FINRA Regulatory Notices

FINRA Enhances New Member Application (Form NMA) Requirements

FINRA has enhanced its New Member Application (Form NMA) with improved navigation, document upload, and integrated guidance tools. These changes, effective April 15, 2026, streamline the application process but do not alter existing MAP rules. The legacy Form NMA will be retired on July 15, 2026.

FINRA: 2026 GASB Accounting Support Fee Funding

FINRA has announced the 2026 GASB Accounting Support Fee, totaling $15,754,700, to fund the Governmental Accounting Standards Board. Member firms reporting trades to the MSRB will be assessed quarterly based on their transaction volume.

FINRA: New Section 31 Fee Rate Effective April 4, 2026

FINRA has announced that the Section 31 fee rate for specified securities transactions will increase from $0.00 to $20.60 per million dollars, effective April 4, 2026. This change, mandated by the SEC, impacts transactions on exchanges and over-the-counter markets.

FINRA 2026 Involvement and Election Process Overview

FINRA has published a notice outlining opportunities for member firms' associated persons and other interested parties to engage with FINRA's mission. The notice promotes various committees, working groups, and the FINRA Board of Governors, directing individuals to FINRA's Engagement Portal to submit an indication of interest.

FINRA Adopts Amendments to Equity Trade Reporting Rules

FINRA has adopted amendments to its equity trade reporting rules, providing a limited, temporary exception for reporting qualifying overnight transactions executed before 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time. This exception will be effective from March 30, 2026, and will expire on December 31, 2027, or upon further extension of trade reporting facility operating hours.

FINRA Seeks Comment on Modernizing Arbitration Rules

FINRA has issued a request for comment on modernizing its arbitration rules, guidance, and processes. The notice seeks input from interested parties to help shape future revisions aimed at improving fairness, efficiency, and transparency in the arbitration forum.

FINRA Amends Rule 3220 on Gifts to Employees of Others

FINRA has adopted amendments to Rule 3220, increasing the annual gift limit to employees of other firms from $100 to $300. The amendments also codify current guidance and provide for exemptive relief, aiming to modernize rules and promote efficiency without reducing investor protection. Conforming amendments were made to related rules.

FINRA Amends Annual Reports Extension Policy

FINRA has amended its Annual Reports Extension of Time Request Policy, updating the information required from firms and their auditors. The updated policy, effective December 29, 2025, streamlines the extension process by modifying auditor representation requirements and shifting certain representations to the firm's Principal Financial Officer.

FINRA Final Statements for Broker-Dealers and Investment Advisers

FINRA has made Final Statements available for broker-dealers and investment adviser firms regarding renewal fees for 2026. Firms must review their statements, reconcile any discrepancies, and remit additional payments by January 23, 2026.

FINRA Seeks Comment on Rule Revisions for Investor Protection

FINRA is seeking public comment on proposed rule revisions aimed at enhancing member firms' ability to protect senior investors from financial exploitation and all investors from fraud. The proposed amendments focus on customer account information and temporary delays for suspected fraud, with a comment deadline of March 9, 2026.