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  • Secure Software Development

    Templum Featured in Medium Approximately 33 billion account breaches  will occur in 2023, with cyber-attacks occurring every 39 seconds. As a result, security has become an even more important aspect of software development. Secure software development is the process of building software that is resistant to attack and is necessary to minimize vulnerabilities and maintain user privacy. Click here to Read the Full Article

  • Ensuring Robust Security for Your Alternative Asset Trading

    When it comes to alternative asset trading, security is paramount. ‍ At Templum, we prioritize our client and investor security with stringent measures to safeguard all sensitive information. Because of this, we have woven security into the fabric of our platform.  From initial design to final implementation, security is considered at each step.     Penetration Testing and Partnerships for Enhanced Security   To ensure the highest security level, our systems go through frequent, rigorous testing. Regular penetration tests are conducted, where we engage third-party experts to attempt breaching our security barriers. This allows us to identify vulnerabilities, which in turn helps us strengthen our systems.     Collaborating with trusted partners further reinforces security measures. By working closely with industry experts to conduct comprehensive security assessments. Engaging with third-party penetration testers ensures we have a fresh perspective and identify potential vulnerabilities that could be missed by only monitoring internally. A collaborative approach strengthens our security posture and provides additional layers of protection for your data.     Real Time Antivirus Scanning and Data Encryption   It’s important to have a multi-layered approach to protect against threats. Everything that enters our system, down to investor onboarding materials, undergoes real-time antivirus scanning, which helps detect and neutralize any potential security risks immediately. Additionally, all data is encrypted in transit and at rest, making it impossible to read for anyone who is unauthorized to view.     Continuous Observability for Threat Detection   Early threat detection is crucial in cybersecurity. At Templum, we prioritize observability to swiftly identify and respond to potential security incidents. Our monitoring systems are constantly analyzing activities and looking for any sign of unauthorized access or suspicious behavior. By promptly detecting threats, the impact of potential breaches is mitigated, and we maintain the integrity of investor and client data.     At Templum, we are committed to maintaining the highest level of security for alternative asset trading. Implementing robust security practices, conducting rigorous testing and leveraging cutting-edge technologies allows us to offer a secure environment for all trading activities. ‍ To learn more about how we safeguard all our client and investor data, reach out to us today.

  • Templum Powers Masterworks’ Secondary Market

    Providing Investors Access to Multimillion-Dollar Works of Art ‍ NEW YORK, May 9, 2023 - Templum, Inc. ("Templum"), a provider of award-winning patent-pending capital markets infrastructure for alternatives and private securities, announced that it powers Masterworks’ secondary market. Masterworks, LLC (“Masterworks”) is transforming the art market providing investors direct access to purchase and trade shares in multimillion-dollar works of art by artists like Picasso, Monet and Basquiat. As investors have looked for better returns and new opportunities outside of traditional markets, alternative assets have risen to meet the demand. According to the most recent Deloitte Art and Finance Report, over the last ten years, art and collectibles have demonstrated their ability to maintain and appreciate in value.   Masterworks CEO Scott Lynn pioneered the democratization of the art market in 2017 by securitizing Andy Warhol's Colored Marilyn (Reversal Series). This has paved the way for both small and large investors to gain exposure to art without spending millions on a painting or tens of millions on building a portfolio. "With Masterworks' growth, we have seen an increase in investors looking to diversify their asset portfolios with us. As a result, we continue to improve our investor experience offering greater transparency, speed, and scale,” said Lynn. “Templum’s Alternative Trading System ("ATS"), along with its robust trading platform including a matching engine, order management, and market data, uniquely delivered through its API infrastructure, is the natural next step in ensuring an enhanced investor experience.”   Today’s investment environment is evolving. Younger investors are exceptionally tuned to recent developments in art investment products and services. As retail investors look to marketplaces like Masterworks, there is a growing shift, and institutional wealth managers will need to consider changing where they have traditionally invested. Masterworks is well-positioned to continue its market dominance and growth enhanced by Templum’s tech-enabled platform. "We are pleased that Masterworks chose Templum to provide its trading solution. The continuous trading model enabled by Templum will increase investor engagement and expand investor opportunities with Masterworks," said Christopher Pallotta, CEO and founder of Templum. "Fractional securities have tremendous potential for investors. As they look to diversify their holdings, marketplaces with tech-enabled platforms backed by sophisticated tools and technology, like Templum, are positioned to take the lead and differentiate themselves." ‍If you have question about Masterworks or Templum, please contact us. About Masterworks  For press inquiries, please contact Matt Sutherland at msutherland@masterworks.com . To learn more about Masterworks, visit Masterworks.com .

