SEC REGISTRATION.
Specialist support for firms seeking SEC registration and compliance with US regulatory requirements.
For Exempt Reporting Advisers (ERAs) and Registered Investment Advisers (RIAs), securing registration with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is a crucial step in building credibility, meeting regulatory obligations, and accessing new markets.
Unlike the FCA, the SEC takes a fact-based approach: firms do not receive rounds of follow-up questions. That means success often comes down to getting the information right the first time and presenting it in the way the SEC expects.
ACCURATE, REGULATOR-READY & TAILORED TO YOUR BUSINESS MODEL.
We project manage the entire registration process from start to finish. From determining whether ERA or RIA registration is required, to drafting submissions and liaising directly with the SEC. Our team of SEC experts averages 15 years of experience across regulators, consultancies, and in-house compliance roles. We know exactly how to navigate the nuances of SEC registration, including preparing Form ADV submissions and drafting the narrative brochure that is critical for RIAs.
We don’t just manage paperwork: we provide the compliance manuals, monitoring programmes, and supporting documentation you need to demonstrate how your firm will continue to meet regulatory expectations once authorised.
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READINESS
We identify whether ERA or RIA registration is appropriate based on your services and jurisdictions. Our team then maps the requirements, determines the forms needed, and coordinates with service providers such as lawyers and accountants.
REGISTRATION
For ERAs, we prepare Form ADV 1. For RIAs, we complete Form ADV 1, Form ADV 2A, Form ADV 2B and, where relevant, Form CRS. We also draft the RIA brochure covering your business model, compensation, investment strategies, risks, and governance arrangements, ensuring the submission is clear, accurate, and credible.
REINFORCEMENT
Alongside registration, we provide a tailored compliance manual and monitoring programme appropriate to the size, scope, and complexity of your firm. This ensures you are not just registered, but equipped to meet ongoing obligations with confidence.
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Six Weeks. One Authorisation. One Fund Ready To Launch.
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What is SEC registration and who needs it?
SEC registration is required for investment advisers managing assets above certain thresholds who wish to operate in the US market. Firms may register either as Exempt Reporting Advisers (ERAs) or Registered Investment Advisers (RIAs), depending on their business model, assets under management, and investor base.
What is the difference between an ERA and an RIA?
An Exempt Reporting Adviser (ERA) is a firm that qualifies for an exemption from full SEC registration but must still file reports with the SEC. A Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) is fully registered with the SEC and subject to a broader range of regulatory obligations, including the requirement to prepare and maintain a detailed narrative brochure known as Form ADV Part 2.
Why is getting SEC registration right first time so important?
Unlike the FCA, the SEC takes a fact-based approach to registration and does not offer rounds of follow-up questions. This means the accuracy, completeness, and presentation of your initial submission is critical. Errors or omissions in your Form ADV can delay registration and raise regulatory concerns that are difficult to address after the fact.
What ongoing compliance obligations come with SEC registration?
Once registered, firms must maintain compliance manuals, implement monitoring programmes, file annual Form ADV updates, and demonstrate how they continue to meet regulatory expectations on an ongoing basis. The SEC expects registered firms to have robust compliance infrastructure in place from day one.
How can Cosegic help with SEC registration?
Cosegic project manages the entire SEC registration process from start to finish, from determining whether ERA or RIA registration is required to drafting Form ADV submissions and liaising directly with the SEC. Our team of specialists averages 15 years of experience across regulators, consultancies, and in-house compliance roles, giving you the expertise and confidence to enter the US market efficiently and compliantly.