Schmoozing clients stuck in lockdown can be a thankless task, what with virtual meetings plagued by glitchy audio, childcare intrusions and the monotony of the ubiquitous bookcase in the background.
A U.S. watchdog has some good news.
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Inc., which oversees Wall Street brokers, said it would allow bankers and traders to expense meals as entertainment costs even if they’re just hosting an online get-together.
Finra’s strict limits on gifts have always included an exemption for entertainment, which typically means restaurant excursions. So what happens in a video-only world?
“A key distinction between gifts and business entertainment is that the latter involves an associated person of a member personally hosting employees of institutional customers,” Finra said in a notice on its website this week. For virtual business-entertainment events or meetings, the authority said it would view food and beverage costs as exempt from its $100 gift limits.
Finra’s only request: The host shouldn’t set up a video call, order the meal and disappear. Fancy care packages to cheer up clients are still prohibited.
Blue Anchor Capital Management and Pickett also purchased “highly aggressive and volatile” securities, according to the order.
Reshuffle provides strong indication of where the regulator's priorities now lie.
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Cerulli research finds nearly two-thirds of active retirement plan participants are unadvised, opening a potential engagement opportunity.
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.
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