  • A Key to Alternative Asset Investing: Private Markets Data Explained

    Unleash the potential of alternative asset investing with private market data Private market data holds the key to unlocking valuable insights for alternative asset trading and the world of privately held companies. Today the demand for alternative assets is on the rise from both retail and institutional investors looking to diversify their portfolios. This appetite drives the need for greater insights into private markets.   What is private market data? Private market data is the information related to alternative assets that are not publicly traded. This data includes private equity deals, venture capital investments, real estate transactions, hedge funds and commodities. It also includes data that informs an entity’s growth, size, scale and valuation, which is vital in identifying the appropriateness of the investment Unlike public market data, which is easily accessible to investors through various exchanges, private market data is not as widely available as financial information for private companies is not standardized because their shares are not traded on public exchanges. This makes it difficult for investors to access information about these companies, including their revenue, growth rates and profitability.   Another challenge is the fragmented nature of private markets. Private markets encompass a wide range of asset classes that are at different stages of maturity. Each of these asset classes has its own unique characteristics and data sources, which can make it difficult for investors to gain a comprehensive view of the private market landscape.   The cost of accessing private market data is also a concern since much of it remains unstructured and often paper-based, which drives up the total cost of access. For smaller investors or those without significant resources, private market data can be prohibitively expensive to access and compile. How private market data is leveraged For investors looking to invest in alternative assets, access to data through automation and easy to use technology is particularly important. This detailed data allows investors to understand the variety of investment opportunities by better understanding the securities, funds and investments available. By further analyzing the details of these alternative assets, investors can make informed decisions to compare investment opportunities and align their portfolios with insights into historical returns, fees and liquidity.   Leveraging data tools and more structured data allows investors to more efficiently scan the landscape, from identifying managers or funds to evaluating the performance of specific investments and comparable investments. By feeding the data into analytics and models, it can also be used to build portfolios to meet investor needs.   Issuers that can deliver data insights are positioned to build more trust with their investors by better understanding their needs and preferences, and those data insights can even help attract and retain investors. As the market matures and both retail and institutional investors become more data-driven, they will demand additional transparency in their holdings, including their private investments. Simply put, private market data insights and analytics will become a necessary part of business for issuers and investors. ‍ Looking for better ways to provide private market data insights to your investors? Reach out to us at Templum for more information.

  • Primary Offerings vs. Secondary Trading in Private Markets: What’s the Difference?

