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Ran Chen, EA, CFP®

Open Exam Prep

A Courses and Education podcast

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About the show

Open Exam Prep: Mastering Financial Exams The path to becoming a certified financial professional is known for its difficulty, and finding high-quality, accessible study material shouldn't be the hardest part. Created by Ran Chen—an AI application enthusiast, Financial Advisor, and holder of the EA (Tax), Life Insurance, Series 6/63/65, and CFP® designations—this podcast was born from personal experience. Having navigated these challenging exams himself, Ran realized the need for better resources and created Open Exam Prep as a free solution for aspiring professionals. Each episode breaks down complex major exam topics into clear, digestible lessons, covering everything from tax planning and estate strategies to retirement solutions and investment principles. Whether you’re studying during your commute, workout, or downtime, we are here to guide you—one question, one topic, one victory at a time. Visit for more content: https://open-exam-prep.com/

Newest episodes

[Series 66] 53, Client Privacy Cybersecurity and Records

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - Distinction between consumers and customers under SEC Regulation S-P. - Initial and annual privacy notice delivery requirements and opt-out mechanisms. - NASAA Information Security Model Rule requirements for state-registered investment advisers. - Practical cybersecurity compliance responsibilities for IARs and investment advisory firms. - Record retention differences between investment advisers (5-year rule) and broker-dealers. Prepare for your Series 66 exam with independent study resources at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.sec.gov/rules/final/34-42974.htm https://www.sec.gov/rules/final/ia-1945.htm https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-17/section-275.204-2 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-17/part-248

[Series 66] 52, Performance Advertising and Misleading Claims

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * How gross and net performance presentations must be displayed under investment adviser advertising rules. * Prohibited misleading claims, including performance guarantees and cherry-picked account results. * Disclosure requirements when comparing portfolio returns against broad market benchmarks. * Why fine-print fee footnotes do not satisfy the equal prominence rule for net performance. * A simple decision rule to evaluate compliance in Series 66 performance advertising scenarios. This independent study resource helps candidates prepare for the Series 66 exam. Practice more questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.sec.gov/investment/marketing-faq

[Series 66] 51, Advertising Testimonials and Endorsements

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * The legal definition of testimonials versus endorsements under federal securities regulations. * Disclosure, written agreement, and compensation requirements for federal covered investment advisers under SEC Rule 206(4)-1. * Key differences between SEC federal rules and traditional Uniform Securities Act state standards regarding testimonials. * How broker-dealers and investment adviser representatives handle public client communications differently. * A three C decision rule to quickly evaluate compliant testimonial disclosures on exam questions. This independent study resource helps candidates master investment adviser advertising regulations for the Series 66 exam. Practice more topic-specific questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video breakdowns at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 * https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf * https://www.sec.gov/files/rules/final/2020/ia-5653.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/81020/nasaa-modernizes-investment-adviser-advertising-rules/ https://www.finra.org/rules-guidance/rulebooks/finra-rules/2210

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The newest 50 of 468 episodes

[Series 66] 53, Client Privacy Cybersecurity and Records

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - Distinction between consumers and customers under SEC Regulation S-P. - Initial and annual privacy notice delivery requirements and opt-out mechanisms. - NASAA Information Security Model Rule requirements for state-registered investment advisers. - Practical cybersecurity compliance responsibilities for IARs and investment advisory firms. - Record retention differences between investment advisers (5-year rule) and broker-dealers. Prepare for your Series 66 exam with independent study resources at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.sec.gov/rules/final/34-42974.htm https://www.sec.gov/rules/final/ia-1945.htm https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-17/section-275.204-2 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-17/part-248

[Series 66] 52, Performance Advertising and Misleading Claims

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * How gross and net performance presentations must be displayed under investment adviser advertising rules. * Prohibited misleading claims, including performance guarantees and cherry-picked account results. * Disclosure requirements when comparing portfolio returns against broad market benchmarks. * Why fine-print fee footnotes do not satisfy the equal prominence rule for net performance. * A simple decision rule to evaluate compliance in Series 66 performance advertising scenarios. This independent study resource helps candidates prepare for the Series 66 exam. Practice more questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.sec.gov/investment/marketing-faq

