Gensler steps up warnings to money managers

Gensler steps up warnings to money managers
The SEC chairman said using predictive data technologies may create 'inherent conflicts' of interest for investment advisors.
MAR 02, 2023
By  Bloomberg

Gary Gensler is stepping up warnings to asset managers about their use of predictive data analytics and how they work with digital asset firms. 

The head of the Securities and Exchange Commission said Thursday that predictive data technologies may create “inherent conflicts” of interest related to the duty that investment advisers have to their clients. Gensler said that he’d asked the agency’s staff to recommend how to address the issues.

“When an adviser provides advice, in part through the use of predictive data analytics, do those algorithms optimize for the investor’s interests, and place the investor’s interests in front of the adviser’s own interests?” he said in remarks prepared for an SEC event. 

Predictive data analytics can include a range of information drawn from consumers’ or investors’ personal information, devices, habits, and other sources. Financial services companies can use the data to recommend new products, transactions and other services to individuals.

Gensler also repeated his concerns over digital asset firms holding assets for investment firms. 

Under his watch, the agency recently proposed expanding its “qualified custodian” requirements to cover all assets, including virtual currencies. If finalized, the plan could add hurdles to crypto platforms holding digital assets owned by clients of hedge funds and private equity firms.

“Based upon how crypto trading and lending platforms generally operate, investment advisers cannot rely on them today as qualified custodians,” Gensler said Thursday. 

How will Washington respond to the explosion in alternative investments?

Latest News

Integrated Partners, Kestra welcome multigenerational advisor teams
Integrated Partners, Kestra welcome multigenerational advisor teams

Integrated Partners is adding a mother-son tandem to its network in Missouri as Kestra onboards a father-son advisor duo from UBS.

Trump not planning to fire Powell, market tension eases
Trump not planning to fire Powell, market tension eases

Futures indicate stocks will build on Tuesday's rally.

From stocks and economy to their own finances, consumers are getting gloomier
From stocks and economy to their own finances, consumers are getting gloomier

Cost of living still tops concerns about negative impacts on personal finances

Women share investing strengths, asset preferences in new study
Women share investing strengths, asset preferences in new study

Financial advisors remain vital allies even as DIY investing grows

Trump vows to 'be nice' to China, slash tariffs
Trump vows to 'be nice' to China, slash tariffs

A trade deal would mean significant cut in tariffs but 'it wont be zero'.

SPONSORED Compliance in real time: Technology's expanding role in RIA oversight

RIAs face rising regulatory pressure in 2025. Forward-looking firms are responding with embedded technology, not more paperwork.

SPONSORED Advisory firms confront crossroads amid historic wealth transfer

As inheritances are set to reshape client portfolios and next-gen heirs demand digital-first experiences, firms are retooling their wealth tech stacks and succession models in real time.