Important Announcement

We are pleased to share that as of August 1, 2025, Braeden Anderson, the founder of Anderson P.C., has joined Gesmer Updegrove LLP as a Partner. Work currently performed by Anderson P.C. will be transitioning to Gesmer. This website will remain active as a curated archive for legal insights.

Gesmer Updegrove LLP, founded in 1986, is a nationally recognized law firm with a premier reputation for representing high-growth companies, innovative technology pioneers, and venture-backed startups. Together, we are enhancing our ability to provide comprehensive, end-to-end legal support to entrepreneurs, founders, investors, and scaling businesses across every stage of the corporate lifecycle. From formation, fundraising, and IP strategy to tax planning, M&A, securities compliance, enforcement defense, and strategic exits, our combined strengths now span the full spectrum of business law.

Thank you for following and supporting us on this journey. To learn more or to connect with Braeden or a member of the Gesmer team, please visit: www.gesmer.com or e-mail him at braeden.anderson@gesmer.com

Anderson Insights K. Braeden Anderson Anderson Insights K. Braeden Anderson

SEC Whistleblower Awards Slow Amid Record Denials and Heightened Scrutiny

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) once-robust whistleblower program appears to be undergoing a shift. Recent data show a sharp decline in award approvals alongside a dramatic increase in denials, signaling that the Commission is elevating the bar for claimants and taking a more exacting approach to eligibility.

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Anderson Insights K. Braeden Anderson Anderson Insights K. Braeden Anderson

Regulatory Compliance in a Whistleblower-Focused Era: How Companies Can Stay Ahead

With regulators intensifying scrutiny, companies today face growing pressure to strengthen their compliance programs, especially in an environment where whistleblower activity is on the rise. Both the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have sharpened their focus on what they expect from businesses when it comes to managing risk, ensuring ethical behavior, and maintaining transparent operations.

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SEC Regulatory Update K. Braeden Anderson SEC Regulatory Update K. Braeden Anderson

Strengthening Whistleblower Protections: SEC Enforcement and Key Actions for Companies

On September 9, 2024, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced settlements with seven public companies for violations of whistleblower protections under Rule 21F-17 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This latest enforcement action underscores the SEC's growing commitment to ensuring whistleblowers can report potential securities violations without fear of retaliation or obstruction. Companies are now called to reassess their policies to comply with these important protections.

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SEC Enforcement Update K. Braeden Anderson SEC Enforcement Update K. Braeden Anderson

SEC Issues $24 Million in Whistleblower Awards: A Testament to the Power of Insider Cooperation

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) continues to underscore the vital role that whistleblowers play in the enforcement of securities laws. On August 26, 2024, the SEC announced awards totaling more than $24 million to two whistleblowers whose information and assistance were instrumental in leading to successful enforcement actions, both by the SEC and another federal agency. This development is a compelling reminder of the significant public service provided by whistleblowers and the robust framework established to protect and reward them.

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DOJ Update K. Braeden Anderson DOJ Update K. Braeden Anderson

New Corporate Whistleblower Awards Pilot Program: A Game Changer for Corporate Accountability

On August 1, 2024, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri unveiled a significant new initiative: the Corporate Whistleblower Awards Pilot Program. This program represents a strategic enhancement to the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) enforcement capabilities and aims to fortify corporate accountability across multiple sectors.

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SEC Enforcement Update K. Braeden Anderson SEC Enforcement Update K. Braeden Anderson

Navigating the SEC Whistleblower Program: Guidance for Whistleblowers and Companies Alike

The SEC’s Whistleblower Program, established under the Dodd-Frank Act, plays a pivotal role in uncovering and addressing violations of federal securities laws. While it provides significant incentives for individuals to report wrongdoing, it also poses substantial risks and challenges for companies whose employees may come forward as whistleblowers. Understanding the program's intricacies and how it impacts both whistleblowers and companies is crucial for navigating these situations effectively.

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