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Foresters Equity Services, Inc. (“Foresters Equity”)
Investment Advisor
Policies and Procedures Manual
Effective August 26, 2016
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Registration, Licensing and Supervisory Structure
1.0 Introduction 8
1.1 Advisory Programs and Services 8
1.2 Registration and Licensing 9
1.3 Supervisory Structure 10
1.4 Additional Duties of the CCO Regarding Compliance with Risk Management 11
1.5 Procedures for Compliance with Registration and Licensing 11
Chapter 2 – The Fiduciary Standard
2.1 Antifraud Provisions 13
2.2 Fiduciary Duties 13
2.3 Procedures for Compliance with Fiduciary Requirements 13
Chapter 3 – Training and Supervision
3.1 IAR Training 15
3.2 Compliance Questionnaire 15
3.3 Supervision 15
3.3. 1 New Account Review 16
3.3.2 Ongoing Account Review 16
3.3.3 Political Contributions 17
Chapter 4 – Code of Ethics and Insider Trading
4.1 General 18
4.1.1 Basic Principles 18
4.1.2 Chief Compliance Officer 19
4.1.3 Security 19
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4.1.4 Covered Accounts 19
4.1.5 Beneficial Ownership 20
4.1.6 Personal Account Trading and Investment Policy 20
4.1.7 Service as a Director 21
4.1.8 Gifts 21
4.1.9 Duties of Confidentiality 21
4.1.10 General Ethical Conduct 21
4.1.11 Misappropriation of Customer Funds 23
4.2 Insider Trading 23
4.2.1 Policy Statement on Insider Trading 23
4.2.2 Who is an Insider? 24
4.2.3 What is Material Information? 24
4.2.4 What is Nonpublic Information? 25
4.2.5 Types of Liability 25
4.3 Penalties for Insider Trading 25
4.4 Procedures for Compliance with Code of Ethics 26
Chapter 5 – Anti-Money Laundering (“AML”)
5.1 Definition 29
5.2 Due Diligence 30
5.3 AML Compliance Officer 30
5.4 IAR Awareness and Training 31
5.5 Client Identification Program 31
5.5.1 ID Verification 32
5.5.2 Documentary Verification 32
5.5.3 Non-Documentary Verification 32
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5.5.4 Reliance on a Third Party for Identity Verification 33
5.5.5 Special Situation 33
5.5.6 Clients Who Refuse to Provide Information 34
5.5.7 Government List Comparison 34
5.5.8 FinCEN Requests under PATRIOT Act Section 314 34
5.6 Acceptable Types of Clients 35
5.6.1 Individual Clients 35
5.6.2 Corporations, Partnerships and Comparable Legal Entities 36
5.6.3 Domestic Operating or Commercial Entities 36
5.6.4 Domestic Trusts 36
5.6.5 Non-Resident Alien Accounts 36
5.7 Prohibited Clients 36
5.8 Suspicious Transactions and Activity 37
5.8.1 Suspicious Activity at Initial Investment 37
5.8.2 Transactions 38
5.9 Suspicious Activity Related to Transactions 38
5.10 Procedures for Compliance with Anti-Money Laundering Policies 39
Chapter 6 - Business Continuity Plan
6.1 Content of Plan 40
6.2 IAR Training 41
6.3 Procedures for Compliance with Business Continuity Planning 41
Chapter 7 – Regulatory Filings
7.1 Forms 13D, 13F and 13G 42
7.2 SEC Registration 43
7.3 Procedures for Compliance with Regulatory Filing Requirements 43
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Chapter 8 – Gifts and Entertainment
8.1 Procedures for Gifts and Entertainment 44
Chapter 9 – Trading
9.1 Aggregation of Orders 45
9.2 Best Execution 45
9.3 Trade Errors 46
9.4 Agency Cross Transactions 46
Chapter 10 – Protection of Non-Public Customer Data
10.1 The Privacy Policy 47
10.1.1 Affiliate 47
10.1.2 Clear and Conspicuous 47
10.1.3 Consumer 47
10.1.4 Continuing Relationship 47
10.1.5 Customer 48
10.1.6 Customer Relationship 48
10.1.7 Nonpublic Personal Information 48
10.1.8 Personally Identifiable Financial Information 48
10.1.9 Publicly Available Information 48
10.2 Consumers and Customers 49
10.3 Notification Requirement 49
10.3.1 Initial Notice 49
10.3.2 Annual Notice 49
10.3.3 Content of Notice 49
10.3.4 Privacy Policies 50
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10.3.5 Customer Information 50
10.3.6 California Residents 50
10.4 Procedures for Compliance with Privacy Regulations 51
Chapter 11 – Communications with the Public
11.1 Advertisements 53
11.1.1 Investment Counsel 53
11.1.2 “RIA” 53
11.1.3 Testimonials 54
11.1.4 Past Recommendations 54
11.1.5 Performance Data 54
11.1.6 Performance Reporting 54
11.1.7 Prohibited Advertisements 55
11.2 Correspondence 55
11.2.1 Electronic Communications 56
11.2.2 Retention 56
11.3 Social Media 56
11.4 Procedures for Compliance with Public Communications Requirements 57
Chapter 12 – Regulatory and Internal Inspections
12.1 Scope of the Regulatory Inspection 58
12.2 Regulatory Exam Topics
12.3 Annual Internal Review
58
58
Chapter 13 – Books and Records
13.1 Required Records 60
13.1.1 Advertising File 60
13.1.2 Annual Notice of Material Changes to Form ADV Part 2 Firm Brochure 61
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13.1.3 Associated Persons Personal Transactions Records 61
13.1.4 Financial Records 62
13.1.5 Order Tickets 62
13.1.6 Organizational Documents 62
13.1.7 Performance Advertising Supporting Documentation 63
13.1.8 Policies and Procedures 63
13.1.9 Solicitor Disclosure Document 63
13.1.10 Transition Records 63
13.1.11 Written Agreements 63
13.1.12 Written Communications 63
13.2 Custodial Advisors Records 64
13.3 Additional Records 64
13.3.1 Complaint File 64
13.3.2 Disaster Recovery 64
13.3.3 Client Lists 64
13.3.4 Organizational Chart 65
13.3.5 Privacy Policy 65
13.3.6 Regulatory Inspections 65
13.3.7 Trade Errors 65
13.3.8 Proxy Voting Records 65
13.4 Books and Records Retention 65
13.5 Electronic Maintenance of Records 66
13.6 Procedures for Compliance with Record-Keeping Policies 66
Appendix A – Senior Management Approval 67
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Chapter 1 – Registration, Licensing and Supervisory Structure
1.0 Introduction Foresters Equity Services, Inc. (“Foresters Equity”) is an SEC Registered
Investment Advisor. The Foresters Equity main office is located in San Diego, California. Foresters Equity is also a broker-dealer registered with the Financial
Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”). As an investment advisor, Foresters Equity is a fiduciary to its advisory clients, and
has a duty of undivided loyalty to always act in utmost good faith, place its clients’ interests first and foremost, and to make full and fair disclosure of all material facts
including information as to any conflicts of interest. This Investment Advisor Policies and Procedures Manual (“Manual”) reflects the
policies and procedures that have been adopted by Foresters Equity to fulfill its obligations when providing investment advisory services. The Manual will be
updated on a periodic basis to be current with Foresters Equity’s business practices and regulatory requirements.
All officers, employees and investment advisory representatives (“IARs”) of Foresters Equity are expected to follow the policies and procedures outlined in the
Manual, and as amended from time to time. A copy of the Manual is provided to each officer, employee and IAR, and a current copy of the Manual is posted to the
Foresters Equity internet website for easy reference at www.forestersequity.com. In addition, all IARs that are also securities registered through Foresters Equity are also expected to follow the policies and procedures outlined in the firm’s broker-
dealer manual entitled “Written Supervisory Policies and Procedures”.
1.1 Advisory Programs and Services
Foresters Equity offers three types of advisory services to clients as described below.
Third Party Money Management. Foresters Equity refers clients to third party investment advisory firms for management services. IARs of Foresters Equity will
assist the client in determining his/her investment objective for the account, and recommend an appropriate portfolio or management style offered by the third party advisor. The third party advisor will buy and sell mutual funds, exchange traded
funds (“ETFs”), or variable annuity subaccounts in the client’s account on a discretionary basis. Neither Foresters Equity nor the IAR have any discretionary
authority over the accounts managed by the third party advisor. For a list of approved third party management firms, IARs should refer to the firm’s website at www.forestersequity.com.
Advantage. Foresters Equity also offers the Advantage program sponsored by
Hilltop Securities, Inc. (“Hilltop”), an investment advisor, through which Foresters
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Equity will provide non-discretionary investment advice that is tailored to the needs of the client. The IAR will assist the client in determining his/her risk tolerance and
investment objective for the account through completion of a client profile. The IAR will also assist the client in selecting an asset allocation model for the account.
Based upon the goals of the client and the asset allocation model selected, the IAR will recommend investments for the client. These investments may include no-load or load-waived mutual funds, ETFs, and cash or cash equivalents. The client will be
responsible for selection of the investments in the account. Hilltop will then periodically rebalance the assets on an as needed basis in order to maintain the
client’s target asset allocation among the investments. Financial Planning Services. Foresters Equity offers financial planning services
consistent with the client’s financial and tax status, risk profile and investment objective.
The CCO and/or his or her designee is responsible for the initial and ongoing due diligence and selection of the third party investment advisory firms. This includes,
among other things, a review of the firm’s disciplinary history, Form ADV, custody procedures, compliance program, etc. A due diligence review of each third party
investment advisory firm will be conducted no less than annually.
1.2 Registration and Licensing Foresters Equity is a federally registered investment advisor. To affect its
registration, Foresters Equity has registered with the SEC through the Investment Advisors Registration Depository (“IARD”). Through the IARD, Foresters Equity has
submitted Form ADV Part 1 and paid all relevant fees. Foresters Equity has also created a Form ADV Part 2 Firm Brochure and keeps up with the requirements to update this document annually and whenever it becomes materially inaccurate.
The IARs affiliated with Foresters Equity must also maintain the proper licenses and
registration before soliciting clients. Although the approach to licensing individual IARs (including those in supervisory roles) differs from state to state, Foresters
Equity as a firm requires its IARs to maintain an active 65 or 66 license or a state-approved designation, including the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designations, or other proficiency exam. Compliance
with these requirements may generally be reported through disclosures on the IARD system during the application process. Each IAR must be registered as an IAR within
each state in which the IAR has a “place of business” as defined by the SEC, unless otherwise required by the state(s) by notifying the Foresters Equity Registration Department and paying the appropriate fees.
Foresters Equity is required to maintain current registration data through the IARD
system. Under federal regulations, Foresters Equity is required to file an annual updating amendment through IARD within 90 days following the end of its fiscal year. This process is handled by the Registration Department.
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Foresters Equity is required to keep the information in its Form ADV (Parts 1 and Part 2) current. All amendments to Form ADV Parts 1 and 2 are processed through the
IARD system.
The IARs of Foresters Equity are also required to maintain an up-to-date Brochure Supplement, created by the back office of Foresters Equity. The information contained in the Brochure Supplement provides details regarding the IAR’s
educational history, business background, current business activities as well as disclosure regarding any sanctions for violating securities law or entering into
bankruptcy. The Form ADV Part 2 Firm Brochure along with the IAR’s Brochure Supplement form
a written disclosure statement that provides information about business practices, fees, and conflicts of interest Foresters Equity and its IARs may have with its clients.
Foresters Equity must maintain its Form ADV Part 2 and Brochure Supplements in paper format, upload a PDF copy in electronic format through IARD, and ensure that it’s IARS provide a copy to all of its clients upon entering into an investment advisory
relationship.
Foresters Equity requires its IARs deliver the Form ADV Part 2 Firm Brochure and relevant Brochure Supplement to the client (1) at least 48 hours prior to entering
into the advisory relationship, or (2) at the time of entering into a contract with Foresters Equity, provided the client can terminate the contract without penalty within 5 business days after entering the contract. It is the obligation of the IAR to
provide these documents to the client. Clients acknowledge receipt of these documents in the Disclosure and Acknowledgement of Receipt of Documents when
entering into an advisory relationship with a third party money manager or for the Mutual Fund Advantage program. For clients receiving financial planning services, the acknowledgement of receipt is included within the Financial Planning and Consultation
Agreement.
At least once annually Foresters Equity must advise each of its clients of the material changes that were made to the ADV Part 2 Firm Brochure throughout the year, and that a current Form ADV Part 2 Firm Brochure is available if desired by the client. The
firm shall maintain a record of the clients to whom the material changes and updated form is offered, the date and form of the offer (by representative sample copy), and
of those accepting the offer. For those clients requesting a copy of the offered Form ADV Part 2 Firm Brochure, Foresters Equity shall also maintain evidence that such copy was provided.
1.3 Supervisory Structure Foresters Equity has established a supervisory structure that includes the designation
of personnel in key positions and a description of those positions. In a separate file maintained by Foresters Equity, it has identified and maintains current a list of key personnel and their duties and supervisory obligations, as applicable.
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Foresters Equity has designated one employed individual to act as its Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”), whose duty it shall be to administer Foresters Equity’
compliance policies and procedures. The CCO has full responsibility and authority to develop and enforce all appropriate compliance related policies and procedures for
Foresters Equity. Foresters Equity identifies its CCO in its organizational chart and through the IARD system as required.
Foresters Equity's senior management includes but is not limited to principals such as the President/CEO, the CCO, Vice President Finance and Administration and others
properly licensed and designated . These individuals are responsible for Foresters Equity's compliance, control and supervisory system, including its implementation, maintenance and ongoing review as more fully described below. Foresters Equity's
principal officers may directly supervise other officers, employees, branch managers, Registered Representatives and IARs. Foresters Equity’s principal officers are
responsible for the duties performed by all personnel. Foresters Equity's President/CEO and CCO are responsible for development and enforcement of Foresters Equity's compliance program.
