SEC Approves New FINRA Member Communication Rules

Simon RivelesAdvertising, FINRA, SEC

In April, the SEC approved a significant revamping of FINRA rules regarding member communications with the public (the “New Rules”). The rule changes are a culmination of a multi-year effort by FINRA to update, harmonize and consolidate various NASD rules and interpretations regarding communication and advertising rules. New Communication Categories One of the most significant changes brought about by the New Rules is the consolidation …

Rhode Island Adopts Private Fund Adviser Exemption to State IA Registration

Simon RivelesHedge Funds, Private Fund Exemption, Uncategorized

Rhode Island joins a growing list of states that have adopted, or propose to adopt, rules or orders providing a state level private fund adviser exemption to investment adviser registration. These states include California, Colorado, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Virginia and Wisconsin. The Rhode Island exemption, effective May 17, 2012, provides managers to private funds, such as hedge and private equity funds, with an exemption …

MFA Provides Recommendations on Implementation of JOBS Act

Simon RivelesGeneral Solicitation, Jobs Act

In a letter to the SEC, dated May 4, 2012, the Managed Futures Association (“MFA”), a hedge fund industry advocacy group, made several recommendations to the Commission regarding implementation of the repeal of the ban on general solicitation under the JOBS Act (the “Act”), particularly ways in which the Act can better be harmonized with existing securities laws.  Passed in early April, 2012, the Act …

Publicly Traded Hedge Funds Continue to Disappoint

Simon RivelesHedge Funds, Publicly Traded Hedge Fund

On Tuesday, the London based Man Group, the world’s largest publicly traded hedge fund, reported Q1 investor redemptions of $1 billion. The money manager, known for its quant-based strategies, has been hemorrhaging assets for several quarters after reporting lackluster results for its flagship fund. The AHL fund was down 6% last year and is down 2% in 2012. Man’s AUM is now less than when …