FINRA Slams Kenneth John Arellano: $5,000 Fine and 30-Day Ban
Kenneth John Arellano of Victor, New York, was subject to disciplinary measures in an enforcement action dated October 17, 2023, by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). By signing an Acceptance, Waiver, and Consent (AWC) with the regulatory body, Arellano consented to a $5,000 fine and a 30-day ban from associating with any FINRA member in any capacity.
The main accusation against Arellano was that he was responsible for his member firm’s incomplete bookkeeping and record-keeping. In particular, it was discovered that Arellano exchanged business communications about securities through a text messaging service that was not authorized by the company.
Sensitive information regarding the account balances and investment profiles of the customers was purportedly included in these communications. Arellano’s failure to keep copies of these communications, which is essential for businesses to comply with regulatory requirements and maintain an exhaustive record of their business activities, exacerbates the problem.
Notably, Arellano chose to accept the FINRA sanctions rather than acknowledge or dispute the findings. The regulatory action emphasizes how crucial it is for financial institutions to follow authorized channels of communication in order to guarantee adherence to legal requirements and industry standards.
Arellano consented to the suspension, which began on November 20, 2023, and is scheduled to end on December 19, 2023. Arellano is not allowed to interact in any way with any FINRA members during this time.
This disciplinary action protects investor interests and the overall stability of the financial markets by serving as a reminder of the regulatory vigilance maintained by the financial industry to uphold integrity, transparency, and adherence to prescribed standards.
Moreover, An update from Investment Adviser Public Disclosure states that Arellano agreed to charges that he led his member firm to keep incomplete books and records, without acknowledging or disputing the results.
This was purportedly accomplished by exchanging communications pertaining to securities, including sensitive customer information, via an unapproved text messaging service. The report also emphasized how he violated the firm’s record-keeping requirement by failing to keep copies of these correspondence.
Additionally, recent reports suggest that Arellano is presently being looked into for possible securities offenses. He allegedly received a letter from FINRA asking for more details regarding his behavior.
For investors who may have lost money with Arellano or who have questions about their brokerage accounts, a nationwide law firm specializing in investment loss claims is providing a complimentary consultation. The financial industry is under constant scrutiny, and regulatory non-compliance can have serious consequences. This investigation and offer for consultation highlight these issues.
SUMMARY REPORT: KENNETH JOHN ARELLANO
CASE SUMMARY | FIRMS/INDIVIDUALS | ACTION DATE |
Letter of acceptance, waiver, and consent for the Financial Industry Regulation Authority No. 2019064285601 RE: Kenneth John Arellano (Respondent) General Securities Representative and Investment Company and Variable Contracts Products Representative CRD No. 2660786 TO: Department of Enforcement Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Respondent Kenneth John Arellano submits this Letter of Acceptance, Waiver, and Consent (AWC) in accordance with FINRA Rule 9216 in order to suggest a settlement for the alleged rule violations listed below. CASE ID: 2019064285601 | KENNETH JOHN ARELLANO | 10/17/2023 |
CONCLUSION
To sum up, the acceptance of disciplinary measures by Kenneth John Arellano from FINRA highlights the importance of adhering to regulatory standards in the financial industry. A $5,000 fine and a 30-day suspension were imposed for the misuse of communication channels without authorization and for failing to keep accurate documentation.
The industry’s dedication to openness and the repercussions of breaking regulations are brought to light by Arellano’s noncompliance. A law firm’s offer of consultation and ongoing investigations demonstrate the financial industry’s ongoing vigilance and scrutiny.
Ultimately, protecting investor interests and preserving the stability of the larger financial markets depend heavily on the financial industry’s unwavering dedication to vigilance and adherence to regulatory standards. The story of Arellano serves as a warning, emphasizing the consequences of non-compliance and the continuous efforts to guarantee accountability in the financial industry.