April 22, 2019 (LINCOLN, NEB.) — The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF) today announced that the North American Securities Administrators Association’s (NASAA) Electronic Filing Depository (EFD) System has been expanded to accommodate the electronic filing of Form NF-UIT notice filings for unit investment trusts (UITs) with the NDBF.

Developed by NASAA, the EFD System was launched in 2014 and was initially used to facilitate the filing of Form D for Regulation D, Rule 506 offerings with state securities regulators and to pay related fees.

“By continuing to embrace technology, states are providing more innovative capital formation solutions to benefit issuers and investors alike,” NDBF Deputy Director Claire McHenry said.

Nebraska is among a growing number of states participating in the online filing of Form NF-UIT and among the 48 states participating in the online EFD system for Form D.  Future system enhancements are being considered to accommodate the electronic filing of Form NF-Mutual Funds and franchise filings.

The Department’s expansion of online filing for unit investment trusts  helps grow Nebraska and further the state’s mission of creating opportunities through more effective, more efficient and consumer focused state government.

The EFD website also enables the public to search and view, free of charge, filings made through EFD with state securities regulators. EFD is available at: https://www.efdnasaa.org.

“If you have questions about a particular offering, you should contact the NDBF,” McHenry said.

Issuers or investors with questions about EFD can contact the NDBF at (402) 471-3445.

More information about the laws governing the securities industry in Nebraska can be found on NDBF’s website at www.ndbf.nebraska.gov. If you have questions about any investment matter, call NDBF’s Consumer Hotline toll free at (877) 471-3445 in Nebraska, or (402) 471-3445 if you are out of state.

Consumer Advisory - Online UIT Filings.pdf

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Nebraska Energy Office 1% Energy Related Disaster loans through Nebraska Financial Institutions

Nebraska Financial Institutions should be aware of important changes to the Nebraska Energy Office’s Dollar and Energy Savings Loan Program. The NEO has adjusted its Dollar and Energy Savings Loan program to make it more attractive to Nebraska Financial Institutions and more helpful to Nebraskans affected by the recent weather disasters.

Effective immediately, the Nebraska Energy Office (NEO) is offering Dollar and Energy Savings Loan Program 1% loans to assist those impacted by floods to repair their homes, provided the home has not been condemned. 

Project applications need to be submitted to your Nebraska-based lender and the NEO office prior to installation for verification of compliance with program requirements.  However, if emergency improvements have been made, and you wish to apply for the 1% program with your lender, NEO will consider prior improvements provided installed equipment and materials meet program requirements.  NEO is also waiving the requirement that the property needs to be at least 5 years old for this offering.  

This program will end August 1, 2019.  All necessary project forms and additional information can be obtained here: 

Getting a Loan for Prequalified Projects. 

Additional questions, please contact energy@nebraska.gov

Representatives from Department of Banking and Finance and the Nebraska Energy Offices will hold a webinar to provide information and take questions from interested Nebraska Financial Institutions on the NEO’s Disaster Assistance 1% Dollar and Energy Savings Loan Program

Event Information:         Nebraska Energy Office 1% Disaster Loans

Time:                                 9:00 am CST to 10:00 am CST  April 12, 2019

https://nvcn-cio.webex.com/nvcn-cio/onstage/g.php?MTID=e116112b646a7f8667e5861c73e9ab420

March 21, 2019 (LINCOLN, NEB.)  In the aftermath of widespread damage from the recent flooding throughout Nebraska, the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF) cautioned investors to watch out for opportunistic investment scams.

“Nebraskans have big hearts and are looking for ways to help out communities and neighbors impacted by flooding. However, we know from experience that financial predators are out there trying to seek profit from the misfortune of others,” said NDBF Director Mark Quandahl. “Unsolicited investment offers seeking to capitalize on the aftermath of the flooding should be approached with extreme caution.”

NDBF Deputy Director Claire McHenry reminded investors to watch for red flags of disaster-related scams, including unsolicited email, social media messages, crowdfunding pitches or telephone calls promoting investment pools or bonds to help flood victims, water-removal or purification technologies, electricity-generating devices and distressed real estate remediation programs. She said that scam artists may linger long after the flood waters have receded to prey on victims who anticipate receiving large lump-sum insurance settlements for damaged property and other losses.

NDBF offered three tips to help investors avoid disaster-related scams:
•Delete unsolicited emails or social media messages and hang up on aggressive cold callerspromoting flood-related investments, especially those from small companies touting unprovenor new technologies or products.
•Use common sense. Claims of guaranteed returns or low/no investment risk are classic redflags. Every investment involves some degree of risk.
•Do your homework. Contact NDBF to check that both the seller and investment are licensedand registered. If not, they may be operating illegally. Contact information for other statesecurities regulators is available on www.nasaa.org.

More information about the laws governing the securities industry in Nebraska can be found on NDBF’s website at ndbf.nebraska.gov. If you have questions about any investment matter, call NDBF’s Consumer Hotline toll free at (877) 471-3445 in Nebraska, or (402) 471-3445 if you are out of state.

NDBF Press Release - Nebraska Flooding - Scams Alert (03-21-2019)

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NDBF REMINDS DDS LICENSEES OF May 1, 2019 RENEWAL DEADLINE

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance ("NDBF") reminds DDS licensees holding an active Delayed Deposit Services license in Nebraska that it will expire on May 1, 2019.

