IRI STATEMENT ON WILLIAM BIRDTHISTLE NAMED DIRECTOR OF DIVISION OF INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AT THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Insured Retirement Institute (IRI) issued a statement from Jason Berkowitz, Chief Legal and Regulatory Affairs Officer, on the naming of William A. Birdthistle as Director of the Division of Investment Management at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

“IRI congratulates William Birdthistle as the SEC’s Director of Investment Management, a critical position that supports the Commission’s mission to protect investors, maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. The insured retirement industry is committed to strong consumer protections for America’s workers and retirees who strive to achieve a secure and dignified retirement. We look forward to working with Mr. Birdthistle on several important regulatory issues, including Regulation Best Interest implementation and compliance, regulatory modernization, electronic solutions and disclosures, the development of a product-specific registration form for registered index-linked annuities (“RILAs”), and others.”

The Division of Investment Management has primary responsibility for administering the Investment Company Act of 1940 and Investment Advisers Act of 1940, including developing regulatory policies for investment companies and advisers.

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Contact: Dan ZIelinski