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Printer-Friendly Last Updated: 8/24/04 NASD Notice to Members 04-45 - June 2004

NASD Seeks Comment on Proposed Rule to Impose Specific Sales Practice Standards and Supervisory Requirements on Members for Transactions in Deferred Variable Annuities; Comment Period Expires August 9, 2004

Deferred variable annuities are complex investment instruments that have both insurance and securities features.1 On various occasions in the past, NASD has highlighted the unique features of these products for both members and potential investors. With the help of industry participants, for instance, NASD previously issued "best practices" guidelines in Notice to Members (Notice or NtM) 99-35 (May 1999). Notwithstanding these efforts, some members continue to engage in problematic sales practices in this area, and some investors continue to be confused by certain features of these products.2 As a result, NASD seeks comment on a proposed rule (Attachment A) relating to transactions in deferred variable annuities. In general, NtM 99-35 served as the basis for the proposed rule. The proposed rule includes suitability, disclosure, principal review, supervisory and training requirements tailored specifically to transactions in deferred variable annuities.

Questions concerning this Notice may be directed to Thomas M. Selman, Senior Vice President, Investment Companies/Corporate Financing, Regulatory Policy and Oversight (RPO), at (240) 386-4533; or James S. Wrona, Associate General Counsel, Office of General Counsel, RPO, at (202) 728-8270.

This letter was submitted by 844 individuals. Please contact us to request a list of commenters.

This letter was submitted by 84 individuals. Please contact us to request a list of commenters.