Private funds commonly use third parties, often known as finders, to raise capital from potential investors. When entering into arrangements with finders, private fund managers should consider whether the finder is registered as a broker-dealer. Except in very limited circumstances, paying a commission to a finder that is not registered as a broker-dealer violates federal and state securities laws. SEC regulations do provide a safe harbor from the broker-dealer registration requirements for an agent of the issuer in certain limited circumstances. However, outside the safe harbor rule, the determination of whether a finder is subject to registration requirements is highly fact-specific. Some activities generally lead to classification as a broker-dealer, and as such should be avoided by finders. Negotiating terms or providing recommendations for the financing transaction is generally considered to be a broker-dealer activity, along with handling funds involved in the transaction. Providing issuing companies with assistance in drafting or distributing sales and financial materials will generally prompt registration. Soliciting investors and previous involvement in the sale of securities is also a factor weighing in favor of the registration requirement.
Moreover, payment of fees to a finder which is contingent on the success of the financing transaction is likely to trigger registration. Percentage commissions and other compensation arrangements that vary depending on the amount invested create a substantial likelihood that a finder would be viewed as a broker-dealer, who is required to register with the SEC. The SEC has consistently treated transaction-based payment as a key factor in determining whether a finder acts as a broker-dealer. This is because compensation directly tied to the success of the investments in securities heightens the incentive for the finder to engage in sales efforts. Therefore, the finder is acting in a salesman capacity, which is generally reserved for broker-dealers. The finder should receive a fixed fee regardless of the outcome of his or her efforts in order to avoid violations. If the finder is found to be acting as an unregistered broker-dealer, he or she may be barred from enforcing and collecting the finder’s fees. The SEC also can issue cease and desist orders, impose civil penalties, and seek criminal prosecution, including criminal fines and imprisonment for egregious violations. Therefore it is imperative to conduct due diligence on the finder prior to engagement. For more information on this and other related subjects, please contact us at info@jackolg.com or (619) 298-2880.