The SEC Fines Wall Street Firms for Poor Record Keeping
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has fined 11 Wall Street firms a total of $289 million for failing to maintain electronic communications records. The firms admitted to engaging in business-related conversations on personal devices through platforms like iMessage, WhatsApp, and Signal.
Main Breakdowns:
- 11 Wall Street firms fined $289 million by the SEC for poor record keeping
- Firms admitted to conducting business-related conversations on personal devices
- Registered broker-dealers and investment advisors required to comply with record keeping provision of federal securities law
- Individual fines range from $9 million to $125 million
- SEC’s actions demonstrate its enforcement extends beyond the crypto industry
This comes as the SEC continues to take a rigid stance against crypto companies. In recent months, the SEC has sued major crypto exchanges like Binance and Coinbase, and has named over 67 cryptocurrencies as unregistered securities. As a result, companies like Revolut have halted their crypto business in the US, and Nasdaq has paused its crypto ambitions due to regulatory challenges.
Hot Take:
The SEC’s crackdown on Wall Street firms for poor record keeping highlights the importance of compliance and proper record management. This move also shows that the SEC’s enforcement actions are not limited to the crypto industry, as traditional financial institutions are also being held accountable. As regulatory challenges continue to mount, it is crucial for all businesses to prioritize compliance with securities laws to avoid hefty fines and legal repercussions.