaviors. Ethics for research analysts often involves conflicts of interest and the responsibilities surrounding avoidance of these conflicts. This course discusses the potential conflicts of interest research analysts face and the FINRA rules designed to eliminate these risks.

Course ID

10293

Number of Pages

28

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for securities futures professionals and their supervisors, managers and any financial services professional interested in how ethical behavior influences our actions and behaviors. Like any other business process, being aware of changing industry standards and ensuring high ethical standards is an on-going effort. Developments in technology, commercial practices and regulations, and other changes will have ethical ramifications associated with them. Good business practice dictates that every employee receives training to keep them current on these developments and their ethical obligations to customers.

Course ID

10139

Number of Pages

66

Est. Completion Time

45

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, investment advisors, compliance staff and supervisors that are responsible for working with clients. This course provides an overview of the characteristics of ethics and professionalism. Topics include the standards by which a professional should be judged, as well as a study of ethics on its philosophical and compliance levels.

Course ID

10050

Number of Pages

70

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

Introduced in the early 2000s, exchanged traded notes (ETNs) are senior, unsecured and unsubordinated debt securities. They are issued by a financial institution in which that financial institution agrees to pay the holder of the ETN the return on a specific index over a certain period of time, along with the principal amount less any management fees at the maturity date of the contract. This course will provide a complete overview of how exchanged traded notes are used, taxed, and the risks associated with them.

Course ID

10581

Number of Pages

21

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and their supervisors that work in the business of retirement planning. Specifically, this course is for registered representatives who open retirement accounts for retail investors and advise them on issues related to retirement and estate planning. This course will introduce the financial services practitioner to one of the major types of non-qualified benefit programs used by business owners to benefit themselves and attract and retain key executives. This course addresses the basics of executive bonus plans, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of such plans for the employer and the executive. Plan participation issues are explored, including who should be included in such plans, ERISA requirements and organizational implications. The many forms of executive bonus plans are addressed and the taxation of such plans is covered.

Course ID

11904

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17712

Number of Pages

25

Est. Completion Time

21

Description

In this course, we'll review some of the most outlandish disciplinary cases from 2015 and identify the source of each violation. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17713

Number of Pages

29

Est. Completion Time

21

Description

This introductory-level course looks at the considerations that should enter into a recommendation for a fee-based account arrangement. With an increased number of assets being invested in fee-based accounts, this course provides practical steps for managing conflicts of interest that may arise.

Course ID

10084

Number of Pages

13

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17714

Number of Pages

33

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, salespeople, market makers, traders, securities analysts, financial professionals and anyone interested in learning more about how to use ratio analysis to evaluate financial performance. Additionally, course takers will look at how comparing financial statements from period to period, or with varying companies, can be an effective way to evaluate financial performance.

Course ID

10866

Number of Pages

43

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

Recap some of the top fines from 2015 and spotlight both FINRA and the SEC's 2016 examination priorities letters, highlight overlapping concepts, super-sized fines and strategies for building a culture of compliance.

Course ID

11560

Number of Pages

43

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

With so much on the line, firms today simply can't afford to ignore the early warning signs of what FINRA and the SEC expect to see during routine examinations. In this course, we'll outline the SEC and FINRA's 2017 examination priorities letters, discuss what the future of these two organizations looks like under new leadership, and provide strategies for preparing for an onsite investigation. Upon completion of this course, it is important that you review and update your policies, procedures and business activities to reflect both sets of priorities so you can strengthen business practices and prepare for potential exams in the future.

Course ID

10029

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

This course will summarize the SEC and FINRA's recently released examination letters, discuss any changes to be expected in 2018, and provide strategies for preparing for an onsite examination.

Course ID

9529

Number of Pages

50

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

It's the news we all wait for on pins and needles: FINRA and the SEC's annual examination priorities. While regulators are definitely focusing a majority of their attention on recurring issues, there are a handful of developing risks for firms to pay special attention to this year. In this course, we'll summarize the SEC and FINRA's recently released examination letters, discuss any changes to be expected in 2019 and provide strategies for preparing for an onsite examination.

Course ID

11035

Number of Pages

24

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

It's the news we all wait for on pins and needles: FINRA and the SEC's annual examination priorities. While regulators are definitely focusing a majority of their attention on recurring issues, there are a handful of developing risks for firms to pay special attention to this year. In this course, we'll summarize the SEC and FINRA's recently released examination letters, discuss any changes to be expected in 2020 and provide strategies for preparing for an onsite examination.

Course ID

12640

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

As a way to increase transparency between regulators and the registered firms and advisors they oversee, the SEC and FINRA release their annual examination priorities letters at the beginning of each year. These letters serve as a great resource for registered firms and members as they work to meet their annual compliance obligations. This course will provide a general overview of what was included on both the SEC and FINRA examination priorities letters while highlighting the specific areas which will receive the most attention in 2021, including Regulation Best Interest and Form CRS, Cybersecurity and Anti-Money Laundering.

