Risk Mitigation in Incorporating Emerging Tech Trends into Client Portfolios

Just as with many other sectors of the economy, the securities industry has experienced a fast-coming barrage of changes to the business of investing, most of all in emerging technologies.
Investment Advisers may have ignored the changes in technology several years ago, but those who provide investment advisory services can no longer avoid the fact that clients’ portfolio needs have evolved, and they may fail to act in the best interest of their investors should they overlook it. However, there are some important factors to consider when incorporating new types of assets into clients’ portfolios and steps to take to mitigate risks.… Read More

The New California Digital Asset Bill

What does the new Digital Financial Assets Law mean for firms and individuals in the investment advisory space?
Investment companies and investment advisers managing digital assets may be required to comply with regulations under the new Digital Financial Assets Law. Conversely, broker-dealers are exempt along with banks and technology network providers. In addition, the new law exempts individuals or entities who manage digital asset securities which is a digital financial asset pegged against government-backed currency.
Read More

Another Technology Company Settles SEC Charges Over ICO Violations

Blockchain of Things (“BCOT”), a technology company, has agreed to settle charges with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for conducting an initial coin offering (ICO) without registering it as a securities offering or qualifying for any registration exemptions.  The settlement requires BCOT to agree to a cease and desist order, pay a $250,000 civil fine, return funds to any investors who file a request, and register the tokens as securities.

Read More

Unregistered ICO: The SEC Brings More Charges

With the passing of every month, the investment industry sees another round of enforcements involving the mishandling of initial coin offerings (“ICOs”). The still nascent landscape of cryptocurrency investing continues to pose significant difficulties for investors, firms, and regulatory…

Read More