Ever wondered how to turn a regulatory exam into a strategic advantage? Join our discussion (Part 1 of 2) with former regulators Patrick Dennis, Evan Rosser, Ed Wegener, Jeffrey Hiller and Bill Reilly as they share their insights into what regulators consider when they come in to do exams, the art of managing document request lists, and how to enhance your firm’s credibility.

In this episode we'll explore:

• The shift in the role of risk analysts and how their insights are reshaping the scope and frequency of firm evaluations
• The various types of exams, from routine to for-cause and sweep exams
• The art of managing comprehensive request lists
• Why having a single point of contact for regulators within your firm is important
• How proactive communication and self-reporting enhances your firm’s credibility while fostering a collaborative relationship with regulators

Oyster Consulting has the expertise, experience and licensed professionals you need, all under one roof. Follow us on LinkedIn to take advantage of our industry insights or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

Does your firm need help now? Contact us today!

Unlock the secrets of crafting compliance manuals that truly work for your firm with insights from our regulatory compliance experts. Discover why using generic templates might be a recipe for disaster, and how aligning your written supervisory procedures with actual business practices can safeguard your firm's accountability and regulatory standing. In this episode you'll uncover:

• The top errors CCOs make with policy updates and procedural documentation. 
• How to ensure accurate and timely delivery of Form ADV, Form CRS, and 
  Reg BI Disclosures 
• Regulatory filing errors that can cost you 

Oyster Consulting has the expertise, experience and licensed professionals you need, all under one roof. Follow us on LinkedIn to take advantage of our industry insights or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

Does your firm need help now? Contact us today!

Listen to Part 1 of our two-part series on Common Compliance Mistakes as Oyster’s regulatory compliance experts uncover how to spot, prevent, and correct the following issues:

Communication Missteps: Closing the Gaps

• discover where CCOs often fall short in capturing off-channel communications such as texts and chat room interactions  
• gain practical measures every firm should adopt 

Marketing Compliance Challenges
 
 Marketing presents a minefield of compliance challenges. In this episode we will:

• identify common mistakes
• discuss the importance of routine reviews and updates to your firm’s marketing procedures
• share how to craft tailored disclosures in testimonials and endorsements to align with SEC requirements
• offer first-hand experiences with common issues during SEC exams

Oyster Consulting has the expertise, experience and licensed professionals you need, all under one roof. Follow us on LinkedIn to take advantage of our industry insights or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

Does your firm need help now? Contact us today!

Our latest episode of Oyster Stew features industry veterans Dan Garrett, Jeff Wilk and Tim Buckler, who share their insights into the complexities of vendor risk and data protection.  Discover how to protect client data amid the vulnerabilities brought by new vendors and implementing a robust strategy to ensure operational continuity and resilience.

 In this informative podcast, you’ll learn:

• the importance of using structured processes like detailed scorecards and questionnaires to align with security, compliance, and operational standards like GDPR and CCPA
• the critical role of data access controls, encryption standards and maintaining ownership of your data
• the importance of securing sensitive data, even when outsourcing your operations
• how to evaluate vendor capacity using a "trust, but verify" approach 
• the necessity of negotiating strong Service Level Agreements (SLAs) to ensure vendor accountability, especially concerning Personally Identifiable Information (PII) 

Equip your organization with the tools needed for success in vendor risk management. By incorporating recognized cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST and ISO into vendor contracts, your firm can stay ahead of emerging risks, including challenges posed by advancements in AI technology. Join us for essential insights that will arm your organization against the complexities of the digital world.

Oyster Consulting has the expertise, experience and licensed professionals you need, all under one roof. Follow us on LinkedIn to take advantage of our industry insights or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

Does your firm need help now? Contact us today!

