Nov 7, 2025

Northwestern Mutual Advisor Ryan Ainsworth Under Investigation For Alleged Misrepresentation

Ryan Ned Ainsworth, CRD# 5740339, is currently the subject of a customer dispute alleging misrepresentation, breach of fiduciary duty, breach of contract, negligent misrepresentation, and covenant of good faith and fair dealing violations connected to advisory accounts and mutual fund transactions. Our firm is investigating Northwestern Mutual Investment Services broker and investment adviser Ryan Ainsworth of Gilbert, Arizona, for potential investment-related misconduct. Financial Advisor’s Career History Ryan Ainsworth has been registered with Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (CRD#: 2881) since 2011, working primarily from branch offices in Washington and Arizona. His career includes roles as a registered representative, financial advisor, and insurance agent affiliated with various Northwestern Mutual entities. He holds licenses in 17 U.S. states and territories and has passed the SIE, Series 6, Series 63, and Series 65 examinations. Past and current positions include: Ryan Ned Ainsworth Fraud Allegations and Investor Complaints Explained According to FINRA disclosure records, Ainsworth has one settled customer dispute involving serious allegations related to his conduct. Customer Dispute – Settled Summary of Disclosures To obtain a copy of Ryan Ainsworth’s FINRA BrokerCheck report, visit this link. Robert Wayne Pearce Is Committed to Recovering Your Investment Losses FINRA Rules Implicated Ruling Part 1 Based on the allegations of misrepresentation and negligent misrepresentation, FINRA Rule 2020 (“Use of Manipulative, Deceptive or Other Fraudulent Devices”) is relevant. This rule prohibits brokers from engaging in any fraudulent or deceptive act in connection with the purchase or sale of securities. If a broker provides inaccurate or misleading information that influences an investor’s decisions, such conduct may constitute a violation of Rule 2020. Ruling Part 2 The alleged breach of fiduciary duty and breach of contract may implicate FINRA Rule 2010, which requires brokers to observe “high standards of commercial honor and just and equitable principles of trade.” Failure to act in a customer’s best interest, failure to disclose material information, or failure to execute duties with honesty and fairness can violate Rule 2010. Ruling Part 3 Allegations relating to advisory account mismanagement may also fall under FINRA Rule 2111 (“Suitability”). This rule requires that any securities recommendation must be suitable based on the customer’s investment profile. If unsuitable recommendations or failure to properly consider a client’s financial situation occurred, Rule 2111 may apply. The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A. is a nationally recognized securities law firm representing investors in FINRA arbitration and securities fraud cases on a contingency fee basis. Robert Wayne Pearce, the founding attorney, has more than 45 years of experience recovering millions for victims of broker misconduct and investment fraud. He previously defended major brokerage firms and now uses that insight to protect investors nationwide. To discuss your case directly with Mr. Pearce, call (800) 732-2889 or email pearce@rwpearce.com for a free consultation.

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Nov 7, 2025

Calton & Associates, Inc. — John Raymond Drabek — Under Investigation For Customer Disputes Alleging Unsuitable non-traded REITs Recommendations and Related Sales Practice Violations