Course ID

15733

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

As a way to increase transparency between regulators and the registered firms and advisors they oversee, the SEC and FINRA release their annual examination priorities letters at the beginning of each year. These letters serve as a great resource for registered firms and members as they work to meet their annual compliance obligations. This course will provide a general overview of what was included on both the SEC and FINRA examination priorities letters while highlighting the specific areas which will receive the most attention in 2022, including Anti-Money Laundering, Cybersecurity, Regulation Best Interest, Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACs), ESG Investing, and more.

Course ID

17858

Number of Pages

59

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for back office staff, registered representatives, supervisors and compliance staff that are interested in learning more about the "Back Office" Operations of a broker/dealer and the regulations that they are required to comply with. This course provides an overview of the "back office" requirements and regulations involving the operation of a broker/dealer. The course reviews the various roles of the purchase and sales department, the margin department and cashiering department. Finally, the course covers FINRA and SEC record keeping requirements.

Course ID

10640

Number of Pages

22

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

Arbitration is an alternative to litigation in which an arbitrator or a panel of arbitrators listen to the positions of the disputing parties in a relatively informal proceeding and then issue a decision on how the situation should be resolved. This course provides representatives with an understanding of the rules and processes in place to be followed, utilizing FINRA Code of Arbitration Mediation and Procedures.

Course ID

11017

Number of Pages

17

Est. Completion Time

8

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisers, supervisors or any financial service industry professional interested in learning how industry rules apply to their responsibilities to ensure compliance with FINRA Conduct Rules. This course describes the purpose and mission of FINRA overall, as well as the role the self-regulatory authority plays in the financial services industry. The course also discusses FINRA's policies and regulatory reviews of members' business activities.

Course ID

10985

Number of Pages

39

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

This course discusses the proposed restrictions on broker political contributions by FINRA-registered member firms. Specifically, this course focuses on the two rules established by FINRA in response to SEC guidelines to regulate broker political contributions: Rule 2030(a) and Rule 4580.

Course ID

11561

Number of Pages

29

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course was developed to meet FINRA continuing education requirements and its restrictions on political contributions. Political contributions are not forbidden by this rule if engaged in properly. For example, the de minimis exception allows donating to a candidate in one's own district, in an amount of $350 or less. However, there are forbidden contributions that, if violated, are a violation of FINRA Rule 2030, Engaging in Distribution and Solicitation Activities with Government Entities. This rule is largely mirrored from the SEC's pay-to-play rule. The SEC has oversight authority over FINRA and thus, the ability to bring civil and/or criminal charges for executing pay-to-play schemes.

Course ID

9888

Number of Pages

38

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course provides an overview of the category of FINRA registration for those personnel involved in certain types of broker-dealer operations. The course is designed for registered representatives and their supervisors, as well as personnel in the operations, compliance and registration/licensing areas. Upon completion of this course, representatives should be able to: identify "covered persons" who need to register as an operations professional; identify the "covered functions" that an operations professional is likely to perform; understand when someone is required to register as an operations professional, but is exempt from the examination requirement for the Series 99 based on his or her other securities registrations; discuss the subject areas covered by the operations professional examination; and know the timelines in which broker-dealer firms must comply with the new requirements.

Course ID

11569

Number of Pages

27

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course outlines how to comply with FINRA's recent BrokerCheck link requirement. Effective June 6, 2016, firms will need to include a readily apparent reference and hyperlink to BrokerCheck on the initial Web page to be viewed by retail investors, and any other Web page that includes a professional profile of one or more registered persons, who conduct business with retail investors. To help satisfy this requirement, this introductory-level course provides background of the new rule and instructions for linking to BrokerCheck.

Course ID

11592

Number of Pages

16

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

Introductory Course to FINRA Rule 2273 - Educational Communication Related to Recruitment Practices and Account Transfers. Effective November 11, 2016

Course ID

11491

Number of Pages

16

Est. Completion Time

10

Description

This course is intended for supervisors of registered representatives who market and sell deferred variable annuities. The course is also applicable for compliance staff that work with deferred annuity products. FINRA Rule 2330, Members' Responsibilities Regarding Deferred Variable Annuities, imposes requirements on FINRA members who recommend purchases or exchanges of deferred variable annuities. It also requires FINRA-registered principals to review and approve variable annuity transactions. This course explores FINRA Rule 2330 and the heightened requirements of supervisors of registered representatives who promote and sell annuity products. It provides a solid background for supervisors regarding variable product suitability requirements, and the responsibilities for supervising registered representatives as required by the rule.

Course ID

11009

Number of Pages

43

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

This course was developed to meet FINRA continuing education requirements. It addresses FINRA Rule 3160, Networking Arrangements with Members and Financial Institutions, which must be implemented by broker-dealers doing business on the premises of a retail financial institution.

Course ID

9870

Number of Pages

36

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, salespeople, market makers, traders, securities analysts, financial professionals and anyone interested in learning more about FINRA's capital compliance requirements. FINRA member firms are obligated to a set of Financial Responsibility Rules as part of the Consolidated FINRA Rulebook. These rules apply to member firms considered "carrying and clearing members." The rules: establish criteria promoting the permanency of members' capital, require the review and approval of certain material financial transactions, and establish criteria intended to identify members approaching financial difficulty, as a means to monitor their financial and operational condition. This course will review the aforementioned obligations pertaining to FINRA Rule 4110 for member firms.