    Private markets can be a difficult world to navigate, and that’s why it’s important to have a clear understanding of the differences between primary offerings and secondary trading. Both have distinct, yet significant roles in alternative investments, and those looking to alternatives to diversify their portfolios need to know the nuances between the two.   A private market primary offering is an initial sale of securities by an entity, like a privately held company or private equity fund. These aren’t typically available for public participation as they are conducted through private placements, which involve selling securities directly to a select group of accredited investors or institutional investors.   Primary offerings  in private markets allow companies and funds to raise capital for various purposes, including business expansion, product development or strategic initiatives, and primary offering investors can acquire ownership in the issuing entity at an early stage.   Secondary trading  occurs after the initial offering has taken place. It involves the buying and selling of previously issued securities, which can provide liquidity and exit opportunities for stakeholders. Unlike primary offerings, secondary trading in private markets takes place on dedicated platforms or through secondary transactions and, as of late, has become more widely available to the everyday investor.   Secondary trading platforms facilitate the transfer of ownership in privately held companies, venture capital funds or other alternative investments like real estate ,  artwork  and collectables.  These platforms connect buyers and sellers, allowing existing shareholders opportunities to monetize their holdings and new investors to enter the private market space.   The key distinction between primary offerings and secondary trading in private markets lies in their timing and purpose. Primary offerings enable companies and funds to raise capital by issuing securities to investors, while secondary trading allows for liquidity and exit options for existing shareholders through trading already issued securities.   Distinguishing primary offerings from secondary trading in private markets is crucial for investors interested in alternatives. Primary offerings facilitate capital raising for entities, while secondary trading provides security liquidity and transferability, which offers investors opportunities to participate and exit in private market investments.   Both a fully integrated capital raising platform and technology to power secondary trading, Templum’s offerings can power secondary markets across the board. Interested in learning more? Reach out to us today.

  • A Rising Tide of Alternatives in the RIA Channel

    Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) play a pivotal role in financial markets by giving strategic investment guidance to individuals and institutions to better achieve their financial goals. Traditionally, RIAs have focused on traditional investment vehicles such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. However, in recent years, there has been a notable surge in the use of alternative investments within the RIA channel, according to a survey of RIAs, financial advisors, alternative asset managers and other industry professionals conducted by CAIS and Mercer. Moreover, nearly nine out of 10 financial advisors (88%) have indicated their intention to increase portfolio allocations to alternative asset classes over the next two years. Diversification and Risk Mitigation One of the key reasons for the growing interest in alternative investments among RIAs is the pursuit of diversification and risk mitigation. Alternatives, which encompass a wide range of asset classes such as private equity, real estate, and credit, offer unique risk-return profiles that are uncorrelated to the stock market and can simultaneously increase portfolio returns while lowering risk. By incorporating alternatives, RIAs can help clients diversify their investment exposure and reduce vulnerability to market fluctuations. Enhanced Return Potential Another driving factor behind the adoption of alternative investments is the pursuit of enhanced return potential. In an era of fluctuating interest rates and stock market instability, RIAs are exploring ways to increase alpha outside of traditional investment vehicles. Private equity and venture capital, for instance, have gained popularity due to their potential for significant capital appreciation over the long term. By offering access to these alternative investments, RIAs can employ previously underutilized asset classes and potentially generate higher returns for their clients. Long-Term Investment Horizon Alternative investments often exhibit characteristics that align well with the long-term investment horizon of many RIAs and their clients. While traditional investments are subject to short-term market volatility, alternatives provide investors the opportunity to take a patient and strategic approach. This longer time horizon allows RIAs to focus on the fundamental value of the investment, bypassing the short-term noise and focusing on long-term objectives. Access to Unique Investment Opportunities Another factor contributing to the rise of alternatives in RIA portfolios is the access to unique investment opportunities that were previously exclusive to select investors. Historically, alternative investments were available to high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors due to high minimum investment requirements and “word of mouth” opportunities. However, with the widespread adoption of digitally native alternative investment platforms, RIAs now have opportunities to access a wider range of alternative investments to provide their clients with greater exposure to previously inaccessible markets. Further, alternative investments provide the opportunity for greater portfolio diversification and customization.  Investing in alternative assets  allows RIAs to better tailor portfolios to their clients’ specific needs, risk profiles and investment objectives. Specifically, alternative investments provide a broader set of investment vehicles, allowing RIAs to create well-diversified portfolios that are better aligned with their clients’ preferences and risk tolerances. Challenges and Considerations While the growth of alternatives in the RIA space presents numerous benefits, it also brings forth unique considerations. RIAs need to be familiar with the intricacies of different types of alternative asset classes, perform thorough due diligence, and carefully evaluate the risk-reward profile of a given investment opportunity. As with any client investment, an RIA must ensure that an investment in alternatives aligns with their clients' risk profiles, investment objectives, and liquidity needs. Like traditional investment vehicles, effectively communicating the potential benefits, risks and time horizon of alternative investments is crucial to setting realistic expectations and building trust with clients. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, the rise of alternatives in the RIA space is reshaping how RIAs construct investment portfolios on behalf of their clients. The pursuit of diversification, enhanced returns, and access to unique opportunities have led RIAs to explore alternative investments. While challenges exist, the incorporation of alternative investments can provide RIAs and their clients with a broader range of investment options, potentially improving investment outcomes and paving the way for long-term wealth accumulation. As the demand for alternative investments continues to grow, it is essential that RIAs adapt their strategies and appropriately utilize new platforms to best serve their clients' needs. ‍ Looking for better ways to provide alternative assets to your investors? Reach out to us at Templum for more information.

