A recent grievance filed by an investor against John Larkin, a Westfield, New Jersey-based financial consultant, alleges that Larkin’s actions led to financial setbacks exceeding $100,000. Per the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) records, Larkin holds dual roles as both a broker and investment consultant at Merrill Lynch. He is also identified as a team member of The Larkin Group on the firm’s official website.
BrokerCheck Report
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An official BrokerCheck document revealed a single investor complaint against Mr. Larkin. Submitted in August 2023, the ongoing case accuses Larkin, who was representing Merrill Lynch during that period, of failing to follow client directives between August and September 2022. The financial damages cited in this complaint amount to $137,038.36.
FINRA Rule 2010 Explained
According to FINRA Rule 2010, all registered brokers must adhere to high ethical standards and maintain fair and equitable trading practices. Any unethical behavior, such as neglecting a client’s instructions, could violate this rule, provided such lapses occur in a business context. Advisors found in breach of this rule may be held accountable for any resulting damages.
About John Larkin and The Larkin Group
John Larkin is an integral part of The Larkin Group, as confirmed by Merrill Lynch’s online portal. The team focuses on a wealth management strategy aimed at helping clients realize their financial aspirations. They offer a tailored service to clients with diverse financial goals, whether it’s a wealth transfer to future generations, crafting financial plans around individual passions, or delivering informed advice and direction.
Industry Experience
In terms of his professional background, John Larkin has an impressive four-decade-long career in the securities sector. He has been affiliated with Merrill Lynch since 1983 as a broker and since 2004 as an investment advisor. Among Larkin’s career milestones is the successful completion of four key industry qualification exams:
- The General Securities Representative Examination is commonly known as Series 7.
- The Securities Industry Essentials Examination, or SIE.
- The Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination, also known as Series 63.
- The Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination, or Series 65.
As of the latest update on August 27, 2023, Larkin holds licenses in 33 states.
Contact Haselkorn & Thibaut
At Haselkorn & Thibaut, we offer our expertise to investors nationwide who have lodged complaints against financial consultants and investment firms. If you or someone you know has suffered investment losses, we invite you to contact us at 1-800-856-3352 or use our contact form to arrange a no-cost, confidential consultation.
