Registration and compliance best practices and standards are the cornerstone of securities regulation.
The NSSC’s registration and compliance sections work hard to ensure that firms and individuals are registered to sell securities and that they are complying with securities laws in order to protect investors.
Registration Requirements
Whether you are an investment fund manager, portfolio manager, investment adviser or a dealer, you must be registered in accordance with Nova Scotia securities laws (subject to available exemptions).
A Canada-wide regime for registrants was introduced on September 28, 2009, through amendments to the Securities Act (Nova Scotia) and the introduction of National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations.
Compliance Reviews
Compliance reviews are one of the main tools we use to ensure registered firms are meeting regulatory requirements. They also serve as a learning opportunity to assist registrants in evaluating and improving their compliance processes.
Under subsection 29E(1) of the Securities Act, the NSSC has the authority to designate staff to review the books and records of market participants to determine whether Nova Scotia securities laws are being complied with.
Investor Protection Notice
The NSSC will only register firms and individuals that meet specific qualifications and standards. Always check the registration of any individual or firm you are dealing with to confirm they are authorized to sell investments or offer investment advice. If you discover a person or company offering an investment is not registered, immediately contact your local securities regulatory authority.