Course ID

11257

Number of Pages

19

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course provides an overview of FINRA Rule 4530 regarding the disclosure and filing requirements for customer complaints. More specifically, the course outlines five potential actions that would require a firm and/or its associated persons to submit a disclosure form to FINRA.

Course ID

10642

Number of Pages

21

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, supervisors, compliance staff, senior management, and firm principals affiliated with broker-dealers as a part of their mandatory requirement to identify principals that will be responsible for establishing, maintaining and enforcing a system of supervisory control policies and procedures. The objective of this course is to provide representatives with a complete understanding of Rule 3120 and Rule 3130. Rule 3120 requires that firms identify principals that will be responsible for establishing, maintaining and enforcing a system of supervisory control policies and procedures that test and verify a firm's supervisory system. Rule 3130 requires that the CEO of a broker-dealer certify on an annual basis that the firm has a process in place that "establishes, maintains, reviews, modifies and tests internal policies and procedures for compliance with applicable rules and regulations." Representatives, at the completion of the course, will be able to identify the specific guidelines and requirements of each rule.

Course ID

10424

Number of Pages

24

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17715

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

24

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17716

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

24

Description

This course is intended for retail representatives, institutional representatives, investment advisors supervisors or any financial service industry professional that works with clients that purchase the aforementioned products. This course compares and contrasts fixed annuities, variable annuities and mutual funds. It describes each type of product and reasons why people buy them. The course also offers an in-depth analysis of variable annuities and mutual funds, including advantages of each and a comparison of performance.

Course ID

10320

Number of Pages

63

Est. Completion Time

40

Description

The following course provides an overview of trade reporting systems operated by both the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB), under the rules and supervision of the SEC. It covers the basic rules and requirements of each system. The course also covers the requirements of both FINRA and MSRB for reporting transactions to customers, via trade confirmations. The course is suitable for registered representatives, their supervisors, compliance members and other staff who seek to gain a better understanding of the regulatory requirements related to transactions of fixed-income securities. The course may also be useful for traders and individuals who are responsible for building trading and reporting systems. In addition, any individuals who are directly related to day to day trading operations, reporting or oversight should be given additional in-depth training on TRACE and EMMA functionality and regulatory requirements.

Course ID

12703

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course will explore factors related to a rising rate market environment, effective ways to manage rising-rate risk factors, and investment options for fixed income investors during rising rate market conditions.

Course ID

11423

Number of Pages

26

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This introductory level course provides intricate background to the roles and responsibilities of market participants in fixed rate primary market offerings. The course begins with an overview of the defining characteristics of primary and secondary market transactions. After that, the bond offering process is discussed, highlighting important participants, including: municipal advisors, bond counsel, underwriters, auditors, trustees and much more.

Course ID

11582

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

40

Description

Floating-rate loans and investment-grade bonds carry different risks, and when used in combination, offer an opportunity for an attractive return stream that can potentially benefit investors during multiple market cycles. This course provides course-takers with an overview of floating-rate loans, funds and ETFs, and highlights certain risks and rewards for investors.

Course ID

11570

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course is intended for sales representatives, their supervisors, compliance personnel and sales support staff that work with international securities or the trading of international securities. Congress enacted the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) to bring a halt to the bribery of foreign officials and to restore public confidence in the integrity of the American business system. This course will review the background that led to the introduction of the FCPA.

Course ID

9878

Number of Pages

36

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

In this course, we will discuss foreign exchange derivatives and how FINRA oversees the market to ensure fairness, honesty, and integrity amongst professionals and their respected clients. The retail over-the-counter foreign currency exchange (retail forex) market is opaque, volatile, and risky. Broker-dealers who engage in forex business with their retail customers must comply with the FINRA rules that apply to those activities.

Course ID

18367

Number of Pages

54

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, supervisors, market makers, traders, financial professionals and anyone interested in Forex Trading. The FX market is the world's largest, most liquid market, with an estimated $4 trillion in daily turnover. As such, it is primarily traded through banks, brokers-dealers, financial institutions and private individuals. This course provides representatives with a history of the market, different ways to trade forex, a description of varying market order types, and a list of the main currency players.

Course ID

12405

Number of Pages

33

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course provides an overview of the most common forms of business ownership and legal organization, examining their comparative structures, taxation issues, liability considerations, and more.

Course ID

12275

Number of Pages

54

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, supervisors, market makers, traders, financial professionals and anyone working with, or interested in the sale of, futures and managed funds. The term managed futures refers to a 30-year-old market made up of professional money managers that are also known as commodity trading advisors ("CTAs") that manage client assets using global futures markets as an investment medium. Unlike a stock, which represents equity in a company and can be held for a long time (if not indefinitely), futures contracts have finite lives. They are primarily used for hedging commodity price-fluctuation risks or for taking advantage of price movements rather than for the buying or selling of the actual cash commodity. Upon completion of this course, representatives will have a better understanding of general market knowledge, futures and forward contracts, hedging, and the Know Your Customer Rule.

