North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA)
Candlefocus EditorThe North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA) is the oldest international, non-governmental, investor protection organization in the world. Founded in 1919, NASAA brings together state, provincial, and territorial securities administrators from the United States, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Canada to work together as a part of a complementary regulatory system to investigate violations of securities laws and prosecute illegal activity.
To accomplish their mission, NASAA develops and implements strict enforcement laws, pursues and prosecutes violations of state and provincial laws, works to educate the public and financial professionals about the importance of investor protection, and provides a variety of services for its members. With NASAA’s help, governments are able to avoid fraud, abuse, and other misconduct in the securities markets.
At the core of NASAA’s efforts is their 12 Standing Committees, 20 Task Forces, and 10 Working Groups. These groups are all chaired by a state or provincial security administrator assigned by NASAA’s President, and all focus on enhancing the integrity and effectiveness of state and provincial securities regulations, with a particular emphasis on investor protection and safety.
Specifically, their Committees, Task Forces, and Working Groups contribute to the development of uniform state securities statutes and regulations, analyze national, state, and provincial market developments, and develop effective communications regarding administrative procedures and enforcement activities. These activities enable state and provincial securities administrators to respond swiftly to changes in the markets while promoting trust and integrity among investors as well as regulators.
Today, NASAA is recognized as an effective advocate for investor protection, and is widely accepted as a key resource for state and provincial agencies in North America. Not only does NASAA enforce laws and regulations that safeguard the public from fraud, it also promotes opportunities for education and public awareness about important investment issues.
By creating a consistent regulatory system among the various states, provinces, and countries, NASAA provides a secure pathway for investors to make well-informed decisions when it comes to their securities investments. Ultimately, NASAA’s dedication to maintaining the stability and integrity of the securities markets allow investors to benefit from the capital markets with confidence.