[Series 66] 51, Advertising Testimonials and Endorsements

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * The legal definition of testimonials versus endorsements under federal securities regulations. * Disclosure, written agreement, and compensation requirements for federal covered investment advisers under SEC Rule 206(4)-1. * Key differences between SEC federal rules and traditional Uniform Securities Act state standards regarding testimonials. * How broker-dealers and investment adviser representatives handle public client communications differently. * A three C decision rule to quickly evaluate compliant testimonial disclosures on exam questions. This independent study resource helps candidates master investment adviser advertising regulations for the Series 66 exam. Practice more topic-specific questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video breakdowns at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 * https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf * https://www.sec.gov/files/rules/final/2020/ia-5653.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/81020/nasaa-modernizes-investment-adviser-advertising-rules/ https://www.finra.org/rules-guidance/rulebooks/finra-rules/2210

[Series 66] 50, Best Execution and Order Handling

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • The distinction between broker-dealer best execution duties under FINRA Rule 5310 and investment adviser fiduciary standards. • How Section 28(e) soft dollar arrangements permit advisers to pay higher commissions for qualifying research and analytics. • Which expenses qualify for soft dollar safe harbor protection versus ineligible overhead and administrative costs. • How directed brokerage agreements relieve investment advisers of best execution duties when proper disclosures are provided. • The DIRECT decision rule for evaluating order routing, client disclosures, and overall execution quality on exam questions. This independent study guide is designed to support your Series 66 exam preparation. For additional interactive practice questions and video explanations, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and subscribe to https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.finra.org/rules-guidance/rulebooks/finra-rules/5310 https://www.sec.gov/rules/interp/2019/ia-5248.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf

[Series 66] 49, Regulation Best Interest and Suitability

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - The distinction between Regulation Best Interest for broker-dealers and fiduciary duties for investment advisers. - The four core component obligations of Regulation Best Interest: Disclosure, Care, Conflict of Interest, and Compliance. - How cost evaluation under the Care Obligation elevates Regulation Best Interest above traditional suitability. - Why Regulation Best Interest applies to broker-dealer account type recommendations for retail customers. - How to apply the Scope, Standard, Status decision rule to evaluate scenario-based exam questions correctly. This independent study resource is designed for candidates preparing for the Series 66 examination. Access additional practice materials and video guides at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.sec.gov/regulation-best-interest https://www.finra.org/rules-guidance/key-topics/regulation-best-interest https://www.sec.gov/about/divisions-offices/division-trading-markets/broker-dealers/staff-bulletin-standards-conduct-broker-dealers-investment-advisers-care-obligations

[Series 66] 48, Fiduciary Duty and Conflicts of Interest

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • The core pillars of fiduciary duty: duty of loyalty and duty of care under SEC and NASAA rules. • How to distinguish investment adviser and representative standards from broker-dealer requirements. • Why conflicts of interest require full written disclosure on Form ADV rather than automatic prohibition. • How firm policies, state rules, and federal statutes interact when evaluating material conflicts. • A simple decision rule for handling potential conflicts of interest on the Series 66 exam. Prepare for your Series 66 exam with independent study resources at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/ https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 47, Advisory Contracts Fees and Assignment

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - How state rules under the Uniform Securities Act differ from federal rules under the Investment Advisers Act regarding written advisory contracts. - What constitutes an assignment of an investment advisory contract and how to identify the applicable client-consent requirement. - The regulatory distinction between majority and minority partner changes in an investment adviser partnership. - The rules governing performance-based fee arrangements and qualified client exemptions under state and federal law. - Requirements for prepaid advisory fees, refund provisions, and substantial prepayment disclosure thresholds. This independent study resource helps candidates prepare for the Series 66 examination. Access practice questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and video lessons at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026: - https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf - https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/ https://www.sec.gov/files/rules/interp/2019/ia-5248.pdf

[Series 66] 46, Discretionary Authority and Trading Permissions

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * The difference between discretionary trading and time and price discretion under state rules. * Prior written authorization requirements for broker-dealers and agents under the Uniform Securities Act. * The ten business day oral discretion window for state-registered investment advisers under NASAA model rules. * Common exam traps surrounding trade authorization timing between broker-dealers and investment advisers. * How to distinguish state regulatory mandates from internal firm policies on test day. Prepare for your Series 66 exam with independent practice tools at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/

