Dan Brecher
Counsel
212-286-0747 dbrecher@sh-law.comFirm Insights
New SEC Technology to Focus on Suspicious Corporate Disclosures
Author: Dan Brecher
Date: February 26, 2013
Key Contacts
Back
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is increasingly turning to technology to help root out fraud. The agency recently announced plans to launch a new computer software program that will detect accounting anomalies in corporate disclosures submitted to the regulator.
The new data driven approach is expected to bolster the SEC’s risk assessment process when it comes to accounting fraud. Under the “Accounting Quality Model” (AQM), the SEC will be able to analyze a company’s financial disclosures and assign a specific risk score, which will be used to identify outliers. “It is a model that allows us to discern whether a registrant’s financial statements stick out from the pack,” Craig M. Lewis, Chief Economist and Director, Division of Risk, Strategy, and Financial Innovation, stated in a recent speech.
In many ways, AQM is similar to the agency’s “Aberrational Performance Inquiry” initiative, which focuses on hedge fund advisers. Performance that is flagged as inconsistent with a fund’s investment strategy or other benchmarks forms a basis for further investigation and scrutiny. The program has resulted in several successful enforcement cases against advisers since it was first launched in 2011.
However, unlike the program targeting advisers, the SEC plans to use AQM across the SEC to assess the degree to which registrants’ financial statements appear anomalous. As Lewis notes, the data it churns out can be useful to a number of groups within the SEC. For instance, the Office of Compliance, Inspections, and Examinations could use these analytics during registrant examinations, and the Enforcement Division could use the analytics to focus their investigative process.
As this new program highlights, the SEC is committed to making good use of the wealth of information it collects. Therefore, it is even more important for regulated entities to devote significant time, money, and effort to compliance activities.
If you have any questions about the SEC’s new analytical tools or would like to discuss how they may impact your compliance activities, please contact me, Dan Brecher, or the Scarinci Hollenbeck attorney with whom you work.
- Practices: Corporate Transactions & Business, Financial Services & Regulatory Practice
- Locations: New York City, Red Bank, NJ, Little Falls, NJ
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Related Posts
See all
Buying Commercial Property in New Jersey: Legal Guide for Small Businesses
Small businesses considering buying commercial property in New Jersey must evaluate a range of legal, financial, and operational factors. While ownership can offer long-term value and control, it also introduces significant risks if not properly structured. This guide outlines key considerations to help New Jersey business owners make informed decisions, minimize legal exposure, and successfully […]
Author: Robert L. Baker, Jr.
The SEC’s Latest Guidance on Applying Federal Securities Laws to Tokenized Securities
On January 28, 2026, staff of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Divisions of Corporation Finance, Investment Management, and Trading and Markets issued a joint statement clarifying how existing federal securities laws apply to tokenized securities. The SEC’s “Statement on Tokenized Securities” does not establish new law, but it does provide greater clarity on the […]
Author: Dan Brecher
Common Legal Mistakes NYC and New Jersey Business Owners Make
Operating a business in the New Jersey and New York City metropolitan region offers incredible opportunities, but it also requires navigating a dense and highly regulated legal environment. From entity formation to regulatory compliance, seemingly minor legal oversights can expose business owners to significant risk. In our work with businesses throughout the region, our attorneys […]
Author: Dan Brecher
What Founders Can Learn From Start-up Suits
High-profile founder litigation is more than just a media spectacle. For startup founders, these cases underscore the legal and structural risks that can arise when rapid growth outpaces formal oversight. While launching a new company can be both an exciting and deeply rewarding endeavor, founders must be mindful that it also comes with significant risks. […]
Author: Dan Brecher
Corporate Governance Reviews: A Practical Guide for New Jersey Companies
Every New Jersey company should periodically evaluate its governance framework. Strong corporate governance protects directors and officers, builds investor confidence, reduces litigation exposure, and positions a company for sustainable growth. The first quarter of the year is a great time to evaluate your corporate governance practices and perform any routine maintenance needed to keep that […]
Author: Ken Hollenbeck
What to Do After Being Served with a Lawsuit: Steps to Protect Your Legal Rights
Being served with a lawsuit is one of the most stressful legal events a business or individual can face. Whether the claim involves a contract dispute, an employment matter, an intellectual property issue, or another legal challenge, the actions you take in the first few days can significantly shape the outcome of your case. Acting […]
Author: Robert E. Levy
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.