FINRA CAT & Consolidated Audit Trail (CAT) Compliance: A Practical Guide for Broker-Dealers

EDISON, N.J. - June 16, 2025 - PRLog -- In today's data-driven capital markets, compliance isn't just a box to check — it's a full-time, high-stakes responsibility. One of the most significant and complex regulatory programs in recent history is the Consolidated Audit Trail (CAT), overseen by FINRA under SEC Rule 613. As regulatory enforcement tightens, Consolidated Audit Trail (CAT) Compliance has become a major focus area for broker-dealers across the country.

But what does CAT really mean for your firm, and how can you meet the standards without falling behind?

Let's break it down.

What is FINRA CAT?
The Consolidated Audit Trail (CAT) is a centralized system that tracks all order events in the U.S. equity and options markets — from the moment an order is placed to its final execution or cancellation. Developed by the SEC and operated by FINRA, CAT is designed to provide regulators with a complete, time-stamped view of every trade, across every trading venue.

Before CAT, trade data was fragmented, making it difficult to detect market abuse or systemic risks. With CAT, every trade becomes traceable, searchable, and — more importantly — auditable.

https://capmarketsolutions.com/cat/

Why CAT Compliance Is Crucial
If you're a registered broker-dealer, you are required to report to CAT. Under FINRA Rule 6800,

https://capmarketsolutions.com/cais/