Nebraska Statutes require that each Delayed Deposit Services Business renew its license annually. Be advised that Section 45-926 of the Delayed Deposit Services Licensing Act prohibits the operation of a Delayed Deposit Services business without a license. Your current license will expire on May 1, 2019.

The 2019 Delayed Deposit Services Renewal Licensing Forms and Instructions are available on the Department web site at https://ndbf.nebraska.gov/industries/delayed-deposit-services-payday-len.... Licensees must use the licensing forms provided on the Department’s website. Forms from previous years will not be accepted.

To renew a DDS Business License, a licensee must submit the following:

1) Delayed Deposit Services Business License Renewal Application and Fee- MUST BE MAILED TO THE NEBRASKA DEPARTMENT OF BANKING AND FINANCE AND BE POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN APRIL 12, 2019.

 Companies holding licenses in more than one county, all principal places of business and branches may be submitted on one application.

 When you submit the license renewal application, you must include the appropriate renewal fees. The renewal fee is $500 for each principal place of business and $500 for each branch office.

2) Delayed Deposit Services Licensee Annual Report and Supplemental Annual Report for 2018- MUST BE ELECTRONICALLY SUBMITTED TO DOB.CONSUMERFINANCE@NEBRASKA.GOV NO LATER THAN APRIL 12, 2019.

 Annual Report and Supplemental Annual Report for 2018 must be submitted for each license #.

3) Delayed Deposit Services Licensee Annual Report- Affidavit

 Upon approval of the Annual Report and Supplemental Annual Report, the Department will email the Licensee’s Primary Contact the required Affidavit to be signed and notarized. The individual signing this form is affirming that to the best of his or her knowledge the information contained in the Annual Report is true.

 The completed Affidavit MUST BE MAILED TO THE NEBRASKA DEPARTMENT OF BANKING AND FINANCE.

ONCE APPROVED, RENEWAL LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES OF BRANCH APPROVAL WILL BE MAILED TO THE PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS.

You must still file an Annual Report and Supplemental Annual Report, even if you are not renewing your DDS license.

If you have questions, please email dob.consumerfinance@nebraska.gov and include your company name and license number in the subject line or call 402-471-2171.

2018 Annual Report

DDS Business License Renewal Application 2019

DDS 2018 Supplemental Annual Report

Electronic Surety Bond Adoption

EFFECTIVE February 1, 2019

On January 25, 2019 the Director of the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance signed the Order Adopting Acceptance of Electronic Surety Bonds for Mortgage Bankers, Installment Loan Licensees, Installment Sales Licensees and Money Transmitter Licensees.  Effective February 1, 2019, Electronic Surety Bond (ESB) tracking will be managed through NMLS for the following license types:

•             Mortgage Banker License

•             Mortgage Banker Registration

•             Installment Loan License

•             Installment Sales License

•             Installment Sales Registration

•             Money Transmitter License

Management of ESBs through NMLS will allow for the tracking of surety bond requirements and the maintenance of surety bond information validated by authorized surety companies and/or surety bond producers. After February 1, 2019, new company license applications will be required to meet all surety bond requirements by completing the electronic process. Current licensees must convert all existing surety bonds to NMLS via the submission of an ESB by the date listed on the Conversion Plan found on the State Licensing Requirement page of the NMLS Resource Center. Please thoroughly review the Conversion Plan and take the necessary steps to convert existing surety bonds by the January 31, 2020 deadline. Failure to complete the conversion process may affect your company’s ability to renew your license for the next year. Refer to the renewal section of the Conversion Plan for more information. 

Licensees must first grant authority to their surety bond company/producer in NMLS, and then contact the company/producer to prepare the ESB. See the ESB for Licensees page for resources and more information. As noted in the Conversion Plan, there is an ESB Quick Guide on the NMLS Resource Center for your reference. 

If you have any questions about the ESB adoption plan, feel free to contact this agency at 402-471-2171or by email at dob.mortgage@nebraska.gov.  When contacting this agency, please specify the type of license you are referring.

Electronic Surety Bond Adoption

November 30, 2018 (Lincoln, Nebraska) – Bruce A. Billesbach (“Billesbach”) of Blair Nebraska has been convicted of securities fraud in two Nebraska counties. Billesbach sold investment interests to Nebraska residents to fund an options and futures trading program operated by him. Billesbach fraudulently failed to provide material information to the investors in his offer and sale of securities to them.  Billesbach was sentenced to a total of ten years of probation in Douglas County and five years of probation in Washington County.  In addition, Billesbach was ordered to pay restitution totaling $70,000. 

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance investigated the transactions and initiated criminal referrals to prosecutors in Douglas and Washington counties.

More information about the laws governing the securities industry in Nebraska can be found on the Department’s website at www.ndbf.nebraska.gov. If you have questions about any investment matters, call the Department’s Consumer Hotline toll free at (877) 471-3445 in Nebraska, or (402) 471-3445 if you are out of state.

Nebraska man convicted of Securities Fraud.pdf

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NDBF REMINDS INVESTMENT ADVISERS, BROKER-DEALERS OF DECEMBER 31, 2018 RENEWAL DEADLINE

November 2, 2018 (LINCOLN, NEB.) — The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (“NDBF”) reminds state-registered investment advisers, broker-dealers, and their agents and representatives that registrations in Nebraska expire on December 31, 2018.  Firms will need to assemble required documentation and review filings to make sure information is accurate and up-to-date.  Failure to submit filings or provide required information by the appropriate deadline will result in the termination of the registration on January 1, 2019.