Our firm is investigating former Calton & Associates, Inc. broker John Raymond Drabek (CRD# 1335813) of Mesa, Arizona for potential investment-related misconduct. Financial Advisor’s Career History Based on FINRA’s BrokerCheck file, Mr. Drabek is not currently registered. His prior registration and employment history includes: John Drabek Fraud Allegations and Investor Complaints Explained FINRA records show two customer dispute disclosures involving Mr. Drabek: 2023–2024 Customer Arbitration (Settled): 2012–2013 Customer Arbitration (Settled): Disclosure Snapshot (for context): Key Dates & Exams (relevant background): Mr. Drabek passed the Series 7 (01/19/1985), Series 24 (01/30/2003), SIE (10/01/2018), Series 63 (02/11/1985), and Series 66 (12/14/2009). To obtain a copy of John Raymond Drabek’s FINRA BrokerCheck report, visit this link. Robert Wayne Pearce Is Committed to Recovering Your Investment Losses FINRA Rule 2111 (Suitability): Rule 2111 requires that a broker have a reasonable basis to believe a recommended transaction or investment strategy is suitable for the customer, based on the customer’s investment profile (including risk tolerance, liquidity needs, time horizon, and financial situation). Allegations of unsuitable recommendations in non-traded REITs—like those involving Griffin Realty Trust and CIM Real Estate Finance Trust—raise Rule 2111 concerns because such products often entail illiquidity, distribution sustainability issues, valuation opacity, and heightened risks that may be inconsistent with many investors’ profiles. When customers claim significant losses or illiquidity from these products, arbitrators frequently assess whether the broker satisfied reasonable-basis and customer-specific suitability obligations, and whether the risks were fairly presented. FINRA Rule 3110 (Supervision): Rule 3110 mandates that firms establish and maintain a supervisory system reasonably designed to achieve compliance with applicable securities laws and FINRA rules. Customer allegations of failure to supervise often accompany unsuitable-recommendation cases, particularly where a pattern of sales in higher-risk, complex or illiquid products appears in a broker’s book without adequate pre-approval, product training, concentration reviews, exception reporting, or principal-level scrutiny. If supervisory lapses contributed to the disputed recommendations or concentrations, Rule 3110 issues may be implicated at the firm level. FINRA Rule 2010 (Standards of Commercial Honor and Principles of Trade) & Rule 2020 (Use of Manipulative, Deceptive or Other Fraudulent Devices): Allegations such as misrepresentation, negligence, and breach of contract may also touch Rule 2010’s broad requirement to observe high standards of commercial honor and just and equitable principles of trade. Where customers assert that material risks, fees, liquidity limits, or distribution practices of non-traded REITs were omitted or misstated, arbitrators sometimes analyze whether the conduct violated Rule 2010 and, in more severe cases of deceptive conduct, Rule 2020. The precise application depends on the facts proved in each dispute record and hearing. For over 45 years, Robert Wayne Pearce has helped investors recover losses caused by broker fraud, negligence, and unsuitable recommendations. His firm, The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., represents clients nationwide on a no-recovery, no-fee basis. Call (800) 732-2889 or email pearce@rwpearce.com for a free case review with an experienced securities attorney.

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Nov 7, 2025

Dominari Securities — Kyle Michael Wool — Under Investigation For Alleged Unauthorized Trading, Unsuitability, and IPO Allocation Issues

Our firm is investigating Dominari Securities broker and investment advisor Kyle Michael Wool (CRD# 4238101) of New York, New York for potential investment-related misconduct. Financial Advisor’s Career History Mr. Wool is currently registered with Dominari Securities LLC (since April 18, 2023) in New York, NY. Previously, he was registered with Revere Securities LLC (Jan 2021–Apr 2023), Morgan Stanley (May/Jun 2013–Feb 2021, including Morgan Stanley Private Bank roles), Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. (Mar 2005–May 2013), Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. (Jun 2003–Apr 2005), Sands Brothers & Co., Ltd. (Apr 2002–Nov 2003), Global Capital Securities Corporation (Jan 2001–Mar 2002), and Global Capital Markets, LLC (Jul 2000–Jan 2001). Kyle Michael Wool Fraud Allegations and Investor Complaints Explained Based on FINRA’s BrokerCheck disclosures for Mr. Wool, the record reflects multiple customer disputes across several firms and time periods. Details and outcomes are summarized below. Key Disclosures (chronological highlights) Bullet-Point Disclosure Snapshot Note: FINRA reports may include contested, unresolved, or unproven allegations and parallel entries from different reporting sources (firm vs. broker). Final outcomes can differ from initial allegations. To obtain a copy of Kyle Michael Wool’s FINRA BrokerCheck report, visit this link. Our investigation focuses on whether losses tied to the disputes above resulted from sales-practice violations and whether investors have viable recovery options through FINRA arbitration. Robert Wayne Pearce Is Committed to Recovering Your Investment Losses FINRA Rule 2111 (Suitability). When a broker recommends a transaction or strategy, the recommendation must be suitable based on the customer’s investment profile (e.g., risk tolerance, objectives, time horizon). Allegations of unsuitable portfolios (e.g., 2006–2009 claims at Oppenheimer) and equity purchases not aligned with safety/emergency objectives (2003–2004 at RJFS) raise Rule 2111 concerns, including whether the broker had a reasonable basis for recommendations and whether the mix/turnover of securities fit the client’s profile. FINRA Rule 3260(b) (Discretionary Accounts & Unauthorized Trading). This rule restricts brokers from exercising discretion in customer accounts without prior written authorization and firm approval. Unauthorized trading allegations (e.g., 2020–2021 at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney) squarely implicate Rule 3260(b). The analysis looks at trade timing/size, absence of documented consent, and whether any “time and price” exceptions apply. FINRA Rule 2010 (Standards of Commercial Honor and Principles of Trade). Rule 2010 is a broad conduct standard. When complaints allege conversion, material misrepresentations/omissions, or mishandled IPO allocations (e.g., Dominari 2025), adjudicators often pair specific rules (e.g., 2111, 2090, 3110, 4330(a)) with Rule 2010 to address overall fairness and ethical obligations. Supervisory obligations under Rule 3110 may also be implicated where firm oversight of the broker’s activity is at issue. References to Reg BI may also arise when recommendations to retail customers are involved. For over 45 years, Robert Wayne Pearce has helped investors recover losses caused by broker fraud, negligence, and unsuitable recommendations. His firm, The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., represents clients nationwide on a no-recovery, no-fee basis. Call (800) 732-2889 or email pearce@rwpearce.com for a free case review with an experienced securities attorney.