[Series 66] 45, Custody and Safeguarding Client Assets

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - Legal definition of custody under federal rules and NASAA model rules. - Mandatory safeguards including qualified custodians, client notices, and quarterly account statements. - Exceptions to the annual surprise examination requirement for direct fee deduction. - The three-business-day rule for inadvertent receipt of client funds, securities, and third-party checks. - How physical possession of assets beyond three business days creates custody obligations. This independent study resource helps candidates prepare for the Series 66 exam. For interactive practice questions and tools, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and subscribe at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/

[Series 66] 44, Registration Renewals Amendments and Records

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • How state registration renewals on December 31st differ from federal annual ADV updating amendments. • When material amendments to Form ADV and Form U4 must be filed promptly with regulatory authorities. • Retention timelines for investment adviser books and records under NASAA model rules and federal regulations. • How the de minimis exemption applies to investment adviser representatives serving out-of-state clients. • A decision framework for remembering amendment deadlines, annual renewals, and record retention periods. OpenExamPrep provides independent study resources for professional qualification tests. Prepare for your exam at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and explore visual tutorials on https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/

[Series 66] 43, Civil Liability and Criminal Penalties

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - How state civil remedies under the Uniform Securities Act aim to make investors whole through rescission, interest, attorney fees, and court costs. - The civil statute of limitations rules under state law, requiring action within three years of sale or two years of discovery, whichever comes first. - The conditions under which letters of rescission bar civil litigation if unaccepted after thirty days. - State criminal penalty maximums under the Uniform Securities Act and how they compare to federal standards. - The role of state Administrators versus state prosecutors in enforcing criminal securities laws. This independent prep content helps you study effectively for the Series 66 exam. Practice more questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/ https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/1956-Uniform-Securities-Act-with-NASAA-Updates-and-Commentary.pdf

[Series 66] 42, Administrator Powers and Investigations

5 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - Scope of state Administrator investigative powers under the Uniform Securities Act - Difference between administrative cease and desist orders and court-issued injunctions - Procedure for enforcing subpoenas through state court petitions - Procedural requirements and hearing timelines for summary administrative orders - Key distinction between administrative remedies and judicial enforcement powers This independent study resource is designed for candidates preparing for the Series 66 exam. Access additional practice tools at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch our video tutorials on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 - https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf - https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 41, Registration Coordination and Qualification

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * How registration by coordination coordinates state filings with SEC registration under the Securities Act of 1933. * The required conditions for coordination to become effective simultaneously with federal registration. * When registration by qualification is required for intrastate and non-SEC registered offerings. * Why qualification requires an explicit order of effectiveness from the state Administrator. * Key exam distinctions and practical rules for evaluating state security registration scenarios. This independent study guide provides state securities regulation prep for the Series 66 exam. Practice interactive test questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 * https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf * https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/ https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/1956-Uniform-Securities-Act-with-NASAA-Updates-and-Commentary.pdf

[Series 66] 40, Federal Covered Securities and State Authority

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - How NSMIA establishes federal preemption of state securities registration. - The key categories of federal covered securities under federal law. - How state notice filing and fee rules apply to covered offerings. - Why state administrators lack authority to perform merit reviews on covered securities. - How state anti-fraud enforcement authority is preserved for all securities transactions. This independent study resource helps candidates master Uniform Securities Act and federal regulatory concepts. For practice questions and study tools, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/ https://www.sec.gov/education/capitalraising/building-block/national-securities-markets-improvement-act-1996

[Series 66] 39, Exempt Securities vs Exempt Transactions

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - How exempt securities derive status from what the security is, regardless of how it is traded. - Why bank-issued securities are exempt while bank holding company stock requires registration. - How exempt transactions derive status from how or to whom a sale is conducted. - The state private placement rule allowing offers to no more than 10 non-institutional investors in 12 months. - The fundamental rule that no security or transaction is ever exempt from anti-fraud provisions. For independent Series 66 study resources and free practice tools, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and subscribe to https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/

