Registration Checklist

Registrant & Market Regulation

Before firms and individuals can offer certain investment services, they must meet registration requirements designed to help protect investors. These requirements help ensure registrants meet minimum standards for proficiency, integrity and financial stability, and remain subject to ongoing regulatory oversight.

In Canada, any firm or individual in the business of trading in securities or derivatives, advising on securities or derivatives, or managing investment funds must be registered with the applicable securities regulator unless an exemption is available.

To assist firms seeking registration in Alberta, the Alberta Securities Commission (ASC) has developed a Registration Checklist, a practical guide outlining the documents, policies, procedures and other information typically required when applying for registration. The checklist is intended to help applicants prepare more complete applications, support a more efficient review process, and understand what ASC staff generally expect in registration submissions. 

The checklist covers general registration requirements for all applicants, as well as specific materials for firms seeking registration in one or more of the following categories:

  • Exempt market dealers (EMDs) – firms in the business of trading in prospectus-exempt securities. 
  • Portfolio managers (PMs) – firms in the business of advising on securities or managing investment portfolios. 
  • Investment fund managers (IFMs) – firms responsible for directing the business, operations or affairs of investment funds. 

One or more registration categories may apply depending on a firm's business model. While the checklist reflects the information and documentation typically required for these registration categories, firms with novel or complex business models may need to provide additional information or address additional compliance considerations. 

The checklist is provided as a general guide only and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. Applicants are responsible for determining whether registration is required and how securities laws apply to their particular circumstances. If you are uncertain about your obligations, you should seek independent legal advice.

If you have questions about the registration process or the information contained in the checklist, please contact [email protected].