The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced it filed 583 enforcement actions in fiscal year 2024, a 26% drop from 2023. Despite the decline, the SEC achieved a historic $8.2 billion in financial remedies, including $6.1 billion in disgorgement and $2.1 billion in civil penalties.
A significant portion stemmed from a $4.5 billion judgment in the Terraform Labs fraud case.
The SEC credited proactive compliance by market participants and continued initiatives addressing recordkeeping violations and marketing rule non-compliance. The agency also tackled fraud, emerging technology misuse, and cybersecurity failures, bolstering investor trust and market integrity.
Notably, whistleblower tips hit a record 45,130, leading to $255 million in whistleblower awards.
The SEC also distributed $345 million to harmed investors, further emphasizing its commitment to safeguarding market participants.
SEC Chair Gary Gensler highlighted the Division of Enforcement’s role as a “steadfast cop on the beat,” promoting transparency and accountability in capital markets.