1.4 Additional Duties of the CCO Regarding Compliance with Risk
Management
In addition, the CCO is charged with responsibility for assessment of the primary areas of Foresters Equity's risk exposure. This assessment will include asking
questions about such topics as the firm's affiliations, business lines, business continuity, firm viability and personnel, strategic direction, corporate governance, privacy, trading and portfolio management, custody, proxy voting, unethical behavior
and insider trading, anti-money laundering, record-keeping, and disclosures, among others.
Following an assessment of the risk areas, the CCO will:
Examine the policies, procedures, day-to-day business processes and/or systems surrounding the risks
Determine the level of risk to the firm and its clients Propose reasonable compliance solutions to eliminate or decrease the risk, if
necessary
1.5 Procedures for Compliance with Registration and Licensing Foresters Equity has designated an individual who is responsible for the ongoing
maintenance of accurate and current registration data, both for the firm and for the individual IARs. A list of the individual(s) so designated is maintained separately among the central advisory files of the firm, including the date the individual(s)
accepted and were granted such authority. This review shall include, but is not limited to, a review of the IARD Form ADV Part 1 filed with the states and Part 2,
review of the underlying criteria and supporting information for the Form, licensing of its IARs, and related supporting documentation and information. Records of these activities shall be retained among Foresters Equity’s central records.
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Foresters Equity requires that each individual providing investment advice is required
to maintain all applicable licenses, and has in place controls including the designation of a qualified supervisor to implement its policies. An associated person must be
registered as an IAR in those states that require IAR registration before the IAR can open or solicit a managed money account.
To ensure that its supervisory structure is adequately formed and adhered to, Foresters Equity maintains an updated record of its supervisory chain of command
among its central files and records. The record is periodically distributed to individuals named as supervisors, to ensure that they will remain at all times informed of the supervisory requirements attributed to them.
The CCO is responsible for implementation and ongoing oversight of these
procedures, including the oversight of individuals to whom certain procedures may be delegated.
No less frequently than annually, the CCO will oversee the renewal of Foresters Equity's registration. No less frequently than annually (within 90 days of the fiscal
year end of Foresters Equity), the CCO will oversee the filing of an annual amendment, and reviewing the related forms and records as necessary.
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Chapter 2 – The Fiduciary Standard
As an investment advisor, Foresters Equity is a fiduciary to its advisory clients and has a duty of undivided loyalty to always act in utmost good faith, place its clients’ interests first and foremost, and to make full and fair disclosure of all material facts
including information as to any conflicts of interest.
2.1 Antifraud Provisions Whereas Registered Representatives have transaction-based responsibilities to their
customers, IARs have relationship- type responsibilities to their clients. This standard becomes important across Foresters Equity’s activities imposing fiduciary standards
on each client relationship and even beyond the nature of each individual transaction. The CCO, other principals and IARs are all extensions of Foresters Equity. As such, all
these individuals must act in the best interests of Foresters Equity and its clients. Failure to do so can personally subject the individuals associated with Foresters
Equity to enforcement action(s).
2.2 Fiduciary Duties In general, the fiduciary duty owed by Foresters Equity and its IARs to its clients will
guide IARs, officers and directors in avoiding conflicts of interest where possible, providing full and fair disclosure of services and fees, seeking best execution, and a
number of other areas. Foresters Equity and its IARs are prohibited to carry out any of the following:
1. Employ any device, scheme, or artifice to defraud a client or prospective client
2. Engage in any transaction, practice, or course of business which defrauds or deceives a client or prospective client
3. Knowingly sell any security to or purchase any security from a client when acting as principal for his or her own account, or knowingly to effect a purchase or sale of a security for a client's account when also acting as broker
for the person on the other side of the transaction, without disclosing to the client in writing before the completion of the transaction the capacity in which
Foresters Equity is acting and obtaining the client's consent to the transaction 4. Engage in fraudulent, deceptive or manipulative practices
2.3 Procedures for Compliance with Fiduciary Requirements
The CCO or designee is the individual charged with monitoring Foresters Equity’s performance of services in the context of its fiduciary duties.
The CCO or designee shall take steps designed to ensure that IARs perform their job duties and responsibilities within the context of its fiduciary responsibility. Among
these, each IAR will be required to complete an annual attestation of compliance.
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Record of the completion shall be maintained among Foresters Equity’s central compliance files.
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Chapter 3 – Training and Supervision
3.1 IAR Training Foresters Equity intends to offer training to its IARs on at least an annual basis
through online training resources. All IARs will be required to take the mandatory training each year, and failure to complete the training will be grounds for
disciplinary action up to and including termination from Foresters Equity. It is anticipated that the training topics to be covered will include, but not
necessarily be limited to, the following:
Fiduciary Duty of Investment Advisors Importance of Adhering to Policies and Procedures Manual Outside Business Activities
Anti-Money Laundering Protection of Non-Public Customer Data
Code of Ethics, Insider Trading and Personal Securities Transactions Political Contributions
The Compliance Department will be responsible for producing the training materials or locating a third party resource that is appropriate for IARs.
3.2 Compliance Questionnaire On an annual basis, the Compliance Department will send a questionnaire to each IAR asking for certain information and responses regarding the IARs understanding
of the policies and procedures of Foresters Equity. In some cases, the IAR may be required to make certain representations or attestations regarding his/her
compliance with specific policies and procedures. It is the responsibility of each IAR to complete and return the questionnaire to Foresters Equity in a timely fashion.
The Compliance Department will use this questionnaire to monitor the activities of its IARs and to tailor its future training programs for IARs.
3.3 Supervision Foresters Equity and its IARs have an obligation to ensure that an advisory relationship being established is appropriate for the client. At the time of
establishing an advisory relationship with a client, the IAR collects certain information from the client that may include the following: annual income, net
worth and other financial information, investment experience, financial goals, and account restrictions. This data collection process assists the IAR in helping the
client determine an investment objective for the account or services. It also assists the IAR and Foresters Equity in determining the appropriateness of the account or services for the client. The advisory services offered through Foresters Equity are
designed for clients who wish to invest assets in accordance with long term
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investment objectives. The IAR should not recommend advisory services for the client if the services are not suitable for the client or if the client does not intend to
take a long term view toward investing.
3.3.1 New Accounts Depending on the account type, it is Foresters Equity’s policy that clients meet
certain investment needs and have the appropriate level of sophistication. An IAR is responsible for determining that any recommendation he or she makes is consistent
with the investment objectives and risk profile provided by the client. As fiduciaries, IARs have a duty to serve the best interests of their clients, including
the obligation not to subordinate any client’s interests to those of Foresters Equity or the IAR. Included in the fiduciary standard are the duties of loyalty and care.
Moreover, an investment adviser or IAR that has an actual or potential material conflict of interest must either eliminate the conflict or fully disclose to the client all material facts relating to the conflict. Section 206 of the Investment Advisers Act of
1940, as amended (“Advisers Act”), sets forth in general terms a non-exhaustive number of prohibited practices upon which the case law on the fiduciary standard is
based. Because IARs are typically dually registered (i.e., as IARs and Registered Representatives), they are subject to the fiduciary standard when providing
advisory services to their clients and the suitability standard when recommending that clients sell securities or other investments to fund an investment advisory account.
FINRA requires that a member firm or an associated person must have a
reasonable basis to believe that a recommended transaction or investment strategy involving a security or securities is suitable for the client. Under FINRA’s general principles on applying the suitability standard, implicit in all member and associated
person relationships with clients and others is the fundamental responsibility for fair dealing. Sales efforts must therefore be undertaken only on a basis that can be
judged as being within the ethical standards of FINRA’s rules, with particular emphasis on the requirement to deal fairly with the public.
Technically, FINRA’s suitability standard does not apply when opening an investment advisory account, since IARs are fiduciaries and thus subject to a higher
standard. Nevertheless, FINRA may examine the source of funding for investment advisory accounts to the extent a client uses proceeds from the sale of securities to fund a new investment advisory account or transfers a security from a brokerage
account to an investment advisory account.
IARs have an obligation to determine whether or not an investment advisory account is suitable for a client before making a recommendation. The staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Division of Investment Management
has made it clear that “an investment adviser must carefully consider whether a wrap-fee arrangement is suitable and appropriate for its client before [emphasis
added] entering into such an arrangement.” The SEC staff has also made it clear that an investment adviser must consider each client’s investment goals and
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amount of assets to be invested in determining whether a wrap fee arrangement is suitable for the client.
IARs must conduct an initial suitability review of a client prior to recommending an
investment advisory account. To assist in this review, Foresters Equity has created the Advisory Recommendation Form (“ARF”), which IARs must complete when meeting with prospective clients.
As noted earlier, IARs must adhere to the fiduciary standard which is a higher
standard than the suitability standards for broker-dealers and Registered Representatives. IARs must determine the overall suitability of all recommendations, and consider such factors as the client’s age, investment
objectives, risk profile, financial status, types of securities to be sold, tax consequences of selling those securities, etc.
IARs must submit the following required documentation to the Foresters Equity home office in order to open an investment advisory account relationship:
New Account Application
Disclosure and Acknowledgement of Receipt of Documents ARF
Copy of the IARs Brochure Supplement provided to the client The third party advisor’s required documents (e.g., Solicitation Agreement,
Program Selection, etc)
Any additional account documents (i.e., Trustee Certification, Power or Attorney, etc.)
A principal at the home office will review the submitted documentation, sign the documents as evidence of approval and ensure that the required originals are
forwarded to the third party money manager.
For financial planning accounts, IARs must submit the following documents to the Foresters Equity home office:
New Account Application Financial Planning and Consultation Agreement
Copy of financial plan delivered to client Invoice Any additional account documents (e.g., Trustee Certification, Power of
Attorney, etc.)
Copies of the above items must also be maintained in the appropriate client file in the IAR’s office. The IAR must also maintain any additional documentation related to clients including the reviewed copies of the client quarterly reports, and
completed corresponding third party risk tolerance questionnaire.
No investment (e.g., mutual fund, variable annuity, etc.) may be placed into a new or existing investment advisory account if Foresters Equity or any of its IARs or
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Registered Representatives has received a portion of any commission, sales charge, dealer concession or other similar compensation on the investment within the
past 2 years, with the exception of any variable annuity designed for fee-based accounts (i.e., no-load variable annuities) and approved in advance by the CCO or
his or her designee. Once the 2 years have lapsed, the investment may be placed in an investment advisory account and fees may be assessed pursuant to the applicable fee schedule. Any investment advisory account submitted in
contravention of this policy will be not be processed and may subject the IAR to disciplinary action up to and including the termination of the IARs affiliation with
Foresters Equity. 3.3.2 Ongoing Account Review
As an investment advisor, Foresters Equity is responsible for ensuring that clients
receive ongoing management that is consistent with the client’s stated investment objectives and risk tolerance. In that regard, IARs are required to contact each client at least annually to review the client’s account and determine if there has
been any change to the client’s financial situation, investment objectives or risk profile. IARs are further encouraged to update the client profile as appropriate and
send the original updated client profile to the home office for review, approval and forwarding to the third party money manager. In addition, a copy must be
maintained in the IAR’s office in the client file. Furthermore, a registered principal in the Foresters Equity home office who has
either a Series 65 or Series 66 registration conducts a review of no less than 15 investment advisory accounts per calendar quarter to help ensure that the ongoing
investment management the clients are receiving remains consistent with each client’s stated investment objective and risk tolerance, and documents the results of each quarterly review on a “Quarterly Review of Investment Advisory Accounts”
log, which must be submitted to the CCO or his or her designee within 10 business days after the end of each calendar quarter.
3.3.3 Political Contributions
SEC Rule 206(4)-5 (the “Rule”) under the Advisers Act prohibits investment advisors from receiving compensation for providing advice to a “government entity” within 2 years after a “contribution” to an “official” of the government entity has been made by the investment advisor or by any of its “covered associates” advisory business.
A de minimus provision permits associated persons to make contributions of up to $350 per election per candidate if the contributor is entitled to vote for the candidate and up to $150 per election per candidate if the contributor is not entitled to vote for the candidate.
Foresters Equity prohibits all covered associates from making a contribution to an official, as defined above, in excess of the de minimus exemption. All covered associates must report all contributions to the compliance department at or prior to the time of the contribution on the Investment Advisor Representative Political Contribution Disclosure form. The time of the contribution is defined as no less than 24 hours prior to the contribution being paid to an official.
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It is the policy of Foresters Equity to separately identify all government entity accounts on its books and records. Each covered associate is required to notify compliance at the time of the account opening for this account type, if applicable.
As part of Foresters Equity books and records, the firm maintains a log of all
political contributions by its investment adviser representatives evidencing whether
the contribution was approved or not approved
Regarding cash solicitors, it is the policy of Foresters Equity to not accept referrals
for government entity clients or any other form of direct or indirect solicitation.
Covered associate is defined as any executive officer or other individual with a similar status or function, any employee who solicits a government entity for the investment adviser and any person who supervises directly or indirectly such employee, and any political action committed controlled by any covered associate.
Violation of this policy as denoted above is subject to disciplinary action by
Foresters Equity.
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Chapter 4 – Code of Ethics and Insider Trading
4.1 General Foresters Equity maintains and enforces a written code of ethics, a copy of which is maintained under separate cover and available on the firm’s website, www.forestersequity.com.
In an effort to ensure that Foresters Equity Services, Inc. (“Foresters Equity”)
maintains a reputation for integrity and high ethical standards, it is important that
Foresters Equity and its supervised persons comply with federal securities laws and
also maintain high standards of personal and professional conduct. The Code of
Ethics (the “Code”) is designed to help ensure that Foresters Equity conducts its
business consistent with these high standards.
Covered Individuals
All Foresters Equity investment advisor representatives (“IARs”) and employees are
covered by the Code and are required to acknowledge receipt of a copy of the Code in writing, as well as any amendments that may be provided in the future. It is the
responsibility of all IARs to read, understand and comply with the requirements of the Code. Failure to comply with the Code may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment
4.1.1 Basic Principles
This Code is based on a few basic principles that should pervade all investment related activities of all associated personnel: (1) the interests of Foresters Equity's
clients come before its or any IAR’s interests; (2) each IAR’s professional activities and personal investment activities must be consistent with this Code and avoid any
actual or potential conflict between the interests of clients and those of Foresters Equity or the IAR; and (3) those activities must be conducted in a way that avoids any abuse of an IAR’s position of trust with and responsibility to Foresters Equity and
its clients, including taking inappropriate advantage of that position.