[Series 66] 38, Agent Registration and Exclusions

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - How the Uniform Securities Act defines an agent as an individual representing a broker-dealer or issuer. - The narrow exclusion for clerical and ministerial employees at broker-dealers who do not effect or solicit trades. - Why individuals representing issuers in exempt securities or exempt transactions are excluded from agent registration. - Why representing a broker-dealer selling exempt securities still requires state agent registration. - A simple decision rule to evaluate entity representation before examining security exemptions on state exams. This independent study resource is designed to help you master Uniform Securities Act regulations. Practice additional questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video explanations at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 - https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf - https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 37, Broker-Dealer Definitions and Registration

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • The statutory definition of a broker-dealer and entities excluded under the Uniform Securities Act. • Why broker-dealers lack a de minimis exemption for state registration with retail clients. • How Form BD, filing fees, and the Consent to Service of Process complete initial registration. • Effective registration timelines, annual renewal, and net capital limitations under federal law. • A simple decision rule to determine when out-of-state broker-dealer registration is mandatory. This independent study episode helps candidates prepare for the Series 66 exam. For practice questions and study tools, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/

[Series 66] 36, IAR Registration and Place of Business

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * The legal distinction between an investment adviser entity and an investment adviser representative * How physical place of business is defined under SEC Rule 203A-3 * The federal preemption rule governing registration for representatives of federal covered advisers * How the de minimis client count exemption applies differently depending on adviser registration type * A simple decision rule to evaluate state registration requirements on exam day This independent prep episode helps candidates master state registration principles for the Series 66 exam. For interactive practice, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-17/section-275.203A-3

[Series 66] 35, Adviser Exemptions and Notice Filing

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - The difference between state adviser registration and federal covered adviser notice filing. - How the de minimis exemption applies to out-of-state investment advisers. - Requirements for an adviser notice filing package including Form ADV and fees. - The distinct state registration rules governing investment adviser representatives. - How physical place of business impacts exemption eligibility and registration triggers. This independent study guide supports candidates preparing for state securities licensing. Practice questions are available at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and video resources at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 - https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/ - https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 34, State vs Federal Adviser Registration

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - How assets under management (AUM) thresholds determine state versus federal SEC registration for investment advisers. - The key difference between optional SEC registration at $100 million AUM and mandatory registration at $110 million AUM. - How buffer rules govern transitions, including the 90-day SEC registration window and 180-day state registration window. - Why an investment adviser can be an individual sole proprietor or a legal entity rather than strictly a firm. - A simple decision rule to easily remember registration, mandatory transition, and withdrawal thresholds on exam day. This independent study resource helps candidates master state and federal adviser registration rules for Series 66 exam preparation. Explore interactive study tools at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 - https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/ - https://www.sec.gov/investment-advisers https://www.sec.gov/about/divisions-offices/division-investment-management/electronic-filing-investment-advisers-iard/frequently-asked-questions-form-adv-iard

[Series 66] 33, Investment Adviser Definitions and Exclusions

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * The three-prong legal test used to define an investment adviser under federal and state securities laws. * Statutory exclusions under the Uniform Securities Act including banks, publishers, and the LATE professionals. * How incidental advice and separate compensation affect professional exclusions for lawyers and accountants. * Key distinctions between investment advisers, investment adviser representatives, broker-dealers, and agents. * A simple three-step decision rule for evaluating adviser definitions, exclusions, and state registration requirements. This independent prep episode helps you master Series 66 concepts through structured analysis. For practice tools, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/ https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/1956-Uniform-Securities-Act-with-NASAA-Updates-and-Commentary.pdf

[Series 66] 32, Matching Recommendations to Client Needs

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - How to analyze financial and non-financial client profile factors for Series 66 suitability. - Why placing municipal bonds in tax-deferred accounts is a classic suitability trap. - How fiduciary standards for IARs differ from suitability and Reg BI for BD agents. - The Profile Priority Rule for balancing expressed goals with actual financial capacity. - How to evaluate product liquidity against client withdrawal time horizons. This independent study resource helps candidates prepare for the Series 66 exam. Practice more questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 31, Measuring and Comparing Portfolio Returns

