James Sophia Fired from Morgan Stanley

James Sophia (CRD #: 3222645), a broker registered with Vanderbilt Securities, was fired from his previous firm, according to his BrokerCheck record, accessed on March 2, 2025. Investors may have also worked with him through Vanderbilt Advisory Services. Read on to learn the details of his alleged conduct.

Termination from Morgan Stanley

On January 9, 2025, James Sophia was fired from Morgan Stanley following allegations that he used a personal device for off-platform business communications, failed to disclose a lien, and engaged in an outside financial relationship with a customer.

FINRA Rule 2010

FINRA Rule 2010 holds brokers to high standards of commercial honor and just and equitable principles of trade.

Investor Dispute

On May 21, 2024, an investor alleged that James Sophia implemented a strategy in their account that was not in their best interest. The investor is seeking $50,000. 

Regulation Best Interest

Regulation Best Interest (Reg-BI) is an SEC regulation that requires brokerage firms to put their clients’ best interests first. For example, firms must conduct reasonable due diligence when researching investments to ensure their recommendations are suitable for the investor.

Background Information

James Sophia has passed the following exams:

• Securities Industry Essentials Examination – SIE
• General Securities Representative Examination – Series 7
• Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination – Series 65
• Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination – Series 63

James Sophia is a registered broker in 11 states and a registered investment adviser in Ohio.

He has also worked for the following firms:

• Morgan Stanley (CRD#:149777)
• Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith (CRD#:7691)
• UBS Financial Services (CRD#:8174)
• Wachovia Securities (CRD#:19616)

Kurta Law Can Help

If you worked with James Sophia and you have concerns about your investments, please contact us today at 877-600-0098 or info@kurtalawfirm.com for a free consultation.

For over 20 years, Kurta Law has advocated on behalf of investors who want to recover their investment losses from brokers and brokerage firms. Kurta Law is a nationally recognized law firm that exclusively represents investors against brokers and brokerage firms on a contingency basis. This means that the firm only earns a fee if our securities attorneys recover money on your behalf.