http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/rss/feedsSun, 25 Oct 2026 23:22:37 -0700http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/have-you-done-your-ce-for-2026http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/have-you-done-your-ce-for-2026Continuing Education: What You Need to Know As we approach Q4, now is a good time to confirm that your 2026 continuing education requirements have been completed. Taking care of CE now can help ensure a smooth finish to the year and reduce the risk of unexpected compliance complications. The Integrated Solutions Perspective on CE Not all continuing education is created equal. For example, Continuing Professional Education (CPE) requirements applicable to CPAs are focused on technical competency, ethics, and professional development. In contrast, the regulatory element modules that FINRA designates for registered persons are based on the specific licenses held by each individual and often span a broad range of regulatory and industry topics with limited relevance to that person's specific role or responsibilities. It's a distinction worth considering as firms and regulators continue to balance compliance obligations with meaningful professional growth. There is no point, for example, for a registered professional to be inundated with equity sales-related questions when that person performs bond transactions. We will continue to advocate for practical, common-sense regulation that balances investor protection with training that is relevant, valuable, and applicable to you, today's financial professionals. If you have any questions about your CE obligations or would like assistance navigating regulatory requirements, please don't hesitate to reach out.Tue, 13 Oct 2026 06:24:00 -0700http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/law-360-expert-analysis-the-time-is-right-to-simplify-overlapping-brokerdealer-regshttp://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/law-360-expert-analysis-the-time-is-right-to-simplify-overlapping-brokerdealer-regs As securities markets become increasingly digital, national, and interconnected, many broker-dealers continue to navigate a patchwork of overlapping federal, state, and self-regulatory requirements. In a newly published Law360 article, Integrated Solutions Founder and Senior Managing Director Howard Spindel examines the growing compliance burden created by overlapping SEC, FINRA, and state regulations, and argues that meaningful regulatory modernization should extend beyond SEC rulemaking to address the broader regulatory framework facing broker-dealers. The article explores: Why regulatory complexity remains a significant challenge for nationally operating firms The costs and practical impacts of duplicated oversight and inconsistent requirements Lessons from past reform efforts, including NSMIA A proposal for a more streamlined, nationally coordinated regulatory framework As policymakers continue to discuss modernization and efficiency, Howard offers a timely perspective on how investor protection and regulatory simplification can coexist. Read the full article on Law360 Download the full article here At Integrated Solutions, we remain committed to advancing thoughtful dialogue around regulatory reform, operational efficiency, and practical compliance solutions for the broker-dealer community. Wed, 30 Sep 2026 02:03:00 -0700http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/sec-shows-regulatory-common-sense-on-xbrlhttp://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/sec-shows-regulatory-common-sense-on-xbrl By Rafael Beck, Senior Managing Director Beginning June 30, 2027, larger broker-dealers were slated to begin filing their annual audited reports (Form X-17A-5 Part III) in Inline XBRL, with smaller firms following in 2029. Firms had been preparing for a costly and burdensome conversion project that promised little practical benefit for reports used primarily by regulators rather than investors. On September 11, 2026, the SEC took a step back and concluded that the requirement simply wasn't worth the cost. In granting exemptive relief, the Commission acknowledged that these reports are highly specialized, often non-public, and that the benefits of structured data tagging did not justify the significant implementation expense. Kudos to the SEC. It's wonderful when a regulator recognizes that a well-intentioned rule creates more cost than value and reverses course before the industry spends millions complying with it. Broker-dealers still must file electronically through EDGAR, but they have been spared an expensive exercise in tagging data that investors would ever use. Tue, 22 Sep 2026 05:26:00 -0700http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/panel-discussion-rafael-beck-speaks-on-client-representation--the-advantages-of-finop-outsourcing-watchhttp://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/panel-discussion-rafael-beck-speaks-on-client-representation--the-advantages-of-finop-outsourcing-watchBack again as a speaker on the 2026 NYSSCPA FINOP panel, Rafael Beck shared practical insights shaped by his experience preparing financial statements for dozens of broker-dealers. Take a look at some excerpts here: He emphasized that many firms operate similarly, allowing his team to rely on proven templates and prior financials, customized to each client's needs. This consistency helps streamline reporting—but it also highlights recurring friction points. One major challenge, he noted, is the tendency for auditors to focus on minor language edits instead of substance. Beck was clear on where responsibility lies: “Auditors need to understand that they don’t own the financial statements. The clients own the financial statements, and we represent the clients.” For