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * How total return combines capital appreciation and income dividends or interest. * The difference between time-weighted return and dollar-weighted return when evaluating investment adviser management. * How risk-adjusted return measures such as the Sharpe ratio evaluate performance relative to total risk. * How Jensen's alpha measures portfolio return relative to expected return calculated by the capital asset pricing model. * Why inflation-adjusted real returns and benchmark comparisons are essential for evaluating client portfolio performance. This episode is part of an independent prep series for the Series 66 examination. For additional study materials, practice questions, and study tools, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026. https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 30, Trading Orders and Execution Costs

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * The operational mechanics and price execution guarantees of market, limit, and stop orders. * How broker-dealers act in agency or principal capacities to charge commissions, markups, or markdowns. * The fiduciary obligation of investment advisers to achieve best execution across trading venues. * Permissible soft dollar safe harbor activities under Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. * How to avoid common exam traps regarding improper soft dollar usage for general office overhead. Master Series 66 concepts with free practice questions and AI tools at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and subscribe to our video channel at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 * https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf * https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66 https://www.investor.gov/introduction-investing/investing-basics/glossary/market-order

[Series 66] 29, Estate Planning and Wealth Transfers

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - How federal cost basis rules differ between lifetime gifts and testamentary bequests. - The mechanics and tax implications of the stepped-up basis at death versus carryover basis for gifts. - How revocable and irrevocable trusts impact estate inclusion and basis transfers. - Key differences between federal gift/estate tax rules and state inheritance tax laws. - Regulatory boundaries for investment advisers and representatives advising on wealth transfers. This independent study resource is created for Series 66 candidates to master estate planning and wealth transfer topics. Explore more practice questions and tools at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video lessons on https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 - https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf - https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/estate-and-gift-taxes https://www.irs.gov/publications/p551

[Series 66] 28, Account Ownership and Beneficiary Choices

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * Differences between individual, JTWROS, and Tenants in Common account registrations. * How Transfer on Death (TOD) designations bypass probate and override instructions in a will. * The critical distinction between lifetime Power of Attorney authority and TOD beneficiary rights. * Account documentation rules for corporate, partnership, and fiduciary trust accounts. * A decision rule for identifying survivorship versus estate transfer rules on the Series 66 exam. For independent Series 66 exam study resources, practice questions, and video modules, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and subscribe to https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 27, Education Accounts and Health Savings

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - Key tax differences and contribution limits for Section 529 plans and Coverdell ESAs - Income phase-outs and beneficiary age restrictions for Coverdell accounts - Eligibility criteria and triple-tax benefits of Health Savings Accounts - Tax and penalty rules governing non-qualified Health Savings Account distributions - Practical decision frameworks for selecting education and healthcare savings vehicles This independent study guide supports candidate preparation for the Series 66 examination. Explore interactive practice questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and video lessons on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.irs.gov/publications/p970

[Series 66] 26, ERISA Fiduciaries and Retirement Advice

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • How ERISA defines fiduciary status functionally based on discretionary authority or compensated investment advice. • The four statutory ERISA fiduciary duties and the requirements for Section 404(c) liability relief. • Why fiduciary self-dealing and prohibited transactions cannot be cured by disclosure alone under federal law. • How to distinguish federal ERISA plan rules from state regulations under the Uniform Securities Act. • A simple decision rule to determine when ERISA fiduciary obligations apply on the Series 66 exam. Independent practice materials and additional guidance are available at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 • https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf • https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa/about-ebsa/our-activities/resource-center/fiduciary-education

[Series 66] 25, Employer Retirement Plans and Rollovers

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * Distinguishing qualified employer plans from non-qualified executive deferred compensation plans. * Key regulatory features and distribution constraints of SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs. * How the mandatory 20% federal tax withholding applies to direct distributions paid to participants. * The mechanics of completing a 60-day indirect rollover versus direct trustee-to-trustee transfers. * State securities regulatory duties for investment advisers and representatives when recommending plan rollovers. This study tool is an independent preparation module for Series 66 candidates. Access complete practice questions and tools at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 * https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf * https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/rollovers-of-retirement-plan-distributions

