NZ FMA Flags Unauthorized Financial Service Provider Over Suspected IPO Scam

The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) of New Zealand has raised serious concerns about Lavenhill Securities Limited, warning that the firm may be operating a fraudulent IPO scheme targeting local investors.

According to the FMA, Lavenhill Securities Limited, operating through the websites lavenhillsecuritiesl.com and lavenhill-secltd.com, claims to offer early access to pre-IPO shares in companies. However, the regulator has received reports indicating that the firm is withholding investor funds.

The FMA confirmed that Lavenhill Securities Limited is not registered to provide financial services in New Zealand and is not authorized to offer IPO investments. Investors are urged to exercise extreme caution when dealing with the firm.

In addition, Lavenhill Securities Limited lists an office address in Hong Kong. A search of the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) public registry found no matching entry, suggesting the firm is also operating without authorization in Hong Kong.

BrokersView Reminds You

Always verify the licensing status of any financial service provider before investing. Firms offering securities, IPOs, or portfolio services must be registered with relevant financial regulators. Unlicensed entities pose serious risks to your funds and personal data.

If a company promises guaranteed returns and exclusive pre-IPO access, treat it as a red flag. Use official regulator databases to confirm legitimacy, and report suspicious activity to authorities immediately.