230 likes | 455 Views
The Ontario Securities Commission. Investigate before you invest. Financial services oversight in Canada. Securities regulation - provincial responsibility Canadian Securities Administrators Self-regulatory organizations: IDA, MFDA, RS Insurance and insolvency: CDIC, CIPF, MFDA IPC.
E N D
The Ontario Securities Commission Investigate before you invest
Financial services oversight in Canada Securities regulation - provincial responsibility Canadian Securities Administrators Self-regulatory organizations: IDA, MFDA, RS Insurance and insolvency: CDIC, CIPF, MFDA IPC
Financial services oversight in Ontario Banks OSFI Insurance, Pensions Credit Unions FSCO Capital Markets OSC
OSC mandate Provide protection to investors from unfair, improper or fraudulent practices Foster fair and efficient capital markets and confidence in the capital markets
OSC responsibilities Register people and companies that advise on or trade in securities Ensure timely and accurate disclosure Monitor compliance of public companies Create, update and enforce the rules
Inquiries and complaints Inquiries Complaints Tips OSC Contact Centre 1-877-785-1555 www.osc.gov.on.ca
Investment fraud Millions lost in Ontario each year Constantly evolving Often goes unreported Victims can be unknowing participants Difficult to recover money taken
Investment fraud Affinity fraud: Con artist finds a common interest You trust them because they’re like you Community groups, religious groups, ethnic groups, clubs
Investment fraud Ponzi/pyramid schemes: Investment “returns” are paid using money from new recruits Scheme collapses when new investors become scarce
Investment fraud Accredited investor scams: Unsolicited phone call Investment in pre-IPO company Sign documents that don’t reflect your situation $
Investment fraud • High return, offshore investing: • large return, with little or no risk • money goes outside Ontario
Investment fraud • Investing online: • Phoney websites • Hot tips, bulletin boards, chat groups • Spam e-mail • Phishing
Investment fraud Red flags: Unsolicited investment offer Tax advantages (or avoidance) Guaranteed high returns – no risk Unregistered seller Wiring money offshore
Could it happen to you? Fear of not having enough Desire for big break Unclear financial goals Focus on comfort level, not credentials
Unsuitable investments Do you understand the investment? What are the risks? How do you get your money out? Volatility of business/industry Diversification Borrowing to invest (leverage)
Do your research OSC website – www.osc.gov.on.ca SEDAR – www.sedar.com SEDI – www.sedi.ca Stock exchanges Financial press
Do your research Financial statements Management’s discussion & analysis Prospectus and offering documents Company communications
Do your research • Ask questions and read your documents • Establish realistic goals • Diversify your investments and your sources of advice • Understand what you invest in, and the associated risk
Are they registered? Do your research 1-877-785-1555
Working with an adviser Types of advisers Compensation Opening an account Responsibilities – yours and theirs
Resources • Investor education kit • www.investorED.ca • www.osc.gov.on.ca • 1-877-785-1555
Investigate before you invest