State-registered investment adviser and investment adviser representative deadlines:

• By December 21, 2018 – Submit Nebraska specific forms and documentation to NDBF

• Before December 27, 2018 – Submit renewal payments through CRD/IARD

• Before December 27, 2018 – Submit required electronic form filings through CRD/IARD

  FINRA broker-dealer and agent deadlines:

• Before December 27, 2018 – Submit renewal payments through CRD/IARD

• Before December 27, 2018 – Submit required electronic form filings through CRD/IARD

Non-FINRA Broker-Dealers and agents must submit all required forms and documentation to NDBF by December 21, 2018.

2019 IA Renewal Notice.pdf

2019 Non FINRA Renewal Notice and Checklist.pdf

WATCH FOR SCAMS IN FLORENCE’S WAKE

September 18, 2018 (LINCOLN, NEB.) — In the wake of widespread damage caused by Hurricane Florence, the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF) cautioned investors to watch out for opportunistic investment or charitable scams.

“Natural disasters bring out the best and worst in people. While news stemming from Hurricane Florence has rightfully focused on the tireless efforts of first responders and neighbors helping neighbors, we know from experience that financial predators are lurking like snakes in the water to seek profit from the misfortune of others,” said Deputy Director Claire McHenry “Unsolicited investment offers seeking to capitalize on the aftermath of Hurricane Florence should be approached with extreme caution.”

McHenry reminded investors to watch for red flags of hurricane-related scams, including unsolicited email, social media messages, crowdfunding pitches or telephone calls promoting investment pools or bonds to help storm victims, water-removal or purification technologies, electricity-generating devices and distressed real estate remediation programs. She said scam artists may linger long after the storm has passed to prey on victims who anticipate receiving large lump-sum insurance settlements for damaged property and other losses.

The agency also cautioned about fraudulent charitable solicitations that prey on the goodness of people seeking to help those in need.

“There will be fraudulent solicitations for charities in Florence’s wake,” McHenry said. “Donors are reminded to do their research. As with any charitable contribution, those who want to contribute to relief efforts should send contributions to charitable organizations that are registered properly with state authorities and with an established track record of getting donations to victims.”

NDBF offered three quick tips to help investors avoid disaster-related scams:

• Delete unsolicited emails or social media messages and hang up on aggressive cold callers promoting hurricane-related investments, especially those from small companies touting unproven or new technologies or products.

   

• Use common sense. Claims of guaranteed returns or low/no investment risk are classic red flags. Every investment involves some degree of risk.

• Do your homework. Contact your state or provincial securities regulator to check that both the seller and investment are licensed and registered. If not, they may be operating illegally. Contact information is available on NASAA’s website.

More information about the laws governing the securities industry in Nebraska can be found on NDBF’s website at ndbf.nebraska.gov. If you have questions about any investment matter, call NDBF’s Consumer Hotline toll free at (877) 471-3445 in Nebraska, or (402) 471-3445 if you are out of state.

Consumer Advisory - Hurricane Florence.pdf

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STATE RESIDENTS URGED TO BE ON GUARD AGAINST AFFINITY FRAUD

STATE REGULATOR WARNS INVESTORS NOT TO LET GUARD DOWN

August 16, 2018 (LINCOLN, NEB.) — The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF) issued a warning today for Nebraska residents to be on the lookout for affinity fraud.  Affinity fraud occurs when an investment promoter plays upon the fact that they share something in common with a potential investor – such as attending the same place of worship, being a member of the same race or ethnic group, or working in the same profession.  Investors are more likely to trust this type of salesperson. But after lowering their guard and giving their money to a promoter, they can end up losing their entire investment.

NDBF urges investors to not be taken in by testimonials from other group members who express enthusiasm for an investment’s success. “Many investors fall prey to promoters who may seem to share your values and life experiences,” said Deputy Director Claire McHenry. “But no matter who is promoting an investment opportunity, you should protect yourself by maintaining your skepticism and investigating before investing your money.” 

“While early investors may receive returns on their investments, scam artists frequently use money from later investors to pay high returns to early investors.  Those who invest at the later stages of the scam often lose all the money they thought they were investing,” McHenry said.

McHenry encourages investors to be leery about promises of “guaranteed” investments since all investments involve risk.  In addition, she said investors should be very skeptical when high rates of return are promised, especially when few investments are earning high returns. 

“Affinity fraud are some of the saddest cases that we see,” said McHenry, “because people not only lose their money but they’ve been betrayed by someone they trusted.”

More information about the laws governing the securities industry in Nebraska can be found on NDBF’s website at www.ndbf.nebraska.gov. If you have questions about any investment matter, call NDBF’s Consumer Hotline toll free at (877) 471-3445 in Nebraska, or (402) 471-3445 if you are out of state.

20180816 - Consumer Advisory - Affinity Fraud

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NDBF RECOGNIZES WORLD ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY

WARNS OF THE DANGER SIGNS FOR SUSPECTED ABUSE BY GUARDIANS

June 15, 2018 (LINCOLN, NEB.) — In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) today, the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF) reminds financial professionals and the public throughout Nebraska to be on the lookout for the red flags of suspected financial abuse, including potential abuse by guardians assigned to oversee the financial matters of seniors no longer able to do so for themselves.

"A trusted guardian can be a wonderful resource. But sometimes guardians may take advantage of the trust placed in them to look after the people or assets in their care," NDBF Deputy Director Claire McHenry said.

