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.

CONNECT WITH US


CONNECT WITH US


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

1 of

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+
hallway with light at end of tunnel

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

curved glass building looking up at a blue sky

Registered Investment Company 2020 Regulatory Recap

During the course of 2020, the SEC was active in proposing and adopting new rules. Beyond rulemaking, the SEC also issued exemptive orders and no-action letters of note, including actions related to COVID-19. Here, we highlight some of the SEC’s 2020 regulatory activities for registered investment companies.

Compliance Alert
  • Compliance
brexit 2

Operating in the UK Post-Brexit - A Guide for EEA Firms

The Brexit transition means in excess of 1,500 global firms need to adapt their business models and regulatory registration arrangements to continue operating within the UK. We outline details of the UK transitional regimes, the FCA’s expectations of international firms operating in the UK and the FCA authorisation process.

Article
  • Compliance
  • Brexit
highway at night from overhead

2021 Broker-Dealer Regulatory Filings Calendar

To help you stay on track with your firm’s FINRA reporting obligations, we’ve put together a printable calendar with key deadlines in addition to U.S. national holidays at a glance.

Article
  • Compliance
EU and UK Flags

Brexit: The Final Countdown - A Checklist for UK Investment Managers

With just days to go to the end of the transition period for the UK’s departure from the EU, we’ve developed a checklist of key considerations and activities that UK investment managers need to prepare.

Compliance Alert
  • Compliance
  • Brexit
highway at night from overhead

Hedge Fund Update: News You May Have Missed

In the second edition of ACA's Hedge Fund Update we cover recent industry news, regulatory updates, enforcement actions, and more.

Article
  • Compliance
highway at night from overhead

Making a List and Checking it Twice: Year-End Recap and Checklist for Compliance Officers

As you look ahead to 2021, take a look at a few of 2020’s key regulatory and industry highlights that may impact how you prioritize year-end compliance tasks, allocate resources, and plan future initiatives.

Article
  • Compliance

News

Cybersecurity Benchmarking Survey Lists Top Concerns and Preparedness Among Respondents

Our annual survey in partnership with NSCP reveals that investment firms overlook AI as a cybersecurity risk and remain wary about SEC cybersecurity enforcement and compliance with new rules

ACA Group Launches Dedicated Practice Group Providing GRC Solutions for Wealth Managers

ACA Wealth sets a new standard in GRC support for wealth managers, providing unmatched expertise and comprehensive solutions to address evolving regulatory requirements.

ACA's Celebration of Women's Impact from History to Herstory

ACA proudly joins the global celebration of International Women's History Month, commemorating the remarkable achievements and enduring legacies of women worldwide.

Upcoming events