American Infrastructure Funds LLC (AIM), a registered investment adviser based in Foster City, California, has agreed to a settlement with the SEC, in which AIM will pay over $1.6 million to resolve charges brought against the firm. These charges stem from several alleged breaches of its duties as an investment […]
Tag: SEC Enforcement
SEC Charges Mexico-based Company and CEO in $15 Million Ponzi Scheme Targeting Spanish-Speaking U.S. Investors
Sept. 21, 2023 — The SEC has taken action against Aras Investment Business Group S.A.P.I. de C.V., a Mexico-based company, along with its CEO Armando Gutierrez Rosas and four other individuals. These charges stem from their involvement in a fraudulent scheme that siphoned over $15 million from more than 450 […]
How to Hire a Securities Defense Attorney to Respond to an SEC Subpoena
Facing a subpoena can be a daunting experience for individuals and businesses involved in securities-related matters. The SEC wields substantial authority to investigate potential violations of securities laws, and responding to a subpoena demands a keen understanding of the legal process and regulations. To navigate this complex terrain successfully, it’s […]
SEC Charges Five Advisory Firms for Custody Rule Violations
We continue to see investigations of advisory firms for violations of the Custody Rule, which has specific requirements for the handling and reporting for firms that hold customer funds. The SEC has an extensive FAQ regarding the rule and the requirements for compliance. As always we are available to assist […]
ETF Manager Settles SEC Charges of Fraudulent Conduct
The SEC has taken action against an ETF Manager, alleging misconduct in the management of an exchange-traded fund (ETF). This scheme involved misleading the ETF’s trustees and securing a whopping $20 million in rescue financing to avert potential bankruptcy. As a result, Masucci and his entities have agreed to a substantial settlement of $4.4 million.
SEC Halts Utah-Based Crypto Asset Fraud Scheme Involving 18 Defendants
The SEC has secured temporary asset freezing, restraining orders, and other emergency measures against Digital Licensing Inc., operating under the name “DEBT Box,” a Draper, Utah-based entity. The action also involves the company’s four principals: Jason Anderson, Jacob Anderson, Schad Brannon, and Roydon Nelson, along with 13 other defendants. This […]
Fund Administrator Settles SEC Charges For Missing Red Flags
The SEC has taken action against Theorem Fund Services LLC (TFS), a Boca Raton-based fund administrator. The charges revolve around TFS’s failure to respond to red flags related to a fraudulent scheme targeting a private fund and its investors. The Background TFS found itself entangled in a web of deception […]
The Akazoo Scandal: SEC Charges Crowe U.K. LLP and Key Executives for Deficient Audit Practices
Introduction The SEC has filed claims against Crowe U.K. LLP, a prominent London-based audit firm, its CEO, Nigel Bostock, and senior auditor, Matthew Stallabrass. The charges stem from the firm’s alleged inadequate audit of Akazoo Limited, a notable music-streaming company. This exposé sheds light on the critical details surrounding the […]
Grupo Aval Fined $40 Million for Violating Foreign Corrupt Practices Act
Introduction: The SEC has taken legal action against Colombian conglomerate Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores S.A., commonly known as Grupo Aval S.A., along with its subsidiary, Corporación Financiera Colombiana S.A. (Corficolombiana), for their alleged violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). This case sheds light on illicit activities within […]
Theorem Fund Services Settles Charges for Ignoring Red Flags in a Fraud Scheme
Aug. 7, 2023 — The SEC announced settled charges against Theorem Fund Services LLC (TFS), a prominent fund administrator based in Boca Raton, Florida. The charges were brought against TFS for their failure to respond adequately to red flags related to a fraud perpetrated against a private fund and its […]