(CRD #6387371, Charlotte, North Carolina)

November 19, 2025 – An AWC was issued in which Mark Allen Carter was assessed a deferred fine of $20,000, suspended from association with any FINRA member in all capacities for nine months, and ordered to pay deferred disgorgement of commissions received in the amount of $6,773, plus interest. Without admitting or denying the findings, Carter consented to the sanctions and to the entry of findings that he willfully violated Reg BI when he recommended that two retail customers, a married couple, engage in options trading that was not in their best interest or suitable for them. The findings stated that the customers investment objectives were capital appreciation and a long investment time horizon. Carter’s options trading in the customers’ accounts resulted in annualized cost-to-equity ratios averaging 42%, meaning they stood little chance of making money from the trading (or even breaking even). Carter’s trading for the customers resulted in losses of over $600,000 which was over 99% of the value of their accounts and he received commissions of $6,773 for the trades. Subsequently, Carter self-disclosed his misconduct to his member firm, and the firm reimbursed the customers for their losses after they complained to it. The findings also stated that Carter exercised discretion without prior written authorization when effecting trades in the same customers’ accounts. Although the customers orally authorized Carter to use discretion for “low risk” trading, his firm prohibited the exercise of discretion in any customer account without written authorization from the customer. Carter placed the trades without speaking to the customers about the trades. In addition, Carter mismarked the solicited trades as unsolicited. The suspension is in effect from December 1, 2025, through August 31, 2026. (FINRA Case #2024081675801) If you have suffered losses as a result of Mark Allen Carter's act and/or actions, we would like to hear from you. We are currently investigating claims on behalf of clients who have suffered significant losses in their portfolios that are managed by Mark Allen Carter. The Schwartz Law Firm represents investors in claims against financial advisors and their firms. If you have questions about your potential claim or need assistance from an investment fraud lawyer, please contact us at  (813) 226-3372 or email Matthew Schwartz directly at mschwartz@tslfirm.com.