Unlock the secrets of making informed technology decisions with Oyster Consulting’s technology experts Jeff Wilk and Dan Garrett, as they share their expertise in navigating the build vs. buy decision. Discover how understanding the hidden costs of software development can make or break your strategic planning, especially if your firm lacks technical expertise. Jeff and Dan provide insights into:

• Cost Considerations
• Team Dynamics and Culture
• Integration and Data Strategy
• Compliance and Security
• Managing Vendor Relationships

Oyster Consulting has the expertise, experience and licensed professionals you need, all under one roof. Follow us on LinkedIn to take advantage of our industry insights or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

Does your firm need help now? Contact us today!

Ever wondered how significant growth could impact your broker-dealer registration requirements? Join us as we unravel the complexities with industry experts Ed Wegner and Lisa Robinson. Lisa leverages her extensive experience as Senior Director of the FINRA Membership Application Program (MAP) group  to provide you with essential tips on registering your firm with FINRA and completing a Continuing Member Application. From identifying key triggers like acquisitions and substantial asset transfers to understanding the importance of resolving outstanding customer claims, this episode is packed with invaluable insights to help you make informed decisions during your firm's expansion journey.

Oyster Consulting has the expertise, experience and licensed professionals you need, all under one roof. Follow us on LinkedIn to take advantage of our industry insights or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

Does your firm need help now? Contact us today!

Adapting your infrastructure while managing your firm's growth can present unique challenges. Join Oyster’s Ed Wegener, Brent Nicks and Pete McAteer as they share their insights for scaling and sustaining growth. 

In this podcast you will: 

·         Gain firsthand insights into the complexities of rapid organic and inorganic expansion 

·         Examine the significance of understanding your firm's core strengths and growth goals, alongside the importance of a detailed due diligence checklist

·         Learn the importance of setting realistic expectations and managing the pace of acquisitions for seamless integration

·         Discover the value of a cohesive platform and the strategic importance of evaluating and upgrading your tech stack regularly

·         Understand the pivotal role played by key personnel like Chief Operations Officers and Compliance Officers in the onboarding process

·         Understand the importance of continual evaluation and adaptation, ensuring your firm’s growth is sustainable and aligned with its core mission and values 

This segment is all about balancing synergies and differences to effectively manage risks and integrate new practices, ensuring your firm's long-term success. Don’t miss these invaluable insights to help your firm thrive without compromising on operational efficiency and compliance.

Oyster Consulting has the expertise, experience and licensed professionals you need, all under one roof. Follow us on LinkedIn to take advantage of our industry insights or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

Does your firm need help now? Contact us today!

 Join us as Oyster’s Jeff Wilk and Envestnet Chief Relationship Officer and Group Head of Wealth Solutions and Asset Management Distribution, Andrew Stavaridis, bring you an insider’s perspective on the industry's technology evolution, from outdated point solutions to cutting-edge platforms that are accessible, modular, and perfectly tailored for mid-sized to smaller firms. 

Oyster Consulting has the expertise, experience and licensed professionals you need, all under one roof. Follow us on LinkedIn to take advantage of our industry insights or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

Does your firm need help now? Contact us today!

In this episode of the Oyster Stew podcast, our experts, Dan Garrett and Jay Donlin, take you on a deep dive into the world of custodians. We'll explore everything from full-service solutions that handle your middle office needs to niche players specializing in FinTech and money management. Whether you're a breakaway advisor, a FinTech firm, or an established registered investment advisor (RIA) looking to make a change, this podcast will equip you with the insights you need to make an informed decision. 

Oyster Consulting has the expertise, experience and licensed professionals you need, all under one roof. Follow us on LinkedIn to take advantage of our industry insights or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

Does your firm need help now? Contact us today!

Embarking on the path to becoming an RIA is an exhilarating time filled with opportunities and challenges, and our experts are here to guide you every step of the way. In this episode, we'll delve into essential aspects of the registration process and compliance requirements.  By addressing these critical components, you'll set a solid foundation for your firm's success. 

Oyster Consulting has the expertise, experience and licensed professionals you need, all under one roof. Follow us on LinkedIn to take advantage of our industry insights or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

Does your firm need help now? Contact us today!