PH SEC Advisory: Beware of Unauthorized Investment Schemes

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has recently issued an advisory regarding several unauthorized firms soliciting investments from the Filipino public without the necessary licenses and permits.

The primary intention of this article is to raise awareness among Filipinos to ensure that they don't fall victim to these unauthorized and potentially fraudulent schemes. The information provided here will guide potential investors in recognizing and avoiding potential scams.

99 DRAGONS PH

This entity, through various online platforms, is attracting the public to invest in three programs: Simple Plan, Level Up Plan, and Supreme Plan. They also offer a 10% referral bonus. However, the SEC confirms that this firm is not registered to solicit investments.

HOPERICES INVESTMENT

This online platform, supposedly launched by Liberty Group Limited in the U.S., offers investment opportunities for individuals. Despite their claims, the SEC has found them unauthorized to engage in investment-taking activities in the Philippines.

MORGAN STANLEY INVESTMENT FIRM ELINYAPP/ELINY-PH.COM/ELINY APP

While trying to mimic the globally recognized financial services firm, MORGAN STANLEY, this entity is not licensed to solicit investments. They are using various online channels to entice the public with claims of high returns.

MAS (MULTI-ASSET SOLUTION) OR MULTI-ASSET FINANCIAL CONSULTANCY SERVICES OR GAINZ PHILIPPINES FOUNDER

Headed by JULIE MAY VELASCO VERGARA, this entity is offering investment opportunities online, but it's not registered with the SEC.

RIZALYN LOPEZ THROUGH HOPE ADVERTISING MARKETING

Although HOPE FINANCIAL MARKETING OPC is registered with the SEC, it does not possess the authority to engage in regulated activities of the SEC, including offering and/or selling securities to the public.

For all the mentioned entities, the common red flag is the promise of unusually high returns with little or no risk. The SEC has emphasized that these schemes, especially those resembling “Ponzi Schemes,” are fraudulent and unsustainable. These schemes often rely on funds from new investors to pay returns to earlier investors, leading to huge financial losses when new investors become scarce.

What can you do to avoid scams？

1. Research: Always do your own research before making any investment. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

2. Verify with SEC: Before investing, check if the company is registered with the SEC. Legitimate entities will be transparent with their licenses and permits.

3. Avoid pressure tactics: Beware of schemes or individuals that pressure you to invest immediately.

By being informed and vigilant, we can safeguard our hard-earned money and avoid falling victim to these unauthorized and fraudulent investment schemes. Let's work together to promote awareness and make informed financial decisions.