The IAR shall in all respects comply with applicable federal and state securities laws, and other laws, rules and regulations, any applicable laws of foreign jurisdictions, and the firm policies and procedures as may be amended from time to time,
including without limitation those prohibiting insider trading and front running of client accounts.
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Fiduciary Duty. As a fiduciary, Foresters Equity has an affirmative duty of care,
loyalty, honesty, and good faith to act in the best interests of its clients. This
includes the obligation to place the interests of clients ahead of its own. Foresters
Equity requires that IARs place client transactions ahead of any transactions for the
account of an IAR. Foresters Equity requires all IARs to conduct business in an
ethical fashion.
Conflicts of Interest. IARs should try to avoid any situation that has even the
appearance of conflict or impropriety, and should fully disclose to the client all
material facts concerning any conflict of interest that does arise.
Standards of Conduct. All IARs must comply with all federal securities laws. IARs
are not permitted, in connection with the purchase or sale, directly or indirectly, of
a security held or to be acquired by a client:
To defraud such client in any manner
To mislead a client, including by making a statement that omits material facts
To engage in any act, practice or course of conduct, which operates or would operate as a fraud or deceit on a client
To engage in any manipulative practice with respect to such client
To engage in any manipulative practice with respect to securities, including price manipulation
4.1.2 Chief Compliance Officer
Many of the specific procedures, standards, and restrictions described in this Code involve consultation with the CCO.
4.1.3 Security
For purposes of this Code, the term "security" includes not only stocks, but also options, rights, warrants, futures contracts, convertible securities, mutual funds or
other securities that are related to securities in which Foresters Equity's clients may invest or as to which Foresters Equity may make recommendations (sometimes also
referred to as "related securities"). 4.1.4 Covered Accounts
Many of the procedures, standards and restrictions in this Code govern activities in
"Covered Accounts." Covered Accounts consist of:
1. Securities accounts of which Foresters Equity is a beneficial owner, provided
that (except where the CCO otherwise specifies) investment partnerships or other funds of which Foresters Equity or any affiliated entity is the general
partner, investment advisor or investment manager or from which Foresters Equity or such affiliated entity receives fees based on capital gains are
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generally not considered Covered Accounts, despite the fact that Foresters Equity or associated person may be considered to have an indirect beneficial
ownership interest in them. 2. Each securities account registered in an IAR’s name and each account or
transaction in which an IAR has any direct or indirect "beneficial ownership interest" (other than accounts of investment limited partnerships or other investment funds not specifically identified by the CCO as "Covered
Accounts").
4.1.5 Beneficial Ownership The concept of "beneficial ownership" of securities is broad. It includes not only
securities a person owns directly, and not only securities owned by others specifically for his or her benefit, but also (i) securities held by his or her spouse, minor children
and relatives who live full time in his or her home, and (ii) securities held by another person if by reason of any contract, understanding, relationship, agreement or other arrangement the IAR obtains benefits substantially equivalent to ownership.
Note: This broad definition of "beneficial ownership" does not necessarily apply for
purposes of other securities laws or for purposes of estate or income tax reporting or liability. An IAR may declare that the reporting or recording of any securities
transaction should not be construed as an admission that he or she has any direct or indirect beneficial ownership in the security for other purposes.
4.1.6 Personal Account Trading and Investment Policy
It is Foresters Equity's policy to impose specific requirements related to each covered person's personal trading and investment activity.
Foresters Equity's policy is to consider the effects of various types of trading, including short term trading and trading in new issues as a potential conflict of
interest. Similarly, Foresters Equity may impose specific requirements related to investments in private placements.
Approval may be refused for any proposed trade by an IAR when the trade:
Involves a security that is being or has been purchased or sold by Foresters Equity on behalf of any client account or is being considered for purchase or sale
Is otherwise prohibited under any internal policies of Foresters Equity (such as Foresters Equity's Policy and Procedures to Detect and Prevent Insider Trading)
Breaches the IAR’s fiduciary duty to any client Is otherwise inconsistent with applicable law, including the Adviser’s Act and
the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended
Creates an appearance of impropriety
The Procedures section shall address Foresters Equity's specific procedures for these types of investments and trading.
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4.1.7 Service as a Director
No IAR may serve as a director of a publicly-held company without prior approval by
the CCO (or a senior principal, if the CCO is the proposed board member) based upon a determination that service as a director would not be adverse to the interests of any client. In the limited instances in which such service is authorized, IARs serving
as directors will be isolated from other IARs who are involved in making decisions as to the securities of that company through procedures determined by the CCO to be
appropriate in the circumstances. These practices may also constitute illegal "insider trading." Some of the specific trading rules described below are also intended, in part, to prevent front running and scalping. If an account is managed by an
investment advisor, other than Foresters Equity, to which full investment discretion has been granted, these rules will not apply for so long as the IAR(s) who has (have)
a beneficial ownership interest in the account do not have or exercise any discretion. Such accounts will remain subject to the reporting requirements set forth in the next section of this Code.
4.1.8 Gifts and Entertainment
An IAR may not accept inappropriate gifts, favors, entertainment, or other things of
value that could influence decision-making or make the IAR feel beholden to the person or firm. Similarly, IARs may not offer gifts, favors, entertainment or other things of value that could be viewed as overly generous or aimed at influencing
decision-making or making a client feel beholden to Foresters Equity or the IAR. It is Foresters Equity’s policy that the receipt or giving of any gift of more than nominal
value ($100 per year) from or to any person or entity that does business with or on behalf of any client is prohibited, except as otherwise authorized in writing by the CCO.
4.1.9 Duties of Confidentiality
Information concerning the security holdings and financial circumstances of clients, among other items, is confidential. All information about clients must be kept in strict
confidence. IARs are prohibited from disclosing any information about any client, the investment made by Foresters Equity on behalf of any client, information regarding
Foresters Equity’s trading strategies, except as required to provide services to client or for other legitimate business purposes. All information relating to clients' portfolios and activities and to proposed recommendations is strictly confidential. Consideration
of a particular purchase or sale for a client account may not be disclosed, except to authorized persons.
4.1.10 General Ethical Conduct:
The following are potentially compromising situations that must be avoided:
Causing Foresters Equity, acting as principal for its own account or for any account in which Foresters Equity or any person associated with Foresters
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Equity (within the meaning of the Advisers Act) to sell any security to or purchase any security from a client in violation of any applicable law, rule or
regulation of a governmental agency Communicating any information regarding Foresters Equity, Foresters Equity's
investment products or any client to prospective clients, journalists, or regulatory authorities that is not accurate, true or omitting to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements Foresters Equity has made to
such person materially complete Engaging in any act, practice, or course of business that is fraudulent,
deceptive, or manipulative, particularly with respect to a client or prospective client
Engaging in any conduct that is not in the best interest of Foresters Equity or
might appear to be improper Engaging in any financial transaction with any of Foresters Equity's vendors,
clients or IARs, including but not limited to: providing any rebate, directly or indirectly, to any person or entity that has received compensation from Foresters Equity; accepting, directly or indirectly, from any person or entity,
other than Foresters Equity, compensation of any nature such as a bonus, commission, fee, gratuity or other consideration in connection with any
transaction on behalf of Foresters Equity; beneficially owning any security of, or have, directly or indirectly, any financial interest in, any other organization
engaged in securities, financial or related business, except for beneficial ownership of not more than one percent (1%) of the outstanding securities of any business that is publicly owned
Engaging in any form of harassment Improperly using or authorizing the use of any inventions, programs,
technology or knowledge that are the proprietary information of Foresters Equity
Investing or holding outside interest or directorship in clients, vendors,
customers or competing companies, including financial speculations, where such investment or directorship might influence in any manner a decision or
course of action of Foresters Equity. In the limited instances in which service as a director is authorized by Foresters Equity, IARs serving as directors will be isolated from other IARs who are involved in making decisions as to the
securities of that company through procedures determined by Foresters Equity to be appropriate according to the circumstances
Making any unlawful agreement with vendors, existing or potential investment targets or other organizations
Making any untrue statement of a material fact or omitting to state to any
person a material fact necessary in order to make the statements Foresters Equity has made to such person materially complete
Participation in civic or professional organizations that might involve divulging confidential information of the company
Unlawfully discussing trading practices, pricing, clients, research, strategies,
processes or markets with competing companies or their associated persons Using any device, scheme or artifice to defraud, or engaging in any act,
practice, or course of business
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Conduct that operates or would operate as a fraud or deceit upon, any client or prospective client or any party to any securities transaction in which
Foresters Equity or any of its clients is a participant
4.1.11 Misappropriation of Customer Funds Misappropriation, stealing, or conversion of customer funds is prohibited and
constitutes serious fraudulent and criminal acts. Examples of such acts include (1) unauthorized wire or other transfers in and out of customer accounts; (2) borrowing
customer funds; (3) converting customer checks that are intended to be added or debited to existing accounts; and (4) taking liquidation values of securities belonging to customers.
4.2 Insider Trading Foresters Equity has adopted the following policies and procedures to detect and
prevent the misuse of material, nonpublic information by IARs of Foresters Equity. 4.2.1 Policy Statement on Insider Trading
The term "insider trading" is not defined in the federal securities laws, but generally
is used to refer to the use of material nonpublic information to trade in securities (whether or not one is an "insider") or to communications of material nonpublic information to others.
While the law concerning insider trading is not static, it is generally understood that
the law prohibits the following:
Trading by an insider while in possession of material nonpublic information
Trading by a non-insider, while in possession of material nonpublic information, where the information either was disclosed to the non-insider in
violation of an insider's duty to keep it confidential or was misappropriated Communicating material nonpublic information to others in violation of one's
duty to keep such information confidential Foresters Equity prohibits any officer, director or IAR from trading a security, either
personally or on behalf of others, while in possession of material, nonpublic information about the security or communicating material nonpublic information to
others in violation of the law. Additionally, IARs are prohibited from communicating, sharing, or tipping such material, non-public information to others. Material information includes any information that a reasonable investor would consider in
making an investment decision. Non-public information is information that has not been disseminated in a manner that would make it generally available to investors.
This conduct is frequently referred to as "insider trading." Foresters Equity's policy applies to every officer, director and IAR and extends to activities within and outside
their duties at Foresters Equity. Each officer, director and IAR must read this policy statement and acknowledge his or her understanding of it. An IAR that believes
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he/she or a client may be in possession of material, non-public information, should immediately contact Foresters Equity’ CCO. Any questions regarding Foresters
Equity's policy and procedures should be referred to the CCO.
4.2.2 Who Is An Insider? The concept of an "insider" is broad. It includes officers, directors and IARs of a
company. In addition, a person can be a "temporary insider" if he or she enters into a special confidential relationship in the conduct of Foresters Equity’s affairs and as a
result is given access to information solely for the firm's purposes. A temporary insider can include certain "outsiders" such as, among others, Foresters Equity’s attorneys, accountants, consultants, bank lending officers, and the associated
persons of such organizations. According to the United States Supreme Court, before such an "outsider" may be considered a "temporary insider", the firm's relationship
with the outsider must be such that the firm reasonably expects him or her to keep the disclosed nonpublic information confidential.
4.2.3 What Is Material Information?
While covered persons are prohibited from trading on inside information, trading on inside information is not a basis for liability unless the information is "material."
Information generally is material if there is a substantial likelihood that a reasonable client would consider it important in making his or her investment decisions, or if public dissemination of the information is reasonably certain to have a substantial
effect on the price of a company's securities. Information that should be presumed to be material includes, but is not limited to: dividend changes; earnings estimates;
changes in previously released earnings estimates; significant merger or acquisition proposals or agreements; commencement of or developments in major litigation; liquidation problems; and extraordinary management developments.
Questions one might ask in determining whether information is material include:
Is this information that a client would consider important in making his or her
investment decisions?
Is this information that would substantially affect the market price of the securities if generally disclosed?
Is the information nonpublic? To whom has this information been provided? Has the information been effectively communicated to the marketplace by being published in a recognized national distribution agency or publication
such as Reuters, The Wall Street Journal or other such widely circulated publications?
Caution must be exercised, however, because material information does not necessarily have to relate to a company's business. The Supreme Court of the United
States has broadly interpreted materiality in some cases, and has asserted criminal liability associated with inappropriate disclosures.
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4.2.4 What Is Nonpublic Information?
Information is nonpublic until it has been effectively communicated to the market place. One must be able to point to some fact to show that the information is
generally public. For example, information found in a report filed with the SEC, or appearing in Dow Jones, Reuters Economic Services, The Wall Street Journal or other publications of general circulation would be considered public.
4.2.5 Types of Liability
Actions by the US courts, including the Supreme Court, have resulted in findings that assert liability to fiduciaries in the context of trading on material nonpublic
information. In some cases it has been found that a non-insider can enter into a confidential relationship with the company through which they gain information or
they can acquire a fiduciary duty to the company's shareholders as "tippees" if they are aware or should have been aware that they have been given confidential information by an insider who has violated his fiduciary duty to the company's
shareholders. This is a circumstance into which an associate of Foresters Equity may fall.
In the "tippee" situation, a breach of duty occurs only if the insider personally
benefits, directly or indirectly, from the disclosure. It is important to note that the benefit does not have to be monetary; it can be a gift, and can even be a 'reputational' benefit that will translate into future earnings. Another basis for insider
trading liability is the "misappropriation" theory, where trading occurs on material nonpublic information that was stolen or misappropriated from any other person.
This theory can be used to apply liability to individuals not previously thought to be encompassed under the fiduciary duty theory.
4.3 Penalties for Insider Trading
Penalties for trading on or communicating material nonpublic information are severe, both for individuals involved in the trading (or tipping) and their employers. A person
can be subject to some or all of the penalties below even if he or she does not personally benefit from the violation. Penalties include:
Civil injunctions Damages in a civil suit as much as three times the amount of actual damages
suffered by other buyers or sellers Disgorgement of profits Jail sentences
Fines for the person who committed the violation of up to three times the profit gained or loss avoided, whether or not the person actually benefited, and
Fines for the employer or other controlling person of up to the greater of $1,000,000 or three times the amount of the profit gained or loss avoided
Prohibition from employment in the securities industry
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In addition, any violation of this policy statement by an IAR can be expected to result in serious disciplinary measures by Foresters Equity, including dismissal of the IAR
involved.
