To aid its member organizations in understanding the rapidly changing world of digital assets, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) is introducing a novel Educational Initiative on Crypto and Blockchain Technologies. This program will consist of independently paced online learning modules coupled with a special in-person session organized in collaboration with Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business.
Starting in October, FINRA member firms and their personnel can access the online course offerings via FINRA’s Financial Learning Experience platform. The educational content will cover crucial themes, including:
- Fundamental vocabulary related to cryptocurrency and blockchain;
- How blockchain functions, focusing on transaction procedures executed on the blockchain;
- The development history and progression of blockchain technologies;
- Different categories of crypto assets and related investment instruments;
- The structure, participants, and operational dynamics of the cryptocurrency market ecosystem;
- Essential regulatory and compliance considerations for FINRA member firms interacting with crypto assets and blockchain technology; and
- Typical fraudulent practices involving cryptocurrencies.
According to Greg Ruppert, Executive Vice President overseeing member supervision at FINRA, “We are pleased to announce the launch of this new Crypto and Blockchain Education Program. It demonstrates our ongoing commitment to provide resources for our member firms as they adapt to innovative technologies and product offerings.”