Question

Using the information available at the SEC's website or any other authoritative source, describe how the SEC is structured.

Answer 1

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is an independent federal government agency responsible for protecting investors, maintaining fair and orderly functioning of securities markets and facilitating capital formation. It was created by Congress in 1934 as the first federal regulator of securities markets. The SEC promotes full public disclosure, protects investors against fraudulent and manipulative practices in the market, and monitors corporate takeover actions in the United States.

The SEC is headed by five commissioners who are appointed by the president, one of which is designated as chairman of the SEC. Each commissioner's term lasts five years, but they may serve for an additional 18 months before a replacement is found. The law requires that no more than three of the five commissioners be from the same political party to promote nonpartisanship.

The SEC consists of five divisions and 23 offices. Their goals are to interpret and take enforcement actions on securities laws; issue new rules; provide oversight over securities institutions; and coordinate regulation among different levels of government. The five divisions are:

• Division of Corporate Finance: Ensures investors are provided with material information in order to make informed investment decisions
• Division of Enforcement: In charge of enforcing SEC regulations by investigating cases and prosecuting civil suits and administrative proceedings
• Division of Investment Management: Regulates investment companies, variable insurance products and federally registered investment advisors
• Division of Economic and Risk Analysis: Integrates financial economics and data analytics into the core mission of the SEC
• Division of Trading and Markets: Establishes and maintains standards for fair, orderly and efficient markets