Summary Arbitration Statistics October 2011
| New Case Filings through October: |
| 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2011 vs 2010 |
| 6,114 | 4,768 | 4,033 | -15% |
|
Number of Cases Closed through October: |
| 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2011 vs 2010 |
| 3,683 | 5,129 | 5,196 | -1% |
|
Turnaround Time* (in months) through October: |
| 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2011 vs 2010 | |
| Overall | 11.5 | 12.5 | 14.2 | 14% |
| Hearing Decisions | 14.3 | 14.9 | 15.9 | 7% |
| Simplified Decisions | 6.0 | 6.4 | 6.3 | -2% |
| * The timing of the arbitration process is heavily influenced by Code of Arbitration Procedures time limits, the parties, and the panel. |
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) is a non-governmental, self-regulatory organization responsible for overseeing the U.S. securities industry. Established in 2007, FINRA emerged from the merger of the National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD) and the regulatory arm of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). FINRA operates under the supervision of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), aiming to protect investors and ensure the market’s integrity.
FINRA’s primary functions include licensing and registering brokerage firms and their representatives, ensuring compliance with federal securities laws and industry regulations. It plays a pivotal role in market regulation, examining trading practices, monitoring market activities, and enforcing rules to maintain fair and transparent operations. Through its rigorous enforcement actions, FINRA holds firms and individuals accountable for violations, imposing penalties and sanctions as necessary.
Investor education is another critical aspect of FINRA’s mission. The organization provides resources and tools to help investors make informed decisions, understand their rights, and recognize potential fraud. FINRA’s public database, BrokerCheck, offers detailed information about brokers and brokerage firms, aiding investors in conducting due diligence.
By conducting regular examinations, writing and updating rules, and taking disciplinary actions against violators, FINRA ensures the securities industry operates with high standards of ethics and professionalism. Its efforts contribute significantly to fostering trust and confidence in the financial markets, ultimately protecting investors from fraud and misconduct while promoting transparency and fairness.