Category Archives: fiduciary compliance

THE Key Factor in Liability Risk Management

I was at a conference recently to serve on a panel to discuss various fiduciary issues, including FINRA Regulatory Notice 12-25 and the universal fiduciary standard. When I am at a conference, I rarely attend other presentations for the very … Continue reading

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Four Faces of Fiduciary Prudence

In defining prudence, ERISA’s rules and regulations state that [A] fiduciary shall discharge his duties with respect to a plan solely in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries…with the care, skill, prudence, and diligence under the circumstances then prevailing … Continue reading

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Quantum Meruit and “Other” Compliance Challenges

When I was a compliance director, my biggest frustration was not being able to share certain legal information with the broker-dealer’s registered representatives and those who maintained independent RIAs. I understood the BD’s position, namely that volunteering such information potentially … Continue reading

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2014 – Brave New Fiduciary World

2014 promises to be a important year for fiduciary liability issues. ERISA advisers, sponsors and attorneys await the Court of Appeals’ decision in Tussey v. ABB,Inc. and its impact on fiduciary issues such as prudence, loyalty and due diligence. If … Continue reading

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“Hidden” Assets – Potential Liability Implications of the LaRue Decision for Attorneys and Fiduciaries

During a recent deposition of an executor, I asked the executor, a bank trust officer, whether the bank had evaluated the defined contribution plan in which the deceased had participated. The trust officer replied that the funds in deceased’s account … Continue reading

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Creative Chaos – Creating a Win-Win Situation for Investors and Investment Advisers

Having been involved in the quality of investment advice arena for twenty-five years in some capacity (e.g., securities attorney, RIA consultant, B/D compliance director), I have seen numerous changes in both the industry and the surrounding legal/regulatory environment. There is … Continue reading

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Market Timing and Legal Liability: What Really Matters

People always ask me how I can be a securities attorney and sue stockbrokers and other financial advisers and also be an RIA compliance consultant. My answer is that by combining the two, ultimate goal is promote a win-win situation. … Continue reading

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Beware the “We’re #1” Trap

Michael Kitces recently posted an article about a proposed publication that would provide client reviews of their financial advisors. For those of you who do not follow Michael, you should do so. Michael is recognized as an industry leader. I … Continue reading

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“Piddle, Twiddle and Resolve”

I just finished Bob Clark’s excellent article, “Dear SEC Chairwoman: About That Pesky Fiduciary Issue…” (http://www.advisorone.com/2013/06/28/dear-sec-chairwoman-about-that-pesky-fiduciary-iss). In the article, Mr. Clark suggests that the SEC be reminded of various statements listed on its web page, including its mission statement to … Continue reading

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New “Barron’s Advisor” List-Potential Compliance and Fiduciary Issues

Barron’s recently released a new list, the “Barron’s Advisor” list. While advisors obviously enjoy being placed on such “top” or “best” lists, Barron’s list raises various issues that can serve as a lesson in addressing potential compliance and fiduciary issues … Continue reading

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