4.4 Procedures for Compliance with Code of Ethics
The CCO has determined that all associated persons are covered by Foresters Equity's Code of Ethics. In the following procedures all such persons shall be referred to as "covered persons."
The CCO or designee will maintain in an accessible place the following materials:
Copy of this Code of Ethics Record of any violation of these procedures for the most recent five years and
a detailed synopsis of the actions taken in response Copy of each transaction report submitted by each officer, director and
associated person of Foresters Equity for the most recent five years List of all persons who are or have been required to file transaction reports.
In an effort to prevent insider trading, through his/her own efforts or as delegated to qualified covered persons under his/her supervision, the CCO will do the following:
Answer questions and document responses regarding Foresters Equity's policy
and procedures
Provide no less than annually an educational program to familiarize covered persons with Foresters Equity’s policy and procedures
Require each IAR to acknowledge his or her receipt and compliance with this policy and procedures regarding insider trading on an annual basis, and retain acknowledgements among Foresters Equity’s central compliance records
Resolve issues of whether information received by an associated person of Foresters Equity is material and nonpublic and document findings
Review on a regular basis and update as necessary Foresters Equity's policy and procedures and document any resulting amendments or revisions
When it is determined that an IAR of Foresters Equity has material nonpublic information, implement measures to prevent dissemination of such information and if necessary, restrict covered persons from trading in the
securities
In an effort to detect insider trading, through his/her own efforts or as delegated to qualified covered persons under his/her supervision, the CCO or designee will perform the following actions:
Review the trading activity reports filed by each officer, director, and IAR of
Foresters Equity, documenting findings by initialing and dating the forms or reports reviewed
Review the duplicate confirmations and statements and related documentation
of personal and related accounts maintained by officers, directors and covered persons versus the activity in the fund(s) advised by Foresters Equity
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Require officers, directors and covered persons to submit periodic reports of personal trading activity, and to attest to the completeness of each individual's
disclosure of outside accounts at the time of hiring and at least annually thereafter
To determine whether Foresters Equity's covered persons have complied with the rules described above (and to detect possible insider trading), the CCO will have
access to and will review transactions effected in Covered Accounts within 30 days after the end of each month. The CCO will compare transactions in Covered Accounts
with transactions in client accounts for transactions or trading patterns that suggest violations of this policy or potential front running, scalping, or other practices that constitute or could appear to involve abuses of covered persons' positions. Annually
each covered person must certify that he or she has read and understands this Code, that he or she recognizes that this Code applies to him or her, and that he or she has
complied with all of the rules and requirements of this Code that apply to him or her. The CCO or designee is charged with responsibility for collection, review, and retention of the certifications submitted by covered persons.
Although covered persons are not prohibited under this policy from trading securities
for their own accounts at the same time that they are involved in trading on behalf of Foresters Equity, they must do so only in full compliance with this policy and their
fiduciary obligations. At all times, the interests of Foresters Equity's clients will prevail over the covered person's interest. No trades or trading strategies used by a covered person may conflict with Foresters Equity's strategies or the markets in
which Foresters Equity is trading. Personal account trading must be done on the covered person's own without placing undue burden on Foresters Equity's time. No
transactions should be undertaken that are beyond the financial resources of the covered person.
No IAR may purchase new publicly offered issues (“IPO”) of any securities ("New Issue Securities") for any covered account in the public offering of those securities
without the prior written consent of the CCO. At the onset of firm association and immediately following subsequent events
involving the acquisition of securities (marriage, inheritance, etc.), each covered person must, disclose to the CCO the identities, amounts and locations of all
securities he/she owns. On an annual basis, each IAR will be required to confirm the location of all Covered Accounts. In all cases, duplicate statements must be sent directly to the CCO or designee from the custodian. All statements of holdings,
duplicate account statements, and monthly and quarterly reports will generally be held in confidence by the CCO or designee(s). However, the CCO or designee(s) may
provide access to any of those materials to other members of Foresters Equity's management in order to resolve questions regarding compliance with this policy and regarding potential purchases or sales for client accounts, and Foresters Equity may
provide regulatory authorities with access to those materials where required to do so under applicable laws, regulations, or orders of such authorities.
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To prevent the misappropriation, theft or conversion of customer funds, Foresters Equity will implement one or more of the following procedures:
Verify changes of address with the customer by requesting such changes in
writing from the customer or by verifying the change through a telephone call or email to the customer.
Require supervisory review of changes of address or customer account
information to ensure that associated persons do not independently change customers' addresses and account information.
Ensure IARs do not have the ability to alter account statements online. Closely analyze customers' use of any address other than their home
address. Use of P.O. boxes, "in care of" addresses, and other- than- home
addresses are prohibited absent a valid reason for their use. All transfers, withdrawals, or wires from the customer's account require the customer's
authorization and confirmation of the customer’s identity, typically by having the client give the last 4 digits of their social security number. If possible, provide customers with access to their account statements on a secure firm
website so that customers can easily verify activity in their accounts. The use of personal electronic devices (e.g., personal computers, Blackberries) to
conduct firm business is prohibited unless the use of personal electronic devices is pre-approved and the devices can be linked with the firm's system
to allow for supervisory review.
Require each associated person who has knowledge of misappropriation, stealing or
conversion of customer funds to promptly report the situation to the CCO.
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Chapter 5 - Anti-Money Laundering (“AML”)
In compliance with financial industry regulations and the USA PATRIOT ACT, Foresters Equity has:
Established and implemented policies and procedures that can be reasonably expected to detect and cause the reporting of transactions that raise a
suspicion of money laundering Established and implemented policies, procedures and internal controls
reasonably designed to achieve compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act and
regulations thereunder Designated an individual or individuals responsible for implementing and
monitoring the day-to-day operations and internal controls of the program Provided and will continue to provide ongoing training for appropriate
personnel
Provided for independent compliance testing by Foresters Equity’s personnel or a qualified outside party on a regular schedule but no less than annually
Senior Management is committed to the goals of the USA PATRIOT ACT. Further, anti-money laundering compliance is the responsibility of every IAR, and any IAR
that detects activity that seems to be suspicious is instructed to report such activity to the AML Compliance Officer (“AML CO”). The responsibility of IARs to participate in
the AML Compliance Program is reinforced through training, no less frequently than annually, and through ongoing oversight performed by or at the instruction of the AML CO.
Foresters Equity will periodically update its AML Policies and Procedures to conform to
regulatory changes and firm growth. Foresters Equity will continue to seek guidance from the Department of Treasury, the states and others regarding effective AML Policies and Procedures.
5.1 Definition Money laundering is engaging in acts designed to conceal or disguise the true origins
of criminally derived proceeds so that the unlawful proceeds appear to have been derived from legitimate origins or to constitute legitimate assets. Generally, money
laundering occurs in three stages. Cash first enters the financial system at the "placement" stage, where the cash generated from criminal activities is converted into monetary instruments, such as money orders or traveler's checks, or deposited
into accounts at financial institutions. At the "layering" stage, the funds are transferred or moved into other accounts or other financial institutions to further
separate the money from its criminal origin. At the "integration" stage, the funds are reintroduced into the economy and used to purchase legitimate assets or to fund other criminal activities or legitimate businesses. Terrorist financing may not involve
the proceeds of criminal conduct, but rather an attempt to conceal the origin or intended use of the funds, which will later be used for criminal purposes.
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In addition, money laundering may include (1) willfully ignoring ("willful blindness")
the source of a client's assets or the nature of client transactions; and/or (2) failing to report suspected money laundering activities and failing to maintain required
records of transactions in order to hide and transfer assets. Money launderers require the intentional or unintentional assistance of an associated person or a financial institution.
Foresters Equity has adopted the following policies and procedures, to be adhered to
by every IAR of Foresters Equity.
5.2 Due Diligence It is Foresters Equity's policy to prohibit and actively prevent money laundering and
any activity that facilitates money laundering of the funding of terrorist or criminal activities. Accordingly, Foresters Equity requires a corresponding commitment by its
IARs, irrespective of job duty or assignment. Foresters Equity requires every IAR to diligently protect Foresters Equity from money launderer's exploitation. Foresters Equity and its IARs could be subject to civil, criminal and disciplinary action, and
harm to their reputation.
The purpose of Foresters Equity's AML policies and procedures is to:
1. Uphold the law
2. Protect Foresters Equity and its IARs from persons who would misuse Foresters Equity facilities and resources
3. Safeguard Foresters Equity and its IARs from the appearance of impropriety and from the violation of anti-money laundering laws
4. Maintain Foresters Equity's high level of service to clients and counter-parties
without disruption or inconvenience
5.3 AML Compliance Officer
Foresters Equity has assigned an individual, noted at the end of this chapter, as Foresters Equity's AML CO. Foresters Equity will provide the appropriate regulator with AML CO’s contact information, including name, title, mailing address, email
address, telephone number and facsimile number. Firm personnel should contact the AML CO if they have any questions regarding Foresters Equity's AML Policies and
Procedures or how to implement them. The AML CO will:
Implement Foresters Equity's AML Policies and Procedures. Ensure appropriate firm personnel attend periodic AML training.
Ensure the accuracy of third party reports on which Foresters Equity relies in complying with these policies and procedures.
Ensure that Suspicious Activity Reports (SAR-SFs) are filed when necessary.
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Because the relationship between Foresters Equity and its clearing firm (or any custodian) may divide responsibilities related to AML, or may overlap causing
complication or confusion regarding its AML Policies and Procedures implementation, Foresters Equity and its clearing firm or custodian(s) remain in ongoing
communication and understanding regarding the responsibilities of each entity. In most cases, Foresters Equity is in the best position to know its client, and understands that it is responsible for reviewing anti-money laundering.
The AML CO is responsible for knowing about and procuring any and all available
reports that may be utilized in connection with these procedures.
5.4 IAR Awareness and Training Foresters Equity requires existing IARs to periodically acknowledge receipt of these
procedures, as deemed appropriate by the AML CO. Foresters Equity shall establish a training program to include periodic training related to AML.
5.5 Client Identification Program Foresters Equity has implemented a Client Identification Program ("CIP") to ensure that Foresters Equity and its IARs can form a reasonable belief that they know the
true identity of each individual accepted as a client. Further, the CIP shall ensure that Foresters Equity and its IARs know the identity of individuals underlying any entity
that is accepted as a client. Underlying the CIP is the policy that requires that the AML CO be involved in the acceptance of each and every new client.
Foresters Equity will verify the identity of each of the following:
New clients and persons to whom any client grants investment authority Existing clients for whom Foresters Equity has not previously checked the
identity, and those granted investment authority subsequent to any initial
investment Any clients whose identity the AML CO deems should be verified
Prior to opening an account, IARs must obtain from the client the following:
Client's name Date of birth, for an individual
An address, which will be: (1) for an individual, a residential or business street address; (2) for an individual who does not have a residential or business street address, an Army Post Office (APO) or Fleet Post Office (FPO) box
number, or the residential or business street address of next of kin or another contact individual; or (3) for a person other than an individual (such as a
corporation, partnership, or trust), a principal place of business, local office, or other physical location
An identification number, which will be: (1) for a U.S. person, a taxpayer identification number or (2) for a non-U.S. person, a taxpayer identification number and one or more of the following: (a) a passport number and country
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of issuance; (b) an alien identification card number; or (c) the number and country of issuance of any other government-issued document evidencing
nationality or residence and bearing a photograph or similar safeguard
5.5.1 ID Verification Foresters Equity will determine what and how much identification it will require a
client to provide based on Foresters Equity's perceived client risk. Foresters Equity will determine the client's risk using the following factors, among others at the
discretion of the AML CO:
Types of identifying information available about the client and or parties
associated with the client Input by qualified third parties, such as the custodian, fund administrator, or
other such counter-party Foresters Equity will verify the client's identity within a reasonable time before it
opens the client's account. Foresters Equity will use documentary, non-documentary, or a combination of both methods to verify client's identities.
5.5.2 Documentary Verification
Foresters Equity will use the following documents and others based on its client's perceived risk to verify the client's identity:
For an individual, an unexpired government-issued identification evidencing
nationality or residence and bearing a photograph or similar safeguard, such as a driver's license or passport
For a person other than an individual (such as a corporation, partnership, or
trust), documents showing the existence of the entity, such as certified articles of incorporation,
a government-issued business license, a partnership agreement, or a trust instrument
In certain instances, Foresters Equity's account opening documents may require the client to: (1) represent and covenant that all evidence of identity provided is genuine
and all related information furnished is accurate; (2) agree to provide any information deemed necessary by Foresters Equity in its sole discretion to comply with its anti-money laundering responsibilities and policies; and (3) represent that it
is investing solely as principal and not for the benefit of any third parties.
5.5.3 Non-Documentary Verification Foresters Equity will use the following non-documentary methods and others based
on the perceived risk to verify client's identity:
Contacting the client
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Independently verifying the client's identity through the comparison of information provided by the client with information obtained from a consumer
reporting agency, public database, or other source Checking references with other financial institutions
Obtaining a financial statement Foresters Equity will use this information to determine whether there is a logical
consistency between the client's identifying information, such as name, street address, zip code, telephone number, date of birth, and taxpayer identification
number. 5.5.4 Reliance on a Third Party for Identity Verification
Foresters Equity may, under the following circumstances, rely on the performance by
another financial institution (including an affiliate) of some or all of the elements of CIP with respect to any client that is opening an account or has established in account or similar business relationship with the other financial institution to provide
or engage in services, dealings, or other financial transactions:
When such reliance is reasonable under the circumstances When the other financial institution is subject to a rule implementing the anti-
money laundering compliance program requirements When the other financial institution has entered into a contract with Foresters
Equity requiring it to certify annually to us that it has implemented its anti-
money laundering program, and that it will perform specified requirements of the fund client identification program
5.5.5 Special Situations
If a client or potential client is unable to present an unexpired government-issued identification document that bears a photograph or similar safeguard, Foresters
Equity will attempt to use other documentary and non-documentary methods to verify the person's identity.