  • The Advantage of Raising Capital Digitally

    How can primary issuers streamline the capital raising process while maintaining traditional investor protections.   After the passage of the JOBS Act in 2012 and the introduction of funding portals into the securities marketplace, private securities issuers flocked to take advantage of the new rules in hope of finding a cost-effective and streamlined way to access a broad range of investors. They were right— “crowdfunding” proved to be popular and became a recognized way for early-stage companies to raise capital.   Over the past ten years the regulatory changes adopted through the JOBS Act have created an entire ecosystem around “crowdfunding” type offerings. Specifically, the issuers of fractionalized securities representing interests in alternative assets such as artwork or baseball cards avail themselves of the offering structures made possible by the JOBS Act, and the marketplace has seen the emergence of brand names in the space—i.e., Masterwork  and Collectable.  The maturation of the crowdfunding ecosystem also pertains to investors. The lure of access to new a new asset class is not enough on its own, and today’s crowdfunding investors are demanding robust and sophisticated user experiences with the same investor protections as traditional markets.   An issuer’s choice of technology partner  can have a significant impact on the success of any capital raise. While funding portals will remain popular because of their ability to control costs, many have failed to evolve to deliver value beyond the execution of a single point-of-sale transaction. In today’s landscape a poor and/or disjointed investor experience could drive them to look elsewhere and undermine any capital raise.     What are the traditional costs associated with a capital raise?   Some of the most common costs associated with a capital raise are due diligence fees, book-running fees, and placement agent fees. Prior to the JOBS Act, these costs were prohibitively high for many small issuers wanting to raise capital because it was only possible to access investor communities through traditional methods such as employing an investment bank or placement agent. While these sales costs are not avoidable, funding portals have been able to price their services in a way that makes capital raising economically viable for small issuers. However, funding portals are not able to deliver certain intangibles investment banks can deliver such as a curated investor community, and a network of advisors able to showcase an offering to potential investors. While the lower costs of funding portals are appealing, issuers that have not cultivated their own investor community may fail to achieve their capital raising target.   How can a firm optimize the capital raising process? Private securities issuers should be excited about the potential of raising capital through digital means. Funding portals have shown the power of crowdfunding, and the issuers that can use these platforms to deliver a robust investing experience are positioned to be successful. Unfortunately for most issuers, funding portals do not provide the same level of strategic guidance on the offerings they support when compared to investment banks and issuers face a minefield of decisions concerning their capital raise, some of the most critical of which are:   Choosing the appropriate offering structure: The right offering structure depends on various factors such as the stage of the company, the amount of capital needed, and what type of investor the issuer is looking to attract. Each Reg A+, Reg CF and Reg D have advantages and disadvantages, depending on the needs and goals of the company.   Taking advantage of technology: Issuers need to consider the robustness of a funding portal’s tech stack. Specifically, the manner in which investors can access information about the offering, review and sign the offering documents, and pay for the offering are key aspects of the investor experience that, if clunky, can easily cause an investor to become disinterested or disengaged. Moreover, the most robust platforms will have ways for issuers to cultivate a community of investors through embedded engagement tools and data rich environments.   A secondary market: Offering a private secondary market can attract investors to its potential liquidity and enables them to monetize their investment earlier than they would otherwise. The benefits of potential early liquidity may allow issuers to garner higher valuations and diminish illiquidity discounts.  Certain funding portals are also registered as alternative trading systems and offer trading experiences similar to traditional securities markets.   Crowdfunding has shown its staying power and has clear advantages compared to conducting an offering through traditional investment banks. The novelty and newness of crowdfunding has all but disappeared pushing issuers to meet demands from investors that did not exist ten years ago.  Issuers that partner with platforms  that create simplified and streamlined experiences while offering robust functionality to showcase offerings and interact with investors are positioned for success. ‍ To learn more about how Templum can power primary offerings and secondary markets for alternative assets, reach out today.

