As financial instruments and financial institutions become increasingly complex and sophisticated, greater analysis of trends and research studies on market behavior is necessary for effective and informed investment decision-making.

The regulatory authorities will take steps to: (i) promote research that identifies important trends and emerging issues and risks associated with these trends, (ii) initiate periodic industry-wide compliance audits, self-assessments and surveys to assist the regulatory authorities and market participants in understanding industry-wide compliance issues, (iii) encourage publication of annual reports on key findings, identifying those areas that will be the focus of regulatory attention, and (iv) provide timely information regarding the background of licensed entities and individuals to support informed decision-making by investors.