Robert S. H. Shapiro

Robert S. H. Shapiro is a partner in Dechert’s financial services group. Mr. Shapiro brings a rich blend of public and private sector experience to Dechert LLP. With a robust background in securities regulation and investment management, he excels in providing nuanced legal and policy analysis on complex issues.

Mr. Shapiro previously served as Assistant Chief Counsel in the Division of Investment Management of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In that role, he oversaw the provision of guidance relating to the Investment Advisers Act and the Investment Company Act. This included extensive guidance to the Divisions of Enforcement and Examinations on issues concerning investment advisers, investment companies, and private funds. His expertise encompasses a wide range of regulatory issues, including investment adviser marketing, digital assets, robo-advisers, anti-money laundering, and various advisory and compliance matters.

Prior to his role at the SEC, Mr. Shapiro served as Vice President and Corporate Counsel at a major insurance company, where he supported the retail advisory and brokerage businesses. He was instrumental in developing legal guidelines for the implementation of Regulation Best Interest and overseeing the legal parameters for the launches of new financial products. His role required meticulous analysis of conflicts and advertisement regulations under the Advisers Act and FINRA rules.

Mr. Shapiro’s earlier roles at the SEC included Branch Chief positions, where he provided legal and policy input on novel issues and co-led efforts on robo-advisers and non-transparent ETFs. He began his legal career as an associate in the asset management practice of a major law firm.