TIP: Ask Questions! That’s the best advice we can give you about how to invest wisely. Many investors can avoid trouble and losses if they ask basic questions from the start. We encourage you to thoroughly evaluate the background of any financial professional with whom you intend to do business—before you hand over your hard-earned ...
Read More August 2019
Commissioner’s Corner
TIP: If someone is selling you securities or advising you on your investments, that person and company should be registered. Contact the Office of the Securities Commissioner at (808)586-2722, to see if your professional is registered. When you call please have the name of the firm and the individual’s first and last name and middle ...
Read More July 2019
TIP: Every year, victims are scammed out of millions of dollars. Our Kupuna, especially in Hawaii are a target for con artists because they tend to have a trusting nature and a large nest egg. Often, the “con artist” turns out to be someone that the victim knew and trusted. Don’t let a greedy con ...
Read More June 2019
TIP: Do you have a Social Networking account? If you do you may be vulnerable to online investment fraud. Websites such as Facebook, Twitter and other online social networks and communities have made it faster and easier for users to establish connections with anyone around the world. Fraudsters can meet and build credibility, and ultimately ...
Read More May 2019
TIP: A Ponzi scheme is an investment scam that involves the payment of purported returns to existing investors from funds contributed by new investors. Ponzi scheme organizers often solicit new investors by promising to invest funds in opportunities claimed to generate high returns with little or no risk. In many Ponzi schemes, rather than engaging ...
Read More April 2019
TIP: It is human nature to trust people who are like yourself. Con artists are increasingly targeting religious, ethnic, cultural & professional groups by gaining trust & then stealing the savings of members of the group. Con artists use their relationships to get their “friends” to buy into fake investments, often Ponzi schemes. Click on the ...
Read More March 2019
TIP: Investing in securities is risky enough without worrying about whether your salesperson is going to fleece you. To be an informed investor, you must know what danger signs to look for. Some are subtle, and some are easier to spot. Here are some tips on How to Spot a Con Artist. Related Investor Education ...
Read More February 2019
TIP: Protect your money from fraudsters and scammers! Slow down the conversation and ask the right questions. Make sure you understand all aspects of your investment before making any rash decisions. Develop a financial plan, and make sure to be wary of investments that promote high or unrealistic returns. There is no such thing as ...
Read More January 2019
TIP: Whether you work with a broker or adviser or you trade on your own, you should always monitor your investments. Protect yourself by keep an eye on your investments to prevent minor mistakes from turning into big problems. Related Investor Education Handout 10 Tips to Keep Track of Your Investments (PDF) Click here ...
Read More December 2018
TIP: Don’t be a courtesy victim. Con artist will not hesitate to exploit your good manners. Save your good manners for friends and family members, not strangers looking for a quick buck. Related Investor Education Handout How To Protect Your Nest Egg (PDF) Click here to view Click here to download
