Understanding Non-Institutional Customer: Key Legal Insights

Definition & Meaning

A non-institutional customer is defined as any individual or entity that does not fall into specific institutional categories. This includes anyone who is not:

  • A bank or savings association
  • An insurance company or registered investment company
  • An investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940
  • An entity with total assets of at least $50 million

In essence, non-institutional customers are typically individual investors or smaller entities that do not meet the criteria of larger financial institutions.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Here are a couple of examples of non-institutional customers:

  • A retired individual investing their savings in government bonds.
  • A small business with total assets of $30 million seeking to invest in mutual funds. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Institutional Customer A financial entity such as a bank, insurance company, or investment adviser.
Retail Investor A non-professional individual investor who buys and sells securities for their personal account.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you identify as a non-institutional customer, consider the following steps:

  • Review your investment options and eligibility for different financial products.
  • Utilize resources like US Legal Forms to access necessary legal templates for your investments.
  • If you have complex financial needs, consult with a financial advisor or legal professional.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Definition Individuals or entities not classified as financial institutions
Asset Threshold Less than $50 million
Regulatory Context Government securities sales practices

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

While both terms refer to individual investors, a retail investor specifically refers to non-professional individuals, whereas non-institutional customers can include smaller entities.