Atkins Podcast Emphasizes the Importance of Investor Education

As part of his ongoing podcast series Material Matters, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Paul Atkins sat down with John Moses, the SEC’s Director of the Office of Investor Education and Assistance to discuss the importance of investor education. Director Moses noted that investing is more accessible than ever and that the Office of Investor Education and Assistance stands ready to answer questions. The Division cannot offer investment advice, but it can “help them [investors] navigate definitions and navigate problems that they might be having with their accounts or their financial services professionals.” The Division also works to put out alerts and bulletins concerning scams, new account types, and tools such as a compound growth calculator. Chair Atkins and Director Moses also discussed the rise of digital assets and concerns around fraudulent activity. They noted that outside of direct exposure, investors can gain exposure to digital assets through SEC-regulated ETFs or an exchange-traded product (ETP). Chair Atkins noted it is important for investors to realize, “if it sounds too good to be true, it is.” The conversation also turned to the newly launched “Trump Accounts” and mentioned how individuals can set up those accounts and the types of investments available. The Division staff and Chair Atkins are also working to connect with investors across the country, including military bases, to educate individuals and hear their concerns.

Click here to listen to SEC Chair Atkins’ podcast, Material Matters: Investing Starts with Education.