Registration, Authorization, and Initial Filing Services

The registration or application process can seem lengthy, overwhelming, and daunting. Whether you seek authorization for the first time or are an established regulated firm looking to move into a new line of business, we can help you avoid unnecessary complications and delays.

Our team will simplify the process by assisting with your initial application or filing, supporting the set-up and implementation of your compliance program, and providing ongoing support.

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Our solutions

We offer SEC, FINRA, CFTC and NFA, and state registration as well as FCA authorization support services. Or if you are launching a new investment management firm, or extending an existing venture, we also offer regulatory hosting through ACA Mirabella.

SEC Registration Support

SEC requires certain investment advisers to register with the SEC and to establish and maintain an adequate compliance program. Our team will assist your firm with the initial Form ADV filing, annual Form ADV amendments, and the set up and maintenance of an adequate and effective compliance program.

FINRA Registration Support

Broker-dealers are required to register with the FINRA and establish an adequate compliance program. We'll assist with the initial broker-dealer application filing, CRD training, and preparation of compliance and supervisory procedures. In addition, our team can assist existing broker-dealers with a Change in Membership (CMA) application with FINRA.

NFA Registration Support

If you're seeking CFTC registration and National Futures Association (NFA) membership our team includes former NFA examiners who can guide you through the relevant steps in the registration process and assist with the development and implementation of your commodity interest-related compliance program.

Our dedicated team can help you seek authorization and apply for your Part 4A Permission.

With experience of supporting hundreds of firms through the process, providing support before, during, and after the application, we can help you avoid unnecessary complications and delays.  

A London-based regional practice, providing RIAs and ERAs a unique offering of on-the-ground, comprehensive SEC compliance support. 

This specialist team has conducted more than 250 mock SEC examinations and compliance program reviews, and provided support to more than 100 financial services firms registered with a range of European regulators.

If you wish to submit a full FCA license or a third-country branch application, our Brexit team is on hand to help.

We will draft the FCA application package, prepare for meetings with the regulator where required, and respond to FCA due diligence requests. 

For firms wishing to launch a new venture, we offer regulatory hosting through ACA Mirabella.

This multi-award winning platform is the the industry’s preferred institutional-quality solution for regulatory incubation because of the strong oversight and controls the team brings to each organisation’s project. Mirabella enables firms to get up and running quickly by operating under its regulatory agency

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Who we've helped

With a client base of over 3,500 firms, we've successfully assisted thousands of firms through the registration and authorization process.

SEC Registrations for U.S. Firms

700+

SEC Registrations for Non-U.S. Based Firms

100+

FCA Authorizations

350+
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Why work with us?

Our team includes former SEC, FINRA, FCA, NFA, CFTC, OCC, and state regulators along with former along with former Chief Compliance Officers and senior compliance managers from prominent financial institutions. We offer a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape and the holistic use of technology to maximize efficiencies and provide true value. 

With ACA, you can feel confident knowing that your consultants have the relevant and current regulatory and in-house expertise to support you through every step of the process.

Latest insights

Bank

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals Rules to Vacate the SEC's Private Fund Adviser Rules

Although the court ruled to vacated the SEC's Private Fund Adviser Rules, we do not see this as a moment to "put pencils down,” but rather to monitor closely and continue with compliance readiness under potential appeal outcomes.

Compliance Alert
  • Compliance
  • SEC
  • Private Fund
ACA View

The Overseas Funds Regime

Marketing a new fund in the UK that is domiciled overseas to retail investors is about to change. New EEA UCITS could be coming to market in the UK by November, 2024.

Article
  • FCA
  • Compliance
curved glass building looking up at a blue sky

Changes Coming to the NFA’s Member Questionnaire (Formerly Known as the Annual Questionnaire)

New amendments adopted by the NFA will require individuals who are both a principal and an associated person to review, sign, and submit the Member Questionnaire.

Compliance Alert
  • Compliance
curved glass building looking up at a blue sky

FINRA Maintenance Margin Requirements Become Effective May 22, 2024

FINRA’s amendments to Rule 4210 requires members to collect margin for each counterparty's excess mark or market loss related to covered agency transactions.

Compliance Alert
  • Compliance
  • FINRA
London at night

Ten Advantages of Pursuing FCA Authorisation

We outline ten reasons why seeking FCA authorisation can bring benefits beyond compliance, including enhanced credibility, market access, investor confidence, and long-term sustainability.

Article
  • FCA
  • Compliance
curved glass building looking up at a blue sky

SEC Examinations Division to Evaluate Firms’ Readiness for T+1

The SEC Examinations Division issued a risk alert reminding broker-dealers, clearing agencies, and investment advisers of their new obligations in connection with the transition to T+1 settlement of certain securities transactions.

Compliance Alert
  • Compliance
  • SEC

News

Advisers’ Concerns of Off-Channel Communications Surpasses the Marketing Rule as Top Compliance Concern, Survey Reveals

Advisers’ concerns of off-channel communications eclipsed the Marketing Rule as the top compliance concern, according to the 2024 Investment Management Compliance Testing Survey.

ACA Group Named Most Preferred Workplace by Marksmen/India Today 2024-2025

ACA Honored with Marksmen/India Today Award for Most Preferred Workplace for 2024-2025

Apex Group and ACA Form Strategic Partnership to Enhance Client Experience

Apex Group and ACA form strategic partnership to enhance client experience. The alliance enables clients to seamlessly identify a reputable service provider that will help support and protect their business.

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