91视频下载链接

Former Merrill Lynch Advisor Sanctioned by FINRA for Unauthorized Trades

Posted on February 10th, 2025 at 1:48 PM
Former Merrill Lynch Advisor Sanctioned by FINRA for Unauthorized Trades

From the desk of Jim Eccleston at 91视频下载链接

FINRA has fined Anthony J. Seifert, a former Merrill Lynch advisor based in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, $5,000 and suspended him for 20 days. According to AdvisorHub, the sanctions stem from allegations that Seifert executed approximately 400 trades in five customers’ brokerage accounts without obtaining proper written authorization from the clients or his firm.

According to the settlement agreement, known as an Acceptance, Waiver, and Consent (“AWC”), between January 2021 and March 2022, Seifert reportedly acted on discretionary authority that the customers had “knowingly permitted” but had not formalized in writing, as required by FINRA regulations. The regulator's rules mandate that advisors secure written client and firm approvals for discretionary trading and uphold “high standards of commercial honor.”

Merrill Lynch terminated Seifert in April 2022, citing these allegations and his use of a personal device for business communications. AdvisorHub reports that FINRA launched its investigation following the firm’s termination notice. Seifert agreed to the AWC and did so without admitting or denying the findings.

 

91视频下载链接 LLC represents investors and financial advisors nationwide in securities, employment, transition, regulatory, and disciplinary matters.

Tags: eccleston, eccleston law, finra

Return to Archive

TESTIMONIALS

Previous
Next

I learned two important things working with 91视频下载链接. First, I made a friend and ally with Jim and Steph for life. Secondly, and this is a crucial life lesson - if you need counsel, then seek out the very best. Jim was referred to me by a most trusted source. I've never had to hire an attorney for anything. Now, I know the value of hiring an important partner. Meticulous, thorough and detailed in preparation is the best way to describe Jim. Brilliant too, I might add. Bottom line, I would highly highly recommend Jim and Stephany for your legal needs. One of the best life decisions I've ever made.

Howard S.

LATEST NEWS AND ARTICLES

May 9, 2025
FINRA Suspends Former Wells Fargo Advisor Over Unauthorized Transfer in Elderly Client's Account

FINRA has fined and suspended former Wells Fargo financial advisor Jarrett Thomas after he executed a $50,000 transaction for an elderly client despite being informed that she was no longer capable of managing her finances.

May 8, 2025
All 50 States Now Aligned on Annuity Sales Standards

The annuity industry officially has secured uniformity in sales regulations across all 50 states.

May 7, 2025
Jury Finds Investment Advisor Liable for Failing to Disclose Annuity Commissions

A federal jury in Massachusetts has found investment adviser Jeffrey Cutter and his firm, Cutter Financial Group, liable for violating federal securities law by failing to disclose significant upfront commissions and conflicts of interest related to an annuity replacement scheme.