The Securities Division administers Vermont’s “Blue Sky Laws” contained in the Vermont Uniform Securities Act, 9 VSA Chapter 150 (Securities Act). The Securities Division is responsible for protecting Vermonters from investment fraud and promoting the development of Vermont’s capital markets by:
- Reviewing and registering securities offered to Vermont investors and where appropriate granting registration exceptions to facilitate capital formation;
- Registering Broker-Dealers, Investment Advisors, and their agents and representatives;
- Conducting regular financial examinations on investment professionals;
- Responding to investor complaints and investigating potential violations of the securities laws;
- Bringing administrative or civil actions against violators of the securities laws;
- Educating Vermont investors, industry participants and businesses about securities laws; and
- Updating securities regulations to keep pace with evolutions in the industry.
Deputy Commissioner Amanda Smith
As Deputy Commissioner of the Securities Division for the Vermont Department of
Financial Regulation, Ms. Smith leads a team of highly experienced professionals in the areas of registration, examination, investigation, and enforcement to protect Vermont investors.
After serving as the interim deputy since June 2022, Ms. Smith was appointed Deputy Commissioner by Governor Scott in May 2023. Prior to appointment, Ms. Smith directed the registration unit and business operations in the DFR Securities Division. Deputy Commissioner Smith, who joined the securities division in April 2010, holds a master's degree in public administration and is a Certified Fraud Examiner. Ms. Smith worked in the securities industry for a decade prior to joining the Department.
Mission Statement
To protect Vermont investors against fraud and promote sustainable development of Vermont’s capital markets.
Vision Statement
The Department of Financial Regulation Securities Division aims to develop sensible and flexible securities laws and regulations to ensure Vermont investors have complete confidence in the investments available to them, while Vermont businesses are able to easily access capital markets. The Securities Division also seeks to register high-quality professionals to advise Vermonters on their investments and maintain a visible presence in the small business community.
Contact Information
- Main Division Phone: 802-828-3420
- General Email Inquiries: dfr.securitiesinfo@vermont.gov
- Broker-dealer, Sales agent, Branch, IAR Registration & Renewal Inquiries: dfr.securitiesbdiaregistration@vermont.gov
- Mail: Department of Financial Regulation - Securities Division | 89 Main Street | Montpelier, VT 05620-3101
Staff Contacts: send email by clicking on name.
- Amanda Smith • Deputy Commissioner
- Noel Hudson • Director of Capital Markets
- Sarah Heim • Director of Examination & Enforcement
- Robert Butani • Securities Examiner
- Joseph Canavan • Securities Examiner
- George Coughlin • Securities Examiner
- Karen Demers • Registration & Administration, Supervisor
- Nick Marineau • Registration & Consumer Affairs Administrator
- Jessica Lee • Administrative Coordinator
Quick Links
The Vermont Securities Act
Title 9: Commerce and Trade
Chapter 150: Securities Act | § 5101
Vermont Securities Regulations, Orders, Bulletins