Form ADV

For regulatory purposes, Registered Investment Advisors (RIA) have to register using a Form ADV with state-level securities regulators or the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC). Investment advisors who are required to file a Form ADV must disclose information about their clients, the ownership structure of their business, business practices and any disciplinary action taken against themselves or their employees. A Form ADV also includes operational details such as types of services offered, fee schedules, and academic and business experience of the management and key staff. Material changes to such information have to be presented annually to clients. The public can access an investment advisor’s Form ADV through the SEC website. Investment advisors are expected to present their Form ADV filings to prospective clients.