Throughout April, the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Office of Investor Education and Assistance (OIEA) is helping investors plan for their future as part of National Financial Literacy Month.
The SEC detailed some of its initiatives this month aimed at helping people on the path toward financial independence.
The commission is highlighting financial planning tools and resources available on Investor.gov, and SEC staff is providing information to help investors as they create a plan to reach their financial goals and pursue financial independence.
According to the SEC, some of the key considerations in successful financial planning include starting early; living within your means; investing consistently in a long-term, diversified risk appropriate plan: paying down high-interest debt and having an emergency fund.
“In the spirit of America’s 250th anniversary, I encourage individuals and families to reflect on the pivotal role that investing can play in achieving their own financial independence,” said SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins. “America’s capital markets are the envy of the world, and engaging with them in a risk-appropriate manner can be foundational for a strong financial future.”
The SEC staff is also providing investors with information about the benefits of long-term investing using tax-advantaged accounts, building wealth, the power of compound growth, avoiding scams and planning for retirement.
“Investing early helps Americans build wealth for a strong financial future,” said John Moses, Acting Director of the SEC’s OIEA. “A great way to get started is to create a long-term, diversified plan that helps investors reach their goals. Building wealth slowly by regularly setting money aside for investments helps investors benefit from compound growth, which can drive life-changing results over time.”
OIEA issued an investor bulletin “Investor.gov Tips for 2026” that highlights important information on Investor.gov to help investors make informed investment decisions and avoid investment fraud.
In addition, SEC outreach events in April include presentations to military service members and veterans; webinars and events providing investor education and fraud prevention information to older adults; and financial education activities for teachers and students.
The attorneys at Hyman Cotter include former senior attorneys at the SEC whose legal experience and industry knowledge make them uniquely qualified to provide counsel on securities regulatory, compliance and enforcement matters. Our attorneys fully understand the regulatory scrutiny financial professionals and their firms face from the various regulators that oversee the financial services industry. If your firm is facing an investigation from a regulatory agency, please contact Hyman Cotter at (833) 665-0784 or through our online contact form.
