The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Division of Examinations released its priorities for fiscal year 2026, outlining areas of focus for compliance reviews of investment advisers, investment companies, broker-dealers, clearing agencies, and self-regulatory organizations. The Division aims to provide transparency to registrants and investors while guiding firms on potential areas of heightened risk.
SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins stated, “Today’s release of examination priorities should enable firms to prepare to have a constructive dialogue with SEC examiners and provide transparency into the priorities of the agency’s most public-facing division.” The Division will maintain core examinations on fiduciary duty, conduct standards, and the custody rule, while reviewing compliance with the 2024 Regulation S-P amen.
Acting Director Keith Cassidy emphasized the Division’s commitment to maintaining effective oversight in a complex financial environment. He noted, “Fiscal year 2026 marks an important time for the Division to build on our strengths, advance our mission with renewed focus, and ensure that our examination program continues to protect the investing public and support fair and orderly capital markets.”
