MARKETING MATERIAL REVIEW

Definition

Marketing material review is the process by which insurers, broker dealers, or agencies evaluate sales literature, presentations, social media content, and client facing documents to ensure they comply with regulatory standards and company policies. This review checks for fair and balanced descriptions of risks and benefits, appropriate disclosures, avoidance of misleading claims, and proper use of product names and trademarks. For securities related materials, broker dealer and FINRA rules impose additional content and filing requirements. Thorough marketing review protects consumers and reduces regulatory and reputational risk.

Common Usage

In daily practice, advisors interact with marketing material review when they submit seminar invitations, brochures, slide decks, videos, or website content for approval before use. This sometimes feels like a bottleneck, but it exists to prevent language that overstates returns, minimizes risks, or implies guarantees where none exist. Review teams may require edits, standard disclosures, or format changes. Advisors who understand common pitfalls-such as using back tested index performance without context or omitting surrender charge information-can draft materials that pass more easily. Strong, compliant marketing also supports better client expectations and reduces complaint risk. By respecting the marketing material review process and collaborating with compliance staff, producers can build effective outreach programs that expand business while honoring regulatory obligations and client trust.