Course ID

1987

Number of Pages

46

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, supervisors, market makers, traders, financial professionals and anyone working with, or interested in learning more about, the futures markets. Representatives who successfully complete this course will gain a better understanding of futures contracts and how these instruments are used for pricing and risk management.

Course ID

11721

Number of Pages

41

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

The European Union's General Data Protection Regulation took effect May 25th, 2018 and could affect certain financial representatives in the U.S. This course covers the history of the regulation, how GDPR differs from U.S. regulations, and penalties for non-compliance.

Course ID

10210

Number of Pages

24

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17718

Number of Pages

21

Est. Completion Time

8

Description

The course, "Government Sponsored Enterprises and Home Financing" provides an introductory overview of Government Sponsored Enterprises, including changes in ownership, congressional requirements and market factors that lead to crisis. Due to the current debate on the future of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the course additionally focuses on the benefits of government sponsored enterprises to the housing market, their role in the 2008 economic crisis and proposals for their reform or replacement.

Course ID

11758

Number of Pages

28

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

Government-Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) are companies sponsored or supported by the government. This course covers the GSEs known as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the FHLBanks, as well as mortgage-backed securities. In light of the current chaotic nature of GSEs, this course discusses some of the politics surrounding these GSEs, why they are in conservatorship and what the future looks like as their once-robust role in the U.S. economy changes.

Course ID

11554

Number of Pages

34

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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 Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. The Financial Modernization Act repealed the Depression-era barriers that separated banking, insurance and securities, allowing all three to engage in a statutorily provided list of financial activities. This course examines the broad umbrella of "financial institutions" that are covered under Gramm-Leach Bliley, and discusses the financial activities they may in engage in.

Course ID

12213

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17719

Number of Pages

24

Est. Completion Time

12

Description

This course provides an overview of sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace: prohibited conduct; employee responsibilities; and the remedies available for employment discrimination. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17721

Number of Pages

68

Est. Completion Time

58

Description

This course provides an overview of sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace: prohibited conduct; employee, supervisor and employer responsibilities; and the remedies available for employment discrimination.

Course ID

10971

Number of Pages

107

Est. Completion Time

120

Description

This course is intended for representatives, investment advisers, institutional representatives, traders and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in the issuance, distribution, and risk-analysis of conventional securities. Those taking this course should already have an intermediate understanding of the securities markets and the wide variety of securities products being offered to investors. This course discusses the history of hedge fund investing as well as the different types of hedge funds available. In addition, it discusses trading strategies employed by hedge funds, the attendant risks and suitability and disclosure requirements for making such recommendations.

Course ID

11739

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course is intended for representatives, investment advisers, institutional representatives, traders and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in the issuance, distribution and risk-analysis of conventional securities. Additionally, those taking this course should already have an intermediate understanding of the securities market and the wide variety of securities products being offered to investors. The history of hedge fund investing, Trading strategies employed by hedge funds, Attendant risks and Suitability, Disclosure requirements for making such recommendations.

Course ID

11854

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17722

Number of Pages

29

Est. Completion Time

23

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors that primarily work with retail clients. The prospectus is the single most complete source of information for investors in a mutual fund. By law, a fund must provide you with its prospectus. From the prospectus, you learn what you need to know about a fund, as well as a few things you probably never knew you needed to know. This course teaches new advisors the ins-and-outs of reading a prospectus.

Course ID

10215

Number of Pages

70

Est. Completion Time

38

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17726

Number of Pages

60

Est. Completion Time

32

Description

Hybrids are currently a hot topic. Rapidly increasing issuance across industry and geographical sectors, major regulatory developments and the close attention of the credit rating agencies have combined to place hybrids at center stage of the global capital markets. As such, this course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors that primarily work with retail clients and are interested in the sale of hybrid securities. The course looks at the structure of hybrid securities and the advantages and disadvantages they hold for investors.

Course ID

0089

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17728

Number of Pages

27

Est. Completion Time

23

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17730

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

19

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17732

Number of Pages

24

Est. Completion Time

19

Description

This course discusses the various types of "information barriers" that firms employ in their investment banking operations. Additionally, this course discusses applicable regulatory requirements and how those obligations translate into a firm's policies and day-to-day operations.

Course ID

9947

Number of Pages

36

Est. Completion Time

19

Description

Information Security plays an important role in our lives, both at home and at work. Its primary goal is preserving the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information and information systems. This course will cover the key principles to ensure employees do everything possible to maintain the integrity of confidential information at the firm.

Course ID

10689

Number of Pages

20

Est. Completion Time

10

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17734

Number of Pages

18

Est. Completion Time

8

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17736

Number of Pages

25

Est. Completion Time

11

Description

This course examines the development and scope of the SEC's regulations governing insider trading. The material is an in-depth review of legal and illegal insider trading, prevention and prosecution of illegal insider trading, and perspectives on potential legalization of insider trading.

Course ID

9826

Number of Pages

28

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17737

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

23

Description

This course is intended for institutional registered representatives, supervisors and institutional sales representatives. This course reviews the various rules covering how communication with clients by institutional registered representatives and their supervisors is conducted. The course discusses the standard definitions and procedures followed within a firm to assure compliance with the regulatory rules that govern their communications.

