Joshua Dean (CRD #5825492) Has a Regulatory, Termination, and Financial Disclosure on FINRA BrokerCheck

Joshua Dean (CRD #5825492) was previously registered as a broker. We reviewed his BrokerCheck report on February 5, 2026. It reflects one regulatory event, one employment termination, and three financial disclosures. If you invested with Joshua Dean and have concerns, keep reading.

BrokerCheck link: BrokerCheck

BrokerCheck report: BrokerCheck Report (PDF)

Regulatory Action(s)

Joshua Dean’s FINRA BrokerCheck report reflects one regulatory action disclosure. A summary is below:

On December 24, 2025, FINRA initiated a regulatory action alleging Joshua Dean failed to respond to FINRA requests for information. The matter was resolved by letter, and FINRA ordered an indefinite suspension starting on January 20, 2026. FINRA stated the suspension continues until the requested information is provided. If Joshua Dean does not request termination of the suspension within three months of the notice, it can convert to a bar on March 27, 2026.

Employment Separation

Joshua Dean’s FINRA BrokerCheck report reflects one employment separation after allegations. A summary is below:

On February 17, 2025, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated discharged Joshua Dean. The firm reported allegations of conduct including sharing confidential customer information with a third party outside of the firm.

Financial Disclosures

Joshua Dean’s FINRA BrokerCheck report reflects three financial disclosures. Summaries of two are below:

On October 31, 2021, Joshua Dean reported a compromise with JPMCB Card. The original amount owed was $13,600. The creditor accepted $4,500. BrokerCheck lists the disposition as Satisfied/Released.

On July 27, 2020, Joshua Dean reported a compromise with Lending Club. The original amount owed was $5,500. The creditor accepted $2,500. BrokerCheck lists the disposition as Satisfied/Released.

BrokerCheck also reflects one additional financial disclosure in this category.

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

FINRA Rule 8210 allows FINRA to request information and testimony during exams and investigations. Failing to respond can lead to disciplinary action and suspension. FINRA Rule 8210

Rule Summary #2: FINRA Rule 9552 (Failure to Provide Information or Keep Information Current)

FINRA Rule 9552 permits expedited proceedings when a person fails to provide information requested by FINRA. It can result in an immediate suspension that stays in place until the failure is cured. FINRA Rule 9552

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, Joshua Dean:

Is not currently registered with any FINRA member firm.

Has passed the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam. Joshua Dean has passed Series 7 and Series 7TO. He has also passed Series 66 and Series 63.

Was previously registered with firms that include Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and USAA Financial Advisors, Inc..

Kurta Law Can Help

If you have worked with Joshua Dean 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: FINRA Arbitration | Securities Attorney

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.