These Two State Regulators Serve as Financial Markets’ Primary First Responders

Posted on April 26th, 2023 at 1:35 PM
These Two State Regulators Serve as Financial Markets’ Primary First Responders

From the desk of Jim Eccleston at Eccleston Law 

Two state securities regulators frequently stand out as “First Responders.” 

While the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and First Republic’s tumble has sent shockwaves across financial markets, a Massachusetts-based securities regulator was among the first to initiate an investigation of First Republic. 

Massachusetts Secretary of State William Galvin launched an investigation into potential inside trading at First Republic, which has branch offices in Massachusetts. Galvin cited his concerns regarding allegedly risky lending and business practices employed by First Republic. Also, Galvin noted that First Republic’s receipt of $30 billion from several large banks does not serve to ease concerns. Galvin’s First Republic investigation is an example of how state regulators can serve as first responders to potential investor harm before the SEC or FINRA become involved.

Another prominent state regulator is the director of the Alabama Securities Commission, Joseph Borg, who previously served as president of the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA). According to Borg in a recent interview, “We’re usually the first ones on the scene when it comes to retail investors. We see [malfeasance] from the ground level. That doesn’t mean we understand all the nuances. But we see there are issues and we can bring them to the forefront and where needed combine the resources of the 53 U.S. jurisdictions.” State securities regulators, such as Borg, were instrumental in designing a plan to strengthen Robinhood’s customer support after the company agreed to a $10.2 million settlement with federal regulators in 2022. “We wanted to make sure they’re progressing on their improvements rather than issuing an order first”, Borg said. While Borg is expected to retire next month, Amanda Senn is set to serve as Borg’s successor.

 

Eccleston Law LLC represents financial advisors and investors nationwide in securities, employment, transition, regulatory and disciplinary matters.

  

Tags: eccleston, eccleston law

Return to Archive

TESTIMONIALS

Previous
Next

I learned two important things working with Eccleston Law. First, I made a friend and ally with Jim and Steph for life. Secondly, and this is a crucial life lesson - if you need counsel, then seek out the very best. Jim was referred to me by a most trusted source. I've never had to hire an attorney for anything. Now, I know the value of hiring an important partner. Meticulous, thorough and detailed in preparation is the best way to describe Jim. Brilliant too, I might add. Bottom line, I would highly highly recommend Jim and Stephany for your legal needs. One of the best life decisions I've ever made.

Howard S.

LATEST NEWS AND ARTICLES

November 7, 2025
FINRA Suspends Former Wells Fargo Broker Over Unapproved Real Estate Venture

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) suspended former Wells Fargo broker George J. Cairnes for four months and fined him $25,000 for engaging in unapproved real estate outside business activity, according to a settlement letter issued.

November 6, 2025
Former Ameriprise Broker Ordered to Pay $2.2 Million for Elder Exploitation

A Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) arbitration panel has ordered Eric A. Dupre to pay nearly $2.2 million in damages to his former firm and two customers following allegations of theft and elder exploitation.

November 5, 2025
Former Wells Fargo Representative Suspended for Unauthorized Texting and Obstruction

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) has suspended former Wells Fargo representative Eyan M. Townsend for one year and fined him $10,000 for using personal text messages to conduct business and attempting to obstruct an internal investigation by deleting those communications.