Nebraska Broker Fined and Suspended by FINRA for Alleged Participation in Private Securities Transacation

Donald L. Bratten (CRD #1904756, North Platte, Nebraska)

was assessed a deferred fine of $10,000 and suspended by FINRA member for four months for allegedly participating in a private securities transaction without providing prior written notice to or obtaining approval from his member firm.

FINRA's findings stated that Bratten solicited two firm clients to invest in a company, where he served as the chief financial officer (CFO), which was started by his son and another individual, without his firm’s knowledge or approval.

Donald Bratten facilitated the private securities transaction away from the firm by causing one of the customers to transfer $220,325 from her firm account to her bank account to purchase shares of the company.

Also, FINRA's findings stated that Bratten participated in two outside business activities without providing prior written notice to the firm. Bratten became a salesperson for a company that markets anti-wrinkle cream in addition to his involvement with his son’s company. Bratten failed to disclose his involvement in either of the activities to his firm.

Donald L. Bratten's suspension is in effect from November 17, 2014, through March 16, 2015. (FINRA Case #2013037765701)

Don Bratten was registered with the securities industry for 24 years and was previously registered with the following securities firm(s):

01/2013 - 08/2013 STIFEL, NICOLAUS & COMPANY, INCORPORATED (CRD# 793) - DENVER, CO

01/2008 - 01/2013 WELLS FARGO ADVISORS, LLC (CRD# 19616) - NORTH PLATTE, NE

12/1988 - 01/2008 A. G. EDWARDS & SONS, INC. (CRD# 4) - NORTH PLATTE, NE

This summation of information found on FINRA’s website under "Disciplinary and Other FINRA Actions, January, 2015," ends here.

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