Ernesto Chavez (CRD: 4315877) faces a new pending claim on BrokerCheck over an investment made in 2018. The customer alleges $180,000 in damages, and no arbitrator has ruled on the claim.
Soreide Law Group is reviewing potential investor claims related to possible sales practice violations by financial advisors and brokerage firms. One investment under investigation is Pride of Austin High Yield Fund I LLC, a fund that has drawn scrutiny from regulators and a court-appointed receiver. Investors should be aware of troubling information that has surfaced regarding this product. Below is a summary of what is known and why it may matter to those who invested.
Pride of Austin High Yield Fund I LLC was promoted as an alternative investment product connected with CCG Capital Group. This type of investment was positioned to generate attractive returns outside of mainstream securities markets. Like many private funds, it was structured for individuals seeking higher yields, often those classified as accredited or sophisticated investors. Alternative investments generally carry added complexity and reduced liquidity compared to traditional products such as stocks and bonds, and they often involve elevated risks.
There have reportedly been concerns raised about this fund. It has been said that the investment was placed into receivership after questions were raised about whether the fund may have misrepresented its financial standing. Although the fund reportedly stated that it had raised around $60 million in assets, that number has allegedly been challenged by regulators. The receiver has further claimed that, in their view, money from new investors may have been used to pay earlier investors—though this has not been proven—leading some observers to question the fund’s operations and financial condition. For investors, these reported developments could highlight the possible risks associated with illiquid, high-risk investment products.
When unsuitable products are sold to investors, sales practice violations may be involved. Brokers and advisors have a duty to recommend investments that align with an investor’s objectives, financial circumstances, and tolerance for risk. Problems can occur when advisors:
If these practices occurred, investors may have valid grounds to pursue claims through FINRA arbitration or other recovery avenues.
Did you experience losses because of investing in Pride of Austin High Yield Fund I LLC through your financial advisor or securities broker? If so, contact Soreide Law Group online or call (888) 760-6552 to speak with a securities attorney about a potential recovery of your losses. Soreide Law Group has helped investors nationwide seek compensation for unsuitable recommendations and misconduct. The firm advances all case costs and only collects a fee if recovery is obtained on your behalf.
Ernesto Chavez (CRD: 4315877) faces a new pending claim on BrokerCheck over an investment made in 2018. The customer alleges $180,000 in damages, and no arbitrator has ruled on the claim.
William Tunink (CRD: 2738224) settled a customer claim for $299,000 on August 11, 2026, according to his BrokerCheck report. The customer alleged that he obtained loans from the customer, and that some of the money went into an investment.
Tony Barouti (CRD: 3031995) faces a pending $230,400 customer claim, according to his BrokerCheck report. He says the allegations in it are false. His report also lists SEC administrative and cease-and-desist proceedings from August 2025.
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