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Nov 7, 2025

Morgan Stanley Broker Mohammed Arif Salim Under Investigation For Alleged Unauthorized Sales and Improper Customer Funds Transfers; FINRA Bar Following Refusal to Testify

Our firm is investigating Morgan Stanley broker and investment adviser Mohammed Arif Salim (CRD# 7126671) of New York, New York for potential investment-related misconduct. Financial Advisor’s Career History Mohammed A. Salim Fraud Allegations and Investor Complaints Explained FINRA Regulatory Bar (July 1, 2025) According to FINRA, Salim entered into an Acceptance, Waiver & Consent (AWC) on July 1, 2025 and consented to a bar in all capacities after he refused to appear for on-the-record (OTR) testimony in a FINRA investigation tied to his firm’s Form U5 filing. FINRA noted the Form U5 disclosed “concerns related to unauthorized sales, and funds transfers from a customer’s account to the representative’s creditors.” Although Salim initially cooperated, he ceased doing so, leading to the bar. Case No. 2024083984501. Employment Separation After Allegations (October 10, 2024) Salim was discharged by MSWM on October 10, 2024 based on allegations of unauthorized sales and transfers of customer funds to the representative’s creditors. Product type noted: No Product. Summary of Reported FINRA Disclosures To obtain a copy of Mohammed A. Salim’s FINRA BrokerCheck report, visit this link. Robert Wayne Pearce Is Committed to Recovering Your Investment Losses FINRA Rule 8210 (Provision of Information and Testimony) empowers FINRA to require associated persons to provide documents and appear for OTR testimony during investigations. Refusing to appear—as alleged here—is an independent violation and commonly results in a bar, regardless of the underlying misconduct being investigated. In Salim’s case, the AWC-based bar flowed from his refusal to provide OTR testimony concerning the Form U5 allegations. FINRA Rule 2010 (Standards of Commercial Honor and Principles of Trade) requires high standards of conduct. Unauthorized sales and any improper movement of customer funds to satisfy a representative’s personal creditors, if proven, would breach Rule 2010 because such acts are inconsistent with just and equitable principles of trade, harm customers, and undermine market integrity. The employment discharge citing those allegations reflects the seriousness with which firms and regulators view such conduct. FINRA Rule 2150 (Improper Use of Customers’ Securities or Funds; Prohibition Against Guarantees and Sharing in Accounts) prohibits the conversion or improper use of customer funds. Allegations that money moved from a customer account to the representative’s creditors—if substantiated—squarely implicate Rule 2150’s bar on misuse of customer assets, and, together with Rule 2010, can support strong remedial sanctions and investor recovery theories. For broader background on examinations and investigations, see this overview of FINRA investigations. For over 45 years, Robert Wayne Pearce has helped investors recover losses caused by broker fraud, negligence, and unsuitable recommendations. His firm, The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., represents clients nationwide on a no-recovery, no-fee basis. Call (800) 732-2889 or email pearce@rwpearce.com for a free case review with an experienced securities attorney.

