Poll: Is the SEC’s plain language requirement for Form ADV Part 2 a good idea?

SEC-registered advisors must rewrite Part 2 of their Form ADV using plain language. The requirement takes effect in 2011. You won’t be surprised to learn that I favor plain language, but I’m curious to know what you think of the new requirement. Please answer the poll in the right-hand column of my blog, asking  “What […]

Reader challenge: What’s the writing lesson from Physicians Mutual?

You’re getting smarter about writing investment and financial communications, so I’m giving you a challenge: watch this video and then tell me what lesson it teaches writers. I look forward to hearing from you!

Do the robin, the reindeer, and the building sing the same song?

Your title, headings, and topics should all send the same message when you write a financial blog post, article, or white paper. I think of this metaphorically as “singing the same song.” The sign that you in the photo made me think about the importance of “singing the same song.” Looking at the photo, can […]

LinkedIn’s fatal flaw for financial advisor compliance

LinkedIn has a whopping flaw for advisors who’d like to keep their compliance officers 100% happy, and there’s no solution in sight. At least, not to my knowledge. The problem is records retention, which is at the heart of conservative management of compliance risks from advisor communications. Much of what you post to LinkedIn can […]

Notable quotes from the CFA Institute’s emerging markets conference

So many great emerging markets presentations, so little time to blog about them. Below you’ll find quotes or paraphrases of opinions voiced by speakers at the CFA Institute’s  “Investing in Emerging Markets” conference held in Boston on October 19. If these snippets pique your interest, watch the CFA Institute website for podcasts or other records […]