Haselkorn & Thibaut has launched an investigation into Adam Shipley (CRD# 6482848), a financial advisor based in Hermosa Beach, California, associated with Emerson Equity. If you’re an investor concerned about your financial accounts or past investment recommendations made by Mr. Shipley at Emerson Equity, this comprehensive report is for you. Here you’ll find an impartial look at his background, customer complaint history, important compliance standards, and clear guidance if you believe you’ve experienced financial harm. Our goal is to keep you fully informed and empowered.
Who Is Adam Shipley of Emerson Equity?
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Adam Shipley has been active in the securities industry for a decade, currently serving as a broker with Emerson Equity and an investment advisor at Northwoods Financial Partners. Based in Hermosa Beach, CA, he’s held registrations with:
- Emerson Equity (2021–present)
- Northwoods Financial Partners (since 2024)
- National Asset Management
- National Securities Corporation
- Select Planning Group
Mr. Shipley’s credentials include successfully passing key securities examinations: the SIE, Series 66, Series 3, and Series 7. His experience spans 10 years, and he has worked with both broker-dealer firms and as a registered investment adviser.
Key Red Flag: Pending Investor Complaint
Recent Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) records disclose a serious, unresolved investor complaint against Adam Shipley, filed in October 2025. Here are the specific allegations:
- Breach of contract
- Promissory estoppel
- Violation of consumer protection and trade practices law
- Breach of fiduciary duty
- Violation of Regulation Best Interest (Reg BI)
The damages alleged range between $100,000 and $500,000. As of the latest update, this complaint is still pending and has not been resolved in the customer’s or advisor’s favor.
What Does Regulation Best Interest (Reg BI) Mean for Investors?
The complaint specifically cites a violation of Regulation Best Interest. Understanding Reg BI is vital—this is an SEC rule requiring brokers like Adam Shipley and firms such as Emerson Equity to recommend only strategies that are truly in their retail customers’ best interests. This “Care Obligation” means:
- Recommendations must be in the client’s best interests, not favoring the broker or firm’s profits.
- Potential conflicts of interest must be disclosed transparently to the client.
- Firms and advisors must evaluate investments based on the investor’s individual circumstances and goals.
If a customer’s best interest is not made the priority—and the broker’s recommendation is influenced by sales commissions or firm incentives instead—there may be a Reg BI violation. If you suspect an advisor put their interests above yours, seek professional guidance.
Summary Table: Adam Shipley’s Public Complaint & Regulatory Record
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Broker-Dealer | Emerson Equity |
| Location | Hermosa Beach, CA |
| Years in Industry | 10 |
| Active Registrations | Broker (Emerson Equity), Advisor (Northwoods Financial Partners) |
| Investor Complaints (as of Nov 2025) | 1 pending, $100,000–$500,000 alleged damages |
| BrokerCheck Disclosure | Visit FINRA BrokerCheck |
Have There Been Other Complaints or Regulatory Actions?
As of November 8, 2025, Adam Shipley’s record shows only the single, pending client complaint referenced above. Other searches—including SEC, state regulators, federal and state court dockets, and major news aggregators—did not reveal any:
- Previously resolved client complaints or customer-initiated arbitration
- Enforcement or administrative actions by FINRA, SEC, or state agencies
- Regulatory sanctions, fines, lawsuits, or public investigative coverage
This is important: while a single investor complaint does not guarantee wrongdoing, investors should closely monitor updates on this case, as the amounts in question are significant and the allegations note serious violations.
Why Are These Complaints and Actions Important for Investors?
Investor complaints and regulatory findings give valuable insight into a financial advisor’s pattern of conduct—especially when they allege potential breaches of fiduciary duty or best-interest standards. Even a single serious complaint can be an important signal, especially when unresolved and alleging high-dollar damages.
- Pending complaints can become part of a broader pattern if others step forward.
- Regulatory investigations or disciplinary actions may begin after clients report losses or misconduct.
- Awareness lets you make informed decisions about your investments and future choices.
Your Next Steps as an Investor
If you have concerns about investment recommendations, disclosures, or performance involving Adam Shipley or Emerson Equity, it’s wise to take proactive steps. Haselkorn & Thibaut (investmentfraudlawyers.com) is a national investment fraud law firm—over 50 years’ experience, a 98% success rate, and millions recovered for harmed investors, all on a no recovery, no fee basis. Our team provides free consultations nationwide.
What can you expect in a free case review?
- Confidential analysis of your situation and investment statements
- Clear explanation of your options, rights, and potential recourse
- No cost, no obligation—and absolutely no pressure
Every situation is unique. Even if you aren’t sure whether you’ve experienced losses or misconduct, it’s smart to ask. Many investors do not realize their advisor owed them specific duties and standards, or that brokerage firms may be liable for the actions of their representatives.
If you suffered investment losses with Adam Shipley or Emerson Equity, take the first step today:
- Call Haselkorn & Thibaut at 1-888-994-8066 for your free and confidential consultation.
Stay informed, know your rights, and secure the support you need to address concerns. If you notice new information about Adam Shipley or have suspicions about your financial accounts, don’t wait to get experienced legal guidance.