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Nov 7, 2025

Stifel, Nicolaus & Company Broker Chuck Roberts Under Investigation for Alleged Structured Product Misconduct and FINRA Bar

Our firm is investigating former Stifel, Nicolaus & Company broker and financial advisor Chuck A. Roberts (CRD#: 2064602) of Miami, Florida, for alleged investment-related misconduct involving unsuitable recommendations of structured notes and other complex products. Roberts, who previously worked at major firms such as Morgan Stanley, Citigroup Global Markets, and Oppenheimer, was barred by FINRA in July 2025 after refusing to cooperate with an on-the-record testimony request during an investigation into numerous customer disputes totaling tens of millions of dollars. Financial Advisor’s Career History Chuck Roberts entered the securities industry in 1990 and spent over three decades with several major Wall Street firms. His registration history includes: Chuck A. Roberts Fraud Allegations and Investor Complaints Explained FINRA Bar (2025) In July 2025, FINRA permanently barred Roberts from the industry after he refused to appear for on-the-record testimony in connection with an investigation into customer arbitrations alleging his structured product recommendations were not in clients’ best interests and that he misrepresented product risks. The regulatory action (Case No. 2023079140201) resulted in a permanent industry bar under an Acceptance, Waiver, and Consent (AWC) resolution. Prior FINRA Sanctions (2010) In 2010, Roberts was censured, fined $40,000, and suspended for four weeks for violating NASD Rules 2110, 2790, and 3110. The findings stated he knew that sales assistants had replaced customer email addresses with their own, which caused trade confirmations to be misdirected, and that he failed to disclose related-party accounts under his management. State-Level Action – Illinois (2010) The Illinois Securities Department also initiated a revocation proceeding based on the same conduct, which resulted in a $1,000 fine and dismissal of further sanctions. Roberts agreed to abide by FINRA-imposed IPO trading restrictions. Customer Disputes Roberts has been the subject of 36 customer disputes, with at least eight settled and several resulting in multi-million-dollar FINRA arbitration awards. Allegations consistently involved unsuitable recommendations, breach of fiduciary duty, misrepresentation and fraud related to structured notes and alternative investments. Major Disclosures Include: Summary of Disclosures The disciplinary record for Chuck A. Roberts reveals a pattern of unsuitable recommendations, misrepresentations, and regulatory violations spanning more than a decade. Investors alleging losses tied to Roberts’ structured note recommendations or other investment strategies may have legal grounds for recovery through FINRA arbitration. To obtain a copy of Chuck A. Roberts’ FINRA BrokerCheck report, visit this link. Robert Wayne Pearce Is Committed to Recovering Your Investment Losses FINRA Rule 8210 – Failure to Cooperate Roberts’ 2025 permanent bar was issued under FINRA Rule 8210, which authorizes the regulator to compel brokers to provide testimony and documents. His refusal to appear constituted a violation of Rule 8210 and Rule 2010, resulting in the most severe industry sanction—a permanent bar. FINRA Rule 2110 – Standards of Commercial Honor The 2010 suspension involved breaches of Rule 2110, which requires members to observe high standards of commercial honor and just principles of trade. Roberts’ conduct—allowing falsified customer contact records—demonstrated a failure to uphold basic ethical obligations in client communications. NASD Rule 3110 – Supervision & Recordkeeping Roberts was also found to have caused his firm’s violation of SEC Rule 17a-3 and NASD Rule 3110, which require accurate books and records of customer accounts. The manipulation of client emails and failure to disclose related accounts reflect deficient supervisory practices and inadequate compliance oversight. For over 45 years, Robert Wayne Pearce has helped investors recover losses caused by broker fraud, negligence, and unsuitable recommendations. His firm, The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., represents clients nationwide. Call (800) 732-2889 or email Attorney Pearce for a free case review with an experienced securities attorney. Call (800) 732-2889 or email pearce@rwpearce.com for a free case review with an experienced securities attorney.

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Nov 6, 2025

Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC Financial Advisor Michael Gene Gibson Under Investigation for Alleged Unsuitable Investment Recommendations in FINRA Complaint

