SEC’s Updated Fiduciary Standards: How CFP® Professionals Can Stay Ahead
CFP® Board In The News
In July 2025, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) released updated guidance related to Regulation Best Interest (Reg BI) and fiduciary standards. These updates are part of an ongoing effort to clarify the expectations for financial professionals when providing investment advice and brokerage services to retail investors.
While these rules technically apply to broker-dealers and investment advisers, the implications reach much farther — especially for CFP® professionals. As the bar for transparency and client-first service rises across the financial industry, those holding the CFP® designation are uniquely positioned to lead the way.
So, what do these changes mean, and how can CFP® professionals stay ahead of the curve?
Key Changes in the SEC’s Fiduciary Landscape
The July 2025 updates reinforce several core priorities of the SEC, including:
Although Reg BI and the Investment Advisers Act already require financial professionals to act in their clients' best interest, these updates further tighten enforcement and raise the bar on compliance standards.
What This Means for CFP® Professionals
CFP® professionals already commit to a fiduciary standard that requires them to act in the best interest of the client at all times when providing financial advice. However, this evolving regulatory environment presents an opportunity — and a responsibility — to further distinguish yourself in a crowded and shifting marketplace.
Here’s how:
Why It Matters Now
Investors are increasingly aware of the differences between advice and sales. In this climate, being able to clearly articulate how your CFP® certification aligns with client-first values can be a powerful differentiator.
The CFP Board has long emphasized that its Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct go beyond what’s required by regulators. With the SEC doubling down on enforcement and transparency, there’s never been a better time to highlight your designation — and reinforce what it means for clients.
Bottom Line
The SEC’s updated fiduciary guidance isn’t just about compliance — it’s a signal that the financial services industry is being reshaped around trust, transparency, and client empowerment.
As a CFP® professional, you’re already ahead of the curve. Now is the time to lean into that lead by refining your communication, strengthening your documentation, and reminding your clients why working with a CFP® professional makes all the difference.
Sources:
- SEC News Release, July 2025: https://www.sec.gov/news/press-release/2025-139
- CFP Board: Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct: https://www.cfp.net/ethics/code-of-ethics-and-standards-of-conduct
