Crypto assets—also known as digital assets—are assets that are issued or transferred using distributed ledger or blockchain technology. They include, but are not limited to, so-called “virtual currencies,” “coins,” and “tokens.” A particular crypto asset may or may not meet definition of a “security” under the federal securities laws. FINRA rules that relate to securities, or that do not depend on securities status, may impose obligations on the crypto asset-related activities of member firms and associated persons.
Keeping crypto assets safe involves a different set of challenges than keeping your cash, stocks or bonds secure. It’s important to learn about the different ways to store crypto assets.
Like any other investment, employee stock awards come with risks. What should you consider if your company grants you a stock award or you're considering a job that includes equity compensation?
If you own crypto assets, or are considering doing so, it’s valuable to have at least a basic understanding of blockchain, the technology protocol that powers most cryptocurrencies, including bitcoin and ethereum. Blockchain uses computer code to create, maintain and update information shared by blockchain participants.
Have you ever thought about how online stock trading works? Once you hit enter on an order to buy or sell a stock, what happens next? There might be more steps in the stock trade process than you realize.
Invest in what you know. It’s a common investing adage, and employees might think they know their employer better than anyone else. But should you invest in your company’s stock? Owning a stake in the company you work for might have some advantages. However, there are risks you should consider.
FINRA has seen a recent significant spike in investor complaints resulting from recommendations made by fraudulent “investment groups” promoted through social media channels. Complaints describe bad actors, posing as registered investment advisers, who advertise “stock investment groups” on Instagram and other social media channels and then turn to encrypted group chats on WhatsApp to communicate with interested investors and pitch investments.
With over 20,000 companies whose shares trade either on a U.S. exchange or in over-the-counter markets, there’s ample room for confusion. Fundamental research and an understanding about the way in which stocks are listed and traded can go a long way toward helping you make sound investment decisions.
Last summer, we introduced listeners to FINRA’s Crypto Hub, an enterprise-wide strategy for keeping up with the evolving crypto asset regulatory landscape. On this episode, we have three members of the hub join us to provide an update on that work to dig into the results of a recent survey of member firms regarding their crypto asset touch points to tell us about the new spot Bitcoin ETP market and more.
Don’t trust that unexpected text or direct message from a stranger—it might be the first step in a “pig butchering” scam. These scams often involve fraudsters contacting targets seemingly at random, then gaining trust before ultimately manipulating their targets into phony investments and disappearing with the funds.