If Foresters Equity is unfamiliar with the documents the client presents, Foresters Equity will verify the authenticity of the document and/or use other methods to verify
the person's identity. If Foresters Equity opens a client account without obtaining the required documents,
Foresters Equity will discontinue transacting business for the client until Foresters Equity obtains identifying information.
If Foresters Equity opens the client account without the client appearing in person, Foresters Equity will use documentary and non-documentary verification methods as
stated above.
If the client's circumstances increase the risk that Foresters Equity will not be able to verify the client's identity, Foresters Equity will attempt to verify the person's identity
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with documentary methods and if Foresters Equity is unable to verify the person's identity, Foresters Equity will use non-documentary methods or not open the
account.
Until Foresters Equity verifies the client's identity, Foresters Equity will determine whether each transaction is appropriate without client identity verification. If Foresters Equity fails to verify the client's identity, it will close the client's account
and not reopen the account until it positively identifies the client. If Foresters Equity suspects that clients are not who they purport to be, Foresters Equity will not open
accounts on those clients' behalf, and Foresters Equity will file a suspicious activity report in accordance with the SAR section of these policies and procedures.
5.5.6 Clients Who Refuse to Provide Information
If a potential or existing client either refuses to provide the information described above when requested, or appears to have intentionally provided misleading information, Foresters Equity will not transact business for the client and, after
considering the risks involved, Foresters Equity will consider closing any existing account. In either case, the AML CO will be notified so that a determination can be
made regarding reporting the situation via a Form SAR-SF. The AML CO shall be the final determinant of the client's status.
5.5.7 Government List Comparison
Foresters Equity will verify within a reasonable time after the client opens an account, or earlier if required, that the client does not appear on any list of known or
suspected terrorist or terrorist organization. Foresters Equity will follow all Federal directives issued in connection with such lists.
On an ongoing basis, Foresters Equity will check the OFAC list to ensure, before transacting any business with them, that potential clients and existing clients are not
prohibited persons or entities and are not from embargoed countries or regions. From time to time, Foresters Equity may receive notice that a government agency
has issued a list of known or suspected terrorists. Within a reasonable period of time after an account is opened (or earlier), Foresters Equity will determine whether a
client appears on any such list of known or suspected terrorists or terrorist organizations issued by any government agency. Foresters Equity will follow all directives issued in connection with such lists.
Foresters Equity will continue to comply with the Treasury's Office of Foreign Asset
Control rules prohibiting transactions with certain foreign countries or their nationals. 5.5.8 FinCEN Requests under PATRIOT Act Section 314
Foresters Equity responds to Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN)
requests about accounts or transactions by immediately searching its records at its head office to determine whether Foresters Equity maintains or has maintained any
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account for, or have engaged in any transaction with, each individual, entity, or organization named in FinCEN's request. Upon receiving an information request, the
AML CO will designate one person to be the point of contact regarding the request and to receive similar requests in the future. Unless otherwise stated in FinCEN's
request, Foresters Equity is required to search current accounts, accounts maintained by a named suspect during the preceding 12 months, and transactions conducted by or on behalf of or with a named subject during the preceding six months. If Foresters
Equity finds a match, Foresters Equity will report it to FinCEN by completing FinCEN's subject information form. This form can be sent to FinCEN by electronic mail at
[email protected], or by facsimile transmission to 703-905-3660. If the search parameters differ from those mentioned above (e.g., if FinCEN requests longer periods of time or limits the search to a geographic location), Foresters Equity
will limit its search accordingly.
If Foresters Equity searches its records and does not uncover a matching account or transaction, then Foresters Equity will not reply to the FinCEN request.
Foresters Equity will not disclose the fact that FinCEN has requested or obtained information, except to the extent necessary to comply with the information request.
Foresters Equity will maintain procedures to protect the security and confidentiality of requests from FinCEN.
Foresters Equity will direct any questions it has about the request to the requesting Federal law enforcement agency as designated in the FinCEN request.
Unless otherwise stated in the information request, Foresters Equity will not be
required to treat the information request as continuing in nature, and Foresters Equity will not be required to treat the request as a list for purposes of the fund clients identification and verification requirements. Foresters Equity will not use
information provided to FinCEN for any purpose other than (1) to report to FinCEN as required under Section 314 of the PATRIOT Act; (2) to determine whether to
establish or maintain an account, or to engage in a transaction; or (3) to assist the firm in complying with any requirement of Section 314 of the PATRIOT Act.
5.6 Acceptable Types of Clients
Generally Foresters Equity will accept the following types of clients, subject to the final review and acceptance of an appropriately licensed registered principal.
5.6.1 Individual Clients
At minimum, Foresters Equity will obtain the client's:
Name and address Date of birth Investment experience and objectives
Social Security Number Names of all persons authorized to trade on the account
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5.6.2 Corporations, Partnerships and Comparable Legal Entities
In order to confirm the identity of a legal entity, Foresters Equity will obtain
satisfactory evidence of the entity's name and address and its authority to make the contemplated investment. Where the client is neither a publicly traded company listed on a major, regulated exchange (or a subsidiary or a pension fund of such a
company) nor a regulated institution organized in a FATF-Compliant Jurisdiction, Foresters Equity may wish to gain additional comfort regarding the client's identity by
obtaining certain of the following, as appropriate under the circumstances:
Evidence that the client has been duly organized in its jurisdiction of
organization If Foresters Equity believes it would be reasonable to rely upon a certification
from the client, a certification ("AML Certificate") from the client that it has implemented and complies with anti-money laundering policies, procedures and controls that seek to ensure that none of its directors, officers or equity
holders are prohibited clients, as set forth in a certificate or other list
5.6.3 Domestic Operating or Commercial Entities
For all commercial entities, Foresters Equity will verify the business identity and verify that the person investing has authority to transact business with Foresters Equity.
5.6.4 Domestic Trusts
For all domestic trusts, Foresters Equity will identify the principal owner of the trust and confirm that the individual establishing the investment has authority to transact
business on behalf of the trust. Foresters Equity may accept evidence of the trustee's authority to make the contemplated investment in the form of either an AML
Certificate from the trustee or the identities of beneficiaries, the provider of funds (e.g., settler(s)), those who have control over funds (e.g., trustee(s)) and any persons who have the power to remove trustees.
5.6.5 Non-Resident Alien Accounts
In addition to resident requirements, Foresters Equity should obtain from non-resident alien clients a current passport number or other valid government ID
number, and any necessary U.S. tax forms.
5.7 Prohibited Clients
Foresters Equity will not accept an investment from or on behalf of the following:
Any client (a "Listed Client") whose name appears on the List of Specially
Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons maintained by the U.S. Office of
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Foreign Assets Control ("OFAC") or such other lists of prohibited persons and entities as may be mandated by applicable law or regulation
Foreign Shell Bank (with respect to clients that are Foreign Banks, Foresters Equity may wish to consider obtaining a representation that the bank either
(1) has a physical presence; or (2) does not have a physical presence, but is a regulated affiliate.)
Senior Foreign Political Figure, any member of a Senior Foreign Political
Figure's immediate family, and any close associate of a Senior Foreign Political Figure
Any client resident in, or organized or chartered under the laws of, a non-cooperative country or territory
Any client resident in, or organized or chartered under the laws of, a
jurisdiction that has been designated by the USA PATRIOT Act as warranting special measures due to money laundering concerns
Any client who gives Foresters Equity reason to believe that its investment funds originate from, or are routed through, an account maintained at an "offshore bank", or a bank organized or chartered under the laws of a non-
cooperative jurisdiction Any client who gives Foresters Equity reason to believe that the source of its
investment funds may not be legitimate
5.8 Suspicious Transactions and Activity Foresters Equity will monitor its account activity to identify patterns of unusual size,
volume, pattern or type of transactions, geographic factors such as whether jurisdictions designated as "non-cooperative" are involved, or any "red flags."
Foresters Equity will review transactions, including trading and wire transfers, in the context of other account activity to determine if a transaction lacks financial sense or is suspicious because it is an unusual transaction or strategy for that client. The AML
CO is responsible for monitoring, documenting, and reporting this activity to the appropriate authorities. Foresters Equity will submit Suspicious Activity Reports
(SARs) for suspicious client activity when opening accounts and when transacting business.
5.8.1 Suspicious Activity at Initial Investment
At initial investment, IARs should report the following and any other suspicious activities to the AML CO:
Client has a suspicious background or originates from a suspicious area Client exhibits reluctance to provide pertinent information related to source of
investment funds, business background or other information Client expresses objections to Foresters Equity's compliance procedures,
restrictions, disclosures or other practices Client appears to be acting as an agent for an undisclosed principal, but
declines or is reluctant, without legitimate commercial reasons, to provide
information or is otherwise evasive regarding that person or entity
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Client is from, or has accounts in, a country identified as a non-cooperative country or territory
Client cannot describe in reasonable terms the nature of his/her business or investment experience
Client cannot adequately document appropriate authority for the account Client wishes to engage in investments that are inconsistent with the client's
apparent investment strategy
Client (or a person publicly associated with the client) is the subject of news reports indicating possible criminal, civil or regulatory violations
5.8.2 Transactions
An IAR should report the following client activities to the AML CO:
Large cash transactions (in excess of $10,000) Transactions that may be structured to fall just below reporting thresholds Wire transfers, journals or cash transactions that have no apparent investment
purpose especially if conducted among countries considered to be tax or bank secrecy havens
Account activity is limited to cash and cash equivalents Significant deposit earmarked for investment with subsequent or sudden
request for withdrawal Multiple accounts for the same individual with no apparent reason for separate
accounts
Customer activity limited to investments often utilized in connection with fraudulent schemes and money laundering
Investment activity not impacted by any apparent consideration of risk, return or other performance
Sudden change in activity, especially wire activity, in an account previously not
active A deposit is made for the purpose of purchasing a long-term investment but is
withdrawn or the investment is liquidated within a short term Deposits and withdrawals to the account appear to be well beyond the
financial means, income or resources of the client
5.9 Suspicious Activity Related to Transactions The AML CO will file form SAR-SF for any attempted or conducted account activity
where Foresters Equity knows, suspects, or has reason to suspect one or more of the following:
The transaction involves funds derived from illegal activity or is intended or conducted in order to hide or disguise funds or assets derived from illegal
activity as part of a plan to violate or evade federal law or regulation or to avoid any transaction reporting requirement under federal law or regulation.
The transaction is designed, whether through structuring or otherwise, to
evade the requirements of the Bank Secrecy Act regulations.
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The transaction has no business or apparent lawful purpose or is not the sort in which the client would normally be expected to engage, and Foresters
Equity knows, after examining the background, the possible purpose of the transaction and other facts, of no reasonable explanation for the transaction.
The transaction involves the use of Foresters Equity to facilitate criminal activity.
The AML CO will file form SAR-SF and notify law enforcement of all transactions that raise an identifiable suspicion of criminal, terrorist, or corrupt activities. In high-risk
situations, Foresters Equity will notify the government immediately and file the SAR-SF with FinCEN.
The AML CO will file a SAR-SF within 30 days of the date of the initial detection of the facts that constitute a basis for filing the SAR-SF. If Foresters Equity cannot identify
any suspect on the date of initial detection, Foresters Equity may delay filing the SAR-SF for an additional 30 days pending identification of a suspect.
The AML CO will retain copies of any SAR-SF filed and the original or business record equivalent of any supporting documentation for five years from the date of filing the
SAR-SF. The AML CO will maintain supporting documentation and make such information available to FinCEN, any other appropriate law enforcement agencies, or
federal or state securities regulators, upon request. The AML CO will not notify any person involved in the transaction that the transaction
has been reported, except as permitted by the BSA regulations.
5.10 Procedures for Compliance with Anti-Money Laundering Policies The Primary AML CO is Judith E. Gil, and Jason Gerb is the Alternate AML CO.
The AML program will be reviewed annually by the AML CO, the CCO or an
independent auditor. The review of the AML program will be conducted as part of the firm's annual compliance program review of the policies and procedures or as an
independent test. The AML CO will maintain a written summary of the test and any corrective actions taken.
The AML CO will supervise the retention of CIP records of all client identity and verification information. For each document Foresters Equity uses to verify client
identity, the AML CO will maintain a record of either the documentary or non-documentary evidence used to verify the individual's ID.
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Chapter 6 - Business Continuity Plan The Business Continuity Plan ("BCP") is a comprehensive document outlining Foresters Equity's procedures for recovering from events, such as natural disasters
and other emergencies that interfere with operations. Foresters Equity has developed its disaster recovery and business continuity plan to meet its
responsibilities to clients, staff, business associates and others who may be affected by a disruption in Foresters Equity's business. A member of senior management, who is also a principal of the firm, must approve the plan. It must also be updated
at least annually or as soon as possible in the event of a material change in operations, structure, business and/or location(s).
6.1 Content of Plan Although a detailed copy of the BCP is retained under separate cover, it includes the following information:
Terms and conditions for major risk areas, including credit risk, market risk,
liquidity risk and other related risks A backup system for recovery of data (both hard copy and electronic data) as
protection against market and other risk
Plan for rapid recovery of mission critical systems including means of testing the system
Review of financial and operational assessments including contingency planning for financial risk
Plans for alternate communications for use between IARs and Foresters
Equity, as well as between clients and Foresters Equity Identification of and instructions regarding an alternative physical location of
IARs Instructions for required and other communications with regulators and
regulatory reporting
Identification of and risk assessment related to primary business constituents, banks and other counter parties
How Foresters Equity will assure clients prompt access to their funds and securities in the event Foresters Equity determines that it is unable to continue its business
To add value to the plan, Foresters Equity has also developed alternate
communication plans for clients, service providers, and regulators to use if/when regular channels are not working. The alternate communications plan assigns personnel to communicate with regulators, government agencies, and mission
critical vendors, providing for the type of information to be shared.
