An affinity for fraud
By Harry LewA Washington "faith-based financial advisor" has been sentenced to 18 years in prison for affinity fraud. He preyed on members of Christian churches in several Washington counties, as well as on consumers in four other states. During his
July 30, 2009
Study shows variable annuity hedging programs 94 percent effectiveBetween November and March, hedging programs at variable annuity providers maintained a high level of effectiveness - 94 percent compared to 93 percent in the...
July 30, 2009
151A Update: Major insurer speaks out on court rulingSince the court ruling last week that sent 151A back to the SEC for further analysis, there's been no shortage of opinions on the topic. One of the more interesting pieces that hit my desk this week was a commentary from Allianz. The company
July 30, 2009
OECD: Regulation should focus on financial literacyAs the financial world gets itself in a tizzy about Rule 151A, and the subsequent decision to remand said rule, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development released a report saying imposing stiffer rules on banks is insufficient to
July 30, 2009
The president's fun with numbersWhen all else fails - drink. Seems to be the overriding lesson from the president's upcoming beer summit. A frosty lager makes everything all right....
July 29, 2009
Readers spot holes in Court decisionLast week we reported that the U.S. Court of Appeals had remanded Rule 151A, sending it back to the SEC for further analysis and investigation. Since that time, we've heard from many of you, voicing your thoughts on this decision. Below,
July 29, 2009
Measuring Full-Service Firms, AdvisorsThe latest J.D. Power and Associates study finds that investors are citing satisfaction with their advisor as the top factor in their overall investment experience.
July 29, 2009
Readers spot holes in Court decisionLast week we reported that the U.S. Court of Appeals had remanded Rule 151A, sending it back to the SEC for further analysis and investigation. Since that time, we've heard from many of you, voicing your thoughts on this decision. Below,
Commentary