On Jul. 10, SEC fined Oaktree $100k for muni pay to play violations.
- Oaktree Capital Management settled charges of violating muni pay to play rules.
Rule Restrictions
- Found breach of IAA S. 203(e), 203(k) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.
- Violated SEC pay-to-play rule Rule 206(4)-5 for advisers, under IAA, S. 206(4).
- Prohibits IAs from providing advisory services for compensation to government
client for two years after the adviser or executives made campaign contribution. - To elected officials or candidates, where can influence selection of such advisers.
Alleged Violations
- three associates of firm made campaign contributions to candidates for office in
California and Rhode Island, which offices had influence over selecting advisers. - Within two years after the contributions, firm provided advisory services for fee.
Sanctions
- SEC imposed $100k penalty, remedial sanctions, and a cease-and-desist order.
- Also granted Oaktree waiver, from ineligible issuer status, under SRT Rule 405.
