SEC Trends - November 2024

As the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) continues to evolve its examination and enforcement priorities, fund managers are increasingly in the spotlight. The SEC’s National Examination Program plays a critical role in promoting compliance, reducing fraud risk, and informing regulatory policy—all while serving as a key source of enforcement referrals. With these trends in mind, fund managers must be vigilant and prepared. Here’s what to watch for in 2024 and beyond.

Under the Radar: SEC Penalizes Adviser for Weak MNPI Controls in CLO Trades

Managing MNPI risk is no longer just about avoiding direct trades on inside information; it’s about creating robust, tailored safeguards that address the way MNPI can impact related investments, particularly in intricate vehicles like CLOs. With the SEC placing renewed focus on MNPI in credit markets, now is the time to ensure your compliance protocols are more than just routine. This article unpacks the SEC’s action against Sound Point and provides essential takeaways for investment advisers on avoiding similar pitfalls.

Recent SEC Enforcement Action Highlights the Importance of Robust MNPI Policies in CLO Trading

In a significant enforcement action, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has sanctioned a private fund manager for failing to implement adequate policies and procedures to prevent the misuse of material nonpublic information (MNPI) while trading securities issued by collateralized loan obligation vehicles (CLOs). This case underscores the SEC’s focus on credit managers and emphasizes the importance of strong compliance frameworks for preventing MNPI violations in CLO trading.