The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Inc. has censured Western International Securities for its lax compliance procedures and fined the firm $325,000. In addition, the firm has agreed to hire an independent consultant to review its compliance efforts and recommend changes.
Finra said that from October 2011 through June 2018, the Pasadena, Calif.-based firm failed to amend regulatory filings for 52 registered representatives in a timely manner, neglecting to disclose 163 liens, judgments and/or bankruptcies that totaled more than $5 6 million.
Dawn Bennett, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison for defrauding 46 investors as part of a $20 million Ponzi scheme, was an independent contractor affiliated with Western International at the time she conducted her fraud.
Rajesh Markan earlier this year pleaded guilty to one count of criminal fraud related to his sale of fake investments to 10 clients totaling $2.9 million.
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"The outcome is correct, but it's disappointing that FINRA had ample opportunity to investigate the merits of clients' allegations in these claims, including the testimony in the three investor arbitrations with hearings," Jeff Erez, a plaintiff's attorney representing a large portion of the Stifel clients, said.
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Barely a decade old, registered index-linked annuities have quickly surged in popularity, thanks to their unique blend of protection and growth potential—an appealing option for investors looking to chart a steadier course through today's choppy market waters, says Myles Lambert, Brighthouse Financial.
