About IAPD Explorer
IAPD Explorer makes it easier to research investment advisers using the SEC's publicly available data. The SEC requires all registered investment advisers to file Form ADV, which contains hundreds of data points about how they operate. The problem is that the official interface doesn't surface the most important information clearly.
This tool identifies the 15 data points that matter most for investor due diligence and presents them in a clean, understandable format, with plain-language explanations of why each one matters.
Key Data Points
These are the data points we surface for every firm, chosen because they have the most direct impact on an investor's decision-making:
- Registration Status: Is the firm legally registered?
- Firm Name & CRD: Unique identifier for cross-referencing
- Assets Under Management: Total and discretionary AUM
- Number of Client Accounts: Client capacity indicator
- Compensation Methods: Fee-only vs. commission-based
- Disciplinary History: Legal and regulatory disclosures
- Years in Business: Track record length
- Types of Clients: Who they typically serve
- Advisory Services Offered: What they actually do
- Custody of Client Assets: Who holds your money
- Number of Employees: Firm size and capacity
- Performance-Based Fees: Potential risk incentives
- Other Business Activities: Potential conflicts of interest
- Office Location: Physical presence verification
- Firm Website: Online presence and transparency
Data Source
All data comes from the SEC's Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) system at adviserinfo.sec.gov. This data is updated daily between 5:00 AM and 7:30 AM EST. IAPD Explorer is not affiliated with the SEC or FINRA.
Disclaimer
This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not investment advice. Always verify information directly with the SEC and consult a qualified financial professional before making investment decisions.