Questar to pay nearly $800,000 for overcharging charities

Finra censured firm for selling clients more expensive share classes.
NOV 03, 2017

Finra has censured Questar Capital, saying that it failed to identify and apply available sales charge waivers to eligible retirement accounts and charitable organizations. The firm agreed to pay $796,892 in restitution to clients. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Inc. also ordered Questar to develop a plan to provide remediation to the eligible clients who qualified for, but did not receive, the applicable mutual fund sales charge waivers. Finra's letter of acceptance, waiver and consent said that the sales activity under question took place from Jul 1, 2009 to November 1, 2016. It said that certain retirement plan and charitable organization customers who were eligible to purchase Class A shares in certain mutual funds without a front-end sales charge were instead sold Class A shares with a front-end sales charge or Class B or C shares with back-end sales charges and higher ongoing fees and expenses.

Latest News

Edward Jones announces C-suite shakeup with eye toward next chapter
Edward Jones announces C-suite shakeup with eye toward next chapter

The leadership changes coming in June, which also include wealth management and digital unit heads, come as the firm pushes to offer more comprehensive services.

Harvard muni bonds a buy amid battle with Trump White House, Barclays says
Harvard muni bonds a buy amid battle with Trump White House, Barclays says

Strategist sees relatively little risk of the university losing its tax-exempt status, which could pose opportunity for investors with a "longer time horizon."

The great wealth transfer demands a wealth management revolution
The great wealth transfer demands a wealth management revolution

As the next generation of investors take their turn, advisors have to strike a fine balance between embracing new technology and building human connections.

Independent Financial Group taps industry veteran Keefe as new president, COO
Independent Financial Group taps industry veteran Keefe as new president, COO

IFG works with 550 producing advisors and generates about $325 million in annual revenue, said Dave Fischer, the company's co-founder and chief marketing officer.

Net Positive Consortium gains momentum with new members, first strategic partner
Net Positive Consortium gains momentum with new members, first strategic partner

Five new RIAs are joining the industry coalition promoting firm-level impact across workforce, client, community and environmental goals.

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.