According to FINRA, EKATS Securities Inc., doing business as SBC Partners, of New York, New York has been suspended from FINRA membership effective April 11, 2025, pursuant to FINRA Rule 9552 for failing to provide information or keep information current.
FINRA Rule 9552 allows the regulator to suspend a firm or individual who fails to provide information or documents requested under FINRA Rule 8210, or who fails to keep registration information current. Such suspensions continue until the firm or individual provides the required information or demonstrates compliance.
A suspension under this rule is not a finding of misconduct regarding the underlying investigation—it is specifically a sanction for failing to cooperate with FINRA's regulatory requests. However, it effectively prevents the firm from conducting securities business until the matter is resolved.
For customers of EKATS Securities/SBC Partners, this suspension means the firm cannot currently conduct securities business on your behalf. If you have accounts with this firm, you should consider whether your assets are accessible and whether you need to transfer your account to another broker-dealer.
Investors can verify a firm's current status and any regulatory events through FINRA BrokerCheck. This case illustrates the importance of monitoring your broker-dealer's regulatory status, as suspensions can occur quickly and affect your ability to access your investments.
If you have difficulty accessing your account or obtaining information about your investments, you may need to contact FINRA or consult with a securities attorney about your options.