Mark Valentine Gardner (CRD #1986268) Has a Customer Dispute Disclosure on FINRA BrokerCheck

Mark Valentine Gardner (CRD #1986268) is a broker with a customer dispute on FINRA BrokerCheck. We reviewed his BrokerCheck report on February 10, 2026. It reflects one customer dispute. If you invested with Mark Gardner and have concerns, keep reading.

BrokerCheck link: BrokerCheck

BrokerCheck report: BrokerCheck Report (PDF)

Investor Disputes / Customer Complaints

Mark Gardner’s FINRA BrokerCheck Report reflects one customer dispute disclosure. A summary of the dispute is below:

On December 11, 2025, a customer alleged Mark Gardner misappropriated client funds. The complaint referenced a reverse mortgage the customer entered into in 2007. It also referenced Pershing LLC accounts opened and closed in 2011. The customer sought $120,000 in damages. Mark Gardner’s FINRA BrokerCheck report lists National Planning Corporation as the employing firm at the time. The matter was reported as Closed/No Action as of January 6, 2026. The advisor stated that he does not incorporate reverse mortgage advice into his practice. He also stated he did not work with the customer regarding a reverse mortgage.

Rule Summary #1: FINRA Rule 2150 (Improper Use of Customers’ Securities or Funds)

FINRA Rule 2150 bars associated persons from making improper use of a customer’s securities or funds. When a complaint mentions misappropriation, the rule is often relevant because it focuses on protecting customer assets. It also helps frame why firms must supervise how customer funds are handled.

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

FINRA Rule 2010 requires brokers and firms to observe high standards of commercial honor and just and equitable principles of trade. It is frequently cited in cases involving misconduct because it captures broad ethical duties. Investor complaints may raise questions about whether those standards were met.

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, Mark Gardner:

Is currently registered with Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC.

Has passed the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam. Mark Gardner has passed Series 24, Series 7 and Series 6. He has also passed Series 65 and Series 63.

Was previously registered with firms that include National Planning Corporation and Royal Alliance Associates, Inc..

Kurta Law Can Help

If you have worked with Mark Gardner 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: Variable Annuities | Unsuitable Investments

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.