Course ID

10788

Number of Pages

20

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course outlines the various conflicts associated with financial professionals' activities and how to avoid becoming involved in unethical or criminal conduct.

Course ID

10596

Number of Pages

26

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17738

Number of Pages

23

Est. Completion Time

10

Description

This course is designed for institutional representatives, as well as investment advisors 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 best practices for institutional sales representatives and outlines the ethical standards required when interacting with institutional clients. This course additionally provides an overview of the most significant regulatory developments over the past few years and how they impact institutional broker-dealers.

Course ID

10135

Number of Pages

41

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is an informational course on corporate bonds for those registered representatives and supervisors who solicit customers in the sale of corporate debt securities. This course is appropriate for those in retail sales and in corporate bond underwriting. The objective of this course is to educate individuals on the components that are utilized when calculating prices for bonds. Moreover, the course introduces representatives to pricing and quotes of corporate bonds and discusses the three yields for a bond: nominal yield, current yield and yield-to-maturity basis, often referred to as "basis".

Course ID

1988

Number of Pages

39

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course is intended for sales representatives, supervisors and advisors interested in gaining a better understanding of 529 College Savings Plans. Individuals taking this course should already have a basic understanding of suitability requirements and municipal bond funds. This course provides an overview of 529 Plans and their components, compliance issues associated with them, and how to determine the right plan for your client. Without a proper investment strategy, funding a child's college education is prohibitive for many Americans. 529 Plans provide investors with a means of earmarking investments specifically for educational purposes.

Course ID

11666

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

35

Description

This course is intended for producers and supervisors that market and sell insurance products to consumers. This course will provide producers with an overview of Blue Sky Laws and their origins. It will cover both state and federal governance of Blue Sky Laws and the challenges associated with multiple jurisdictional oversights. Producers will learn about the registration requirements for securities, as well as the registration of Broker-Dealers and Agents.

Course ID

0091

Number of Pages

22

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, investment advisors, institutional representatives, traders and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in the issuance, distribution, and risk-analysis of conventional securities. Those taking this course should have an intermediate understanding of the securities markets and the wide variety of securities products being offered to investors. The use of derivative instruments such as stock options grows every day. These derivative instruments represent a very flexible way of enhancing the wealth of a portfolio or protecting it against undesirable events. However many investors lack the knowledge needed to effectively use derivatives. This course will cover the various types of derivatives available, the method by which they are valued, and finally various reasons as to why they are used.

Course ID

11203

Number of Pages

36

Est. Completion Time

29

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and their supervisors that work in retirement planning and have clients utilizing annuity products. Since EIAs are merely fixed annuities with a unique method of crediting interest, this course addresses the basics of fixed annuities before proceeding on to the mechanics of the equity indexed annuity. As with any other investment product, equity indexed annuities may not be for everyone. This course sheds light on ideal investors and why EIAs have gained traction over the years.

Course ID

11740

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

21

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors who open retirement accounts for retail investors and advise them on issues related to retirement and estate planning. Due to the ever-changing economic status of our country, many individuals have realized the importance of planning for retirement and death. It is becoming necessary for people to seek professional advice on how to manage their finances. Many individuals are unable to effectively plan how they want their estate distributed upon their death. That is why it is very important that they seek the help of legal tax financial and insurance professionals. Through this course, representatives are presented with an effective way to help plan their clients' estates more efficiently.

Course ID

11052

Number of Pages

40

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for financial service industry professionals interested in the latest developments in variable annuity sales practice regulations. More specifically, this course is designed for registered representatives, principals and sales support staff. It is also beneficial for compliance staff and compliance administrators that may need a refresher course on the rule. Although this course offers an overview of variable annuities, it also presumes a basic knowledge of deferred variable annuities. Rule 2330 imposes requirements on FINRA members who recommend the purchase of deferred variable annuities. It also requires FINRA-registered principals to review and approve variable annuity transactions. This course provides an introduction to Rule 2330 and explores the four key requirements of Rule 2330. At the completion of the course, individuals will have a better understanding of the Rule and their responsibility as a registered representatives regarding: Suitability Principal Review and Approval Supervisory Procedures Training.

Course ID

11044

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

28

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors who open retirement accounts for retail investors and advise them on issues related to retirement and estate planning. The objective of this course is to provide a history on the subject of gift and estate taxation. Additionally, it covers the various forms of property ownership and gives an overview of wills trusts and probate. Training includes comprehensive coverage of the federal estate and gift taxes and state death taxes.

Course ID

12420

Number of Pages

80

Est. Completion Time

47

Description

This course is designed to cover basic compliance requirements of investment advisers, as required by the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 ("Advisers Act") as well as other applicable regulatory requirements. This course serves as educational and informational for novice investment adviser representatives, including those just joining an RIA or starting a new firm. This course also services as a healthy refresher for experienced advisors.

Course ID

18124

Number of Pages

53

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course is designed to cover basic compliance requirements of investment advisers, as required by the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 ("Advisers Act") as well as other applicable regulatory requirements. This course serves as educational and informational for novice investment adviser representatives, including those just joining an RIA or starting a new firm. This course also services as a healthy refresher for experienced advisors.