Our firm is investigating Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC and Strategic Advisers LLC broker and investment adviser Michael Gibson (CRD# 4423740) of Sarasota, Florida for potential investment-related misconduct. Financial Advisor’s Career History Michael Gibson is currently registered with Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC (since March 16, 2017) and Strategic Advisers LLC (current registration effective March 31, 2025) with a branch office at 201 N Cattlemen Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243. He is licensed with two SROs and in numerous U.S. states and territories, and he holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. Prior registrations include: Michael Gibson Fraud Allegations and Investor Complaints Explained FINRA-reported customer dispute (Pending): FINRA-reported financial disclosures (Final): Summary of Disclosures (per FINRA) To obtain a copy of Michael Gibson’s FINRA BrokerCheck report, visit this link. Robert Wayne Pearce Is Committed to Recovering Your Investment Losses Why investors contact our firm Investors harmed by alleged unsuitable recommendations or other misconduct may be able to pursue recovery through FINRA arbitration or litigation. We investigate timelines, products, and supervisory red flags to build the strongest possible case. What we look for in these cases We evaluate the suitability profile (customer’s age, financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs), product characteristics, and whether the firm supervised the recommendations consistent with FINRA rules. In the context of the allegations above, several FINRA rules commonly apply: FINRA Rule 2111 (Suitability). Rule 2111 requires that a broker have a reasonable basis to believe a recommendation is suitable for a customer based on the customer’s investment profile. When a customer alleges unsuitable recommendations (2006–2008), the analysis focuses on whether the products’ risks, costs, and concentration fit the customer’s objectives and risk tolerance at that time, and whether the broker performed reasonable diligence on the products and matched them properly to the client’s profile. FINRA Rule 2010 (Standards of Commercial Honor and Principles of Trade). Even when a rule-specific violation is not proven, conduct that falls short of high standards of commercial honor and just and equitable principles of trade may violate Rule 2010. Allegations of recommending mismatched or overly risky strategies, mischaracterizing risk, or failing to consider costs can implicate Rule 2010 when tied to unsuitable activity. FINRA Rule 3110 (Supervision). If the alleged unsuitability occurred while the broker was associated with a firm, supervisory systems are examined. Firms must establish and maintain a system to supervise activities reasonably designed to achieve compliance with securities laws and FINRA rules. In cases like the one pending in Ventura County, California, investigators review whether the firm’s reviews, exception reports, and approvals were adequate to detect or prevent unsuitable recommendations. For over 45 years, Robert Wayne Pearce has helped investors recover losses caused by broker fraud, negligence, and unsuitable recommendations. His firm, The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., represents clients nationwide on a no-recovery, no-fee basis. Call (800) 732-2889 or email pearce@rwpearce.com for a free case review with an experienced securities attorney.

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Nov 6, 2025

Emerson Equity LLC Financial Advisor Joshua Chapin Under Investigation for Alleged Negligence and Breach of Fiduciary Duty in FINRA Complaint

Our firm is investigating Emerson Equity LLC broker and investment advisor Joshua David Chapin (CRD# 5825638) of Irvine, California, for potential investment-related misconduct. Financial Advisor’s Career History According to FINRA BrokerCheck, Joshua D. Chapin began his securities career in December 2010 with NYLIFE Securities LLC in San Pedro, California. Over the years, he has worked for several financial firms, including: Employment History: Chapin is currently registered as a General Securities Representative and Investment Adviser Representative with Emerson Equity LLC and is licensed in 16 U.S. states and territories, including California, Florida, Texas, and New York Joshua D. Chapin Fraud Allegations and Investor Complaints Explained According to FINRA’s Central Registration Depository (CRD), Joshua D. Chapin has two pending customer disputes, both related to alleged real estate securities misconduct while employed at Emerson Equity LLC Disclosure 1 – FINRA Case #25-01960 Disclosure 2 – FINRA Case #25-01799 Summary of Disclosures To obtain a copy of Joshua D. Chapin’s FINRA BrokerCheck report, visit this link. Robert Wayne Pearce Is Committed to Recovering Your Investment Losses Understanding the FINRA Rules Implicated FINRA Rule 2010 – Standards of Commercial Honor and Principles of Trade FINRA Rule 2010 requires that all members and associated persons “observe high standards of commercial honor and just and equitable principles of trade.” Allegations of negligence and breach of fiduciary duty in customer accounts may constitute violations of this rule when brokers fail to act in the best interests of their clients or make unsuitable recommendations involving real estate securities. FINRA Rule 2111 – Suitability FINRA Rule 2111 mandates that brokers must have a reasonable basis to believe that an investment recommendation is suitable for the customer. The pending complaints against Joshua Chapin allege unsuitable recommendations in real estate investment products, potentially exposing clients to excessive risk or illiquidity that did not align with their financial objectives. FINRA Rule 2020 – Use of Manipulative, Deceptive, or Other Fraudulent Devices This rule prohibits brokers from engaging in fraudulent or misleading conduct. Allegations of misrepresentation, omission of material facts, or common law fraud as cited in the pending arbitration claims may represent violations of Rule 2020 if proven true during the FINRA proceedings. For over 45 years, Robert Wayne Pearce has helped investors recover losses caused by broker fraud, negligence, and unsuitable recommendations. His firm, The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., represents clients nationwide on a no-recovery, no-fee basis. Call (800) 732-2889 or email pearce@rwpearce.com for a free case review with an experienced securities attorney.

