Investment adviser and broker dealer trade name/assumed business name

The Oregon Securities Law generally puts restrictions on using an assumed business name or a trade name. How does an assumed business name differ from the licensee name? The licensee name of an individual licensed as an IA representative or a BD salesperson is simply that individual's name. An assumed business name is any name other than this person's name.

For example, an individual conducting an insurance sales business may choose to use a business name of "Good & Cheap Services" in connection with that business. This presents a problem if the individual operates a stock broker or investment adviser business from the same office. If this person's business card, or letterhead, or sign on the office door is "Good & Cheap Services," the person is using an assumed business name which differs from his licensed name in the securities industry.

In order to keep our database current for purposes of providing information to the public concerning licensed individuals in the securities industry, we do permit the use of a trade name or assumed business name, but only upon a proper filing with the Division. This filing is on the trade/assumed name form (Word and PDF) available on this Web site. This is a one-time filing with a filing fee of $50, valid for as long as the licensee remains licensed under the Securities Law, or until the licensee chooses to conduct business under a different assumed business name or trade name. This filing simply puts the assumed business name or trade name in our database, so if any member of the public calls our office wanting to know if there are any complaints on file about a particular business name, we can identify the licensed individual, rather than informing the consumer that no information is on record about that company.