A guardian is a person or entity appointed by a court to exercise some or all authority over a person and/or estate. A guardian has power to make decisions related to the health and safety of the incapacitated person. Financial abuse by guardians occurs when the guardian improperly uses the protected individual’s financial assets.

"Fraudsters often target seniors for financial exploitation because they may be isolated from family, caregivers, and other support networks. That’s why it is important to know the red flags that could signal a senior’s savings may be in danger," Deputy Director McHenry said.

The North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), of which NDBF is a member, recently developed a resource to help call attention to the red flags of suspected guardian financial abuse. The "Guarding the Guardians" publication also provides examples of exploitation and information on how to report suspected abuse.

Suspected signs of guardian financial abuse include:

 Using guardianship authority to transfer property for the guardian’s benefit.

 Receiving personal payments from a protected individual without court permission.

 Authorizing frequent cash withdrawals from the protected individual’s accounts without explanation.

 Using or borrowing property for personal benefit without court authorization.

 Making unexplained decisions that are not in the protected individual’s best interest.

Deputy Director McHenry asks anyone with suspicions of possible exploitation by guardians to contact the agency at 402-471-2171.

More information about the laws governing the securities industry in Nebraska can be found on NDBF’s website at ndbf.nebraska.gov. If you have questions about any investment matter, call NDBF’s Consumer Hotline toll free at (877) 471-3445 in Nebraska, or (402) 471-3445 if you are out of state.

Consumer Advisory - WEAAD

NDBF WARNS ABOUT FAKE FINANCIAL REGULATOR

JUNE 8, 2018 (LINCOLN, NEB.) - The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance is warning Nebraska residents about an entity claiming to be a financial regulator.  The Federal Securities Trading Regulatory Board (“FSTRB”), with a website at www.fstrb.org claims to be operating from 201 North 8^th Street, Unit 210, Lincoln, Nebraska.  According to its website, the FSTRB is responsible to “oversee, administer, and enforce the federal securities laws related to Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions.”  The FSTRB also claims to license entities and individuals engaged in the financial industry, including broker-dealers, investment advisers, “deposit taking” institutions, and money transmitters.

The Department was contacted by a resident of Finland who reported that a group of investors were attempting to purchase the stock of a company located in Pennsylvania.  During the transaction, the FSTRB became involved in the facilitation of the sale of the stock.  As instructed by a FSTRB employee, the investors wired money to an account in the Philippines. 

The Department has confirmed that there is no entity calling itself the FSTRB located at the address listed on its website.  Furthermore, the FSTRB is not a legitimate financial regulator.  It appears that this entity and website were created to give credibility to securities transactions and to induce investors to wire funds to “purchase” the securities. 

On June 8, 2018, the Department issued a Cease and Desist Order against FSTRB ordering it to cease acting as a broker-dealer and to cease making false and misleading representations to investors, including representing that they are a regulatory agency. 

To help investors determine if they are dealing with a bogus regulator, the North American Securities Administrators Association, an organization consisting of state and provincial securities regulators, including the Department, identified the following warning signs:

1. You cannot find references to them on any other regulatory websites. If you cannot find information about the “regulator” on the site of the International Organization of Securities Commissions, www.iosco.org, they probably are not a legitimate regulator.

2. They endorse or approve any investment opportunity, stock, or company. Legitimate regulators are not in the business of promoting any deal, only enforcing securities laws and ensuring fair dealing.

3. They say that paying a fee to “release restricted shares” is anything other than an attempt to steal your savings. This is a common ploy, and a recent twist on age-old advance fee schemes.

4. Little or no information about the “regulator” appears in Internet search engines. Any legitimate regulator should generate hundreds of entries in any Internet search engine.

5. If you talk to other regulators, and they say they have “never heard of them,” you are most likely dealing with a fake regulator.

The Department strongly cautions consumers on conducting business over the Internet with financial companies with whom they are unfamiliar.  In many cases, the customer is told to wire money or send a money order, often to a location outside the United States. Consumers never receive the promised services and cannot recover their money.  Furthermore, these consumers may be asked to provide personal information such as social security numbers and bank account numbers to the Internet company, which makes them prime targets for identity theft. 

Individuals who conducted business with the FSTRB are asked to contact the Department.

A copy of the Cease and Desist Order is also available on the Department’s website at www.ndbf.nebraska.gov. 

More information about the laws governing the financial industries in Nebraska can be found on the Department’s website.  If you have questions about any investment matters, call the Department’s Consumer Hotline toll free at (877) 471-3445 in Nebraska, or (402) 471-3445 if you are out of state.

FSTRB Cease and Desist Press Release

FSTRB Cease and Desist Order

The Federal Trade Commission issued a WESTERN UNION refund alert on March 22, 2018.  FRAUDSTERS are reportedly using official looking emails to collect information about your Western Union settlement.  FTC warns everyone, do not apply for a Western Union settlement refund on line, you must use the forms made available by the FTC.

If you lost money to scammers who had you pay using Western Union between January 1, 2004 and January 19, 2017, you can ask for your money back.

To learn more, follow the link to the Federal Trade Commission.

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2018/03/western-union-refunds-scam-alert?utm_source=govdelivery

NDBF Announces New Resources and Tools for Choosing a Financial Professional

February 14, 2018 (Lincoln, Neb.)  — The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (“NDBF”) announced today a new resource, The Informed Investor Advisory: Financial Service Providers.  The advisory will help Nebraskans understand the different types of financial services providers, how to check out their background, and important questions to ask before signing a contract.