  • Crafting a Seamless Investor Experience: The Art of Fintech UI/UX in Modern Investing

    Investors today have access to more information and options than ever before, thanks to fintech. One of the key factors that contributes to investor satisfaction is a frictionless experience that minimizes obstacles and challenges in managing their portfolios, such as navigating complex financial products and understanding the tax implications of different decisions.      A well-designed user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) are critical components for a frictionless investor experience. The UI refers to a digital product's visual and interactive elements, while the UX encompasses a user's overall experience when interacting with a product.      A product should provide toolsets to accomplish one or many goals. For instance, an investment platform needs to offer clear and concise information about different investment options that allows investors to compare and evaluate assets against their financial goals quickly. It should also provide tools and calculators that help investors understand potential risks/reward characteristics of different investments. Design and product teams win a user’s trust and loyalty by building these tools to help investors make better decisions for themselves.    By investing in a great UI/UX, FinTechs demonstrate the value of a user’s time and an understanding of their needs. This fosters trust, which encourages users to remain loyal to a platform for years. However, creating a great investor experience takes time, and fintech designers must stay current with the latest trends and technologies to remain competitive.     Modular digital products that are designed with scalability and customization in mind make it easier to create a great user experience that fits the needs of clients. Mobile investing is one of the biggest trends in fintech today, with over 40% of digital transactions made on a mobile device. To optimize for a mobile experience, fintech companies need to design interfaces that are easy to navigate on a small screen, minimize load times and provide real-time updates on investment performance.      Another important piece of fintech UI/UX design is advancing data visualization. As dark mode has become readily available in many applications, presenting data in highly visual components makes for a great user experience. Data visualization is especially important in experience design, as it facilitates effective communication, comprehension, engagement, decision-making, interface design and data literacy. It helps bridge the gap between complex data and users, making information more accessible and actionable. Engaging visuals capture a user’s attention and make the experience more enjoyable. By presenting data in an aesthetically pleasing and interactive manner, data visualization can enhance user engagement and encourage users to explore and interact with the information provided.    Smart businesses prioritize security and privacy in their digital products, and design, product and tech teams all play a part in securing digital products. Investors are understandably concerned about the safety of their financial information, and companies must take steps to protect their users' data. This means using secure encryption and authentication methods while designing the UI/UX and complying with industry standards and regulations.      A frictionless investor experience is critical for modern investors facing overwhelming information and options when managing their portfolios. Companies that prioritize user experience, innovation, security and privacy can build a loyal user base and help investors achieve their financial goals while staying competitive in an ever-evolving market. To learn more about how Templum can help create a seamless investor experience, reach out today.

