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Series 63: Regulation of Investment Advisers
Series 63 practice questionmediumCustody reporting vs. discretion

An investment adviser in Illinois is granted full discretion over a client’s account but instructs the custodian to send duplicate statements directly to clients. The adviser never directly holds client funds or securities. Which of the following best describes the adviser's recordkeeping or reporting obligations regarding custody?

  1. AThe adviser is considered to have custody and must comply with surprise examination requirements
  2. BThe adviser is NOT considered to have custody and is exempt from surprise examination requirements✓ Correct answer
  3. CThe adviser must deliver Form ADV Part 2 upon each change in client portfolio holdings
  4. DThe adviser is required to provide audited financial statements to all clients
Explanation

Why BThe adviser is NOT considered to have custody and is exempt from surprise examination requirements

Mere discretionary authority does not constitute custody if the adviser never holds client funds or securities and the custodian sends statements directly to clients. Thus, surprise exams and audited statements are not required (NASAA Model Rule IA Custody).

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