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IFC Advisors Chooses AdvisorVault's Managed 365 Service

In a decisive move towards modernization and compliance, IFC Advisors, based in Los Angeles, has adopted the AdvisorVault 17a-4 Managed 365 Service. This choice comes on the heels of the firm's need to streamline their compliance processes and upgrade their data management systems. IFC Advisors, a FINRA registered firm, faced significant challenges with outdated technology, notably a failing server that had left data scattered across various platforms.

The Importance of Compliance

Compliance is crucial for financial advisory firms, especially as regulatory requirements continue to evolve. For IFC Advisors, ensuring adherence to FINRA's Rule 17a-4 was not just desirable; it was necessary for the sustainability of their operations. Allan Lonz, President of AdvisorVault, emphasized that centralizing data on Microsoft 365 was key to meeting these compliance standards. The combination of cloud technologies has enabled IFC to maintain robust records while simplifying their processes and reducing IT costs.

Transitioning to Microsoft 365

One significant aspect of the transition involved moving from their outdated server to SharePoint for document management and consolidating personal computer data into OneDrive. With Microsoft Business Standard, provided by AdvisorVault, they gained access to enhanced capabilities including large mailboxes and ample storage space for each user. AdvisorVault's Managed 365 Service not only simplifies their data management but also facilitates compliance with regulatory standards.

By migrating to Microsoft 365, IFC Advisors can now utilize features such as 50 GB mailboxes on Exchange, along with 1 TB storage per user on OneDrive. Furthermore, SharePoint provides centralized storage which meets the requirements set forth in Rule 17a-4. This newly adopted infrastructure ensures that their operational compliance can be efficiently managed.

Benefits of AdvisorVault's Service

The AdvisorVault 17a-4 Managed 365 Service offers numerous advantages for firms like IFC Advisors. Key benefits include:

• - Fully supported Microsoft Cloud: The service provides a complete cloud solution with built-in support for a flat monthly fee, making budgeting predictable.
• - Enhanced Cybersecurity: This solution integrates email filtering and continuous threat monitoring tailored for FINRA regulations, which significantly increases protection against cyber threats.
• - 17a-4 D3P Service: With the D3P service, firms receive attestation letters prepared by experienced professionals ensuring full compliance with 17a-4 standards.

The transition to AdvisorVault's service comes not only with the promise of enhanced compliance but also with the commitment to an absolute focus on operational efficiency tailored to the specific needs of financial advisory firms.

About IFC Advisors

IFC Advisors is a boutique investment banking firm dedicated to mergers and acquisitions, capital-raising, and providing financial advisory services to middle-market clients. Their approach is designed to deliver expertise traditionally seen only in larger investment banking firms, thus allowing them to support clients in achieving their strategic financial goals.

About AdvisorVault

AdvisorVault stands as a FINRA 17a-4 Designated Third Party (D3P) that has transformed the compliance landscape for small firms. Their services cater specifically to broker-dealers, RIAs, hedge funds, and private equity firms, providing a consolidated, fully managed option for archiving and supervising electronic records in adherence to compliance demands.

As the financial sector continues to evolve, the choice of tools and partners can significantly impact overall success in compliance and operational effectiveness. IFC Advisors' selection of AdvisorVault is a testament to their commitment to excellence and modernization in a demanding regulatory environment.