  • Enhancing Cloud Security: Controlling Access and Improving Observability

    Using the cloud is not a new conversation, in fact, nearly 95% of enterprises1 use cloud services as of 2023. However, cloud services are still a vulnerability for companies; 45% of breaches are cloud based2 and eight out of 10 businesses have experienced at least one cloud security incident in the last year. This creates the pressing need for robust cloud security measures.   Securing cloud infrastructure is not just about building walls. Below are three ways to improve cloud security against potential threats: access control, safeguards and observability.  Controlling Access to the Cloud Environment: Identity and Access Management (IAM): Implementing strong IAM policies is the first line of defense in cloud security. This defines who can access resources and what actions they can perform. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enforce MFA to add an extra layer of security. Even if someone gains access to login credentials, MFA can prevent unauthorized entry. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Assign permissions based on roles within the organization. This ensures that individuals only have access to the resources necessary for their job functions. Regular Audits: Continuously review and audit access controls to identify and rectify any inconsistencies or unauthorized access. Least Privilege Principle: Follow the principle of least privilege, granting the minimum level of access required for each user or system. Technological Safeguards Against Bad Actors: Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): These systems can detect and prevent unauthorized access or suspicious activities in real-time. Firewalls: Deploy firewalls to monitor and filter incoming and outgoing traffic, effectively blocking malicious actors. Encryption: Encrypt data both in transit and at rest to ensure that even if unauthorized access occurs, the data remains protected. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): SIEM tools help in aggregating and analyzing security alerts, aiding in the detection of potential threats.   Enhancing Observability: Logging and Monitoring: Implement comprehensive logging and monitoring solutions to keep track of user activities, system events, and security incidents. Behavioral Analytics: Use AI-driven behavioral analytics to detect anomalies and patterns indicative of security breaches. Incident Response Plan: Develop a well-defined incident response plan to swiftly respond to and mitigate security incidents when they occur. While it may seem like a negative outlook, it’s essential to assume that someone may eventually breach an organization’s defenses. Because of this, putting a strong emphasis on observability and detection mechanisms is crucial. By controlling access, adopting advanced security technologies and enhancing observability, organizations can significantly bolster their cloud security posture, ensuring sensitive data remains protected from bad actors. Cloud security is not a one-time effort; it's an ongoing commitment to protect the organization's digital assets. By following best practices in access control and observability, businesses can build a robust defense against potential threats and safeguard cloud infrastructure effectively. Stay proactive, stay secure. ‍ To learn more about how Templum can help your firm create a seamless and secure investor experience, reach out today.   https://www.zippia.com/advice/cloud-adoption-statistics/#:~:text=19%20Pandemic%20began.-,In%202020%20alone%2C%2061%25%20of%20businesses%20migrated%20their%20workloads%20to,improvements%20after%20adopting%20the%20cloud . https://expertinsights.com/insights/50-cloud-security-stats-you-should-know/

  • Templum Named Capital Markets Infrastructure Provider of the Year

    Revolutionizing Capital Markets: Templum Named Capital Markets Infrastructure Provider of the Year   NEW YORK, October 5, 2023 — Templum, Inc. ("Templum"), the operating system for private markets and alternative assetsTM, has been named as the Best Capital Markets Infrastructure Provider by PAN Finance. These awards celebrate innovative projects and teams across the vendor and practitioner communities that use new and emerging technologies and services to deliver high-value disruptive solutions in North America.   The private market has historically been plagued by a lack of access to alternative investments. Manual processes and fragmented infrastructure have resulted in a disjointed investor experience and a lack of asset distribution and access. Private markets desperately need an enterprise-grade network that is digitally streamlined to enable widespread alternative asset distribution to investors. This problem has been uniquely solved by Templum.   "Templum has reimagined and truly transformed the infrastructure for private markets,” said Christopher Pallotta, founder and CEO of Templum. "We leverage our innovative digital and scalable patent-pending technologies  to significantly reduce costs and time by creating operational efficiencies for investment managers, advisors, and investors. In doing so, we have established a robust ecosystem and infrastructure that simplifies access, investing and trading.” "Templum has set a gold standard. The company’s dedication to driving innovation in capital markets is truly commendable, and we are proud to recognize the exceptional contributions with this well-deserved award," said PAN Finance head of research Olu Arowoshola. “At PAN Finance, we spotlight leading examples of best practices across the world of finance. Established to be a true measure of excellence, these awards look beyond the realm of the balance sheet alone, measuring success through innovation, stewardship of the environment and positive impact on society – all which Templum exemplifies.” ‍ To learn more about how Templum can streamline, automate and integrate your private markets and alt operating system, reach out today. About PAN Finance Each quarter PAN Finance delivers key information through time-sensitive financial news covering world markets, industry analysis and c-suite level interviews. Content from renowned academics and leading professionals provides an accessible view of global trends, with a focus on finance, economics, infrastructure, technology and sustainability - www.panfinance.net

