The Law of the Financial Markets from Top Securities Lawyers
Monday, February 9, 2026
Just about every securities broker is aware of the existence of the Protocol for Broker Recruiting (the “Broker Protocol”). Unfortunately, too many brokers think they understand the Protocol, and move forward with a transition without the assistance of experienced counsel. That leads to a motion for an injunction in court, with a […]
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 […]
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 […]
By Mark J. Astarita, Esq. For individuals and businesses involved in securities-related matters, facing a subpoena can be daunting. These investigations can be lengthy, detailed, and quite intense. The SEC wields substantial authority to investigate potential violations of securities laws, and responding to a subpoena demands a keen understanding of […]
In the appropriate case in our securities defense practice, we sometimes advise clients to self-report a violation and the client’s efforts to correct the violation. The rationale is that the SEC views self-reporting in a positive light when determining sanctions, and the reporting can avoid lengthy and costly investigations and […]
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 […]
The SEC has taken action against Prime Group Holdings LLC, a private equity firm specializing in alternative real estate assets. The SEC’s charges revolve around the firm’s failure to provide adequate disclosure concerning substantial real estate brokerage fees paid to an affiliate, owned by Prime Group’s CEO.
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.
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 […]
Introduction In a groundbreaking development, the SEC has made history by awarding over $104 million to seven whistleblowers. This announcement, which took place on August 4, 2023, marks the fourth largest award ever granted under the SEC’s whistleblower program. These individuals played a pivotal role in facilitating a successful SEC […]