Course ID

17863

Number of Pages

53

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course is intended as an introductory course to investments for registered representatives. The course discusses bonds, dollar-cost averaging, diversification, fixed annuities, compounding and inflation, mutual funds, tax-free bonds, and variable annuities.

Course ID

11386

Number of Pages

101

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors who sell mutual funds or are training to sell mutual funds. The course describes the fundamentals of mutual funds and serves as a refresher to mutual fund basics. Mutual funds are important investment instruments that have been essential to both individual and corporate investors for well over a century. Beginning with a brief overview of basic investment principles and the evolution of mutual funds, this course addresses the fundamentals of mutual funds, how they are categorized, their roles and functions and their investment characteristics.

Course ID

12764

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

With the ever-changing retirement landscape, it's important for the financial professional to have a basic understanding of the types of retirement plan options that may be available to their clients. In this course, you will learn about the history of retirement plans, basic differences between the available plans and the individuals that qualify for such plans, potential tax implications, contribution limits, required minimum distributions, and the benefits and drawbacks for the available plans that your clients' may have as part of their retirement portfolio. This course will also provide the applicable FINRA, SEC, and DOL rules that may be relevant when giving advice about a retirement account. This course is not intended to provide tax advice and does not include all tax implications associated with retirement plans, it is intended to provide an informational baseline so that you can better assist your clients with their retirement planning needs.

Course ID

16207

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, sales support staff, compliance staff and compliance administrators interested in senior citizen sales practice regulations. This course highlights special issues that are common to many older investors and baby boomers approaching retirement. This course is not intended to establish a new standard of practice or to imply new rules or regulatory requirements. Rather it provides information that registered representatives may find useful for identifying working with and responding to senior investors with potential diminished - or diminishing - decisional capacity.

Course ID

9997

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

As a newly registered financial advisor, there is much basic information you need to be familiar with to launch your business. Much of what you must abide by as a financial advisor is detailed in the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. This course is meant to help you understand the compliance obligations in these provisions and provides additional resources from the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) to help you comply with these rules and laws.

Course ID

17802

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

45

Description

Introduce your representatives to the basics of the securities industry. This course begins with a look at the securities marketplace and those involved in the issuance of securities. Next, it will summarize the trade process. Additionally, it will provide information about the various governing bodies and self-regulatory organizations (SROs) and the different markets securities are traded through. There is also an introduction to trading, as well as an overview of the different types of securities instruments. The course wraps up with basic terms and concepts.

Course ID

3696

Number of Pages

98

Est. Completion Time

50

Description

Emerging markets continue to attract the attention of investors all over the world. With that, they are undeniably becoming an increasingly significant part of the global economy and financial markets at large. This course defines emerging markets, risks associated with emerging markets and different asset classes. This course helps individuals understand the opportunities available to their clients so that they can create a well-diversified emerging markets portfolio.

Course ID

12386

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course will primarily focus on the considerations related to participant-level investment advice provided by a financial professional but will also discuss the benefits a retirement plan advisor can bring to plans as well as the fees and expenses associated with various advised investment options.

Course ID

9862

Number of Pages

34

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17739

Number of Pages

26

Est. Completion Time

22

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17740

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

23

Description

This course provides advisors with extensive information about how to properly advertise to the public while assuring compliance with the SEC's communication rules. Additionally, the course addresses the growing use of social media among the financial services industry and the risks and obligations that are tied to this type of communication.

Course ID

10559

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, institutional salespeople, market makers, traders, investment advisors and any financial professional interested in the business of determining the value of securities. Since so many firm employees interact with traders and salespeople on a regular basis, this course not only serves as an invaluable introduction to the business of stock valuation, it also serves as a valuable resource for industry professionals who interact with experienced traders, market makers, analysts, investment advisors and salespeople on their day-to-day workplace activities. Additionally, this course outlines a variety of charting patterns used by technical analysts.

Course ID

11591

Number of Pages

24

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course provides an overview of some of the key terminology, processes, regulations, and concepts involved in investment banking, with a particular emphasis on equity offerings. The course begins with basics of underwriting, one of the prominent functions in investment banking. Then the course covers registration of securities with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which is required by federal law except for available exemptions. The next section addresses aspects of investment banking in action, including more detail about the process of bringing an equity offering to market. The final section provides insight into many of the most important regulations that govern investment banking in the United States, while continuing the discussion of investment banking in practice.

Course ID

10956

Number of Pages

44

Est. Completion Time

28

Description

When a client wishes to open any account with a brokerage firm, the financial professional must fill in the account form with the clients personal information, including his or her income levels, investment objectives, and financial goals. The financial professional uses this information to help the client evaluate the appropriate investments for his or her needs. This course discusses how to determine the suitability of the various investments for different clients and examines the risk characteristics associated with an investment company portfolio.

Course ID

17294

Number of Pages

36

Est. Completion Time

40

Description

This course provides an overview of some of the key issues relating to pricing and allocations of equity shares issued in initial public offerings. The course begins with an overview of the IPO process, including the typical underwriter-managed approach to allocating shares. The course then covers prohibited activities in IPO allocations, which have become a hot topic in recent years. Lastly, the course discusses some important changes in securities regulation during the last decade and ends with a review of background concepts in securities law and securities industry practices.

