CONTINUING EDUCATION

FINRA Rule 1120, "Continuing Education Requirements," sets forth the continuing education standards that each broker/dealer and its registered persons must meet, including the creation and implementation of a continuing education Written Training Plan and an Annual Needs Analysis. The purpose of the continuing education program is to ensure that the firm's Associated Persons are up-to-date on compliance, products, and services, as well as FINRA and SEC rules and regulations.

Brokerage Consulting Group will consult with your firm to develop a Written Training Plan and Needs Analysis. We will develop the methods and procedures for implementation of the firm element continuing education program based on your firm's business and the activities of your Associated Persons. Our consultants will work with you to effectively create a CE program that meets the needs of your firm, as well as the requirements of FINRA.

We help firms implement Training Plans by providing on-line firm element continuing education classes that meet the requirements set forth by FINRA. Representatives can complete classes at their convenience, saving broker/dealers time and money. Upon completion, participants will be provided certificates documenting their participation. For more information about on-line continuing education, visit the Online Training section of our web site.

WRITTEN NEEDS ANALYSIS

The Written Training Plan defines the continuing education roles and responsibilities of the firm's principals, Registered Representatives and Associated Persons, and it details how the firm will meet the continuing education requirements. The Written Training Plan must be reviewed for its effectiveness on an annual basis.

NEEDS ANALYSIS

As part of the overall firm element continuing education program, the firm is required to conduct an annual Needs Analysis. This Needs Analysis allows you to develop an internal training program that will fit the needs of your firm and your employees, and promote continual firm compliance. As a firm owner or manager, you need to ensure that your employees are adequately trained in the products and services offered by your firm.

BCG's Needs Analysis addresses the following:

• How to evaluate the training needs of the firm
• What topics should be included in the firm element training
• Who should participate in the firm element training
• What new rules and regulations have been enacted that may require training
• What problems or complaints the firm has encountered that may require additional attention
• How to deliver the firm element training to your employees
• How to track participation in your firm element training program
• What type of training will improve compliance and the overall performance of the firm and its employees

As a new firm, it is vital that you start out with a sound continuing education program.

As your business grows and as new rules and regulations are introduced, it is important to evaluate and modify your continuing education program.

Contact BCG to discuss how we can help meet the continuing education needs of your firm and the requirements of FINRA.