IT Support for Broker Dealers
Our experience in IT Support, will give you the tools you need to succeed. Learn how our team can assist supporting a Broker/Dealer.
IT Support for Broker-Dealers: Secure, Compliant, and Audit-Ready
Broker Dealers (BDs) operate under some of the most rigorous regulatory oversight in finance. With oversight from FINRA, the SEC, and state regulators, even small or introducing firms face mounting pressure to manage cybersecurity risks, preserve digital records, and supervise employees effectively.
At Fizen Technology, our IT Help Desk for Broker Dealers helps you to meet these expectations through tailored IT solutions; rooted in compliance, built for scalability, and designed for audit-readiness.
Why Broker-Dealers Need Specialized IT Services
Unlike traditional businesses, an IT Help Desk for Broker-Dealers must comply with layers of regulation that impact how technology is implemented and maintained. For example, this includes:
- Storing electronic communications in a WORM-compliant format
- Managing branch office supervision and surveillance
- Following documented Written Supervisory Procedures (WSPs)
- Preparing for annual FINRA or SEC audits
Smaller BDs may rely on clearing firms for core infrastructure; but regulatory responsibility always remains with the broker-dealer. As a result, any technology gaps can lead directly to disciplinary actions, fines, or reputational harm.
What Fizen Delivers for Broker-Dealers
We tailor every engagement to your firm’s size, structure, and regulatory exposure. Whether you’re an introducing BD, operating hybrid RIA-BD offices, or managing multiple branches, we help you align IT with FINRA and SEC expectations.
Our services include:
- ✅ Cybersecurity Risk Management aligned with FINRA’s guidance and SEC standards for RIAs
- ✅ WSP-Aligned Technology Consulting ensures your systems support your supervisory procedures
- ✅ Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery (BCDR) plans that meet FINRA Rule 4370 standards
- ✅ Email & Data Archiving in WORM format (Smarsh, Global Relay, or equivalent)
- ✅ System Access Controls, Audit Logs, and Surveillance for employee and branch activity
- ✅ Vendor Management Support for outsourced software and custodial integrations
Key Regulations We Help You Meet
To guide our solutions, we focus on regulatory frameworks that directly affect Broker-Dealers:
| Regulation | Applies To | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| FINRA Rule 3110 | All BDs | Written Supervisory Procedures (WSPs) |
| FINRA Rule 4370 | All BDs | Business Continuity Planning |
| FINRA Rule 4511 + SEC Rule 17a-4(f) | All BDs | Retention of books and records in WORM format |
| FINRA Regulatory Notices | All BDs | Cybersecurity expectations (e.g., Notices 21-18, 15-05) |
| FINRA Rule 2210 | All BDs | Advertising & communications with the public |
| SEC Cybersecurity Rules (2023) | RIAs & Funds | Cyber risk management (BDs should take note for best practices) |
📌 Broker-Dealers must retain electronic records, such as emails, texts, and trade confirmations, for at least six years in non-rewritable, non-erasable (WORM) format, per SEC Rule 17a-4(f).
Be Proactive – Not Reactive
Every month, FINRA publishes disciplinary actions that show where firms fall short; often in cybersecurity, email retention, or supervisory lapses. If you’ve recently been audited or want to strengthen internal controls ahead of an exam, Fizen Technology can help.
We support firms under remediation, as well as those seeking to modernize outdated IT and compliance infrastructure.
Ready to Hear More?
If you are looking for a new IT Support and Cloud Provider, give us a call. You will find we have hired our staff not only based on their technical skills, but also based on their personalities.
Providing IT Services to other businesses can be challenging, our goal is to make the process enjoyable and rewarding. We invite you to put us to the test – we never quit, we never give up – we will do what is necessary to empower your technology to work for you.