In today’s complex regulatory environment, facing an SEC investigation can pose an existential threat for public companies. It also affects private funds, investment advisers, and broker-dealers. The key to mounting a resilient defense lies in early action, clear strategy, and rigorous discipline. I am a securities attorney specializing in regulatory investigations. I’ve outlined nine essential steps to help you defend against SEC scrutiny. These steps will protect your reputation and ensure business continuity.
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What Triggers an SEC Investigation
The SEC’s enforcement division investigates potential violations of securities laws and regulations. Several triggers can lead to an SEC investigation: Tips and Complaints: The SEC often receives tips and complaints from whistleblowers, investors, industry insiders, or the public. If these tips suggest potential securities law violations, the SEC may investigate. Market […]
Deputy Director of Enforcement Antonia M. Apps to Conclude Her Tenure at the SEC
The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that Antonia M. Apps, Deputy Director of the Division of Enforcement (Northeast), will conclude her tenure with the agency effective Dec. 1, 2025. “I thank Antonia for her steadfast leadership in… SEC Press Release For more information, contact the securities lawyers at Sallah […]
Tips for a Successful Securities Mediation
Securities arbitration is a proven method for resolving disputes in the securities industry. It is a quicker and more cost-effective alternative to traditional court proceedings. With increasing frequency, investors and advisors are turning to mediation to make the process even more effective. Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution […]
FINRA Fines First Trust $10 Million for Non-Cash Compensation Violations: A Warning on Supervisory Oversight and Cultural Drift FINRA’s latest $10 million sanction against First Trust Portfolios L.P. marks one of the largest penalties tied to non-cash compensation practices in recent years—and underscores how seemingly routine client-entertainment activity can evolve […]
SEC Issues Order to Reduce Operating Costs of Consolidated Audit Trail
Steps Toward Regulating the Cost of the CAT The SEC has issued a new order granting conditional exemptive relief toward certain requirements under the Consolidated Audit Trail NMS Plan (“CAT NMS Plan”), Regulation NMS Rule 613, and Rule 17a-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This relief enables the self-regulatory […]
SEC Issues Exemptive Order Regarding Compliance with Certain Rules Under Regulation NMS
The Securities and Exchange Commission today issued an order granting temporary exemptive relief from certain compliance dates adopted under Regulation NMS: Minimum Pricing Increments, Access Fees and Transparency of Better Priced Orders as follows:… SEC Press Release For more information, contact the securities lawyers at Sallah Astarita & Cox, at […]
SEC Announces Departure of Director of Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation Stacey Bowers
The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that Stacey Bowers, who has served as the Director of the Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, will depart the agency effective October 17, 2025. She has served as Director… SEC Press Release For more information, contact the securities lawyers […]
SEC Continues Efforts to Assist Market Participants During Implementation of Treasury Clearing Rules
The SEC has increased its support for broker-dealers and other market participants navigating the transition to mandatory central clearing of U.S. Treasury securities. The Commission launched a dedicated “one-stop” webpage providing up-to-date information, staff statements, regulatory materials and answers to frequently asked questions. (SEC) Background to the Treasury Clearing Rule […]
SEC Seeks Public Comment to Improve Rules on Residential Mortgage-Backed Securities and Asset-Backed Securities
The SEC recently issued a concept release inviting public input aimed at refining the regulatory framework for residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS) and other asset-backed securities (ABS). The move comes amid a prolonged absence of public RMBS offerings and signals the Commission’s interest in reenergizing this market segment. (SEC) Why the […]








