Doing the right thing

The structured products industry has been slated for its lack of cohesive best-practice guidelines, which some observers say results in a poorly informed sales force. But now five trade associations have set out principles for manufacturers and distributors, and several institutions are investing heavily in educational initiatives. Paul Lyon reports

In October 2005, Structured Products reported how the US National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD) had expressed concerns about the sales of structured products, going so far as to issue a 'notice to members' on the subject. The notice, which initially met with a frosty reception from market participants, simply reinforced the best practices which were already in place at most firms that marketed structured products. At the time, however, confusion regarding the potential impact of the