Truist Investment Services, Inc. – Broker Dealer Review
The White Law Group is reviewing the regulatory history, sanctions, and broker misconduct involving Truist Investment Services, Inc. (CRD#: 17499 / SEC#: 8-35200), a FINRA-registered broker-dealer headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Truist Investment Services, previously known as BB&T Investment Services, Inc., is a subsidiary of Truist Financial Corporation, one of the largest financial services firms in the U.S. The firm operates alongside affiliates including Truist Securities, Inc. (TAS) and Truist Advisory Services (TIS), providing brokerage, investment banking, and advisory services.
Like many large broker-dealers, Truist has faced regulatory scrutiny, customer disputes, and sanctions tied to supervision, recordkeeping, and sales practices.
Recent Regulatory Actions
August 14, 2024 – $30 Million SEC & CFTC Settlement
The SEC and CFTC sanctioned Truist Securities affiliates TAS and TIS for failing to preserve business communications sent through unapproved messaging apps such as WhatsApp and personal texts. The firms agreed to pay a $30 million penalty and implement enhanced compliance measures.
June 1, 2022 – FINRA AWC Settlement
FINRA sanctioned Truist Securities for engaging in trading volume manipulation to boost rankings on a third-party platform. Truist consented to the sanctions via an Acceptance, Waiver & Consent (AWC) without admitting or denying the findings.
December 21, 2021 – Supervisory Failures
FINRA cited Truist Securities for failing to maintain adequate written supervisory procedures. Deficiencies in reviewing electronic communications, including internal emails, led to missed red flags and potential compliance issues. The firm consented without admitting or denying allegations.
Broker Misconduct and Bars
T.S. Thompson (CRD#: 2588490)
Former Truist Investment Services broker with 43 disclosures, including multiple pending and settled customer disputes alleging unsuitable and high-risk trading in managed accounts. Settlements have totaled in the hundreds of thousands. Thompson was discharged by Truist in 2024 for failing to timely report complaints.
Santiago J. Torres Jr. (CRD#: 5644622)
Ex-Truist Investment Services broker barred by FINRA in July 2025 after refusing to cooperate with a FINRA probe into misappropriation of client funds and falsification of documents. Torres was discharged by Truist in 2024 under similar allegations. Multiple disputes against him have settled for more than $250,000.
Christina D. Peterman (CRD#: 4064817)
Barred by FINRA in January 2024 for refusing to cooperate in an investigation into unauthorized account access and client transactions. Peterman was employed at Truist Investment Services from 2021 to 2023.
Risks for Investors
- Unsuitable trading strategies that may not align with investor objectives.
- Supervisory failures leading to missed red flags.
- Recordkeeping violations, including improper handling of client communications.
- Misappropriation of funds or unauthorized account activity by advisors.
Recovery Options for Investors – Truist Investment Services
If you suffered investment losses with Truist Investment Services, you may be entitled to pursue recovery through a FINRA arbitration claim, rather than a costly class action. Arbitration offers investors a private forum to seek damages for unsuitable investment recommendations, negligence, or breach of fiduciary duty.
Free Consultation
The securities attorneys at The White Law Group represent investors nationwide in claims against broker-dealers, including Truist. If you have concerns regarding your investments, call (888) 637-5510 for a free consultation.
FAQs – Truist Investment Services
What is Truist Investment Services, Inc.?
It is the broker-dealer arm of Truist Financial Corporation, formerly BB&T Investment Services, registered with FINRA and the SEC.
Why has Truist faced regulatory sanctions?
The firm has been sanctioned for supervisory failures, trading manipulation, and recordkeeping violations tied to unapproved communication methods.
Can I sue Truist for investment losses?
Rather than suing in court, most claims against Truist are handled through FINRA arbitration, which is often faster and less expensive.
Last modified: August 21, 2025
