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Registration Requirements for Securities, Brokerage Firms & Investment Professionals

There are a lot of regulations when it comes to securities and the firms that sell them. Some of these regulations have to do with the registration of securities, the brokerage firm and the investment salesperson.

Registration of Securities
Under federal and state laws, securities must be registered and there are only limited exceptions to these rules. In many cases, securities also have to be registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). One of the purposes of registration is to disclose pertinent financial information to investors, which will help protect them from fraud.

Registration of Brokerage Firms & Their Employees
Any firm that sells registered securities to the public is required to register with the state securities regulator, the SEC or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), depending on the business in which the firm is involved. An employee of the brokerage firm who offers or sells registered securities is also required to register with the state securities regulator and/or FINRA.

There are additional licenses that are required for people who sell annuities, insurance and other similar products, as well as registration requirements for those who offer investment advice for a fee. A general rule of thumb to follow is that if someone gave you investment recommendations and charged you a fee, there is a good chance that he or she should be registered and licensed.

What Happens When the Security, Brokerage Firm or Investment Professional Is Not Registered?
If you discover that the securities you invested in were not registered and should have been or if the firm or investment professional did not complete the proper licensing or registration, you could have a registration violations claim. Generally, this type of claim arises when you lose money on an investment. If your case is successful, you may be able to recover your losses.

The Law Firm of Meyer Wilson
If you have lost money due to broker fraud, you should contact one of our experienced securities arbitration attorneys for a free case evaluation by calling toll-free 1.866.827.6537 or filling out our online form. Our lawyers are licensed in Ohio and California and we represent investors nationwide in securities arbitration and litigation claims.

Be sure to order a free copy of the book, Five Signs of Investment Fraud…And What to Do if it's Happened to You. This consumer guide is offered for free to investors.

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