Erin Schneider, SEC Regional Director, to Speak at Disrupt

The SEC's Increased Scrutiny of Emerging Markets

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is experiencing a period of heightened activity. Historically, a role at the agency may have been perceived as routine, but this is no longer the case.

The SEC, tasked with investor protection and maintaining fair securities markets, faces increasing demands due to the proliferation of SPACs, cryptocurrencies, and evolving regulations surrounding startup funding.

Recent SEC Enforcement Actions

The agency has been actively pursuing several high-profile cases. This week, the SEC levied securities fraud charges against App Annie, a mobile data and analytics firm, along with its co-founder and former leader, Bertrand Schmitt.

These charges follow closely on the heels of accusations against Manish Lachwani, the ex-CEO of HeadSpin. Lachwani is alleged to have defrauded investors of $80 million by misrepresenting the company’s growth trajectory in terms of revenue and customer acquisition.

Furthermore, the SEC continues to pursue a case against “Sunny” Balwani, the former president of Theranos. Unlike Theranos and Elizabeth Holmes, Balwani has opted not to settle with the agency.

Navigating Challenges with Tech Industry Leaders

The SEC is also becoming accustomed to public confrontations with prominent tech CEOs. Elon Musk previously faced securities fraud charges from the SEC related to his social media communications.

The agency’s attempts to moderate Musk’s online activity have been ongoing, as he has openly criticized the SEC. More recently, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong voiced his objections to the SEC via a public Twitter statement.

Erin Schneider Leads the Charge

Erin Schneider is at the forefront of these cases and many others. She received her education at UC Berkeley, completing both her undergraduate degree and law degree there.

After gaining experience as a staff accountant at PWC and as an attorney in a global law firm, Schneider joined the SEC as a staff attorney.

Her career has progressed steadily, culminating in her appointment as the head of the SEC’s San Francisco office in May 2019. This office oversees enforcement and examinations across Northern California and the Pacific Northwest.

Schneider to Speak at Disrupt

Given the substantial workload of Schneider and her team, we are pleased to announce that she will be speaking at Disrupt (September 21-23). She will discuss the SEC’s current challenges and successes.

This is an invaluable opportunity to gain insights into the SEC’s evolving approach to Silicon Valley startups and understand why its oversight is likely to remain robust.

Don't Miss Disrupt

Disrupt is fast approaching. Don't miss the conversation with Schneider, Brian Armstrong, actor-entrepreneur Ryan Reynolds, investor Chamath Palihapitiya, and numerous other influential speakers.

Secure your ticket now for under $100 and join us for this important event.