Douglas John McCauley (CRD #1257811) Has Regulatory and Judgment/Lien Disclosures on FINRA BrokerCheck

Douglas John McCauley (CRD #1257811) was previously registered as a broker. FINRA BrokerCheck shows he is not currently registered and is barred. We reviewed his BrokerCheck report on February 15, 2026. It reflects four regulatory events and nine judgment/lien disclosures. 

BrokerCheck link: BrokerCheck

BrokerCheck report: BrokerCheck Report (PDF)

Regulatory Action(s)

Douglas John McCauley’s FINRA BrokerCheck report shows four regulatory events. Two examples are summarized below. 

On December 8, 2025, FINRA reported a final regulatory action that resulted in a permanent bar. The disclosure states that he failed to provide information and documents requested by FINRA in an investigation into his outside business activities. FINRA said he initially submitted an incomplete response and later refused to provide the requested materials. The matter was resolved through an Acceptance, Waiver & Consent. You can review the AWC.

BrokerCheck also lists a final action dated September 4, 2013, initiated by the New York State Department of Financial Services. The allegation stated that he may have violated New York insurance law or regulations by failing to disclose a final disposition within 30 days and on a renewal application. The disclosure lists a stipulation and consent and a $1,500 monetary penalty. 

FINRA BrokerCheck shows there are two additional regulatory events on his record. 

Judgment / Lien

Douglas John McCauley’s FINRA BrokerCheck report reflects nine judgment/lien disclosures. Two examples are summarized below. 

On May 12, 2015, BrokerCheck reported a tax lien in the amount of $15,671.15. 

On the same date, BrokerCheck also reported another tax lien in the amount of $6,135.16. 

FINRA BrokerCheck shows there are seven additional judgment/lien disclosures on his record. 

Rule Summary #1: FINRA Rule 8210 (Information and Testimony Requests)

FINRA Rule 8210 allows FINRA to request documents, information, and testimony during an investigation. If a person refuses to provide requested information, it can lead to discipline. You can read the rule here: FINRA Rule 8210.

Rule Summary #2: FINRA Rule 2010 (Standards of Commercial Honor)

FINRA Rule 2010 requires brokers and firms to observe high standards of commercial honor and just and equitable principles of trade. Regulatory actions often cite Rule 2010 when conduct falls below those standards. You can read the rule here: FINRA Rule 2010.

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, Douglas John McCauley:

Is not currently registered as a broker.

Was previously registered with firms that include Madison Avenue Securities, LLC, A. CH. Securities, Inc., and Jefferson Pilot Securities Corporation.

Has passed the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam. He has also passed Series 7 and Series 6. He has passed Series 63 and Series 65.

Kurta Law Can Help

If you have worked with Douglas McCauley 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: What is FINRA Arbitration? | Can I Sue My Broker or Financial Advisor?

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.