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Nov 4, 2025

J. Alden Associates Broker Nathan Goad Under Investigation for Misrepresentation and Breach of Fiduciary Duty

Our firm is investigating J. Alden Associates broker and investment advisor Nathan Goad (CRD# 5421740) of Wayne, Pennsylvania for potential investment-related misconduct and alleged breach of fiduciary duty in connection with multiple customer disputes currently pending with FINRA Arbitration. Financial Advisor’s Career History According to FINRA’s BrokerCheck report, Nathan Goad is currently registered as a broker and investment advisor with J. Alden Associates, Inc. and Alden Investment Group, operating primarily out of offices in Wayne, PA and Largo, FL. Employment History: Goad has been licensed in Florida, Arizona, and North Carolina, and has passed the Series 6, Series 7, Series 63, and Series 65 exams. He also holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. Nathan Goad Fraud Allegations and Investor Complaints Explained FINRA’s BrokerCheck discloses three pending customer disputes against Nathan Goad, all alleging breach of fiduciary duty, negligence, and misrepresentation tied to the sale of direct investments, including private placements and DPP/LP interests. Each of the pending disputes was filed through FINRA Arbitration and collectively claim over $6.5 million in damages. The allegations span investment activity from 2021 through 2025. Disclosure 1 – FINRA Arbitration Case #25-01635 Disclosure 2 – FINRA Arbitration Case #25-00701 Disclosure 3 – FINRA Arbitration Case #25-00678 Summary of Disclosures To obtain a copy of Nathan Goad’s FINRA BrokerCheck report, visit this link. Robert Wayne Pearce Is Committed to Recovering Your Investment Losses Understanding the FINRA Rules Implicated FINRA Rule 2111 (Suitability Rule):This rule requires brokers to have a reasonable basis for believing a recommended investment or strategy is suitable for the customer based on their financial situation and objectives. The complaints against Goad allege unsuitable recommendations in complex private placements, potentially violating Rule 2111’s core requirement of investor suitability. FINRA Rule 2210 (Communications with the Public):If the alleged misrepresentations involve misleading marketing or inadequate risk disclosures in promotional materials, Goad’s conduct could also fall under violations of Rule 2210, which prohibits false or misleading statements made to investors. FINRA Rule 2010 (Standards of Commercial Honor and Principles of Trade):This broad ethical rule requires brokers to observe high standards of commercial honor. The alleged negligence and misrepresentations may constitute violations of Rule 2010 if proven in arbitration. For over 45 years, Robert Wayne Pearce has helped investors recover losses caused by broker fraud, negligence, and unsuitable recommendations. His firm, The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., represents clients nationwide on a no-recovery, no-fee basis. Call (800) 732-2889 or email pearce@rwpearce.com for a free case review with an experienced securities attorney.

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Nov 4, 2025

RBC Capital Markets Advisor Derek A. Grimm Under Investigation For Unsuitable Investment Recommendations

