Registered Investment Adviser

Definition ∞ A Registered Investment Adviser is an individual or firm compensated for providing financial advice on securities to clients, and who is registered with either the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or state securities authorities. RIAs have a fiduciary duty to act in their clients’ best interests, a higher standard than suitability. This registration process ensures a level of oversight and accountability in the financial advisory industry. They offer professional guidance on investment strategies and asset management.
Context ∞ The role of Registered Investment Advisers in the digital asset space is a growing area of discussion in financial news, particularly concerning regulatory clarity and compliance. As more clients seek exposure to digital assets, RIAs face challenges in understanding and adhering to existing securities laws while offering advice on these novel asset classes. The SEC’s ongoing efforts to provide guidance for RIAs dealing with digital assets are crucial for fostering responsible growth and investor protection in this sector.