Beck, the FINOP’s role is to advocate for the client while ensuring accurate and compliant reporting. He also highlighted the advantages of outsourced FINOPs. By working across many firms, outsourced professionals bring broader experience and a network of peers to consult on unfamiliar or complex issues. Importantly, firms don’t need to fully outsource to benefit. Many use external FINOP support to review work, assist with filings, or provide ongoing guidance—especially when in-house expertise is limited. As always, you can count on Integrated Solutions to leverage experience, focus on substance over style, and keep the client’s interests at the heart of financial reporting. Wed, 03 Jun 2026 13:27:00 -0700http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/finops-compliance--whats-next-rafael-beck-returns-to-nysscpahttp://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/finops-compliance--whats-next-rafael-beck-returns-to-nysscpa We’re excited to share that Rafael Beck will be returning to the NYSSCPA Stock Brokerage Conference as a speaker on the FinOps and Auditors panel on May 19. Building on last year’s dynamic discussion, Rafael will again bring his hands-on FINOP experience to the table, offering practical insights on today’s evolving financial operations, compliance challenges, and regulatory trends. If you’re navigating staffing pressures, compliance complexity, or FINOP resourcing decisions, this is a panel you won’t want to miss.Wed, 13 May 2026 05:45:00 -0700http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/what-broker-dealers-need-to-know-regarding-rule-17h-updates-in-2026http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/what-broker-dealers-need-to-know-regarding-rule-17h-updates-in-2026Effective on February 24, 2026, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued Release No. 34‑104881, an Amended and Restated Order under Section 17(h)(4) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This order updates and expands the exemption criteria that allow certain broker‑dealers to avoid the more burdensome requirements of Rules 17h‑1T and 17h‑2T, which relate to the SEC’s broker‑dealer risk assessment program. These rules were originally designed to ensure that the financial risks stemming from broker‑dealer affiliates could not compromise the financial stability of the broker‑dealer itself. The updated order reflects the SEC’s ongoing efforts to modernize regulatory thresholds in line with current market conditions. What the Risk Assessment Rules Require To understand why the exemption matters, it helps to know what the rules demand. Rule 17h‑1T requires broker‑dealers to maintain and preserve: A full organizational chart including the broker‑dealer and all affiliates Written policies and procedures for monitoring and controlling risks posed by affiliates Descriptions of material pending legal or arbitration proceedings Consolidating and consolidated financial statements Rule 17h‑2T requires: Quarterly and Annual filing of Form 17‑H, which captures detailed information about affiliates and potential risk exposures. Complying with these rules represent obligations that can be substantial, especially for smaller or non‑carrying broker‑dealers whose business models involve low systemic risk. What Changed in Release 34‑104881 The 2026 order significantly expands the pool of broker‑dealers eligible for exemption from Rules 17h‑1T and 17h‑2T. Key Updates: 1. Capital threshold increased The exemption now applies to firms with capital, as defined as including allowable subordinated liabilities for this purpose, of at least $20 million but less than $100 million. This raises the previous upper threshold from $50 million to $100 million. 2. Asset threshold unchanged Eligible broker‑dealers must still maintain total assets of less than $1 billion—reported on line item 940 of the FOCUS Report. 3. Applies to non‑carrying broker‑dealers A broker-dealer is eligible for the exemption if: It does not carry customer accounts, Does not hold or owe customer funds or securities, or Otherwise qualifies for exemption under Rule 15c3‑3(k)(2). 4. Replaces the 2020 order The new order supersedes the SEC’s June 29, 2020 exemptive order, which covered broker‑dealers with capital (plus subordinated liabilities) between $20 million and $50 million. Why This Matters for Broker‑Dealers This expanded exemption reflects the SEC’s recognition that smaller and mid‑sized broker‑dealers—particularly non‑carrying firms—pose relatively limited systemic risk. By raising the capital threshold to $100 million, the SEC allows a larger number of firms to avoid the administrative burden of quarterly Form 17‑H filings and extensive affiliate‑risk documentation. Practical Implications: Reduced compliance workload for qualifying firms Less frequent regulatory reporting, allowing firms to focus on core business operations Greater regulatory clarity for non‑carrying firms with moderate capital levels Broader alignment with current market structures and capital profiles Firms just above the old $50 million cap will now benefit from additional breathing room before becoming subject to the risk‑assessment requirements. Final Thoughts SEC Release 34‑104881 marks a meaningful shift in how the Commission calibrates regulatory obligations for broker‑dealers. By extending exemptions to firms with up to $100 million in capital—without compromising investor protection—the SEC appears to be taking a pragmatic approach to modernizing outdated thresholds. For broker‑dealers evaluating their compliance posture, this release offers both relief and an opportunity to reassess whether they fall within the expanded exemption criteria. If you’d like help interpreting how this applies to your specific firm or filing situation, the consultants at Integrated Solutions can walk you through the details. Sun, 22 Mar 2026 14:43:00 -0700http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/thanks-for-joining-us-at-the-wssfl-panthers-gamehttp://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/thanks-for-joining-us-at-the-wssfl-panthers-gameThank you to everyone who joined us at the WSS-FL Panthers Game event. It was great to meet you all and connect with South Florida's top financial professionals while the Panthers took on the Red Wings. We had an incredible evening. Events like this remind us how valuable our community and partnerships truly are. It was wonderful to catch up with familiar faces, meet new ones, and enjoy an exciting game together. Looking forward to the next event when we can all get together.Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:45:00 -0700http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/integrated-solutions-sponsors-wssfl-night-at-the-florida-panthers-vs-detroit-red-wingshttp://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/integrated-solutions-sponsors-wssfl-night-at-the-florida-panthers-vs-detroit-red-wings We’re proud to announce that Integrated Solutions is an official sponsor of Wall Street South Florida's Night at the Panthers Game! On March 10th, South Florida’s top financial professionals will take over a private section at Amerant Bank Arena as the Panthers face the Red Wings. Tickets include:- Terrace-Level Private Section (Outdoor & Club Access)- Full Dinner Buffet- Open Bar- High-level networkingIf you’re in the South Florida finance community, this will be one of the best networking events of the year.Looking forward to connecting with you at the arena. Secure your seat here.Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:04:00 -0700http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/integrated-solutions-sponsors-uncorrelated-miami-2026http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/integrated-solutions-sponsors-uncorrelated-miami-2026Integrated Solutions is proud to sponsor Uncorrelated Miami 2026, a curated alternative-investment conference taking place January 26–28, 2026 at the Ritz-Carlton, Miami Beach, during Miami Alts Week. Uncorrelated Miami brings together institutional investors, family offices, and global allocators with fund managers and operators across private credit, real estate, venture, digital assets, and frontier infrastructure. The event is intentionally designed for substance over scale—prioritizing high-quality allocator participation, capacity-constrained strategies, and meaningful conversations that lead to real capital formation. David S. Proskin, Managing Director, will be speaking on a panel at Uncorrelated Miami 2026, contributing to the broader dialogue alongside industry peers and market participants. Our sponsorship reflects Integrated Solutions’ long-standing commitment to supporting the alternative investment ecosystem and supporting managers across asset classes with a focus on operational excellence, transparency, and scalable infrastructure. Uncorrelated Miami’s investor-first, globally oriented format aligns closely with Integrated Solutions’ mission to help alternative investment managers operate efficiently, compliantly, and with confidence. We look forward to engaging with allocators, managers, and industry peers at Uncorrelated Miami 2026 and contributing to thoughtful, high-impact conversations across the alternative investment landscape. We hope to see you there. Learn more about Uncorrelated Miami and register here.Tue, 13 Jan 2026 07:06:00 -0700http://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/integrated-investment-solutions-receives-2025-annual-soc-1-type-2-reporthttp://www.integrated.solutions/blog/post/integrated-investment-solutions-receives-2025-annual-soc-1-type-2-reportIntegrated Investment Solutions is proud to announce the successful completion of its 2025 Annual System and Organization Controls (SOC) 1 Type 2 examination. This milestone reinforces the firm’s steadfast commitment to upholding rigorous standards for security, availability, and confidentiality on behalf of its clients. The SOC 1 Type 2 report, performed by an independent third-party auditor, assesses the design and operating effectiveness of internal controls related to financial reporting. This comprehensive review confirms that Integrated Investment Solutions’ systems and processes align with the strict criteria established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). “We’re pleased to once again receive our SOC 1 Type 2 report, marking eight consecutive years,” said Rafael Beck, Senior Managing Director of Integrated Investment Solutions. “This recognition highlights our continued focus on operational excellence and delivering dependable service to our clients." Successfully completing the SOC 1 Type 2 examination reflects Integrated Investment Solutions’ proactive approach to risk management and its ongoing dedication to delivering protected and reliable investment solutions. Clients can remain confident that their financial information is managed with the highest standards of integrity and security. For more information about Integrated Investment Solutions and our commitment to security and compliance, please visit www.integrated.solutions. About Integrated Investment Solutions Integrated Investment Solutions is a leading provider of comprehensive fund administration services. With a focus on innovation and client satisfaction, we offer a wide range of solutions designed to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and achieving outstanding results. Contact: Rafael BeckSenior Managing DirectorIntegrated Solutions212-897-1690rbeck@integrated.solutionswww.integrated.solutionsMon, 05 Jan 2026 14:46:00 -0700