Communication planning should identify alternate modes of communication, such as pagers, cellular phones or email. Periodically Foresters Equity and its IARs
exchange emergency telephone numbers, email address(es), and physical address (es) to facilitate communication during an unanticipated interruption in Foresters
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Equity's business. The list provides all alternatives, since one or more telecommunications systems could be unavailable.
Foresters Equity's capability to conduct business is tested, and ultimately
determined, by its own financial and operation assessments.
6.2 IAR Training IAR training and preparation are crucial parts of maintaining the BCP. Key
personnel are involved in development of both the BCP and maintenance strategies. This preparation encompasses industry standards and specific training. As an
outcome of training addressing emergency preparedness, IARs should be able to answer the following questions:
Who is the immediate contact for each division or unit? What events trigger implementation of all or parts of the BCP?
Who is responsible for implementing the BCP for each division or unit and for the organization as a whole?
Where they should report if normal means of communication are unavailable?
What to do if key persons become unavailable?
The BCP also outlines IAR responsibilities to both clients as well as to Foresters Equity following a disaster.
Posting on websites or well-known bulletin boards and using telephone banks are ways to distribute information during a disaster. Reporting or calling locations can
also serve the dual purpose of accounting for missing personnel. Business continuity training is scheduled and updated consistently to reflect changes to the BCP.
6.3 Procedures for Compliance with Business Continuity Planning The CCO will ensure that Foresters Equity maintains a BCP under separate cover.
The CCO or designee will make certain that training is conducted so Foresters Equity's IARs are informed of components of the BCP relevant to their job function.
A record of the training shall be retained among the central compliance files.
Each IAR will be required to provide emergency contact information to Foresters Equity. Upon material change, each IAR must notify Foresters Equity of changes in emergency contact information. No less than annually, the CCO or designee will
reevaluate the efficacy of the plan, and amend the plan according to his findings. To the extent that testing is performed, the CCO or designee will retain evidence of
the test results and subsequent corrective action.
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Chapter 7 – Regulatory Filings
Foresters Equity may be required to make certain regulatory filings on an ongoing basis. A list of filings that Foresters Equity is required to file is described below. The list below specifically excludes tax filings as well as filings that may be required of
registered broker-dealers.
The filings made to particular regulators by Foresters Equity depend on its business model and the jurisdictions in which it operates. These requirements may change from time to time based on various triggering events.
Foresters Equity’s policy is to maintain the firm’s regulatory reporting requirements
on an effective and good standing basis at all times. Forms 13D, 13F and 13G are filings that may be required under the Securities Exchange Act related to client holdings in equity securities. Any required regulatory filings for the firm are to be
made promptly and accurately. It is not anticipated that Foresters Equity will need to file these forms given its current business model. This assumption will be verified
on an annual basis by Foresters Equity.
7.1 Forms 13D, 13F and 13G Form 13D. This schedule must be filed for any person, including advisors, who,
after acquiring directly or indirectly a beneficial ownership of more than 5 percent of the outstanding shares of any equity security of a class registered pursuant to
Subsection 12 of the Securities Exchange Act or any equity security of an insurance company relying on Subsection 12(g)(2)(G) or any closed-end investment company registered under the 1940 Act to report beneficial ownership with either the intent
or effect of causing a change in control of an issuer. The Form must be filed within 10 days after such acquisition with (1) the SEC, (2) each exchange where the
security is traded, and with (3) the principal office of the issuer. The duty to amend Form 13 D is found in Rule 13d-2 under the Securities Exchange Act.
Form 13F. This form must be filed by an institutional investment manager that exercises investment discretion with respect to accounts holding exchange traded
or NASDAQ quoted equity securities having an aggregate fair market value of at least $100 million on the last trading day of any month. Any person subject to this provision must initially file within 45 days after the last day of the year in which
$100 million is obtained and thereafter 45 days after the end of each subsequent quarter. Once an advisor is obligated to make a 13F filing, the advisor must
continue to make quarterly filings for as long as the advisor continues to manage $100 million of the equity securities on a discretionary basis.
Form 13G. Form 13G may be filed in lieu of a Schedule 13D if such person has acquired more than 5% of the outstanding shares of a security in the ordinary
course of business and not with the purpose of changing or influencing control of the issuer and such person is a registered investment advisor or a specified type of
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institutional investor [Rule 13d-1(b) (1) (ii) (E)] under the Securities Exchange Act].
7.2 SEC Registration As an SEC registered investment advisor, Foresters Equity is required to file Form
ADV, which is divided into two parts. The information submitted in Part 1 is filed electronically through IARD and includes information about Foresters Equity’s business, the persons who own and control Foresters Equity and whether they have
been sanctioned for violating securities or other laws. The information in Part 2 is geared primarily toward Foresters Equity’s clients. Part 2 contains information
relating to the business practices, fees, investment strategies and conflicts of interest Foresters Equity may have with its clients. Part 2 is also uploaded through IARD as a .pdf document. Part 2 is required to be updated annually, within 90 days of Foresters
Equity’s fiscal year end, and whenever it becomes materially inaccurate.
7.3 Procedures for Compliance with Regulatory Filing Requirements
The CCO shall determine which of the regulatory filings must be made by Foresters Equity, and shall assign data collection and reporting duties accordingly to ensure timely filings are made.
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Chapter 8 – Gifts and Entertainment
For purposes of the following policies on receipt of gifts and sending gifts, a gift of nominal value shall be defined as cash, a cash equivalent, a physical item, a service or event tickets with a value not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100.00).
Any gifts given or received by Foresters Equity or any of its IARs are considered in
aggregate whether or not they were conferred by the same or different people at Foresters Equity or the other (recipient) firm or party.
For purposes of Foresters Equity's policies regarding entertainment, an entertainment event shall include any conference, meal, and sporting event or
sponsored outing. No IAR or member of an IAR’s immediate family may receive any gift of more than
nominal value from any person or entity including clients and their service providers, vendors and competitors. Gifts of nominal value are subject to disclosure
requirements as outlined in the Procedures section below. IARs are generally permitted to attend an approved event provided that the
purpose of the meeting is to discuss Foresters Equity's business, and provided that the IAR and the vendor, service provider or client paying for the event must be in
attendance. Similarly, IARs may invite clients to an event provided that the purpose of the
meeting is to discuss Foresters Equity's business, and the event has been approved by a responsible principal.
8.1 Procedures for Gifts and Entertainment The CCO or designee is charged with responsibility for Foresters Equity's Gift and Entertainment policies. To monitor compliance, the CCO or designee will require:
Reporting gifts given and received within a timely manner, deemed to be 10
business days prior to giving or after receiving the gift Reporting events attended and/or hosted within a timely manner, deemed to
be 5 business days prior to extending an invitation or upon receipt of an
invitation to attend an event
As evidence of compliance, the CCO or designee shall record gifts given and received on a log retained among the central compliance files of Foresters Equity.
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Chapter 9 – Trading
Foresters Equity's trading policies include best execution guidelines, resolution of trade errors, and other issues.
Foresters Equity's trading practices must be fair and equitable to customers and order executions must be periodically tested to ensure that the firm has met its
obligation to seek best execution. All trades in money management accounts are directed by and the responsibility of
the third party advisor. The custodian and executing broker-dealer are selected by either the third party advisor or the client, as described in the Form ADV Part 2 for
the third party advisor. Within the Mutual Fund Advantage account, Hilltop requires that client direct Hilltop
as the sole and exclusive broker-dealer to execute transactions. Foresters Equity enters all transactions in the Mutual Fund Advantage account on a non-
discretionary basis. The financial planning services offered by Foresters Equity conclude upon delivery
of the financial plan, analysis or report. The services offered do not include implementation of any recommendations or any transactions.
9.1 Aggregation of Orders As Foresters Equity is not responsible for placing client trades in third party money management program accounts, Foresters Equity is not involved in the decision as
to whether or not to aggregate trades for execution.
Within the Mutual Fund Advantage program, all transactions are entered by IARs on a non-discretionary basis and, therefore, such transactions are not aggregated.
For information on the aggregation of orders in a particular advisory program, refer to the Form ADV Part 2 for the third party advisor of the money management
program.
9.2 Best Execution As a fiduciary, Foresters Equity is required to act in the best interests of its advisory
clients and to seek to obtain the best price and execution for securities transaction placed by Foresters Equity. The term “best execution” means seeking the best
price for a security in the marketplace as well as ensuring that, in executing client transactions, clients do not incur unnecessary brokerage costs and charges. It does not mean getting the lowest possible commission cost, but rather, determining
whether the transaction represents the best qualitative execution for the client.
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As a practical matter, Foresters Equity is not responsible for placing client trades in third party money management program accounts; that is the responsibility of the
third party advisor. And, within the Mutual Fund Advantage program account, Hilltop is responsible for executing all transactions. However, Foresters Equity is
still responsible for ensuring that best execution has been achieved. Hilltop conducts an internal best execution review and performs testing on a quarterly basis. Foresters Equity periodically requests a copy of this information and spot
checks its ETF transaction prices versus independent market data on a sampling basis. Documentation supporting this review is retained in the firm’s books and
records. As mentioned above in Section 1.1, the CCO and/or his or her designee is
responsible for the initial and ongoing due diligence, and selection of the third party advisors, which includes, among other things, a review of their trading
practices. Included among the documents and information reviewed in this regard may be:
Public reviews and reports Cost appraisals related to their custodial, clearing and settlement
relationships and any and all other information deemed appropriate by the CCO
9.3 Trade Errors Foresters Equity's handling of trade errors must be conducted in a manner that does not disadvantage the client, irrespective of the cause of the error. The
following procedures apply to all trade errors resolved by Foresters Equity:
Foresters Equity does not use agency cross transactions to resolve trade errors.
The client must not be disadvantaged as a result of Foresters Equity's error. In no event shall an associated person of Foresters Equity resolve a trade
error without the approval of a senior principal or other supervisor.
A record of all trade errors will be maintained in the books and records of Foresters Equity.
9.4 Agency Cross Transactions
Foresters Equity will not engage in any agency cross transactions in advisory client accounts. An agency cross transaction is defined as a transaction where a person
acts as an investment advisor in relation to a transaction in which the investment advisor, or any person controlled by or under common control with the investment
advisor, acts as broker for both the advisory client and for another person on the other side of a transaction.
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Chapter 10 – Protection of Non-Public Customer Data
Foresters Equity is required by its regulators to protect nonpublic customer data.
10.1 The Privacy Policy
Foresters Equity is required to adhere to the privacy laws and regulations in each and
every state in which it has clients. Regulations of the Federal Trade Commission and other state laws are applicable to state covered investment advisors and govern the
sharing of client information. The California Financial Information Privacy Act governs client information sharing and applies to investment advisors with Californian clients. Foresters Equity has therefore developed and implemented a "privacy policy" in order
to control the management and disclosure of client information.
10.1.1 Affiliate An affiliate is any company that controls, is controlled by, or is under common
control with Foresters Equity.
10.1.2 Clear and Conspicuous
Clear and conspicuous means that a privacy policy notice must be designed to call attention to the information contained in the notice, and that the notice must be reasonably understandable. This means that the typeface and size must be large
enough to be easily read, and of such a design that will illustrate the significance of the disclosure.
10.1.3 Consumer
A consumer is an individual who obtains financial products or services that are to be used primarily for personal, family, or household purposes. The legal
representative(s) of the consumer are included in the definition. Financial products and services include the investments themselves and those evaluations or analyses that led to the investment.
Consumers are not any of the following persons:
Individuals who provide only a name, address, or other general contact
information for the purpose of obtaining information, such as a response
request Other individuals who are not directly defined as consumers of Foresters
Equity 10.1.4 Continuing Relationship
A continuing relationship is one in which there is an ongoing association with
Foresters Equity. This will include:
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An individual who is the recorded owner of securities;
Any individual with whom Foresters Equity has had one transaction but with whom Foresters Equity expects to develop an ongoing relationship, and future,
subsequent transactions; Any individual who has contracted with Foresters Equity for continuous and
ongoing investment services or investment supervisory services.
A continuing relationship is not established in cases where there is a stand-alone
transaction that is not expected to result in future transactions. 10.1.5 Customer
A customer is an individual or consumer who has a "customer relationship" with
Foresters Equity. 10.1.6 Customer Relationship
A customer relationship is a continuing relationship between the individual and
Foresters Equity in which Foresters Equity provides a financial or investment product or service that is to be used primarily for personal, family or household purposes.
10.1.7 Nonpublic Personal Information
Nonpublic personal information (“NPPI”) is essentially that information obtained or
collected by Foresters Equity that is personally identifiable financial information and
includes, but is not limited to, the following:
Name;
Address;
Phone number;
Social security number or tax payer identification number;
Account Number; Account transaction history or balance information; and
Other information collected on any account opening documentation The definition also includes lists, groups, or other categories that have been created
or derived on the basis of individual or household NPPI. For instance, a list of names derived from specific account numbers is NPPI.
NPPI of any existing or prospective client or any other individual may not be included in any electronic communication that has not been adequately encrypted
in advance. For assistance, in this regard, please contact the Foresters Equity home office.
10.1.8 Personally Identifiable Financial Information
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Personally identifiable financial information is that information provided to Foresters Equity by the individual that results in a transaction with the consumer that results in
the provision of any service to the consumer, and/or is obtained by Foresters Equity through the use of account applications, client profiles or questionnaires, or through
other means. 10.1.9 Publicly Available Information
Publicly available information is that which Foresters Equity may reasonably believe
is available to the general public (1) legally through federal, state, or local governments; or (2) broadly through public media such as phone books, web listings, or newspapers.
10.2 Consumers and Customers State regulations draw distinctions between customers and consumers, requiring
different levels of protection to each. Foresters Equity must provide customers with notice about the entity's privacy policies, and must give consumers a method to opt out of any sharing practices by giving reasonable notice.
A consumer is an individual who obtains financial products or services to be used
primarily for personal purposes. Products and services can include evaluations of information in addition to the product or service. By contrast, a customer is a consumer with a continuing relationship with the entity to obtain the services of a
consumer. Therefore, all customers are also consumers.
