FINRA Sanction: Charles Garrido Jr., A.G.P. / Alliance Global Partners Broker
Investors researching any investment advisor should be aware of a recent regulatory actions involving that advisor.
At The White Law Group, we regularly investigate brokers with disclosures involving unauthorized trading, unsuitable recommendations, and regulatory violations. Below is an overview of Garrido’s background and the recent FINRA disciplinary action.
FINRA Sanctions Charles Garrido Jr.
According to records from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Charles Garrido Jr. (CRD#: 1191231)was the subject of a December 17, 2025 disciplinary action.
Key Findings
FINRA found that Garrido allegedly:
- Executed approximately 2,500 trades in over 200 customer accounts
- Exercised discretion without written authorization
- Failed to have accounts properly approved as discretionary by his firm
- Submitted inaccurate compliance certifications stating he did not exercise discretion
- Sent business-related text messages that were not retained by his firm
These actions reportedly resulted in books and records violations under federal securities laws, including Section 17(a) of the Securities Exchange Act and Rule 17a-4.
Sanctions Reportedly Imposed
- $10,000 fine
- Three-month suspension from January 20, 2026 through April 19, 2026
- Suspension applied to all capacities
Garrido allegedly accepted the findings through an Acceptance, Waiver & Consent (AWC) without admitting or denying the allegations.
Why Unauthorized Discretion Matters
Unauthorized discretionary trading is a serious issue. Even if a client verbally agrees to trading activity, FINRA rules require written authorization and firm approval.
When brokers bypass these safeguards, investors may face:
- Trades executed without proper consent
- Increased risk exposure
- Lack of transparency and oversight
Additionally, the use of unapproved communication channels, such as personal text messaging, can prevent firms from properly supervising broker conduct.
Customer Complaints and Arbitration History
In addition to the FINRA sanction, Garrido’s record reportedly includes multiple customer disputes:
Notable Disclosures
- 2024 Settlement:
- Allegations: Lack of due diligence in recommending a debt security
- Settlement: $70,000
- 2004 FINRA Arbitration Award:
- Allegations: Breach of fiduciary duty and securities law violations
- Award: Over $777,000 to the customer
- 2001 Settlement:
- Allegations: Unsuitable investments and failure to follow instructions
- Settlement: $32,500
- 1996 Settlement:
- Customer complaint involving annuity disclosures
While brokers may deny allegations, patterns of complaints and arbitration awards can be important red flags for investors.
Employment and Background
Garrido has over 40 years of experience in the securities industry and is currently registered with:
His prior employment includes FINRA-registered broker dealer firms such as:
- Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith Inc.
- McDonald Investments Inc.
- Shearson Lehman Brothers Inc.
He has been registered in numerous states, including Illinois, Texas, New York, and California.
What Investors Should Do
If you worked with Charles Garrido Jr. or A.G.P. / Alliance Global Partners and experienced losses, the securities attorneys at The White Law Group may be able to help you.
Potential warning signs include:
- Trades you did not authorize in writing
- Frequent or excessive trading
- Recommendations that did not match your risk tolerance
- Communications occurring outside official firm channels
Contact The White Law Group
At The White Law Group, we represent investors nationwide in FINRA arbitration claims involving broker misconduct.
If you believe you may have been affected by:
- Unauthorized trading
- Unsuitable investment recommendations
- Broker negligence or fraud
You may be able to recover losses through FINRA arbitration. Learn more about our cases in the news.
We offer free consultations and handle cases on a contingency fee basis. Call our offices at 888-637-5510.
FAQs
What did FINRA accuse Charles Henry Garrido Jr. of?
FINRA found that he allegedly exercised discretion in client accounts without written authorization, allegedly made inaccurate compliance disclosures, and purportedly used unapproved text messaging for business communications.
What firm is Charles Henry Garrido Jr. associated with?
He is currently registered with A.G.P. / Alliance Global Partners, a broker-dealer headquartered in New York with offices in Chicago.
Can I recover losses related to broker misconduct?
Yes. Investors may pursue claims through FINRA arbitration to seek compensation for losses caused by unauthorized trading, unsuitable investments, or other misconduct.
