SEC FAQ on family office definition *

USA - February 23 2012
The SEC has answered 13 “frequently asked questions” regarding the definition of a “family office” that is excluded from regulation as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act (see our July 20, 2011, issue of Buy-Side Roundup for more on the family office exclusion).

Co-authors: Sylvie A. Durham.

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SEC investment adviser and investment company Compliance Outreach Program National Seminar *

USA - February 23 2012
On Tuesday, January 31, 2012, the SEC hosted its annual Compliance Outreach Program National Seminar.

Co-authors: Sylvie A. Durham.

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Social media guidance *

USA - January 25 2012
The SEC recently issued a National Examination Risk Alert (as an attachment to an enforcement release) highlighting the risks investment adviser firms face when using social media.

Co-authors: Sylvie A. Durham, Barbara P. Alonso.

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Upcoming registration and reporting deadlines *

USA - January 25 2012
As part of the implementation of the Dodd-Frank Act, all investment advisers (including private equity, venture capital and hedge fund managers) with at least $25 million in assets under management must either (i) register or update their existing registration with the SEC or their home state regulator or (ii) file a report with the SEC as an exempt reporting adviser, in each case electronically on Form ADV.

Co-authors: Sylvie A. Durham, Barbara P. Alonso.

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IRS issues new regulations on dividend withholding *

USA - January 25 2012
On January 19, 2012, the Internal Revenue Service released two sets of regulations addressing the U.S. withholding tax rules for dividend equivalents paid on certain derivatives.

Co-authors: Sylvie A. Durham, Barbara P. Alonso.

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