What are the rules governing the sale of securities?

In California, the sale of securities is regulated by the state’s Corporations Code and Regulations Commissioner. The purpose of these laws is to protect investors from fraudulent practices and ensure that securities are offered fairly and openly. Generally, people selling securities in California must be licensed and must act in a manner consistent with their obligations as professionals. For example, they must make sure that their sales presentations are fair and balanced and not misleading. They must give investors a prospectus containing information about the security being offered and the company’s financial condition. They must answer any questions about the security before the sale is completed. Some securities, such as stocks and bonds, must be registered with the state’s Department of Corporations before they can be sold. Companies must meet certain criteria before the department will approve their registration. Companies must also file with the department reports and financial statements. The state also requires that anyone selling securities must provide investors with certain documents. These include a written disclosure document that provides information on the risks associated with the security and the company’s financial condition. Finally, sellers must adhere to rules governing the offer and sale of securities, such as the prohibitions against fraud and manipulation. They must also adhere to the “suitability rule,” which requires that they sell securities only to investors whose financial situation justifies the purchase. By following these rules, sellers of securities in California can protect investors while ensuring that their sales activities protect the public interest.

Related FAQs

What is the difference between a registered and unregistered security?
What are the regulations governing the sale of securities?
What is the role of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) in regulating the securities industry?
How can I conduct due diligence before investing?
What are the warning signs of a Ponzi scheme?
What is the purpose of a registration statement?
What should I do if I am contacted by someone offering a "great" investment opportunity?
What is the difference between a Ponzi scheme and a legitimate investment?
How can I avoid being scammed by an investment adviser?
What is the difference between a qualified and a non-qualified investor?

Related Blog Posts

What is Investment Fraud Law? - July 31, 2023
Understanding Investment Fraud: A Primer for Investors - August 7, 2023
Protecting Your Investments from Fraudulent Practices - August 14, 2023
Recovering Your Money from Investment Fraud - August 21, 2023
The Psychology of Investment Fraud: How to Spot Scams - August 28, 2023