Question

"A Registered Investment Adviser publishes a web-based newsletter. He is approached by a marketing firm for a list of the RIA's customers. The marketing firm is not going to pay for the customer list, but has agreed to give the RIA computer equipment that will be used in publishing the RIA's newsletter. This action is:A. permitted because it directly benefits the RIA's customersB. permitted because the SEC permits the payment of ""soft dollars""C. prohibited because the computer equipment qualifies for accelerated depreciation deductions under IRS rulesD. prohibited because the RIA did not get written permission from each client to release their information"

Answer 1

This action is prohibited because the RIA did not get written permission from each client to release their information

Explanation:

A Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) is an entity or company that advises and maintains the portfolios of extremely wealthy individuals on securities. RIAs have a responsibility to provide financial advice that is in the best financial interest of their investors and their clients. They are also under a moral responsibility.

RIA Customer names and addresses are confidential and may not be "sold" or transmitted to another party except with written prior approval of each user. The possibility that the RIA collects computer equipment and not cash paid for providing the customer list does not impact this breach