Nebraskans are also encouraged to check out a new online guide available at www.aarp.org/InterviewAnAdvisor that helps identify questions to ask before hiring a financial adviser.  Interview an Adviser is a free tool launched recently by AARP and the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), of which the Department is a member.  The online tool does not require an AARP membership to use. 

“Many people would benefit from working with a financial professional.  It’s best to take the time and do your homework to understand the services they offer, their responsibilities to you, and what you will be paying.  However, many people don’t know where to start or what questions to ask,” says NDBF Deputy Director Claire McHenry.

The selection of any professional can be done best by following a step-by-step search process.  Check his or her credentials, experience, reputation and qualifications by using BrokerCheck.FINRA.org or contacting NDBF.  Identify your primary needs in seeking financial advice in order to evaluate each financial adviser you meet based on his or her ability to help fulfill those needs.  Ask a lot of questions to make sure the adviser is a good fit for you based on your financial situation and needs.  It is your responsibility and right to fully investigate the financial adviser's background, methods of practice, and credentials.

More information about the laws governing the securities industry in Nebraska can be found on NDBF’s website at www.ndbf.nebraska.gov. If you have questions about any investment matter, call NDBF’s Consumer Hotline toll free at (877) 471-3445 in Nebraska, or (402) 471-3445 if you are out of state.

Informed Investor Advisory Financial Service Providers
Choosing Advisers and Planners Consumer Alert

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance has issued a Cease and Desist Order against Steve’s Payday Loans and its officers, directors, employees, and agents.  The Order prohibits Steve’s Payday Loans from deceptively claiming to be, and from operating as, a payday lender in Nebraska until the entity has obtained the required delayed deposit services business license in Nebraska.

NDBF Press Release - Steve's Payday Loans 12-5-2017

Steve's Payday Loans Cease and Desist Order

NDBF REMINDS INVESTMENT ADVISERS, BROKER-DEALERS OF DECEMBER 31, 2017 RENEWAL DEADLINE

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (“NDBF”) reminds state-registered investment advisers, broker-dealers, and their agents and representatives that registrations in Nebraska expire on December 31, 2017.  Firms will need to assemble required documentation and review filings to make sure information is accurate and up-to-date.  Failure to submit filings or provide required information by the appropriate deadline will result in the termination of the registration on January 1, 2018.

State-registered investment adviser and investment adviser representative deadlines:

• By December 22, 2017 – Submit Nebraska specific forms and documentation to NDBF
  (see requirements)
• Before December 26, 2017 – Submit renewal payments through CRD/IARD
• Before December 27, 2017 – Submit required electronic form filings through CRD/IARD

FINRA broker-dealer and agent deadlines:

• Before December 26, 2017 – Submit renewal payments through CRD/IARD
• Before December 27, 2017 – Submit required electronic form filings through CRD/IARD

Non-FINRA Broker-Dealers and agents must submit all required forms and documentation to NDBF
( see requirements) by December 22, 2017.  

NDBF OFFERS NEW PUBLICATION ON RED FLAGS OF GUARDIAN FINANCIAL ABUSE

NOVEMBER 2, 2017 (LINCOLN, NEB.) — The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (“NDBF”) announced the availability of a new brochure, “Guarding the Guardians,” to help spotlight suspected guardian financial exploitation.

“Education is an investor’s best defense against this type of financial abuse. We are pleased to provide this free resource to the public to strengthen awareness of the warning signs of guardian financial abuse,” said Deputy Director Claire McHenry.

A guardian is a person or entity appointed by a court to exercise some or all authority over a person and/or estate. A guardian has power to make decisions related to the health and safety of the incapacitated person. Financial abuse by guardians occurs when the guardian improperly uses the protected individual’s financial accounts.

In addition to helping individuals identify suspected guardian abuse, the “Guarding the Guardians” brochure also provides examples of warning signs of exploitation and offers information on where to turn for help.

The brochure was developed by the North American Securities Administrators Association, of which NDBF is a member. A copy of the brochure is available on the agency’s website at www.ndbf.nebraska.gov/about/news-publications. To learn more about investor education resources available in Nebraska, contact the NDBF at (877) 471-3445 in Nebraska, or (402) 471-3445 for out of state. 

Guardian Brochure
Consumer Alert - Guardian Financial Abuse

Ohio Company Ordered to Stop Soliciting Investors

August 31, 2017 (Lincoln, Nebraska) – The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (“Department”) issued a Cease and Desist Order against an Ohio company known as A Voice 4 U, LLC; its President, Katrina S. Farmer (“Farmer”); and its affiliates, control persons, officers, directors, agents, and employees.  The Order prohibits the entity and individuals named from offering or selling securities in Nebraska until the securities have been registered with the Department. The Order also prohibits the entity and individuals named from offering or selling securities in Nebraska until they are registered as broker-dealers or agents of a broker-dealer with the Department.  

From 2012 to 2014, Farmer sold profit-sharing agreements in A Voice 4 U, LLC to investors in Nebraska. The profit-sharing agreements were not registered in Nebraska under the Securities Act of Nebraska. Neither A Voice 4 U, LLC nor Farmer were registered in Nebraska as a broker-dealer or agent of a broker-dealer.  The sale of unregistered securities and the solicitation of investments by unlicensed broker-dealers is illegal under Nebraska law.

