Robert W. Baird & Co. – Broker Dealer Regulatory Review
The White Law Group is investigating the regulatory history of Robert W. Baird & Co., a dual-registered broker-dealer and investment adviser with a long track record in the securities industry. Investors working with the firm may want to be aware of its history of regulatory fines, customer complaints, and supervisory failures that could impact their investments.
Firm Overview – Robert W. Baird & Co.
Robert W. Baird & Co. (CRD#: 8158 / SEC#: 801-7571, 8-497), headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, employs over 3,500 financial advisors across 380 branch offices. The firm operates under several names, including Baird Private Wealth Management, Baird Advisors, Chautauqua Capital Management, and others. According to FINRA, the firm has 74 disclosures on record, including 43 regulatory events and 31 arbitrations.
FINRA Actions Involving Reg BI Violations
March 6, 2025 – FINRA fined Robert W. Baird & Co. $100,000 for Regulation Best Interest (Reg BI) violations stemming from its acquisition of Hefren-Tillotson Inc. The firm was also required to pay more than $557,000 in restitution to harmed customers.
Baird’s History of Regulatory Sanctions
Baird has faced numerous sanctions from FINRA and the SEC, ranging from mutual fund overcharge failures to excessive commissions and research conflicts of interest. These cases demonstrate systemic supervisory and compliance lapses that investors should be aware of.
Broker Misconduct and Supervision Failures
Baird’s registered representatives have also been implicated in customer disputes involving allegations of fraud, unsuitable recommendations, and supervisory failures. Under FINRA Rule 3110, firms must establish and enforce written supervisory procedures. Baird’s repeated violations raise concerns about whether the firm adequately protects its clients.
Investor Recovery Options – FINRA Arbitration vs. Class Actions
Investors who have suffered losses with Robert W. Baird & Co. may have the option of filing an individual FINRA arbitration claim rather than joining a class action lawsuit. In many cases, arbitration may be more effective for recovering larger individual losses.
Work with Securities Fraud Attorneys
The White Law Group has handled more than 800 FINRA arbitration cases nationwide and has over 30 years of experience pursuing claims against broker-dealers. Investors with concerns about their accounts at Robert W. Baird & Co. are encouraged to contact the firm at 1-888-637-5510 for a free consultation.
FAQs About Robert W. Baird & Co.
What types of regulatory issues has Robert W. Baird faced?
The firm has faced sanctions for excessive commissions, mutual fund overcharges, Regulation Best Interest violations, and conflicts of interest in research reports.
How can investors recover losses with Robert W. Baird?
Investors may be able to file a FINRA arbitration claim against Baird for losses caused by broker misconduct or supervisory failures. The White Law Group can evaluate potential claims.
Is Robert W. Baird responsible for the actions of its brokers?
Yes. Brokerage firms like Baird have a duty to supervise their financial advisors. If a broker engages in misconduct, the firm may be held liable for resulting investor losses.
