What is a Dealer Member?

• A. A broker who operates independently
• B. A firm that trades securities and is a member of IIROC
• C. An individual investment advisor
• D. A regulatory oversight body

Answer: (B)

A Dealer Member refers to a firm that trades securities and holds membership in the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC). Being a Dealer Member means that the firm is subject to regulatory standards and oversight, ensuring that trading practices and client interactions comply with the established rules intended to protect investors and maintain fair and efficient markets.

Broker-dealers play a crucial role in the securities industry, facilitating transactions between buyers and sellers and providing essential services to clients. Membership in IIROC signifies that the firm has met specific qualifications and adheres to regulatory requirements, which helps to instill confidence in the integrity of the financial markets.

The other options do not encapsulate the definition of a Dealer Member accurately. For instance, while a broker may operate independently, that alone does not define a Dealer Member. Similarly, an individual investment advisor, though vital in the industry, does not represent a firm involved in trading securities, and a regulatory oversight body describes an organization rather than a member participant in trading activities. Thus, the correct identification of a Dealer Member is paramount to understanding the structure and regulation of the securities industry.