Investor Education
April 23, 2019
Informed Investor Advisory: Cross-Selling
Cross-selling by banks and investment firms is a growing concern for securities regulators. At its best, this is a way for banks or investment firms to inform clients about the range of financial products and services available. At its worst, this common sales technique can take advantage of loyal clients.
April 9, 2019
Informed Investor Advisory: Robo-Advisers
Easy-to-use smartphone apps and online portals make setting up an account with a robo-adviser convenient and quick, which is contributing to their increasing popularity. For those considering a robo-adviser, it is best to take it slow and ensure this type of service meets your short- and long-term investing needs.
November 15, 2018
Informed Investor Advisory: Promissory Notes
Promissory notes are at the heart of many different types of investment scams. Investors may mistakenly believe the written guarantee is “proof” of the deal’s legitimacy and that it offers the investor protections that other investments do not.
October 15, 2018
Informed Investor Advisory: Marijuana-related Investments
Are you an informed investor? Marijuana-Related Investments: Greener Pastures or Just Another Scam? You know the pitch – “Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime investment opportunity with greener pastures right on the horizon!” Investments in budding marijuana business ventures are becoming more prevalent and are receiving increased media coverage. Scammers are using the media buzz […]
April 16, 2018
Informed Investor Advisory: Initial Coin Offerings
Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) are attracting investors interested in new trends in technology investing. Regulation of ICOs is evolving and complex. With considerably fewer investor protections than in traditional securities markets, investors considering participating in an ICO investment should be aware of the growing potential for fraud and manipulation these offerings present. Investors need to approach ICOs with extreme caution. ICOs are very risky and are not suitable for many investors. You could lose all of your investment. Before parting with your hard-earned money, make sure you know what you’re getting into.
April 13, 2018
Informed Investor Advisory: Cryptocurrencies
Before you jump into the crypto craze, be mindful that cryptocurrencies and related financial products may be nothing more than public facing fronts for Ponzi schemes and other frauds. And because these products do not fall neatly into the existing federal/state regulatory framework, it may be easier for the promoters of these products to fleece you. Investing in cryptocurrencies and related financial products accordingly should be seen for what it is: extremely risky speculation with a high risk of loss.
March 7, 2018
Informed Investor Advisory: Unicorns
Unicorns are not just the stuff of fairy tales; some financial unicorns exist today. But investing in unicorns is speculative, and generally is unavailable to retail investors. Retail investors looking to bet on a unicorn may be able to do so indirectly through a mutual fund, exchange-traded fund or business development company. But beware; investing in unicorns is risky. This investment may bite.
September 13, 2017
NASAA Issues Advisory on Binary Option Schemes
The North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA) is cautioning investors about schemes related to binary options amid the proliferation of online binary option platforms and a growing number of related investor complaints. The advisory provides information and resources to help investors better understand binary options, their risks and where to turn for help. The advisory […]
September 13, 2017
Informed Investor Advisory: Binary Options
In 2015, NASAA cautioned investors that binary options were on the verge of becoming the “Next Big Thing.” Since then, several regulators have issued alerts about the proliferation of online binary options platforms and the growing number of related investor complaints. The following information updates and expands NASAA’s 2015 advisory.
August 25, 2016
