Advising in an intimate relationship of two differs markedly from offering incidental advice in a sales relationship of three. This is what the SEC needs to know to close the gap and create a standard retail investors would reasonably expect.
SEC Proposed Rule(s) on broker dealer and investment adviser Standards of conduct expected on April 18
The SEC will have an open meeting on Wednesday, April 18, 2018, to vote on and release a proposed rule on conduct standards for brokers and advisers. The Institute has submitted two comment letters and met with commissioners and staff. Here is a brief on what we expect and will look for regarding a standard for brokers and title reform.
A Path Forward for the CFP Board
The CFP Board set out in its proposed standards fiduciary duties for all advice. Its statements are clear and strong. This is an important step. But alone, it falls very short. Why?
2018 First Quarter Commentary
Recent regulatory and industry actions on fiduciary have come fast and furiously. Unfortunately, they are mostly bad news for investors. The exception: actions in the states. The takeaway: Investors are on their own to identify real fiduciary advisors, who are also on their own to stand apart from brokers. The Institute’s Best Practices and the Campaign for Investors are more important than ever. Here’s an update on these actions and what they mean.
It’s time advisors and brokers go their separate ways
Judge Edith Jones argues for the logic and reasonableness in demarcation. Her ruling also argues for the central importance of reforming job titles, reinforcing a clear line between brokers and advisors.
Managing Conflicts and CFP Board’s Revised Proposal on Professional Standards
The Board has a unique opportunity to set a true fiduciary standard, and seize the moment to benefit generations to come. In the attached letter to the SEC from the Institute, we provide further steps and protocols to manage and neutralize conflicts impact. We urge the Board to apply them.
