Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to summarize and discuss FINRA Rule 2821, which covers broker‐dealer sales practices with respect to purchases and exchanges of deferred variable annuities. Design/methodology/approach – The paper describes the transactions to which the rule applies;...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to summarize and analyze the SEC's July 9, 2008 roundtable discussion regarding fair value accounting and auditing standards. Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses investor, auditor/accountant/actuary, and corporation views concerning the...

Purpose – To describe and analyze in detail an Interpretive Release (the “2006 Interpretation”) approved on July 12, 2006 by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) regarding the soft dollar safe harbor under Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934....

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to summarize and explain amendments to SEC Regulation SHO adopted on June 13, 2007 Design/methodology/approach – The paper explains elimination of “grandfather” exception to Reg SHO close‐out requirement, explains proposed amendments to options...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to summarize key provisions of the CFTC Reauthorization Act of 2008 which reauthorizes the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) through the year 2013 and substantially enhances the CFTC's authority in several areas. Design/methodology/approach –...