US Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Evaluates Membership Application Rules

On March 11, 2016, the US Financial Industry Regulatory Authority released a report evaluating the NASD Rule 1010 Series which rules govern FINRA's Membership Application Program (MAP). The MAP rules are used by FINRA to evaluate the proposed business activities of member firms, including the applicant's financial, operational, supervisory and compliance systems. FINRA staff conducted a comprehensive assessment of the rules, including seeking input from, and conducting a survey of, firms that are subject to the rules and non-member firms that assist in MAP submissions. FINRA staff concluded that the rules are generally effective in achieving their objectives of protecting investors. The report notes areas for improvement or clarification that FINRA will consider addressing through a combination of guidance, proposed rule modifications, process and administrative changes and technological updates to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the rules.