NASAA Announces New Model Rule on Senior Designations

NASAA announced that its membership has approved a new model rule prohibiting the misleading use of senior and retiree designations.  The model rule prohibits the misleading use of senior and retiree designations while also providing a means by which a securities administrator may recognize the use of certain designations conferred by an accredited organization.  NASAA President Tyler said NASAA’s Model Rule on the Use of Senior-Specific Certifications and Professional Designations represents the culmination of an effort NASAA and its members launched in 2003 to focus national attention on unscrupulous behavior targeting senior investors. 

The model rule addresses the growing use of financial designations or certifications that ostensibly convey expertise in advising seniors and retirees. The use of a senior designation by salespersons, whether registered or not, confers an impression that the salesperson has special qualifications or specialized education in addressing the needs of senior citizens or retirees, particular areas of finance, financial planning, estate planning, or investing.“