Compliance Insights
Access compliance commentary from some of the industry’s leading consulting firms and attorneys. Clients can use their Schwab Advisor Center® credentials to download full white papers.
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SEC vs. State Advisor Regulation: Key Considerations for Investment Advisers
Investment advisors face a complex regulatory landscape, and as firms grow, having an understanding of SEC and state rules can be helpful. While the core goals—investor protection, fair markets, and fiduciary standards—are shared, the rules and enforcement approaches can differ significantly.
In the latest Compliance Review from Schwab, the author provides a comparison of SEC and state registration requirements for investment advisors.
Compliance Reviews
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How Investment Advisors Can Prepare for an SEC Exam through Mock Exams and Other Best PracticesTaking a proactive approach can relieve the stress of an exam when it arrives through thorough preparation and knowing what to expect. Advisors that navigate exams most successfully are those that not only implement robust compliance programs but also understand the modern exam process and ensure their firms are ready when the time comes.
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New Anti–Money Laundering Compliance Requirements for Investment Advisers: Ten Frequently Asked Questions
A new rule finalized by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) in September 2024 imposes anti–money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism requirements on certain investment advisers. Covered advisors should start preparing now to be sure they are in compliance by the deadline on January 1, 2026.
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Navigating the Challenges of Regulation S-P
The SEC adopted Regulation S-P in 2000 to address the privacy concerns of sensitive customer data. But as technology has evolved, so have the methods used by cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities in data security. In light of increasing threats to customer data, the SEC has amended Regulation S-P to enhance how firms protect customer data and ensure that customers are promptly informed when data breaches occur. The amendments go into force for "larger entities" on Dec. 3, 2025, and for smaller firms on June 3, 2026.
Read more Compliance Reviews
Read more Compliance Reviews
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