FinOp Services

For over 40 years, ACI’s FinOp services have provided a regulatory compliant foundation for broker-dealers – combining strategic financial oversight with hands-on support. Our experienced team of over 20 licensed Series 27/28 FinOps and CPAs partner closely with your firm to help you meet your obligations, avoid costly missteps and focus on running your business.

ACI’s FinOp services include:

Series 27/28 FinOp Licensing

ACI provides experienced, licensed Series 27 and 28 Financial and Operations Principals (FinOps) to serve as your designated FinOp – delivering regulatory clarity, capital oversight and audit preparedness for broker-dealers.

Outsourced Principal Financial Officer (PFO)

As your designated Principal Financial Officer (PFO), a member of the ACI team assumes primary responsibility for the integrity of your general ledger, financial books and records and regulatory compliance – as mandated by Form BD.

Implementation and monitoring of financial controls
Oversight of bill pay, cash management and general ledger accuracy
Maintenance of net capital, reserve requirements and liquidity management
Coordination with leadership and auditors on financial disclosures and attestation

Outsourced Principal Operations Officer (POO)

As your designated Principal Operations Officer (POO), a member of the ACI team manages the infrastructure, policies and documentation that ensure your firm’s operations meet regulatory standards.

Your Backup FinOp – Continuity Without Compromise

As your predetermined backup FinOp, ACI learns the ins and outs of your business so we can maintain your compliance and prevent business interruption at a moment’s notice.

Your Regulatory and Operational Resource

Informed by our deep engagement with regulators and experience from our 40-year track record serving hundreds of broker-dealers, ACI clients receive real-time guidance and insight from experienced professionals who deeply understand both industry regulations and your firm’s specific structure.

Questions on FinOp licensing or its role within broker-dealer businesses? Here’s what you need to know.

What does a FinOp do for a broker-dealer?

A FinOp – short for Financial and Operations Principal – is responsible for ensuring a broker-dealer complies with regulatory financial requirements. This includes maintaining accurate books and records, monitoring net capital, completing FOCUS and SSOI filings and ensuring compliance with SEC Rule 15c3-1. At ACI, our licensed FinOps act as our clients’ named principal and serve as a direct liaison with regulators and auditors.

What’s the difference between Series 27 and Series 28?

A FINRA Series 27 license is required for FinOps at full-service broker-dealers holding customer funds and/or clearing and settling customer transactions. A FINRA Series 28 license is for FinOps at firms with more limited operations, also known as introducing brokers. ACI employs FinOps with both licenses to support a wide range of firms.

Why outsource the FinOp role?

Outsourcing the FinOp role gives broker-dealers access to specialized regulatory expertise without the cost of a full-time hire. Especially for smaller firms, this model offers a more efficient path to compliance – providing high-level oversight, reduced risk and full regulatory coverage under FINRA rules. It’s a widely accepted industry practice that ensures firms meet their obligations without stretching internal resources.

What makes ACI’s outsourced FinOp model different?

ACI combines the depth of a full-scale team with the responsiveness of a dedicated partner. Unlike sole proprietor consultants, our centralized structure ensures that every client benefits from the shared expertise of over 20 licensed FinOps, CPAs and regulatory specialists, informed by their experience across a wide range of clients. With decades of experience across hundreds of broker-dealers, we deliver both technical precision and strategic insight, helping you stay compliant, informed and ahead of change.

Is a FinOp required for all broker-dealers?

Yes. Under FINRA Rule 1220(b)(3), every broker-dealer must designate a licensed FinOp – typically holding a FINRA Series 27 or 28 license – who is approved and registered via Form U4. Without one, a firm cannot legally operate.

What are the key responsibilities of a FinOp?

FinOps are responsible for a range of regulatory filings, including:

FOCUS Reports (Form X-17A-5)
Supplemental Schedule of Income (SSOI)
Form Custody
SIPC 6/7
Net capital computations and moment to moment oversight
Reserve formula calculations under Rule 15c3-3

ACI prepares and submits these filings accurately and on time, helping clients avoid compliance issues.

How do outsourced FinOps work with firm leadership?

ACI’s FinOps integrate directly with the firm’s leadership, legal and operations teams, with full flexibility regarding internal reporting structures. They provide proactive oversight, regular reporting and strategic guidance around capital planning and regulatory readiness – acting not just as a service provider, but as a trusted advisor.

How do I know if my FinOp is doing their job?

A good FinOp doesn’t just file reports – they proactively monitor your firm’s financial condition, provide clear guidance, respond quickly to regulatory developments and help you avoid surprises during audits or exams. ACI’s track record, depth of experience and responsiveness have made us a trusted choice for hundreds of FINRA member firms.