Chapter Introduction

This chapter covers 11% of the Series 63 exam (approximately 7 questions).


What You'll Learn

UnitTopicKey Concepts
1Authority of the State Securities AdministratorWho the Administrator is, rulemaking, investigations, and the limits of the office
2Administrative ActionsCease and desist orders, denial and revocation, stop orders, notice filings, judicial review
3Other Penalties and LiabilitiesCriminal penalties, civil liabilities and rescission, injunctions, and judicial remedies

Why This Chapter Matters

The Administrator's power splits cleanly into what it can do alone and what needs a court. Nearly every question in this chapter turns on that line.


Exam Strategy

At 11% of the exam, this chapter produces about 7 questions. Focus on:

  • Administrator alone: rules, investigations, subpoenas, cease and desist orders
  • Administrator plus a court: enforcing a subpoena, obtaining an injunction
  • Court alone: criminal penalties, imprisonment, restitution, and disgorgement
  • 5-5-3: a 5-year filing period (optional and state-dependent), a $5,000 maximum fine, and 3 years maximum imprisonment
  • Civil: rescission of the price paid, plus interest and attorney fees, less income received

-> Start Unit 1: Authority of the State Securities Administrator