Individuals who invested in the above securities are asked to contact the Department.

More information about the laws governing the securities industry in Nebraska can be found on the Department’s website at www.ndbf.nebraska.gov. If you have questions about any investment matters, call the Department’s Consumer Hotline toll free at (877) 471-3445 in Nebraska, or (402) 471-3445 if you are out of state.

CONTACT: Thomas A. Sindelar, Investigation Supervisor
PHONE: (402) 471-2171
EMAIL: thomas.sindelar@nebraska.gov 

A Voice 4 U C&D
A Voice 4 U Consumer Alert

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance has adopted forms and guidelines to implement amendments to the laws governing the licensing of bank executive officers and credit union loan officers.  The amendments, adopted as part of LB 140 (2017), are effective August 24, 2017, and authorize exemptions from the licensing process.  The Department has also updated a number of related forms to reflect the amendments.

Click here for the Financial Institution Officer Exemptions

Securities Act of Nebraska Rules Effective

Comprehensive Securities Rules Update Announced

JUNE 20, 2017 (LINCOLN, NEB.) — The Nebraska Department of Banking & Finance (“Department”)
announces that amendments to its Rules under the Securities Act of Nebraska contained in Title 48 of
the Nebraska Administrative Code became effective June 5, 2017. These amendments represent the
first comprehensive amendments to these rules since 1999, as 33 of the 42 chapters in Title 48 were
amended.

The amendments reflect the Department’s goal of reducing regulatory complexity and promoting
uniformity while protecting investors and promoting capital formation in Nebraska. Highlights of the
amendments include the following:

• Implements filing requirements for Regulation A, Tier 2 Offerings,
•  Increases the maximum amount that can be raised pursuant to the Intrastate Offering Exemption, Section 8-1111(20) of the Securities Act of Nebraska, from $750,000.00 to $1,000,000.00,
•  Amends the information required to be submitted to the Department to request an Order Curing Late Notice for certain notice filings,
•  Adopts the most recent North American Securities Administrators Association (“NASAA”) Statements of Policy concerning the registration of securities in Nebraska,
•  Adopts the recent amendments to NASAA’s Brochure Rule for state -registered investment advisers,
•  Adopts NASAA’s model custody rule for state -registered investment advisers, which includes a definition of the term “custody”,
•  Adopts rules concerning succession planning for state-registered investment advisers, and
•  Repeals a rule concerning debt securities issued by a church or congregation

Copies of the updated regulations are available on the Department’s website.

The Department will be conducting compliance seminars with state-registered investment advisers to
discuss rule amendments affecting them. Details regarding the seminars will be forthcoming in the next
few weeks.

View Notice of New Securities Rules

On Thursday June 8, 2017, Department of Banking and Finance Legal Counsel Mike Cameron and Deputy Director Financial Institutions Kelly Lammers met with Girls State participants.  The discussion included the uniqueness of Nebraska Securities and Banking regulations, the volume of updates to laws and rules over this past year, and time for questions, which included interest in ID theft.  Pictured below in a State Capitol hearing room are Mike Cameron and Girls State delegates representing the communities of Friend, Hartington, Callaway, Scribner, Sutherland, Syracuse, Tekamah, Mullen, Wahoo, and Minden.

Papillion Company Ordered to Stop Soliciting Investors

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (“Department”) has issued a Cease and Desist Order to Blazefly, Inc., Papillion, NE, its President Jamie Crager, and its affiliates, control persons, officers, directors, agents, and employees.  The Order prohibits the entity and individuals named from offering or selling securities in Nebraska until the securities have been registered, and until the entity and individuals are registered as broker-dealers or agents of a broker-dealer with the Department.   

Blazefly Inc C&D
Blazefly Inc Order Affirming C&D
Consumer Alert Blazefly Inc May 2017

Comprehensive Banking Act Update Signed Into Law

LB 140 was signed into law by Governor Pete Ricketts on March 29, 2017, during a ceremony at the Nebraska State Capitol.  LB 140 is the first comprehensive revision of the Nebraska Banking Act since 1963.  LB 140 also updates related laws for banks and other financial institutions. 

In 2016, then Banking, Commerce and Insurance (BCI) Committee Chair Jim Scheer introduced Legislative Resolution 430, proposing to study whether the Nebraska Banking Act should be updated. Senator Scheer gathered legislators, BCI committee staff, banking and credit union industry professionals and Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF) staff into a working group, and led a seven-month section by section review and redrafting of the Act.  LB 140 is the product of the LR 430 study committee and reflects its goals:  reducing regulatory complexity and carefully updating the Act to reflect the current banking environment, while protecting consumers and preserving the public confidence in the financial institutions of Nebraska.

LB 140 was introduced by Senator Matt Williams, Vice Chair of BCI, who participated in the working group.  The bill as introduced encompassed 143 Pages and 157 Sections, consisting of a combination of new sections, repealed sections, and amendments of existing sections of the Banking Act. Among its provisions, LB 140 authorizes an increase in the maximum number of a bank board of directors from 15 to 25; prohibits bank-affiliated individuals from being paid a higher rate of interest on deposits than paid by the bank for similar deposits and provides that a violation is a Class IV felony; allows financial institutions, in a state of emergency, to open a temporary office to conduct business for up to 30 months; authorizes the Department to provide for the electronic filing of certain bonds; repeals a registration requirement for banks making personal loans; and clarifies merger and acquisition procedures. 