[Series 66] 24, Traditional and Roth IRA Decisions

3 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * Core tax differences between Traditional and Roth IRAs under federal tax law. * Contribution eligibility, income phase-out rules, and aggregate annual contribution limits. * Distribution requirements, including RMD rules at age 73 for Traditional IRAs and Roth exemptions. * How an IAR evaluates current versus projected retirement tax brackets to recommend the appropriate IRA strategy. * Common exam traps involving workplace plan participation and excess contribution penalties. This episode is an independent preparation resource for the Series 66 exam. Access comprehensive practice materials and video guides at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/retirement-topics-ira-contribution-limits https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/retirement-topics-required-minimum-distributions-rmds

[Series 66] 23, Capital Gains Cost Basis and After-Tax Returns

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • How to calculate capital gains cost basis including purchase price and acquisition costs. • The tax distinction between short-term capital gains and long-term capital gains based on holding period. • Differences between inherited step-up cost basis and gifted carryover cost basis. • Step-by-step methods for computing net after-tax return on taxable investment portfolios. • Common exam pitfalls when distinguishing ordinary tax brackets from preferential long-term capital gains rates. For independent Series 66 study materials and practice support, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc409

[Series 66] 22, Active Passive Growth and Value Strategies

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - Distinctions between active management aiming for index outperform and passive management tracking benchmark indices - Key financial tradeoffs regarding portfolio turnover, transaction costs, management fees, and tax efficiency - Characteristics of growth equity strategies, including high price-to-earnings ratios and earnings retention - Characteristics of value equity strategies, including low price-to-earnings ratios and higher dividend yields - Exam application strategies and fiduciary duties under state and federal securities laws This independent study resource helps candidates master portfolio management strategies for the Series 66 exam. For interactive practice and updates, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026: - https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf - https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 21, Diversification Correlation and Rebalancing

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - How diversification reduces unsystematic risk without eliminating market risk. - How correlation coefficients range from -1.0 to +1.0 and affect risk reduction. - Why any correlation coefficient below +1.0 provides diversification benefits. - How calendar and corridor rebalancing strategies restore target asset allocation. - How investment adviser representatives evaluate overall portfolio risk under fiduciary standards. OpenExamPrep provides independent study tools for the Series 66 exam. Practice questions and study guides are available at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and video resources at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 20, Strategic vs Tactical Asset Allocation

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • The core framework of strategic asset allocation as a long-term passive baseline strategy. • How tactical asset allocation operates as an active short-term portfolio overlay. • Why strategic rebalancing differs from tactical market timing and sector rotation. • How an investment adviser representative applies discretionary authority during asset shifts. • A simple decision rule to easily classify portfolio management strategies on the exam. This independent study resource is designed for candidates preparing for the Series 66 examination. Access additional preparation materials at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials on https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 - https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf - https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/

[Series 66] 19, Time Horizons Liquidity and Life Events

3 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • How time horizons differ between a client's overall life stage and specific goal-based capital allocations. • The definition of liquidity and why illiquid investments are unsuitable for short-term liabilities. • Key life events that require an investment adviser representative to update a client investment profile. • Why recommending equity investments for short-term capital needs is a frequent exam trap. • A simple decision rule for matching liquidity needs to timeframe constraints under fiduciary standards. This podcast is an independent study resource for Series 66 exam preparation. For additional practice tools and video content, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 • https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf • https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 18, Risk Tolerance vs Risk Capacity

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * The fundamental psychological definition of risk tolerance and how it reflects client comfort with market volatility. * The quantitative definition of risk capacity and how it is measured through concrete financial metrics. * Why financial risk capacity acts as the absolute upper ceiling for investment recommendations. * How to avoid exam traps involving client written waivers or explicit requests for speculative risks. * A simple decision rule to distinguish psychological feelings from financial limits on exam day. Prepare for your exam independently with our comprehensive practice tools at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/

