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1 – 1 of 1Stephanie M. Monaco, Amy Ward Pershkow, Leslie S. Cruz, Peter M. McCamman, Andrew D. Getsinger and Adam Kanter
To explain a guidance update issued in February 2017 by the staff of the Division of Investment Management (Staff) at the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on how…
Abstract
Purpose
To explain a guidance update issued in February 2017 by the staff of the Division of Investment Management (Staff) at the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on how robo-advisers may meet their disclosure, suitability and compliance obligations under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (Advisers Act).
Design/methodology/approach
Examines the update’s guidance on three areas – the substance and presentation of disclosures, the provision of suitable investment advice, and the adoption and implementation of effective compliance programs – and then raises practical considerations for robo-advisers.
Findings
The update reflects the Staff’s increasing concern about the potential risks of the robo-adviser platform and provides a listing of key issues that the SEC’s Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations (OCIE) – which recently added “electronic investment advice” as a new focus for its 2017 examinations – may zero in on when examining robo-advisory firms.
Practical implications
Robo-advisers should carefully review the Staff’s update to evaluate whether their firms’ operations address the guidance.
Originality/value
Practical advice from experienced securities regulatory lawyers.
Details