SEC Enforcement Co-Directors Outline Strategies And Initiatives

SEC Division of Enforcement ("Division") Co-Directors Stephanie Avakian and Steven Peikin highlighted current and future enforcement priorities.

In written testimony submitted to the U.S. House Subcommittee on Capital Markets, Securities and Investment, Ms. Avakian and Mr. Peikin confirmed the Division's focus on protecting main street investors, and explained that the Division established the Retail Strategy Task Force in order to deter misconduct and punish actions that harm retail investors. They said that the Division is focused on individual accountability, but also noted that an emphasis on retail investors will not divert from efforts to hold large institutions and other market participants accountable for harmful conduct.