How We Operate
FINRA is a not-for-profit, self-regulatory organization dedicated to investor protection and market integrity. Learn how our structure and operations safeguard investors.
Regulatory Operations
Protecting investors and safeguarding markets requires constant vigilance. FINRA’s three groups in Regulatory Operations oversee member firms, monitor market activity and, where appropriate, bring disciplinary actions. RegOps consists of three key units:
Member Supervision
Member Supervision conducts examinations of member firms to ensure compliance with securities regulations, reviews new firm applications and monitors for potential risks. Member Supervision encompasses Risk Monitoring, Examinations, National Cause and Financial Crimes Detection Programs (MCFC) and Member Applications Program (MAP).
Market Regulations and Transparency Services (MRTS)
MRTS leverages advanced market surveillance systems to identify manipulation and other misconduct. They also provide essential transparency to the equity and bond markets so investors can make informed decisions.
Enforcement
FINRA’s Department of Enforcement investigates potential securities violations and, when necessary, brings disciplinary actions against firms and individuals who break the rules. Find detailed information about their processes, priorities and resources on the Enforcement page.
Technology
In today's markets, data is everything. FINRA’s Technology team develops and maintains sophisticated tools that support FINRA's data-driven approach to oversight. From cloud computing and AI to innovative surveillance systems, they ensure we have the technological edge to monitor markets effectively. Discover how they empower our teams on the Technology page.
Office of Regulatory Economics and Market Analysis (REMA)
Our markets are ever evolving, and so must our rules. REMA conducts research and analysis to guide FINRA's rule making, helping our regulations reflect the realities of modern finance and protect investors in a changing landscape.
Office of the Chief Economists (OCE)
OCE uses research and analysis to shape FINRA’s rules and policies. OCE empowers decision-making by assessing economic impact and proactively protects investors by providing data-driven insights to Regulatory Operations.
Office of Financial Innovation (OFI)
OFI allows FINRA to navigate the rapidly changing securities landscape. By pinpointing emerging trends, especially in financial technology, OFI empowers FINRA to understand market shifts and adapt regulations to better serve our mission
Office of the Chief Legal Officer
The Office of the Chief Legal Officer forms the foundation of our regulatory framework. They write, interpret and help enforce the rules that govern all FINRA-registered broker-dealer firms and their individual representatives in the United States. Their work ensures a level playing field for all firms and investors. Among the groups within this department are Advertising Regulation, Corporate Financing and Credentialing, Registration, Education and Disclosure (CRED), responsible for administering 300,000 qualifications examinations (link) each year to ensure anyone who sells a securities product has been tested, qualified and is licensed for that purpose.
Credentialing, Registration, Education and Disclosure (CRED)
CRED is responsible for administering 300,000 qualifications examinations (link) each year to ensure anyone who sells a securities product has been tested, qualified and is licensed for that purpose. CRED also administers BrokerCheck, enabling members of the public to review the conduct of firms and individual representatives.
Member Relations & Education (MRE)
MRE fosters collaboration and understanding between FINRA and our member firms. They provide firms with tools and educational opportunities to help them understand and comply with their regulatory obligations, and help firms inform FINRA as to where those obligations need to adapt to meet changing markets and business practices.
Investor Education
We believe empowered investors make smarter decisions. The Office of Investor Education provides investors with the knowledge, skills and resources they need to protect their financial interests. This includes tools to spot fraud, educational programs and support for underserved communities through the FINRA Investor Education Foundation. Visit the Investor page to see more of their work.
Dispute Resolution Services (DRS)
When disputes arise, DRS provides a fair, efficient and cost-effective forum for resolving securities-related disagreements between investors, brokerage firms and registered representatives. Explore their commitment to impartial processes on the Arbitration and Mediation page.
Office of the Ombuds
FINRA’s Office of the Ombuds is an independent, neutral, and confidential resource for anyone with questions or concerns about FINRA. This group assists individuals who have questions or concerns about the activities of FINRA and its employees, believe the issue cannot be resolved through normal channels, or seek anonymity. Visit the Ombuds page for more information.