Our firm is investigating RBC Capital Markets broker and investment advisor Derek A. Grimm (CRD# 3000890) of Winter Park, Florida for alleged sales practice violations and unsuitable investment recommendations. Financial Advisor’s Career History Derek A. Grimm began his career in the securities industry in 1999. Over more than two decades, he has been affiliated with several major brokerage firms: He is currently registered with 22 self-regulatory organizations and licensed in 23 U.S. states and territories through his employer, RBC Capital Markets. Grimm holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation and has passed five FINRA-administered industry exams, including the Series 7 and Series 65. Derek Grimm Fraud Allegations and Investor Complaints Explained According to FINRA records, Derek Grimm has one pending customer dispute alleging serious misconduct. Date Complaint Received: September 25, 2025Forum: FINRA ArbitrationDocket Number: 25-01996Status: PendingAlleged Damages: $100,000 Summary of Allegations: Disclosures Summary: To obtain a copy of Derek Grimm’s FINRA BrokerCheck report, visit this link. Robert Wayne Pearce Is Committed to Recovering Your Investment Losses FINRA Rule 2111 – Suitability FINRA Rule 2111 requires brokers to have a reasonable basis for believing that any investment recommendation made to a client is suitable based on the investor’s profile, including age, financial situation, risk tolerance, and investment objectives. In Grimm’s case, the pending arbitration alleges that he over concentrated the client’s portfolio in unsuitable products, potentially violating this rule. FINRA Rule 2020 – Use of Manipulative, Deceptive, or Other Fraudulent Devices Rule 2020 prohibits brokers from engaging in any manipulative or deceptive act in connection with the purchase or sale of securities. Allegations of misrepresentations or omissions in Grimm’s recommendations could represent a breach of this rule if proven true. FINRA Rule 3110 – Supervision This rule requires firms to establish and maintain a supervisory system to ensure compliance with securities regulations. The alleged misconduct may also raise supervisory concerns for RBC Capital Markets if oversight failures allowed unsuitable recommendations to occur unchecked. For over 45 years, Robert Wayne Pearce has helped investors recover losses caused by broker fraud, negligence, and unsuitable recommendations. His firm, The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce, P.A., represents clients nationwide on a no-recovery, no-fee basis. Call (800) 732-2889 or email pearce@rwpearce.com for a free case review with an experienced securities attorney.

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Nov 4, 2025

Investor Warning: Ongoing Investigation Into Justin T. Roberto and Alleged Securities Violations

Last Updated – Alexandria, Virginia Financial Advisor Brief: Justin Tex Roberto Here’s what you need to know about Justin Roberto, a financial advisor based in Alexandria, VA, who was formerly registered with MML Investors Services, LLC in Virginia Beach. If you’ve sustained financial damages from Mr. Roberto, discuss your case with experienced Virginia investment fraud lawyer Robert Wayne Pearce at 800-732-2889 for a free consultation. Current Allegations and Case Developments Termination and Allegations In October 2024, MML Investors Services, LLC discharged Justin T. Roberto for allegedly failing to adhere to firm policies regarding the use of unapproved sales materials and undisclosed outside business activities.This disclosure was recorded by FINRA as an Employment Separation After Allegations event. Although no direct client arbitration or regulatory sanction is yet recorded, the violation implicates FINRA Rule 2210 (Communications with the Public) and FINRA Rule 3270 (Outside Business Activities) — both of which are designed to ensure transparency and prevent misleading or unsupervised investment solicitations. Understanding the Legal and Regulatory Context The allegations against Mr. Roberto concern unauthorized communications and unapproved outside business activities, both of which are serious regulatory concerns under FINRA supervision. Violations of these rules can lead to employment termination, regulatory sanctions, or customer harm if investments were solicited through unmonitored channels or undisclosed entities. Background on Justin T. Roberto and Firm Affiliation Mr. Roberto also reported participation in multiple entrepreneurial ventures, including an insurance LLC (Colonial Wealth Strategies LLC), a networking nonprofit, and a business coaching venture called Biz Academy 360, which projected earnings of $100,000 annually. This diverse range of outside activities raises potential conflict-of-interest concerns, especially if clients were solicited through unapproved channels or marketed investment products outside the supervision of a registered firm. Potential Signs of Investment Misconduct Investors should remain alert for the following red flags that may be associated with Mr. Roberto’s conduct or similar broker activity: If you were a client of MML Investors Services, LLC or any affiliated entities represented by Mr. Roberto, you may want to review your investment records for unauthorized transactions or misrepresented products. What This Investigation Means for Investors While no regulatory fines or formal disciplinary actions are currently reported, the employment separation after allegations is significant — it reflects the firm’s finding of potential misconduct warranting termination. For affected clients, this could suggest violations of supervisory standards or disclosure rules that entitle investors to FINRA arbitration claims for recovery of losses. How The Law Offices of Robert Wayne Pearce Helps Recover Investor Losses If you have suffered investment losses in an account handled by Justin T. Roberto, contact us for a free consultation with an experienced securities lawyer to learn how you may be able to recover damages through FINRA arbitration. Most cases are handled on a contingent fee basis, meaning that you do not pay legal fees unless we are successful in recovering your losses.

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