Finra orders New Jersey broker-dealer to pay $205,000 over excessive trading

Finra orders New Jersey broker-dealer to pay $205,000 over excessive trading
Buckman, Buckman & Reid settles charges it failed to supervise two reps.
APR 25, 2019

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Inc. has ordered New Jersey-based broker-dealer Buckman Buckman & Reid to pay approximately $205,000 in restitution to seven customers for failing to supervise two former registered representatives who recommended excessive and unsuitable trades. Finra previously barred the two brokers, whose names they did not disclose in a release. (More: Finra suspends former star LPL rep who borrowed client cash) In addition, Finra sanctioned Harry John (Chip) Buckman, Jr., one of the firm's owners, for failing to supervise the two registered representatives, both of whom reported to him. Finra suspended Mr. Buckman for three months, assessed a $20,000 fine, and required him to complete 40 hours of continuing education concerning supervisory responsibilities. Finra found that Mr. Buckman and the firm failed to identify that one of the barred registered representatives had engaged in frequent and short-term trading of unit investment trusts (UITs) and other long-term investments with significant up-front costs. From 2013 to 2014, the broker's excessive trading of UITs and other long-term products caused his customers to pay approximately $210,000 in commissions and resulted in losses of approximately $163,000. (More:Finra launches office to focus on fintech) Finra said that the firm and Mr. Buckman also failed to identify that the second barred registered representative had more than 130 trades in the account of an 89-year-old retired customer during a one-year period. Although this customer's account regularly appeared on the firm's monthly reports of potentially problematic activity, no one reviewed those reports or conducted reasonable suitability reviews.

Latest News

SEC bars ex-broker who sold clients phony private equity fund
SEC bars ex-broker who sold clients phony private equity fund

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.

The key to attracting and retaining the next generation of advisors? Client-focused training
The key to attracting and retaining the next generation of advisors? Client-focused training

From building trust to steering through emotions and responding to client challenges, new advisors need human skills to shape the future of the advice industry.

Chuck Roberts, ex-star at Stifel, barred from the securities industry
Chuck Roberts, ex-star at Stifel, barred from the securities industry

"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.

SEC to weigh ‘innovation exception’ tied to crypto, Atkins says
SEC to weigh ‘innovation exception’ tied to crypto, Atkins says

Chair also praised the passage of stablecoin legislation this week.

Brooklyn-based Maridea snaps up former LPL affiliate to expand in the Midwest
Brooklyn-based Maridea snaps up former LPL affiliate to expand in the Midwest

Maridea Wealth Management's deal in Chicago, Illinois is its first after securing a strategic investment in April.

SPONSORED How advisors can build for high-net-worth complexity

Orion's Tom Wilson on delivering coordinated, high-touch service in a world where returns alone no longer set you apart.

SPONSORED RILAs bring stability, growth during volatile markets

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.