The Legislature incorporated three other bills into LB 140:  LB196, introduced by Sen. Joni Craighead at the request of NDBF, which provides an annual update of the equal rights laws for  state-chartered depository financial institutions with their federal counterparts, and LB341 and LB 454, introduced by current BCI Chair Sen. Brett Lindstrom, who participated in the LR 430 working group. These bills allow for an opt-out of licensing requirements for bank executive officers and credit union loan officers, respectively.   

With the exception of the three sections amended by former LB 196, which carried the emergency clause and became effective March 30, 2017, LB 140 will become effective on or about September 1, 2017. NDBF will provide detailed information on the changes prior to that date.   The Slip Law version of LB 140 can be viewed at http://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=30705

State Regulators Release BSA/AML Self-Assessment Tool

State regulators and the Conference of State Bank Supervisors (CSBS) have released a new voluntary self-assessment tool to help banks better manage Bank Secrecy Act and anti-money laundering risk. The tool is meant to help institutions better identify, monitor, and communicate BSA/AML risk, reduce uncertainty surrounding BSA/AML compliance and foster greater transparency within the industry. Learn more and access the tool at the CSBD WebSite.

Securities Rules Notice is hereby given that the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance will hold a rulemaking hearing on August 10, 2016, commencing at 9:30 a.m., at the offices of the Department of Banking and Finance, 1526 K Street, Suite 300, Lincoln, Nebraska 68508.

Hearing Notice
Fiscal Impact Statement
Current Title 48 Securities Rules

Effective July 1, 2016, the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF) will require issuers filing pursuant to registration by coordination under Section 8-1106 of the Securities Act of Nebraska to file a separate Form U-1/Uniform Application to Register Securities for each distinctive share class to be offered. NDBF will receipt each share class under a separate and distinct state file number, applying the requisite fee to each filing accordingly. NDBF will no longer allow an issuer to reallocate fees between share classes of the offering after the initial filing is received and receipted.

A Bellevue area woman won this year’s DASH for the STASH in Nebraska. Eighteen Nebraska libraries and other locations participated in the contest from March 15-May 15, 2016. Much like a scavenger hunt, players gather information about saving and investing by going to participating locations, reading investor education posters, and answering questions. The posters covered four key topics: finding financial advisers, avoiding fraud, understanding investment fees, and building a nest egg. The winner was randomly selected from those players who correctly answered the questions and awarded $1,000 to open or add to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA).

NEBRASKA DEPARTMENT OF BANKING AND FINANCE, INVESTOR PROTECTION INSTITUTE TO OFFER $1,000 PRIZE IN “DASH FOR THE STASH” FINANCIAL LITERACY PUSH IN LIBRARIES

Public libraries and other institutions in Nebraska will participate in the DASH for the STASH investor education/protection program and contest taking place April 15-May 15, 2015 as part of Financial Literacy Month. Research shows that the four focuses of DASH for the STASH – financial fraud, building a nest egg, selecting financial advisers, and the cost of investment fees – are all topics about which many investors need to learn more.

Read more, including Contest Rules, Participating Libraries, and the Focus of the Contest

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has issued a warning that the Web site "helpwithmybank.com," is attempting to masquerade as the legitimate Web site, "helpwithmybank.gov," and contains potentially damaging malware. The illegitimate site redirects the user to the legitimate site "helpwithmybank.gov" in an attempt to convince users that they are connecting to a legitimate site. Attempts to connect to the fake Web site could expose the user to harmful malware.

Any information that you may have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Email: occalertresponses@occ.treas.gov
Mail: Office of the Comptroller of the Currency Enforcement & Compliance Division, MS 8-10 250 E St. SW, Washington, DC 20219
Fax: (202) 874-5301

Lincoln, Neb., September 13, 2011 – Jack E. Herstein, Assistant Director of the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance and head of the Department’s Bureau of Securities, begins his one-year tenure today as President of the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA). Herstein gave his inaugural address during the annual NASAA conference, being held this year in Wichita, Kansas. NASAA is celebrating 100 years of state securities regulation in the state which enacted the first laws to protect investors.

Full Press Release

Effective June 25, 2011, Chapters 1 and 15 of Title 48 of the Nebraska Administrative Code have been amended. Please ensure you have the most recent version of these Chapters.

Revised Chapter 1 updates the Department address.
Revised Chapter 15 provides for the filing of financial statements and sales reports by certain issuers claiming a transactional exemption from securities registration pursuant to 48 NAC 15 and Neb. Rev. Stat. § 8-1111(9). The revisions implement statutory changes enacted in 2010 and apply to issuers who make filings in five consecutive years or who sell in excess of $1 million dollars in securities.

The Department has updated its Delayed Deposit Services Interpretative Opinions and its Frequently Asked Questions document. The Interpretative Opinions were effective May 1, 2011, and include new Interpretative Opinion No. 7, which relates to Collection Items and the types of documentation that Department examiners will be looking for in collection files.

Click here for the DDS Interpretative Opinions.
Click here for the DDS FAQs.

Jack E. Herstein, Assistant Director of the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance and head of the Department’s Bureau of Securities, has been elected President-Elect of the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA). Organized in 1919, NASAA is the oldest international organization devoted to investor protection. It is a voluntary association whose membership consists of 67 state, provincial, and territorial securities administrators in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Canada, and Mexico.