  • The 411 on Regulation A+ (Reg A+) Offerings

    Regulation A+, also known simply as Reg A+, is an exemption from registration under the Securities Act of 1933, and amended by the JOBS Act, that allows issuers to generally solicit investors to raise up to $75mm in capital. It enables companies to efficiently raise capital from a broad spectrum of investors, including both accredited and non-accredited individuals. Considered a mini-IPO, as well as a complementary option to other exempt securities offering methods under the Securities Act of 1933, Reg A+ provides a streamlined avenue for fundraising.   If you are contemplating a Reg A+ offering, it is likely that you have several questions. This simple overview delves into some of the most frequently asked questions about Reg A+ offerings and aims to clarify and provide insights for those considering this avenue for capital raising. Reg A+ at a Glance A Reg A+ offering allows private companies to raise capital by selling securities to the public. It is a two-tiered system consisting of: Tier 1: Allows companies to raise up to $20 million in a 12-month period. This tier requires companies to register with state securities regulators. Tier 2: Allows companies to raise up to $75 million in a 12-month period. This tier preempts state securities laws, which can make the process more efficient for issuers. Who Can Invest? Both accredited and non-accredited investors can participate in a Reg A+ offering. This makes it an attractive option for companies seeking to raise capital from a wide range of investors. What Are the Reporting Requirements? Companies conducting a Tier 1 Reg A+ offering must file an offering statement with the SEC and the relevant state securities regulators. For Tier 2, companies must file an offering statement with the SEC and provide ongoing reporting, including annual reports. How Long Does It Take? The timeline for completing a Reg A+ offering can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the offering, the diligence process and regulatory review. On average, the process may take several months, with Tier 2 offerings typically taking longer due to the additional reporting requirements. What Are the Costs? The costs of a Reg A+ offering can include legal, accounting, marketing, filing fees, transfer agent fees, broker-dealer fees and technology fees. Additionally, there may be ongoing compliance costs for reporting and administration. It is essential for companies to understand the role of each of these expense areas and budget accordingly. Can I Market My Offering? The good news is yes. One of the significant advantages of Reg A+ offerings is the ability to market and solicit interest from potential investors. This allows companies to reach a broader audience and generate more interest in their offering. Can I Test the Waters Before Launching? Reg A+ further empowers companies to "test the waters" by soliciting interest from potential investors before officially launching their offering. This can help gauge how to refine the offering terms based on investor interest. Should I Use a Technology Solution? Employing a robust technology platform to facilitate a Reg A+ offering is ideal. This can provide an additional avenue for reaching potential investors and can be particularly beneficial for companies looking to tap into a broader investor base. Additionally, technology solutions can create an enhanced fully automated investor experience. Best-in-class technology solutions will allow an issuer to create a true “marketplace,” which enables investor onboarding, primary issuance workflows and even secondary trading solutions.   What role does a Broker-Dealer Play and What Should I Look For? A broker-dealer can be used to oversee and manage various aspects of your capital-raising process. The services provided may vary by broker-dealer, but it is advisable to consult with legal and financial professionals who are experienced in securities regulations before embarking on a Reg A+ offering. A broker-dealer’s services  can include but are not limited to, ensuring investors are vetted and that the investment is suitable for their needs, reviewing marketing materials to ensure they are not misleading or in violation of securities laws, reviewing offering materials and assisting with the investment and closing process. A Reg A+ offering can be a valuable tool for companies looking to raise capital if it is executed properly and efficiently.   Reg A+ offerings provide an alternative pathway for companies to raise capital and offer securities to a diverse group of investors. While the framework offers significant advantages compared to full registration, it is crucial for companies to carefully navigate the process and consider the associated costs and reporting requirements. To ensure compliance and maximize the chances of a successful fundraising campaign, a Reg A+ offering can be a valuable tool for companies looking to grow and expand their operations if it is executed properly and efficiently. ‍ To learn more about how Templum can help your firm with a REG A+ Offering reach out today.

