Matthew Barks Barred by FINRA For Alleged Refusal to Provide Testimony

Matthew Barks (CRD #: 6372903), a broker formerly registered with Park Avenue Securities, has been barred by FINRA, according to his BrokerCheck record, accessed on February 1, 2023. Read on if you have questions about his alleged conduct as a broker.

Bar by FINRA

On January 19, 2023, Matthew Barks consented to the entry of findings that he allegedly refused to appear for on-the-record testimony requested by FINRA.

According to a Letter of Acceptance, Waiver & Consent (AWC), FINRA launched an investigation following Matthew Barks’ termination from Park Avenue Securities in 2021. The firm allegedly filed a Uniform Termination Notice for Securities Industry Registration (Form U5) stating that he was discharged following the discovery of “several customer signature irregularities on policy and account documents.”

Matthew Barks allegedly informed FINRA of his refusal to appear for testimony on January 5, 2023. The AWC concludes that this alleged refusal violated FINRA Rules 8210 and 2010.

FINRA Rule 8210

FINRA Rule 8210 requires members to provide documents, information, and testimony upon request by FINRA.

FINRA Rule 2010

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

Sanctions

Matthew Barks was permanently barred by FINRA on January 19, 2023.

You can read the full AWC here.

Termination from Park Avenue Securities

On April 9, 2021, Matthew Barks was fired from Park Avenue Securities after the firm allegedly identified multiple irregularities in client signatures on policy and account documents.

Customer Dispute

On April 9, 2021, an investor alleged that Matthew Barks falsified her signatures. 

Background Information

Matthew Barks has passed the following exams:

• Series 63 – Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination
• SIE – Securities Industry Essentials Examination
• Series 6 – Investment Company Products/Variable Contracts Representative Examination

He has also worked for Park Avenue Securities (CRD#:46173) and The O.N. Equity Sales Company (CRD#:2936).

Kurta Law Can Help

If you worked with Matthew Barks 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 and 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.