Dean Robert Nowak (CRD #1091819) Has Customer Dispute Disclosures on FINRA BrokerCheck

Dean Robert Nowak (CRD #1091819) was previously registered as a broker and has customer disputes on FINRA BrokerCheck. We reviewed his BrokerCheck report on February 23, 2026. It reflects 16 customer disputes. If you invested with Dean Nowak and have concerns, keep reading.

BrokerCheck link: BrokerCheck

BrokerCheck report: BrokerCheck Report (PDF)

Investor Disputes / Customer Complaints

Dean Nowak’s FINRA BrokerCheck Report reflects 16 customer dispute disclosures. Two examples are below. BrokerCheck lists 14 additional customer disputes.

On November 24, 2025, a customer alleged that she had concerns about the performance of certain investments she purchased. FINRA BrokerCheck lists the product as alternatives (GWG). The matter was settled for $17,000 on January 14, 2026.

On November 20, 2025, a customer alleged breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, failure to supervise, negligence, misrepresentation, and violations of federal securities laws and Reg BI. FINRA BrokerCheck lists the product as alternatives (GWG). The customer seeks $651,709 in damages and the matter is pending.

Rule Summary #1: FINRA Rule 2111 (Suitability)

FINRA Rule 2111 requires a broker to have a reasonable basis for each recommendation. Disputes often question whether a recommendation matched a customer’s goals, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs.

Rule Summary #2: FINRA Rule 3110 (Supervision)

FINRA Rule 3110 requires firms to maintain a supervisory system that is reasonably designed to achieve compliance. Claims that mention supervision may raise questions about the firm’s oversight of recommendations and sales practices.

Why This Matters to Investors (Regulation Best Interest)

Regulation Best Interest (Reg BI) is a U.S. securities regulation. It strengthens the standard of conduct that broker-dealers owe to retail investors. It applies when they recommend securities transactions or investment strategies. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission adopted Reg BI. It became effective on June 30, 2020. Reg BI aims to protect investors while preserving access to brokerage products and services.

Reg BI requires broker-dealers and financial advisors to act in a retail customer’s best interest at the time of a recommendation. They must not place their own financial or other interests ahead of the customer’s. This standard is higher than the older “suitability” rule. Suitability meant a recommendation only had to be appropriate. It did not have to be the best option or free of conflicts.

Reg BI has four key obligations:

Disclosure Obligation – Broker-dealers must disclose material facts about the relationship and the recommendation. This includes fees, the scope of services, and conflicts of interest.

Care Obligation – Broker-dealers must use reasonable diligence, care, and skill. They must consider costs, risks, and alternatives when making a recommendation.

Conflict of Interest Obligation – Firms must identify conflicts of interest. They must disclose them and mitigate or eliminate them. This includes conflicts that create incentives to favor one product over another.

Compliance Obligation – Firms must maintain policies and procedures. Those policies should be designed to ensure compliance with Reg BI as a whole.

Reg BI applies to each recommendation. It is not a continuous duty like the fiduciary standard for registered investment advisers. Even so, it narrows the gap. It puts more focus on costs, conflicts, and investor-focused decision-making.

Overall, Regulation Best Interest promotes transparency. It also aims to improve the quality of investment recommendations. It is designed to reinforce trust between retail investors and broker-dealers in the U.S. securities markets.

Background Information (from BrokerCheck)

Based on His FINRA BrokerCheck report, Dean Robert Nowak:

Is not currently registered.

Has passed the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam. Dean Nowak has passed Series 24, Series 7, and Series 6. He has also passed Series 66.

Was previously registered with firms that include Newbridge Securities Corporation, Taylor Capital Management Inc., and Questar Capital Corporation.

Kurta Law Can Help

If you have worked with Dean Nowak and you have concerns about his activity, Kurta Law may be able to help you evaluate your legal options. To speak with Kurta Law, call (877) 600-0098 or email info@kurtalawfirm.com.

Helpful resources: Securities Attorney | What Is Securities Fraud?

For nearly 20 years, Kurta Law has advocated for investors and helped hold financial professionals accountable. Our firm represents clients nationwide in securities arbitration and related disputes. If you believe a broker or firm mishandled your account, an attorney can review the facts and explain possible next steps.