  • Empowering Your Human Firewall: Improving Employee Training for Cybersecurity Success

    Cybersecurity employee training is an essential part of any organization's security strategy. By teaching employees about cybersecurity best practices and common threats, organizations can reduce their risk of being victims of cyberattacks.  Employees, whether knowingly or unknowingly, can pose significant security risks, but they can acts as human firewalls. Cybercriminals often exploit human vulnerabilities through phishing and social engineering. Because of this, a well-rounded cybersecurity strategy should focus on educating and empowering employees to identify and mitigate these threats effectively. There are many ways to provide cybersecurity employee training. Some organizations choose to develop their own training programs, while others rely on third-party vendors. Training can be delivered in a variety of formats, including online courses, in-person workshops and simulations. Creating Effective Policies Start by developing clear and comprehensive cybersecurity policies. These policies should outline expectations regarding data protection,the proper use of company devices and networks, password management and reporting security incidents. Ensure these policies are readily accessible to all employees and regularly updated to address evolving threats. Training Initiatives Invest in cybersecurity training programs that are tailoredto the company's specific needs. Effective training should cover varioustopics, including: Basic cybersecurity concepts : Employees should understand the basics of cybersecurity, such as what it is, why it is important and the different types of cyber threats that exist. Phishing awareness:  Teach employees how to recognize phishing emails, malicious links and attachments. Conduct simulated phishing exercises to reinforce learning. Password management:  Promote the use of strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication. Encourage employees to change passwords regularly. Secure internet and email use : Employees should learn how to safely browse the internet and use email, such as avoiding clicking on links in suspicious emails and opening attachments from unknown senders. Device Security:  Educate employees on the importance of keeping their devices, including smartphones and laptops, secure. Discuss the risks     associated with public Wi-Fi networks and the use of personal devices for work-related tasks. Data handling:  Employees should learn how to protect sensitive information, such as customer data and financial information. This includes knowing how to properly store and  dispose of sensitive data, and how to avoid sharing it with unauthorized individuals.   Incident reporting:  Create a culture of transparency where employees feel comfortable reporting potential security incidents promptly. Provide clear instructions on how to report and escalate issues. In addition to covering these basic topics, cybersecurity employee training should be tailored to the specific needs of the organization. For example, organizations in certain industries, such as healthcare and finance, may need to provide more specialized training on topics such as HIPAA compliance and PCI DSS compliance. Regular Testing and Evaluation Continuous assessment is key to ensuring employee compliance. Conduct periodic assessments, such as quizzes and mock phishing campaigns, to gauge the effectiveness of training programs. Use the results to identify areas for improvement and adjust training accordingly. Employee cybersecurity training and compliance policies are essential components of a proper and robust cybersecurity strategy. By educating and empowering the workforce to recognize and respond to security threats, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches and cyberattacks. Cybersecurity is an ongoing process, and ensuring employees are aware of evolving threats is crucial to protecting valuable information. ‍ To learn more about how Templum can help your firm create a seamless and secure investor experience, reach out today.

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