10.3 Notification Requirement
Foresters Equity ensures that notice of its privacy policies are given to consumers and customers initially and annually.
10.3.1 Initial Notice
The initial notice must be clear and conspicuous in the manner in which it presents Foresters Equity’s privacy policy.
For customers, initial notice must be provided at or before the point when a customer relationship is established. Conditions exist to allow notice within a reasonable time
frame, when the notice requirements may interfere with the transaction itself (e.g., an account transfer or telephone order).
Initial notice to consumers is only required if the entity intends to share NPPI with a non-affiliated third party. An abbreviated form of the privacy policy may be created
and distributed for use with consumers.
10.3.2 Annual Notice
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During each 12 month period in which an ongoing client relationship exists, Foresters Equity must provide a subsequent notice of its privacy policy to all customers. If
there is a change in the privacy policy, notice must be given to all customers whose information may be affected by the change.
10.3.3 Content of Notice
Privacy policy notices must contain specific information, including:
Types of NPPI collected by Foresters Equity, including the names of forms on which the information is collected
Categories of NPPI shared by Foresters Equity, including the same for former
customers Categories of affiliated and non-affiliated third parties to whom information is
disclosed/shared by Foresters Equity Separate disclosure is required for any servicing or joint marketing
agreements, including the categories of information and of the third parties
involved Notice of opt out rights available to customers, as applicable, which must
adhere to any state regulation regarding the sharing of information General disclosures regarding the policies of Foresters Equity to protect and
secure confidential information Disclosure regarding shared information among affiliated parties as defined by
the state(s) in which Foresters Equity is registered
Statement(s) regarding allowed third party sharing relationships, such as those conducted under the transactional exemption or others
10.3.4 Privacy Policies
Access to the completed documents and client files must be restricted to following persons:
Only those IARs who are required by their job function to access this
information
Applicable staff, such as individuals in Management, Legal or Compliance Departments in cases where the information is requested to resolve a customer
dispute Management, Legal and Compliance personnel in cases where such
information is requested by a regulatory agency
Others as specifically permitted by the CCO
10.3.5 Customer Information Foresters Equity collects and records client information on the following types of
forms that contain personal and financial data:
Client Profiles Account Applications
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Client Questionnaires Trust, Organizational records, and other documents used to conduct due
diligence, among other purposes Other internal documentation
Because this data contains NPPI, it is subject to every available protection under these policies.
10.3.6 California Residents
The California Financial Information Privacy Act (the "Privacy Act") provides for more stringent consumer protection provisions than are available under federal law. The
Privacy Act took effect on July 1, 2004 and applies to all investment advisors with customers who are California residents.
Relevant provisions that apply to California customers include the following:
Foresters Equity cannot share NPPI with a non-affiliated third party without first obtaining explicit written client consent.
Foresters Equity cannot share NPPI with an affiliate unless Foresters Equity clearly and conspicuously notifies the client annually in writing that the
information may be disclosed, gives the client the opportunity to refuse permission and the client does not opt out.
Foresters Equity may share NPPI with a nonaffiliated financial institution in order to jointly offer a financial product or service if the following conditions are met:
The financial product or service is provided by one of the institutions as part of
a written agreement
The financial product or service is jointly offered, endorsed, or sponsored and, clearly and conspicuously identifies for the client the advisors that disclosed
and received the disclosed information The written agreement requires that the receiving institution maintain the
confidentiality of the information and disclose it only for the purpose of
carrying out the terms of the joint offering The client has not prohibited the disclosure of the NPPI.
Examples of standard exceptions to the Privacy Act disclosure requirements include allowing disclosure of NPPI in such circumstances as to complete a transaction
authorized by the client; to prevent actual or potential fraud, identity theft, or unauthorized transactions; to resolve client disputes or inquiries; or as required by
law. Foresters Equity is required to comply with any client directions on sharing his or her
NPPI within 45 days of receipt. No written notice is required if Foresters Equity does not disclose NPPI except as allowed under the exceptions to the Privacy Act.
10.4 Procedures for Compliance with Privacy Regulations
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The CCO is charged with responsibility for Foresters Equity’s privacy policies and
procedures designed to protect nonpublic client data from unauthorized access.
In its efforts to ensure that such data will be secure from unauthorized access, Foresters Equity mandates that each IAR observes its procedures and respects the privacy of nonpublic data by carrying out his or her specific duties with care. Included
in the duties of certain associates with access to nonpublic data is a high degree of discretion in maintaining the privacy of that data.
To maintain this degree of security, the CCO shall ensure that each individual with access to nonpublic data undergoes a background check at the time of hiring or by
the date these policies are effective. Record of the background check shall be maintained among Foresters Equity’s central files and records.
Nonpublic data is maintained electronically (i.e., imaged into an electronic archival system). Only those IARs and employees with passwords can access the information
found on this system. The CCO or designee shall ensure that upon termination, or at any time in which job
functions are reassigned and access to nonpublic information is no longer required of any IAR, that the password assigned to that individual shall be terminated. The
Information Technology department of Foresters Equity will update the back office data management system weekly to ensure that terminated IARs do not have access to computer systems.
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Chapter 11 – Communications with the Public
Foresters Equity’s communications with the public, which include its advertisements,
its website, and correspondence (both electronic and written) including internal communications, are subject to state regulations that require each such communication to be fair, reasonable and balanced. The regulations subject the
communications to record keeping requirements.
Regular and ongoing oversight of Foresters Equity’s communications with the public is a fundamental component of its compliance program. The IARs of Foresters Equity are required to submit all materials referenced below to the designated Advertising
Review Principal for review and approval prior to use. Please reference the Foresters Equity broker-dealer Written Supervisory Policies and Procedures for additional
information.
11.1 Advertisements An advertisement is defined as any written communication addressed to more than
one individual or any notice or announcement in any publication or by other means (such as radio, web/internet, cable or television) that offers any analysis, report, or
publications regarding securities; or any graph, chart, formula or other device for making investment or investment advisory decisions.
All advertisements developed by or for Foresters Equity or its promoters, including third parties if applicable, shall be consistent with the provisions of Rule 206(4) of the
Investment Advisors Act of 1940, applicable state standards, and other rules. These rules require that no IAR of Foresters Equity shall publish, circulate, distribute, or otherwise use any advertisement that is incomplete, false, or misleading.
While the definition requires that the material must include an offer of services of
some nature, regulators have broadly interpreted the definition to include brochures, websites, form letters, chat room participation, materials used to maintain existing client relationships, materials intended to solicit new clients, and other such
materials.
11.1.1 Investment Counsel It is Foresters Equity’s policy not to refer to itself as an "investment counsel" or use
the term to describe its business unless the "principal" business of Foresters Equity is rendering investment advice and a substantial part of Foresters Equity‘s business
consists of rendering "investment supervisory services" as defined on Form ADV.
11.1.2 "RIA" In rendering effective licensure for a registered investment advisor and/or its
registered agents, the states do not approve or endorse the firm. Therefore, while Foresters Equity may represent that it is "registered," it, along with its IARs, is
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prohibited to the use of the term "RIA" on stationery, business cards, or in advertising, as it may imply to the investment community that the firm has achieved
approval, endorsement, or other credential. Foresters Equity may use "registered investment advisor" provided the words are spelled out. The IARs of Foresters Equity
may use terms such as “Investment Advisor Representative”, “Financial Advisor”, or “Financial Planner.”
11.1.3 Testimonials
A "testimonial" includes, but is not limited to, a summary of a specific case situation, real or fictional, which may create an inference that all clients of Foresters Equity typically experience favorable results. Client surveys conducted by third party service
providers are considered by the states to be testimonials. Testimonials are prohibited on any advertising materials.
11.1.4 Past Recommendations
Foresters Equity is prohibited from 'cherry picking', which is generally considered to be the use of any promotional materials that refer to any past profitable
recommendations absent specific disclosure regarding all recommendations made by Foresters Equity. Foresters Equity requires that any such promotion of past profitable
recommendations must include a list of ALL recommendations made by Foresters Equity in the past year. The requirement applies equally to direct and indirect references to past recommendations, but does not apply to advertisements that
discuss investments or strategies that were not profitable.
Any advertisement that includes past recommendations must include at minimum the name of the security, the date and type of transaction (whether it was a buy or sell recommendation), the market price at the time of the recommendation and the
terms of the order (market, limit, etc.). The advertisement must also include a statement that it should not be assumed that recommendations made in the future
will be profitable or will equal the performance of the listed securities. This statement must be made with adequate prominence. For instance, the font size of the disclosure should equal or exceed the smallest font in use in other font type on the
page.
11.1.5 Performance Data The third part advisor offering money management services will be responsible for
determining the investment performance data on its managed accounts. IARs distributing such performance advertisements must disclose all material facts so as
to avoid unwarranted implications or inferences. 11.1.6 Performance Reporting
Foresters Equity does not prepare performance reporting materials nor does it permit
its IARs to prepare performance reports. However, all IARs distributing performance
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reporting materials prepared by third party money managers for use with clients must maintain copies of ALL materials provided to clients.
11.1.7 Prohibited Advertisements
It is Foresters Equity's duty to ensure that its advertising and that of its IARS is fair, balanced, and accurate. Certain types of advertising are prohibited:
Materials including the acronym "RIA," including but not limited to brochures,
stationery or business cards Materials including statement(s) to the effect that any report, analysis or other
service will be furnished without a charge unless such report or other service is
actually furnished without charge or obligation Testimonial(s) of any kind concerning Foresters Equity, its IARs or third party
money managers, or any advice, analysis, report or other services rendered by Foresters Equity
Statement(s) of material fact that are false or misleading
Direct or indirect specific past profitable recommendations absent appropriate disclosure statement and a list of all recommendations made in the most
recent year Statement(s) that any graph, chart, formula or other device being offered can
be used in and of itself by a client to determine what securities should be bought and sold, or that such a device will assist any person in making decisions concerning specific securities transactions
11.2 Correspondence Foresters Equity has in place written policies and procedures reasonably designed to prevent violations of the Act and other rules. These include Foresters Equity's internal
and external business related communications. In addition, the communications by individual IARs are monitored for inappropriate communications with existing or
prospective clients.
In its enforcement of procedures related to its communications with the public, Foresters Equity has in place the following requirements:
Prohibiting or restricting the use of any stationery, email or server other than that under the control of and subject to the review of the CCO for business
related communications Prohibiting or restricting the use of instant messaging or electronic
communications from any means that might prevent the oversight of the CCO
Prominent disclosure of the name of Foresters Equity on stationery or in electronic 'tag lines' including contact information for the branch office of
Foresters Equity Subjecting any or all communications to the prior and/or timely review of the
CCO or his designee
Recording the review of written and electronic communications to include monitoring content (to detect potential misleading or fraudulent
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communications, violations of Foresters Equity's internal policies and procedures, etc), among numerous other types of reviews
11.2.1 Electronic Communications
Electronic communications, including those among the general investing public and other internal business related communications, require review and retention the
same as for any other type of written communication.
Certain types of electronic communications are prohibited: The use of social media when it pertains to Foresters Equity business Investment-related blogs
Investment-related instant messaging Investment-related posts on electronic bulletin boards
11.2.2 Retention
Foresters Equity retains originals of all written communications it has received and sent relating to (1) any recommendation made or proposed to be made and any
advice given or proposed to be given; (2) any receipt, disbursement or delivery of funds or securities; or (3) the placing or execution of any order to purchase or sell
any security provided, however, (a) that Foresters Equity shall not be required to keep any unsolicited market letters and other similar communications of general public distribution not prepared by or for Foresters Equity, and (b) that if Foresters
Equity sends any notice, circular or other advertisement offering any report, analysis, publication or other investment advisory service to more than 10 persons, Foresters
Equity shall not be required to keep a record of the names and addresses of the persons to whom it was sent; except that if such notice, circular or advertisement is distributed to persons named on any list, the investment advisor shall retain with the
copy of such notice, circular or advertisement a memorandum describing the list and the source thereof.
The above referenced advertising and communications along with supporting documentation for the same must be maintained for a period of at least 5 years, the
first two 2 years in an easily accessible location.
11.3 Social Media
Foresters Equity does not permit its IARs to make use of social media (e.g., Facebook, etc.) for business purposes, with the exception of LinkedIn.
IARs will also be required to sign an annual attestation representing that he/she is in compliance with these policies and procedures. Foresters Equity will be
responsible for periodically conducting a random spot-check on social media sites, to ensure that the policies and procedures of Foresters Equity are being followed.
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Documentation of all review and approvals of materials, periodic compliance reviews, and copies of the annual attestations will be retained in Foresters Equity’s
books and records.
11.4 Procedures for Compliance with Public Communications Requirements
The CCO or designee is charged with responsibility for implementation, ongoing monitoring and retention of Foresters Equity's communications with the public.
To monitor Foresters Equity's outgoing written paper communications, the CCO
requires that all communications be provided to Compliance for written approval prior to dissemination. IARs are required to use a pre-approved email platform. Emails
sent and received on these platforms are captured and retained by a third party system that meets all regulatory requirements. The CCO or designee(s) will use a lexicon-based surveillance system to assist in the process of review and retention of
Foresters Equity's electronic communications.
Incoming paper correspondence is centrally opened, copied for the client file, provided to a principal for review, and maintained in a central incoming correspondence file. Outgoing correspondence is sent to the applicable branch office
manager for review and sign-off on a monthly basis.
Foresters Equity has charged the CCO or designee(s) with the responsibility and authority to review and approve any and all forms of advertisements in advance of their use. This mandate is to include the firm's marketing materials, slide
presentations, and any and all other materials used in presentations whether to one individual or to multiple parties. Evidence of the review and approval will be retained
among the central files.
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Chapter 12 – Regulatory and Internal Inspections
Foresters Equity and its IARs are subject to the ongoing scrutiny of state regulatory agencies and are also likely to be affected by "cause" (i.e., a client complaint or other investigation examinations). Regulatory examinations may be announced or
unannounced.