[Series 66] 17, Building a Client Investment Profile

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * How to collect both financial and non-financial data when building a client profile for the Series 66 exam. * The regulatory distinctions between federal law, Uniform Securities Act rules, and firm policy regarding client recommendations. * Why immediate high-interest liabilities and client ethical restrictions must take priority over generic asset allocation strategies. * How the definitions and fiduciary duties of investment advisers and investment adviser representatives differ from broker-dealers and agents. * A simple decision rule, FACTS, to evaluate client profile intake before rendering investment advice. This episode provides independent preparation for the Series 66 exam. For practice questions and study tools, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and subscribe to https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 * https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf * https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/

[Series 66] 16, Individuals Businesses Trusts and Estates

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - Key tax and liability distinctions among sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, C corporations, and S corporations. - Restrictions governing S corporations, including the maximum shareholder limit and single class of stock requirement. - Differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts regarding grantor control and estate inclusion. - Characteristics distinguishing simple trusts from complex trusts on the Series 66 exam. - Essential fiduciary rules for verifying legal authority when opening and managing trust and estate accounts. This independent study resource is designed for candidates preparing for the Series 66 exam. Practice more questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 - https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf - https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/

[Series 66] 15, Options Structured Products and Digital Assets

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * How options contracts function as derivative securities for hedging and income strategies on the Series 66 exam * The structural mechanics of structured products combining fixed-income instruments with derivative payoff features * Key risk factors of principal-protected notes including issuer credit risk, illiquidity, and capped returns * How regulatory standards and the Howey test evaluate digital assets as potential securities under federal and state law * A clear decision rule to evaluate structured product risk and avoid common exam traps This independent educational episode provides Series 66 exam preparation and is not affiliated with or endorsed by NASAA or FINRA. For interactive practice questions and study tools, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 * https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf * https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 14, Annuities and Life Insurance Tradeoffs

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • Differences between fixed, variable, whole, universal, and term insurance contracts. • Longevity risk vs premature death protection decision framework. • Taxation of non-qualified annuity distributions under LIFO rules. • Federal tax guidelines for Section 1035 tax-free insurance exchanges. • NASAA model rules regarding suitability and variable product recommendations. For independent exam preparation resources, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 13, REITs Private Funds and Liquidity

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • How REITs qualify for pass-through tax treatment under federal law by meeting asset, income, and distribution requirements. • Why REITs pass through income and dividends but never pass through tax losses to individual shareholders. • Key differences in liquidity risk across exchange-traded, non-traded, and private REITs. • Investment Company Act of 1940 private fund exclusions under Section 3(c)(1) and Section 3(c)(7). • Fiduciary suitability obligations for investment adviser representatives evaluating client liquidity needs. Prepare for the Series 66 exam with independent study resources. Test your knowledge with free practice questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch detailed video lessons at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 12, ETFs UITs and Closed-End Funds

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • Distinctions between open-end funds, closed-end funds, and unit investment trusts (UITs) under the Investment Company Act of 1940. • How closed-end fund shares trade on secondary markets at market prices that may reflect a premium or discount to NAV. • The structure of UITs as unmanaged portfolios with fixed termination dates and no ongoing investment adviser. • Key trading features of ETFs, including intraday exchange pricing, margin eligibility, and tax efficiency. • How to apply state law and federal regulatory definitions when evaluating investment recommendations for Series 66 clients. Prepare for the Series 66 exam with independent study tools at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and subscribe to video lessons on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 • NASAA Series 66 Exam Content Outline: https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf • SEC Fast Answers - Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): https://www.sec.gov/investment/fast-answers/answersetfhtm.html

[Series 66] 11, Mutual Funds Share Classes and Fees

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • Differences between Class A, Class B, and Class C mutual fund share classes. • How Letter of Intent (LOI) and Rights of Accumulation (ROA) help investors achieve breakpoints. • Eligible related parties for combining account balances under mutual fund breakpoint rules. • Why siblings and adult relatives are excluded from breakpoint account aggregation. • Key suitability decision rules for recommending share classes on the Series 66 exam. Prepare for the Series 66 exam with interactive tools and question banks at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 • https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66 • https://www.finra.org/investors/investing/investment-products/mutual-funds/breakpoints • https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf

