As part of the examination process, the SEC will meet with senior management to discuss how each firm identifies and mitigates conflicts of interest and legal, compliance, financial, and operational risks. This initiative is designed to: (i) evaluate firms’ control environment and “tone at the top,” (ii) understand firms’ approach to conflict and risk management, and (iii) initiate a dialogue on key risks and regulatory requirements.
For years the SEC has been pushing the need for investment advisers to conduct an initial and annual risk assessment.