Haselkorn & Thibaut, a leading national investment fraud law firm, has initiated an investigation into Ian Christopher McElreath—a Tampa, FL-based former financial advisor most recently registered with Foreside Fund Services (now ACA Group). If you are an investor who worked with Ian McElreath or had accounts at any of his prior broker-dealer firms, this report will provide a detailed overview of his professional history, the recent customer dispute, and what these developments mean for you as an investor. Haselkorn & Thibaut invites you to take advantage of a free, confidential consultation at 1-888-994-8066 if you have questions about your investments.
Who is Ian Christopher McElreath?
Table of Contents
Ian Christopher McElreath (CRD#: 4754189) is a former stockbroker and financial advisor whose primary location was Tampa, Florida. His most recent broker-dealer was Foreside Fund Services (now ACA Group). He is currently not registered as a broker or investment advisor.
| Advisor Name | Ian Christopher McElreath |
|---|---|
| CRD Number | 4754189 |
| Most Recent Broker-Dealer | Foreside Fund Services (now ACA Group) |
| Prior Firms |
Emerson Equity LLC (04/2021–08/2023) Ameritas Investment Company, LLC (2019–2021) Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. (2016–2019) Realty Capital Securities, LLC (2009–2015) KBS Capital Markets Group LLC (2007–2009) Pacific Select Distributors, Inc. (2004–2007) |
| Licensing Exams | SIE, Series 7, Series 6, Series 63, Series 65 |
Background & Business Affiliations
Beyond his brokerage roles, Mr. McElreath has been affiliated with several business ventures, including Griffin Capital Company, LLC, TLCIAN Ventures LLC, and McElreath Enterprises LLC, the latter under which he operates non-investment endeavors like health and wellness services. He was also listed as an owner or manager of insurance and annuity businesses in Tampa, FL.
Red Flags and Recent Developments: What Investors Need to Know
While extensive background research showed no history of regulatory actions, SEC orders, or civil lawsuits directly involving Mr. McElreath, a significant recent event highlights why extra care is warranted:
- Pending Customer Dispute (FINRA Case No. 25-02052): A customer from Emerson Equity LLC filed an arbitration claiming violations of federal securities laws, the California Securities Act, breach of fiduciary duty, breach of contract, common law fraud, misrepresentation/omission, negligence, and gross negligence. Damages sought include compensatory damages, lost opportunity costs, model portfolio damages, prejudgment interest, legal costs, and potential punitive damages. The total amount of damages is yet to be specified.
This FINRA arbitration indicates allegations of serious concern, including:
- Breach of Fiduciary Duty
- Negligence and Gross Negligence
- Common Law Fraud / Misrepresentation or Omission
- Violations of State and Federal Securities Laws
For investors, these types of allegations could point to possible unsuitable investment recommendations, lack of due diligence, or a failure to act in the client’s best interest—issues that can lead to substantial financial losses.
Comprehensive Table of Disclosures
| Field | Status |
|---|---|
| Customer Complaints | 1 Current Arbitration (FINRA Case No. 25-02052) |
| Regulatory Actions | None |
| SEC Orders / Investigations | None |
| Civil Lawsuits | None |
As of the latest review, no prior customer complaints, regulatory actions, or civil litigation have been reported against Ian McElreath. Review the most updated information at FINRA BrokerCheck.
Key Questions for Investors
- Did your advisor fully explain the risks and costs associated with your investments?
- Were you surprised by losses or changes in your portfolio performance?
- Do you suspect unsuitable investment recommendations or a lack of transparency?
- Were alternative investment options provided and discussed?
Answering these can help clarify whether your account was handled appropriately and if you may have grounds to pursue a claim.
What is FINRA Arbitration?
Most disputes between investors and financial professionals or firms are resolved through FINRA arbitration rather than in court. This is a formal process that allows you to seek recovery of investment losses due to alleged misconduct, negligence, or breach of regulatory duty.
Next Steps: Speak with Haselkorn & Thibaut
If you have questions about your experience with Ian Christopher McElreath or any broker at Foreside Fund Services (now ACA Group) or his prior employers—including Emerson Equity LLC, Ameritas Investment Company, or Cantor Fitzgerald—reach out today. Haselkorn & Thibaut offers:
- Over 50 years of combined experience in securities law
- 98% success rate
- Millions recovered for harmed investors
- No recovery, no fee—you pay nothing unless we recover funds for you
Engagement and peace of mind are our top priorities. Your consultation is free and confidential. Call 1-888-994-8066 now to speak with an experienced investment fraud attorney. Even if you are unsure about your situation or the handling of your accounts, a quick call can provide clarity and outline your options for potential recovery.
Summary Table: Ian Christopher McElreath, Foreside Fund Services (now ACA Group)
| Advisor Name | Ian Christopher McElreath |
| CRD Number | 4754189 |
| Recent Broker-Dealer | Foreside Fund Services (now ACA Group) |
Protect your financial future. If you lost money or have concerns about your investments with Ian McElreath in Tampa, FL or any of his prior firms, call Haselkorn & Thibaut at 1-888-994-8066 for your free consultation today.