[Series 66] 10, Common Preferred and Convertible Stock

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • Characteristics and voting rights of common stock versus preferred stock. • How cumulative, straight, participating, and callable preferred stock function. • Mechanics of convertible preferred stock and calculating conversion parity. • Corporate liquidation priority across debt, preferred, and common equity. • Key test traps surrounding cumulative preferred stock and cumulative voting. For additional study materials, practice questions, and exam preparation support, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep. Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/

[Series 66] 9, Credit Risk and Callable Bonds

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • How credit rating scales define investment-grade versus speculative debt categories. • Why bond issuers exercise call features when prevailing interest rates decline. • The difference between call risk, reinvestment risk, and call protection. • How to apply the yield-to-worst rule for premium and discount callable bonds. • Disclosures required under NASAA model rules and state fiduciary standards. This podcast is an independent study resource for Series 66 candidates. Practice questions and additional study aids are available at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and video lessons are available on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 • https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf • https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 8, Bond Pricing Yields and Duration

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: * How inverse price-yield relationships impact bond valuation when interest rates move. * How to calculate current yield and rank yield metrics using the bond seesaw model. * The critical distinction between bond maturity and duration in assessing price volatility. * Why zero-coupon bonds carry higher duration than coupon-paying bonds of the same maturity. * How investment adviser representatives use duration to manage client interest rate risk. Prepare for your Series 66 examination with independent prep tools at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and video walkthroughs at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 * https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/ * https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 7, Cash Equivalents and Deposit Protection

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • Key characteristics of cash equivalents such as Treasury bills, commercial paper, and short-term CDs. • Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation coverage limits of $250,000 per depositor, per bank, for each account ownership category. • Securities Investor Protection Corporation protection limits of $500,000 total per customer capacity, with a $250,000 cash sub-cap. • Why money market mutual funds are classified as securities under SIPC coverage rather than cash. • Critical distinctions between FDIC bank deposit insurance, SIPC brokerage liquidation protection, and market loss risk. This podcast is an independent study tool for candidates preparing for the Series 66 exam. Access additional practice tools and questions at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and watch video tutorials at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.fdic.gov/resources/deposit-insurance/ https://www.sipc.org/for-investors/what-sipc-protects

[Series 66] 6, Alpha Beta and the Sharpe Ratio

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - How Beta measures systematic market risk relative to a benchmark index - How to calculate CAPM expected return and evaluate Alpha - Why high raw returns do not always equal positive Alpha or strong performance - How the Sharpe Ratio uses Standard Deviation to measure total risk-adjusted return - Practical decision rules for answering risk and return questions on the Series 66 exam Prepare for your exam with independent practice tools available at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and video guides at https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 - https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf - https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

[Series 66] 5, Mean Standard Deviation and Correlation

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: - How arithmetic mean and expected return measure central tendencies in investment analysis. - Why standard deviation represents total risk, incorporating both systematic and unsystematic volatility. - The meaning of correlation coefficients ranging from minus one point zero to plus one point zero. - How combining assets with negative correlation provides maximum portfolio risk reduction. - Key exam traps regarding statistical risk measures and portfolio diversification principles. This episode provides independent study materials for Series 66 test preparation. Practice questions and video tutorials are available at https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.nasaa.org/exams/general-exam-information/series-66-exam-content-outline/

[Series 66] 4, Liquidity Leverage and Valuation Ratios

4 min

This podcast is made by Ran Chen, who holds an EA license, Insurance and Securities licenses (Series 6, 63, 65), and the CFP® designation. He is passionate about opening access to high-quality exam preparation resources and helping learners prepare more effectively for professional certification exams. In this episode you will learn: • How current and quick ratios evaluate short-term corporate liquidity. • Why excluding inventory provides a stricter measure of immediate short-term solvency. • How the debt-to-equity ratio measures corporate leverage and financial risk. • How price-to-earnings and price-to-book ratios evaluate relative stock valuation. • How to distinguish corporate balance sheet analysis from regulatory net capital rules. This episode is an independent preparation resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by FINRA or NASAA. For practice questions and study tools, visit https://open-exam-prep.com/practice/series66 and https://www.youtube.com/@Open-exam-prep . Sources checked: September 14, 2026 https://www.nasaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Series-66-Outline-June-2023.pdf https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series66

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