The SEC registration process

The SEC registration process is very different to the FCA’s. It is based more on facts and firms don’t receive rounds of questions from the Regulator, like they do from the FCA. Therefore, if a firm has the correct information, it is likely to be a successful registration. 

However, the key to achieving registration with the SEC, is knowing how to present the information, particularly with Registered Investment Advisers (RIAs) more than Exempt Reporting Advisors (ERA). Firms should be able to prepare and present a free-text narrative brochure which provides information about the firm and its practices including (but not limited to): how it charges its clients and other forms of compensation; the RIAs methods and investment strategies as well as the risks associated with making investments with the client: its code of ethics practices; and disciplinary information.

How we can support you

The prospect of determining the type of registration required and drafting the necessary documentation can be time consuming and in some cases overwhelming. Cosegic streamlines the process by managing the project from start to finish, determining the type of registration application you require based on the services you're looking to provide and jurisdictions you are looking to provide them in. We draft the necessary forms and liaise with the SEC throughout the process through to the determination of your application. We understand that in order to achieve registration, the SEC requires that certain documents are maintained and we ensure that we provide firms with the necessary documentation needed to achieve registration.

Our team of SEC experts here at Cosegic, consists of experienced individuals with fifteen years' industry experience on average. The team has worked at the regulators, as in-house compliance officers and at various consultancies.

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Cosegic will assist firms that want to obtain SEC registration as either an ERA or RIA.

Exempt Reporting Adviser

As part of project managing the entire registration process we will:

- Complete the required forms to enable a firm to register with the SEC as an Exempt Reporting Adviser (“ERA”);

- This includes preparation of the Form ADV 1;

- Liaise with a firm’s service providers as is required for the registration, including lawyers and accountants;

- Provide a compliance manual, tailored to a firm’s circumstances, setting out how it intends to meet its ongoing regulatory obligations post approval; and

- Provide a compliance monitoring programme that is appropriate to the size, scope and complexity of the business.

Registered Investment Adviser

As part of project managing the entire registration process we will:

- Complete the required forms to enable a firm to register with the SEC as a Registered Investment Adviser;

- This includes preparation of the Form ADV 1, Form ADV 2A, Form ADV 2B and, where applicable Form CRS;

- Liaise with a firm’s service providers as is required for the registration, including lawyers and accountants;

- Provide a compliance manual, tailored to a firm’s circumstances, setting out how it intends to meet its ongoing regulatory obligations post approval; and

- Provide a compliance monitoring programme that is appropriate to the size, scope and complexity of the business.

CONTACT US TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR OFFERINGS

Why choose Cosegic?

Our 360 degree perspective of regulatory affairs

01

Our 360 degree perspective of regulatory affairs

Our wide range of financial sector experts come together on a regular basis to discuss their interactions with the FCA and the regulatory trends that they are seeing, providing us with a more informed understanding of the FCA than our competitors.

Direct, proportionate advice

02

Direct, proportionate advice

Our unique perspective means we really do have our fingers on the pulse of regulation, which helps us to ensure that the advice we offer is practical, helpful and directly proportionate to our clients’ needs.

Our understanding of the role of compliance in firms

03

Our understanding of the role of compliance in firms

We have watched the evolution of compliance over the past twenty years and understand that compliance must now become a core part of how financial services carry out their businesses in order for them to be successful.

Compliance confidence for visionary growth

04

Compliance confidence for visionary growth

In recognising this, our services have been built in a way that can help you navigate regulation ensuring you will keep your vision and objectives intact. Our breadth of experience allows us to balance your business objectives with your compliance requirements.

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