According to FINRA, Christopher James Christensen has been barred from association with any FINRA member in all capacities for failing to provide documents, information, and testimony requested by FINRA as part of its examination of his outside business activities and private securities transactions.
FINRA opened the cause examination after the parent company of Christensen's member firm declared bankruptcy. Christensen was the founder and CEO of the parent company, which through various subsidiaries raised millions of dollars from thousands of investors purportedly to invest in real estate projects.
The bankruptcy of a company that raised millions from thousands of investors raises serious concerns about potential investor harm. FINRA's examination sought to understand Christensen's role and whether proper disclosures were made regarding his outside business activities and private securities transactions.
Christensen's failure to provide documents and testimony significantly impeded FINRA's examination and deprived it of material information. As a result, he was barred from the securities industry.
This case highlights the risks of investments in private offerings, particularly those involving real estate. When the parent company of a broker-dealer declares bankruptcy after raising substantial funds from investors, those investors may face significant losses.
If you invested in any offerings associated with Christopher James Christensen or his affiliated companies, you should carefully review your investment documentation and consult with a securities attorney to understand your rights and potential claims, particularly in light of the bankruptcy proceedings.