12.1 Scope of the Regulatory Inspection At the onset of an examination, the regulatory representative should present
identification to verify the jurisdiction that the individual represents. Questions regarding the legitimacy of the individual should be directed to the state or regional
office to which the individual reports. Verification of the identification is important to ensure that nonpublic client data will not be revealed to or shared with unqualified persons. IARs are required to contact Foresters Equity’s Compliance Department
immediately if a regulator appears to conduct an examination of his/her business.
The regulatory examination typically begins with an opening interview. At times, the interview questions are provided in advance of the examination.
The duration of the regulatory examination can be as long as several weeks, but more commonly several days. The examination itself may conclude over time, with
follow-up work conducted off-premises by phone or mail.
12.2 Regulatory Exam Topics The regulatory exam will likely open with an interview to discuss the primary
business systems of Foresters Equity or the IAR and any internal controls. In each of these areas, the examiner will inquire about Foresters Equity's compliance and
control policies and procedures and will evaluate their implementation and effectiveness.
The state examiners typically provide a checklist of documentation that the IAR is required to produce.
12.3 Annual Internal Review
As a SEC registered investment adviser, it is Foresters Equity’s policy to conduct an
annual internal review of the firm’s policies and procedures to determine that they
are adequate, current and effective in view of the firm’s businesses, practices,
advisory services, and current regulatory requirements. This includes amending or
updating the firm’s policies and procedures to reflect any changes in the firm’s
activities, personnel, or regulatory developments, among other things, either as
part of the firm’s annual review, or more frequently, as may be appropriate, and to
maintain relevant records of the annual reviews.
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The Chief Compliance Officer has the overall responsibility and authority to develop
and implement the firm’s compliance policies and procedures and to conduct an
annual review to determine their adequacy and effectiveness in detecting and
preventing violations of the firm’s policies, procedures or federal securities laws.
On at least an annual basis, the Chief Compliance Officer, and such other persons
as may be designated, will undertake a review of Foresters Equity's written
compliance policies and procedures. The review will include a review of targeted
policies to determine the following:
o Adequacy; o Effectiveness; o Accuracy;
o Appropriateness for the firm’s current activities o Current regulatory requirements;
o Any prior policy issues, violations or sanctions; and o Any changes or updates that may otherwise be required or
appropriate.
The annual internal review process will also consider and assess the risk areas for
the firm and review and update any risk assessments in view of any changes in
advisory services, client base and/or regulatory developments.
The annual internal review will include a review of any prior violations or issues
under any of the firm’s policies or procedures with any revisions or amendments to
the policy or procedures designed to address such violations or issues to help avoid
similar violations or issues in the future.
Foresters Equity will maintain hardcopy or electronic records of the firm’s current
policies and procedures as well as prior versions for a period of five years from the
end of the year in which the record was last used.
Documentation supporting the annual review will be maintained in Foresters
Equity’s books and records.
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Chapter 13 – Books and Records It is Foresters Equity’s policy to maintain required books and records for certain specified periods of time.
13.1 Required Records The following is meant to be a summary of the books and records that Foresters Equity and its IARs will maintain; it is not necessarily an exhaustive list. These
records are required to be maintained and preserved in an easily accessible place for a period of not less than 5 years from the end of the fiscal year during which the last
entry was made on the document. For the first 2 years, the record must be maintained on the premises of Foresters Equity. This retention requirement applies to
the records noted below EXCEPT that organizational records must be retained for at least 3 years following the date on which Foresters Equity terminates its registration.
Account opening documents Signed investment advisory agreements
Correspondence, including email Notes from conversations with clients (may be retained in a contact
management system)
Trade records, including confirmations as applicable Best execution reviews
Documentation to support supervision (e.g., suitability reviews, portfolio management oversight, transaction reviews, and email surveillance)
Personal securities transaction reviews
Performance reports Account statements
Advertising Customer complaints and responses Current and prior versions of Form ADV Part 2 Firm Brochures
Current and prior versions of Brochure Supplements Current and prior versions of investment advisory agreements
Organizational records for Foresters Equity IAR registration filings All other records required under Rule 204-2 of the Advisers Act.
The remainder of this chapter discusses specific areas of the books and records
requirements in greater detail. 13.1.1 Advertising File
Foresters Equity must retain a copy of each notice, circular, advertisement,
newspaper article, investment letter, bulletin or other communication that an IAR circulates or distributes, directly or indirectly, to 10 or more persons (other than
persons connected with Foresters Equity). If such notice, circular, advertisement, newspaper article, investment letter, bulletin or other communication recommends the purchase or sale of a specific security and does not state the reasons for such
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recommendation, a memorandum by Foresters Equity including information to support the recommendation must be included in the file.
13.1.2 Annual Notice of Material Changes to Form ADV Part 2 Firm
Brochure Foresters Equity must notify all clients of material changes that have been made to
its disclosure brochure no less than annually and offer to provide a copy of its current disclosure brochure. This notice must be made within 120 days of the firm’s fiscal
year end. Foresters Equity must document and maintain a record of the communication. Foresters Equity must also retain a sample version of the Form ADV Part 2 Firm Brochure as evidence of timely amendment and distribution. The file shall
include the following:
List of each individual or other party to whom the communication or an updated Form ADV Part 2 was provided
Copy of the letter
Form ADV Part 2 in effect at the time of the offer Any individual or other party that responded to the request
List of evidence that any individual or other party who responded was provided with the current form, as requested
13.1.3 Associated Persons Personal Transactions Records
Foresters Equity permits Associated Persons to maintain personal securities accounts or holdings at outside financial institutions. Personal securities accounts or holdings
include those securities in which the Associated Person has any direct or indirect beneficial ownership. An Associated Person is considered to be the beneficial owner of an account in which he/she has any financial interest or ability to exercise control
and of any account belonging to immediate family members sharing the Associated Person’s household.
Foresters Equity retains records relating to its receipt and review of personal transaction reports and/or duplicate account statements in accordance with its code
of ethics and related policies.
Foresters Equity requires that each Associated Person provide the following documents to Foresters Equity for review:
Duplicate copies of all account statements for accounts held at an outside financial institution submitted directly to Foresters Equity by the financial
institution.
Copies of statements for accounts of new hires are requested of the outside
financial institution upon joining Foresters Equity.
Duplicate statements will be reviewed by Foresters Equity on a monthly basis.
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13.1.4 Financial Records
Foresters Equity maintains records of its financial condition and evidence of current and accurate accountings. Included in these records are the following:
Journal(s) that lists all cash receipts and disbursement records, and any other
records of original entry used to create the journal entries General and auxiliary ledgers (or other comparable records) reflecting asset,
liability, reserve, capital, income and expense accounts All check books, bank statements, canceled checks and evidence of current
reconciliations
All bills or statements relating to the business of Foresters Equity, and evidence of payment, which might include copies of checks received or other
statements demonstrating payment of invoices Current financial statements, including trial balances and net capital
computations, balance sheets, income and expense statements and internal
audit working papers relating to the business of Foresters Equity
13.1.5 Order Tickets
A ticket or memorandum of each order placed by Foresters Equity for the purchase or sale of a security, or any instruction received by Foresters Equity from the client concerning the purchase, sale, receipt or delivery of a particular security, and of any
modification or cancellation of any such order or instruction, must be retained and must include the following information:
Terms and conditions of the order, instruction, modification or cancellation Person connected with Foresters Equity who recommended the transaction (if
applicable) Person who placed the order
Account for which the order was entered Date Bank, broker or dealer by or through whom the order was executed
Whether or not the order was discretionary
13.1.6 Organizational Documents Foresters Equity must maintain current and complete Articles of Incorporation,
charters, minute books, partnership records, stock certificate books and other reports as evidence of its viability as an entity, as required by state or other jurisdictions. As
mentioned in the introduction, different from other records noted in this section, these records must be preserved for at least three years after the cessation of Foresters Equity's operations.
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13.1.7 Performance Advertising Supporting Documentation
If Foresters Equity distributes performance advertising (or reporting that includes performance of any managed accounts/fund(s) and such report is sent directly or
indirectly to 10 or more persons, it must retain all accounts, books, internal working papers, and any other records or documents that are necessary to form the basis for or demonstrate the calculation of the performance or rate of return of any or all
managed accounts or securities recommendations.
13.1.8 Policies and Procedures Foresters Equity retains a copy of its policies and procedures that are currently in
effect or which were in effect within the most recent 5 year period.
13.1.9 Solicitor Disclosure Document All written acknowledgements of receipt of disclosure documents and copies of the
solicitor disclosure document that was provided must be retained.
At this time, Foresters Equity does not use solicitors.
13.1.10 Transaction Records If Foresters Equity provides any investment supervisory or management service to
any client, it must retain a record showing separately for each client the securities purchased and sold, and the date, amount and price of each such transaction; as well
as by-security information for each client such that Foresters Equity can promptly furnish the name of each client with an interest in the security and the amount of that interest.
13.1.11 Written Agreements
Copies of any and all written agreements (e.g., advisory agreements, subscription agreements, etc) in use with clients must be maintained, including all powers of
attorney. Written agreements shall be retained among Foresters Equity's central records.
It is advisable that Foresters Equity maintains a representative sample of each such agreement, and a list of the clients of the firm subject to each type of agreement.
The executed agreements may be retained in separate client files.
13.1.12 Written Communications Originals of all written communications received and copies of all written
communications sent by Foresters Equity relating to its advisory business must be retained by Foresters Equity. This includes electronic communications, including
emails, and also includes internal communications (those sent among associated personnel of Foresters Equity). Unsolicited market letters and other similar
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communications of general public distribution not prepared by or for Foresters Equity are not required.
13.2 Custodial Advisors Records Foresters Equity does not have custody or possession of customer securities, nor
does it have plans to take custody.
13.3 Additional Records Although not enumerated in specific regulations, certain files and records may be
requested by a regulatory examiner at the time of an audit. While not an exhaustive or all-inclusive list, Foresters Equity may elect to maintain any or all of these
additional types of records. 13.3.1 Complaint File
Foresters Equity should maintain a central record of any and all written or verbal
client complaints, including the method or status of resolution, any settlement or litigation related to the complaint, and current disposition of the matter.
13.3.2 Disaster Recovery
Records of Foresters Equity's efforts to monitor and maintain systems in a manner that would enable its continuous operation in the event of an unforeseen disaster or other interruption in business shall be maintained and available for review. The file
should include evidence of distribution of Foresters Equity's policies to appropriate parties, including IARs and clients/investors. At minimum, the plan should include
means for recovery of Foresters Equity's critical systems; restoration or recovery of any permanent record of the firm, such as its organizational documents, associated person files and financial records; primary contact information; location and status of
back-ups; alternative venue for associated persons and other systems; and procedures or access codes that might enable Foresters Equity and its clients to
regain effective operations. 13.3.3 Client Lists
Upon regulatory examination, Foresters Equity may be required to produce lists of its
clients that contain:
Client Name
State of Residence of Client Whether the client is related to an IAR of Foresters Equity (including his/her
spouse, dependent, living in the same household, or any client subject to the direct or indirect control of Foresters Equity)
Type of Account (und or funds in which the client is invested) Account establishment date Opening balance of account
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Current balance of account (as of most recent quarter end) Account redemption date, balance at the time of redemption, and the reason
for redemption Clients subject to Power of Attorney
Whether the account is subject to ERISA Custodian for the account
13.3.4 Organizational Chart
Foresters Equity's organizational chart, or supervisory chain of command, should be current and complete at all times.
13.3.5 Privacy Policy
Foresters Equity maintains a privacy policy to ensure that nonpublic client data is subject to adequate controls and security. Foresters Equity is required to distribute its privacy statement at the time of initial investment, and no less than annually
thereafter to clients. The privacy policy file should contain evidence of the statement's annual distribution to clients.
13.3.6 Regulatory Inspections
Documentation related to any regulatory inspection, including documentation of steps taken to remedy findings, shall be maintained.
13.3.7 Trade Errors
Evidence of Foresters Equity's resolution of trade errors shall be maintained in a log and/or file kept among the central records. The record shall include the manner in
which the error was resolved, the client and transaction(s) effected by the error, and evidence that a supervisor of Foresters Equity was aware of the error and its
resolution. 13.3.8 Proxy Voting Records
Foresters Equity does not vote proxies on behalf of advisory clients. The money
managers will forward any proxy material received directly to the client's attention. Foresters Equity discloses that it does not vote proxies on behalf of its clients in its
Form ADV Part 2.
13.4 Books and Records Retention
All records of Foresters Equity (except as noted below) must be retained for 5 years in an easily accessible place. The records must remain on Foresters Equity's premises for at least 2 years. Additionally, the following must be retained for 3 years beyond
the life of the entity:
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Copies of the original documents filed with the state securities commission(s) Registration letters received from all regulatory agencies
Organizational Records Annual filings (Schedule I)
Withdrawal notification (Form ADV-W)
13.5 Electronic Maintenance of Records In general, Foresters Equity adheres to the following when electronic media is used
for retention:
Foresters Equity is required to maintain an index of the records in a way that permits easy location, access and retrieval of any particular record.
Foresters Equity shall promptly provide a legible, true, and complete copy of the record in the medium and format in which it is stored, as well as the means to view
such record. For instance, if stored on CD ROM, the record must be protected from alteration, and any software required to produce a copy of, or to read the record, must be available on the disk.
Additionally, Foresters Equity must ensure that electronic records are subject to an
appropriate degree of security, including provisions to prevent viewing or access by unauthorized parties. Foresters Equity must ensure that any regulatory examiner is granted access to view the records.
13.6 Procedures for Compliance with Record-Keeping Policies The CCO is responsible for assuring that Foresters Equity has established policies to
ensure that its records are maintained in a secure central location in a manner that is consistent with applicable state requirements. Periodically, but no less than annually, Foresters Equity conducts an internal review to ensure that records are maintained in
a manner that is compliant with state regulations, and that documents are retained for an appropriate period of time.
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Appendix A -- Senior Management Approval
I have approved this revised IA Policies and Procedures Manual which is reasonably
designed to enforce Foresters Equity Services, Inc.’s Investment Advisor supervisory control procedures.
_____________________________ _________________
Jason Gerb Date Chief Compliance Officer
_____________________________ _________________ Frank L. Smith Date
President
August 26, 2016
JEGAugust 26, 2016