Understanding the Role of an Affiliate of a Futures Commission Merchant, Commodity Trading Advisor, Commodity Pool Operator or Introducing Broker

Definition & Meaning

An affiliate of a futures commission merchant, commodity trading advisor, commodity pool operator, or introducing broker is a company that has a controlling relationship with one of these entities. This means the affiliate can either control, be controlled by, or share common control with the futures commission merchant or similar entity. Additionally, a company may also be considered an affiliate if it is regulated under Title V of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLB Act) by the Federal Trade Commission or another federal regulator, and if the relevant rules treat the futures commission merchant or similar entity as an affiliate.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A company that provides investment advice and is controlled by a registered commodity trading advisor may be considered an affiliate. This relationship requires compliance with specific regulations to ensure proper disclosure and consumer protection.

Example 2: A futures commission merchant that is part of a larger financial services group, which includes a commodity pool operator, would fall under the definition of an affiliate due to their common control. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Differences
California Has specific state regulations for commodity trading that may affect affiliate definitions.
New York Regulations may differ in terms of disclosure requirements for affiliates in financial services.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Futures Commission Merchant A person or organization that solicits or accepts orders for futures contracts.
Commodity Trading Advisor A professional who provides advice on trading commodities or futures.
Commodity Pool Operator A person or organization that operates a commodity pool, which is a collective investment vehicle.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you are involved with an affiliate of a futures commission merchant or similar entity, it is important to understand your rights and obligations. You may want to:

  • Review any agreements or contracts related to your involvement.
  • Consult with a legal professional to ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in managing your legal needs.

Quick facts

  • Typical fees: Varies by service and regulatory requirements.
  • Jurisdiction: Regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the Federal Trade Commission.
  • Possible penalties: Non-compliance can lead to fines and regulatory action.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

An affiliate assists in managing or advising on commodity trading and must comply with relevant regulations.