Course ID

11790

Number of Pages

35

Est. Completion Time

21

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and supervisors who open retirement accounts for retail investors and advise them on issues related to retirement and estate planning. This course introduces traditional individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and other types of IRAs created by The Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 (TRA 97) and explains the impact of Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 (EGTRRA) on the different types of IRAs. Topics include eligibility tax benefits and penalties and benefits of tax deferral. An IRA is a retirement investing tool that can be either an "individual retirement account" or an "individual retirement annuity." There are several types of IRAs: Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs and SEP IRAs. This course provides details on each IRA.

Course ID

11475

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

16

Description

This course is intended for representatives and supervisors that sell life insurance/life settlement policies and want to increase their knowledge about insurance, taxes, and investment risks. With the advent of the secondary market, today's life insurance owners have a number of options for the disposition of their life insurance policies when their needs change. This course explores the settlements that comprise the secondary market for life insurance policies. It examines the markets, prospects, process taxation, regulation and the market conduct issues associated with these arrangements. The course also discusses stranger-originated life insurance (STOLI) transactions and the steps the industry is taking to curb abuses in this market.

Course ID

12542

Number of Pages

26

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

This course is intended for non-institutional registered representatives, investment advisors representatives and their supervisors. This course provides principles and guidelines for determining the suitability of investment products and making appropriate recommendations for prospects and clients. Before making recommendations to a customer, a representative must gather information about the customer, such as his or her financial profile, non-financial investment considerations and the customer's risk tolerance and investment experience. This course will cover topics discussing the financial profile of the investor, non-financial considerations, risk tolerance and investment experience, investment objectives, long-term versus short term risk, portfolio analysis, asset allocation principles for portfolios, types of investment risk, and market risk: systemic and non-systemic.

Course ID

10605

Number of Pages

48

Est. Completion Time

25

Description

This course is intended for representatives, investment advisors, institutional representatives, traders and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in alternative investments. Those taking this course should already have an intermediate understanding of the securities markets and the wide variety of securities products being offered to investors. This course reviews the regulation of these instruments by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), as well as the mechanics of financial futures contracts, their use as hedging devices, and the role they play in price discovery. Additionally, trading strategies are discussed and the role of clearinghouses in the futures industry is described.

Course ID

0096

Number of Pages

34

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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 managing electronic communications with the public. This course covers the purpose of an email policy and identifies the issues faced by organizations using email. It also discusses creating and deploying an effective corporate email policy. Finally, the course discusses the legislations surrounding email monitoring, with a special emphasis on electronic media.

Course ID

11099

Number of Pages

41

Est. Completion Time

31

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, investment advisors, institutional representatives, traders and supervisors who are interested in learning more about margin trading. The course will review and reinforce some of the basic rules and concepts concerning the use of margin and why investors use margin. Representatives will also learn about minimum, initial and maintenance margin, as well as the different types of customer accounts used in margin trading and concepts concerning the use of margin and why investors use margin. The student will understand minimum, initial, and maintenance margin. Also, the student will learn the different types of customer accounts used in margin trading.

Course ID

10651

Number of Pages

29

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course was developed to meet FINRA and MSRB continuing education requirements. It specifically addresses MSRB Rules G-15 and G-30 and FINRA Rule 2232 regarding the disclosure of mark-ups to retail investors of fixed-income securities. This course covers the rule amendments effective May 14, 2018 - not the prior versions of the rules, as students should already have an understanding of these rules. As such, for firms to which these rules apply, the rules should have been implemented by firms no later than May 14, 2018.

Course ID

9861

Number of Pages

51

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is intended for representatives, investment advisors, institutional representatives, traders and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in the issuance, distribution and risk analysis of conventional securities. Those taking this course should have an intermediate understanding of the securities markets and the wide variety of securities products that are offered for sale to investors. The objective of this course is to provide financial professionals with an understanding of the purpose and characteristics of structured products. To achieve this, the course reviews the investment nature of structured products discusses related financial risks and describes FINRA's regulatory role of protecting investors.

Course ID

10753

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17741

Number of Pages

32

Est. Completion Time

27

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives, investment advisors, institutional representatives, traders and supervisors who have a well-rounded background in investments. Those taking this course should already have a basic understanding of the securities markets. Market risk is the quantifiable likelihood that fluctuations in market prices will adversely affect the values of investments or assets held by an individual or entity. Though some analysts argue that it is possible for market fluctuations to positively affect the values of such holdings, the general understanding of risk emphasizes a negative change. This course introduces the main aspects of market risk and looks at how the factors affecting it can be managed. Also discussed are events that have impacted market risk historically.

Course ID

11114

Number of Pages

41

Est. Completion Time

27

Description

This course will review the original Markets in Financial Instruments Directive 2004/39/EC, known as "MiFID" before focusing on the revised Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID II), which replaced MiFID and the Markets in Financial Instrument Regulation (MiFIR).