Full Press Release

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance is warning Nebraska residents about two Internet-based companies offering personal loans to consumers. Barstow Brokers claims to be based at 11110 Fort Street, Suite 201, Omaha, Nebraska, and 1st Liberty Financial Corporation lists its address as 2900 South 70th Street, Suite 200, Lincoln, Nebraska. The Department has verified that the companies do not have offices at the addresses listed. Both companies require potential borrowers to pay fees between $200 and $1,500 in advance of funding any loan. The Department urges consumers to exercise extreme caution when completing online loan applications which require personal information. Money is often not the only thing scammers are seeking; many are after personal information. With the application, the scammer has access to a consumer’s Social Security number, credit card numbers, and bank account information.

Full Press Release
 

Information for Customers of TierOne Bank, a Federal Savings Bank, Insolvent The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) was named receiver of TierOne Bank, FSB, after it was closed by the Office of Thrift Supervision on June 4, 2010. Customers of TierOne Bank who have questions or concerns are strongly urged to review a special FDIC website for TierOne Bank: http://www.fdic.gov/bank/individual/failed/tieronebankne.html.

Great Western Bank, 3405 South Sycamore Avenue, Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57110, assumed all the deposits and purchased assets of TierOne Bank from the FDIC. Contact with Great Western Bank may be by telephone at 605-371-9708, or through its website, www.greatwesternbank.com

The Department cautions customers of TierOne Bank that customers of failed financial institutions are prime targets for attempts at identity theft. Neither the FDIC nor the purchasing bank will send emails requesting private information such as social security numbers, account numbers, or account passwords. Do not respond to, and immediately delete, any such emails.

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance today announced that it has joined a 35 State settlement agreement with CitiFinancial and its mortgage lending entities. The agreement between CitiFinancial and state mortgage regulators was executed after an examination conducted by the Massachusetts Division of Banks to determine compliance with state and federal consumer protection laws. The examination found that CitiFinancial had failed to report 91,127 residential mortgage loans to the federal government as required by the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA), including 472 Nebraska loans that were not reported. The mortgage loans that were omitted from CitiFinancial’s HMDA Loan Application Register were originated between 2004 through 2007. The underreporting of the mortgage loans was apparently caused by an internal systems error at CitiFinancial that went undetected until the Massachusetts examination.

Read Press Release

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance has issued a Cease and Desist Order and an Order to Show Cause against Envision Investment Advisors, LLC, 1065 North 115th Street, Suite 150, Omaha, Ne, and Ryan Jindra, its President and Chief Executive Officer. Envision is an investment advisory firm registered with the Department and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Read News Release
Order to Cease and Desist
Order to Show Cause

The Department issues a warning of a scam targeting consumers who want to become mystery shoppers. A company calling itself Global Compliance, Inc., offers consumers an opportunity to participate in a paid customer research program known as “mystery shopping” or “secret shopping.” The Department has verified that the company does not have offices at the addresses listed.

Read News Release

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF) announced that at 4 p.m. Feb. 13, it closed Sherman County Bank of Loup City, Nebraska. The bank’s branch offices in Farwell, Dannebrog and St. Paul, which operated under the name Howard County Bank, were also closed. The NDBF had been closely monitoring the bank and had ordered it to increase its capital reserves to a safe level. However, efforts by the bank to do so were unsuccessful. The Department named the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver of the bank. The FDIC has entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with Heritage Bank headquartered in Wood River, Nebraska, to assume all of the deposits. Heritage Bank has branch offices in Aurora, Doniphan, Grand Island, Hastings, Kearney, Neligh and Stromsburg, as well as mobile branches in Adams, Buffalo and Hall counties. Customers who have questions regarding Sherman County Bank and their accounts can call the FDIC toll free at 1-800-823-5346. Customers can also visit the FDIC’s website at www.fdic.gov for more information.

Read News Release

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance is warning consumers about an apparent online lending fraud involving an Internet-based lender, USA Financial Center, which listed its address as 1033 O Street, Suite 600, in Lincoln, Ne. The Department has verified that the company was not licensed and does not have an office at that location.

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The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance is issuing a warning of yet another scam targeting consumers who use Internet-based companies to borrow money. This time, a company calling itself Penbrook Financial Group, which lists its address as 6910 Pacific Street, Omaha, NE, offers personal loans to consumers and requires up-front "collateral payments" in advance of funding a loan. In this case, the company required a borrower to make four monthly payments totaling $2,460 prior to securing the loan. The Department has verified that the company does not have an office at the address listed.

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Attorney General Jon Bruning and John Munn, Director of the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF), announced that the State is suing Omaha-based Advantage Mortgage Service, Inc., a mortgage brokerage firm, and its principal owners and operators for predatory lending practices. The NDBF is also instituting license revocation proceedings.

View the news release
Read the Administrative Order
Read the Court Filed Complaint

Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance Director John Munn issued a consumer advisory today urging Nebraskans facing the possibility of foreclosure on a home mortgage to be cautious when working with foreclosure rescue consultants and companies. Recent inquiries to the Department regarding foreclosure have prompted Department officials to warn Nebraskans of the potential risks associated with foreclosure rescue services.

View the press release

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF) issued an Order to Cease and Desist on May 22,2007, against Northern Utilities, LLC, 2840 South 70th Street, #360, Suite 7, Lincoln, and two managing members, David R. Anderson and Trent P. Anderson. The Order states that Northern Utilities is offering $48,000,000 in membership interests to finance the development of an ethanol plant in Bradshaw, Nebraska.

View the press release