L.A. radio host accused of scamming investors to the tune of $20M

The host of a radio business program is accused of taking part in a $20 million investment fraud targeting Iranian-Americans in the Los Angeles area.
JAN 06, 2010
The host of a radio business program is accused of taking part in a $20 million investment fraud targeting Iranian-Americans in the Los Angeles area. The Securities and Exchange Commission announced Monday that it's suing NewPoint Financial Services Inc., its two co-owners and its controller. The SEC got a court order freezing the company's assets. Federal officials say NewPoint co-owner John Farahi marketed the scheme while hosting a daily Persian-language business program on radio station KIRN. The SEC claims more than 100 people invested but most of the money wound up in executives' accounts. Some allegedly was used to build a mansion, and more than $18 million was lost on risky options trading. Farahi's attorney, Gary Lincenberg, declined to comment on the lawsuit.

Latest News

The 2025 InvestmentNews Awards Excellence Awardees revealed
The 2025 InvestmentNews Awards Excellence Awardees revealed

From outstanding individuals to innovative organizations, find out who made the final shortlist for top honors at the IN awards, now in its second year.

Top RIA Cresset warns of 'inevitable' recession amid tariff uncertainty
Top RIA Cresset warns of 'inevitable' recession amid tariff uncertainty

Cresset's Susie Cranston is expecting an economic recession, but says her $65 billion RIA sees "great opportunity" to keep investing in a down market.

Edward Jones joins the crowd to sell more alternative investments
Edward Jones joins the crowd to sell more alternative investments

“There’s a big pull to alternative investments right now because of volatility of the stock market,” Kevin Gannon, CEO of Robert A. Stanger & Co., said.

Record RIA M&A activity marks strong start to 2025
Record RIA M&A activity marks strong start to 2025

Sellers shift focus: It's not about succession anymore.

IB+ Data Hub offers strategic edge for U.S. wealth advisors and RIAs advising business clients
IB+ Data Hub offers strategic edge for U.S. wealth advisors and RIAs advising business clients

Platform being adopted by independent-minded advisors who see insurance as a core pillar of their business.

SPONSORED Compliance in real time: Technology's expanding role in RIA oversight

RIAs face rising regulatory pressure in 2025. Forward-looking firms are responding with embedded technology, not more paperwork.

SPONSORED Advisory firms confront crossroads amid historic wealth transfer

As inheritances are set to reshape client portfolios and next-gen heirs demand digital-first experiences, firms are retooling their wealth tech stacks and succession models in real time.