Course ID

9757

Number of Pages

20

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course outlines the markups dealers charge on securities sold from their inventories, including FINRA guidelines and information on bond trading

Course ID

10893

Number of Pages

23

Est. Completion Time

15

Description

Master Limited Partnerships (MLPs) create a method for companies involved in the fossil fuel energy infrastructure of the United States to successfully and more easily raise capital to develop facilities geared towards enhancing and increasing the production, storage and distribution network for oil and gas throughout the country and globally. This course provides representatives with a broad overview of MLPs, highlighting its two-tier structure, as well as the risks and benefits associated with investing in MPLs. Additionally, this course discusses the unique tax benefits of limited partnerships.

Course ID

12187

Number of Pages

23

Est. Completion Time

16

Description

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 managing communications with the public. The objective of this course is to educate representatives about the Safeguards Rule to help them understand their obligation to the security and confidentiality of customer information, help them protect against any anticipated threats or hazards to the security and integrity of information and protect against unauthorized access to or use of customer information that could result in substantial harm or inconvenience to a customer.

Course ID

0032

Number of Pages

31

Est. Completion Time

20

Description

This course was developed for those with a basic knowledge of mergers and acquisitions (i.e., key terms and definitions, incentives for buying and selling). This course takes the next step by closely defining the roles of the Investment Banker throughout the M&A process. This course does not contain any legal or financial advice.

Course ID

10536

Number of Pages

77

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course has been designed for individuals involved in the M&A process, compliance officers, and other persons interested in the role of compliance due diligence. The course begins with a brief discussion of the mergers and acquisitions industry as it heads in to 2020, with a focus on Corporate M&A Strategy, Private Equity, and the factors that contribute to the success of a deal. The second section looks at compliance due diligence, a sometimes overlooked, but critical, step both pre- and post acquisition. The focus here is on compliance due diligence considerations, the evolution of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, and additional developments in U.S. and overseas regulation and enforcement.

Course ID

11952

Number of Pages

39

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course was developed for those with a basic knowledge of mergers and acquisitions (i.e., key terms and definitions, incentives for buying and selling). This course takes the next step by closely defining the roles of each party and the documents for which they are responsible. This course does not contain any legal or financial advice.

Course ID

11014

Number of Pages

60

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course is designed to give registered representatives and supervisors an understanding of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) including why a company would want to merge, buy out another, or be acquired; the typical steps involved in the M&A process; the due diligence that the parties to a merger or acquisition should perform on one another; and a discussion of corporate inversions: a type of M&A deal that has received a lot of negative press and Congressional attention. The course uses real-world examples to illustrate different concepts, such as horizontal and vertical integration.

Course ID

11060

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course is designed to give registered representatives and supervisors an understanding of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) including the motives behind M&A activity, the construction of the deal, major M&A activity between 2020 and 2021 with a focus on ESG due diligence and modern regulations.

Course ID

16264

Number of Pages

42

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course was developed to address the ongoing concern of microcap securities fraud. Microcap securities are already subject to volatility and risk. Fraud in the microcap space causes even more risk to investors. Microcap securities are treated differently than small, mid, and large-cap securities, can trade off-exchange on the OTC marketplace with less regulatory oversight and less stringent requirements and are quickly accessible to investors. This course addresses the who, what, where, why, when and even how fraud has cast its shadow over microcap securities investing.

Course ID

11800

Number of Pages

45

Est. Completion Time

50

Description

This course is intended for registered representatives and their supervisors that primarily work with retail clients. The course is intended to familiarize representatives on the terminology commonly used with these securities, as a means to better prepare them to explain these investments to clients. Money market instruments provide a vehicle by which institutions may invest funds on a short-term basis. There are a number of securities and banking arrangements that serve these needs. This course will focus on three of those instruments - commercial paper, certificates of deposit and bankers' acceptances.

Course ID

12017

Number of Pages

37

Est. Completion Time

27

Description

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. Please note: This course includes audio on each page.

Course ID

17742

Number of Pages

30

Est. Completion Time

23

Description

This course covers the amendments to MSRB Rule G-21 on Advertising and the new MSRB Rule G-40 Advertising for Municipal Advisors. By the end of the course, you should have an understanding of what qualifies as advertising, especially social media and electronic public forum usage, what types of entities are subject to the rules, and where the various regulators may overlap in advertising requirements.

Course ID

11539

Number of Pages

41

Est. Completion Time

60

Description

This course is a study of Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB) Rule G-43, Best Practices for Broker's Brokers. The rule is one that dictates expectations of duties and prohibited activities when dealers act as brokers for other dealers; or inter-dealer transactions in municipal securities markets. By the end of this course, you will be able to identify the role of a broker's broker in municipal market participation as well as the duties, responsibilities, and prohibitions on conduct of broker's brokers as well as understand the role of Automated Trading Systems under Rule G-43.

Course ID

13135

Number of Pages

34

Est. Completion Time

30

Description

This course begins with a brief overview of the two new classifications created when the MSRB revised Rule G-3 to meet the requirements of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. From there, the course covers basic knowledge of the internal workings, qualifications, and required continuing education of the municipal advisory system.

Course ID

6855

Number of Pages

33

Est. Completion Time

50