Disclosures are legally required statements in financial services marketing that explain important information about services, fees, risks, limitations, and other material facts. Proper disclosure protects both clients and firms while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Types of Marketing Disclosures
Financial services disclosures include
- Performance disclosures (calculation methodology, time periods)
- Fee disclosures (how fees are calculated and charged)
- Risk disclosures (investment risks and limitations)
- Compensation disclosures (how advisor is compensated)
- Testimonial disclosures (required under SEC marketing rule)
- Hypothetical scenario disclosures (extensive requirements)
- Credential and designation disclosures
Where Disclosures Appear
Place disclosures
- On relevant webpage where claim is made
- In email marketing materials
- In social media where space permits (or linking to full disclosure)
- In advertising copy
- In presentation materials
Balancing Disclosure and Readability
Effective disclosure placement
- Makes required disclosures prominent and clear
- Doesn't bury important information
- Uses plain language when possible
- Provides details without overwhelming marketing message
- May use layered disclosure (summary with link to details)
Compliance Best Practices
Manage disclosures by
- Working with compliance counsel on requirements
- Creating disclosure library for consistent use
- Reviewing disclosure requirements when regulations change
- Training team on disclosure requirements
- Archiving marketing materials with appropriate disclosures
Proper disclosure is not marketing obstacle—it's required protection demonstrating professionalism and trustworthiness.
Examples
- A financial planner including fee disclosure on services page: 'Comprehensive planning fee: $3,000. Investment management: 1% of assets annually.'
- An RIA using footnotes on performance graphics linking to detailed disclosure page with calculation methodology
- A wealth manager adding required testimonial disclosure under client quotes per SEC marketing rule requirements
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