According to FINRA, Annie Simons (CRD #7149770) of New York, New York, was suspended from association with any FINRA member firm on April 29, 2024, pursuant to FINRA Rule 9552(d) for failure to provide information or keep information current as required by FINRA rules (FINRA Case #2023078486601).

A suspension under FINRA Rule 9552(d) is an administrative action taken when a registered person fails to comply with information obligations after receiving proper notice and an opportunity to cure the deficiency. The suspension is temporary in nature and can be lifted if the individual comes into compliance by providing the requested information or updating their regulatory filings. However, continued non-compliance can result in the escalation of the matter to a permanent bar from the securities industry under Rule 9552(h).

During the suspension period, Simons is prohibited from associating with any FINRA member firm. This means she cannot engage in any securities-related activities, including executing trades, providing investment recommendations, or performing any other functions that require FINRA registration. The suspension is effective immediately and remains in place until the individual satisfies the outstanding requirements.

The information obligations enforced through Rule 9552 are essential to FINRA's regulatory mission. Registered persons are required to respond promptly and completely to information requests from FINRA, maintain accurate and current Form U4 registrations, and cooperate with regulatory examinations and investigations. These obligations reflect the trust placed in securities professionals by the investing public and the regulatory system.

Form U4 disclosures are particularly important because they form the basis of the information available to investors through FINRA BrokerCheck. When registered persons fail to keep these filings current, the public may not have access to material information about customer complaints, disciplinary actions, criminal matters, or financial difficulties that could affect their decision to work with a particular financial professional.

Investors should understand that the suspension of a registered person is a significant regulatory event that warrants attention. If your broker or financial adviser has been suspended, you should take steps to ensure that your accounts are being properly managed and consider consulting FINRA BrokerCheck to stay informed about the status of your financial professional.