Rocky Binkowski: $165K Complaint Against Ex-Arete Advisor

A recent investor complaint against Carlsbad, California financial advisor Rocky Binkowski (CRD# 4814174) alleges that his conduct resulted in six-figure damages. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority records show that he is registered as a broker and an investment advisor with Ameriprise Financial Services, having previously been registered with Axxcess Wealth Management and Arete Wealth Management.

Mr. Binkowski’s BrokerCheck report discloses two investor complaints. The most recent, filed in April 2026, alleges that as a representative of Arete Wealth Management, he recommended unsuitable investments in alternative products. The pending complaint alleges damage of at least $165,000.

An earlier investor complaint, filed in 2023, similarly alleged that as an Arete Wealth Management representative, he recommended an unsuitable alternative investment. The complaint alleged damages of $25,000 and was withdrawn.

FINRA rules require brokers like Mr. Binkowski to recommend only investments and investment strategies that conform to a standard known as suitability. As established by FINRA Rule 2111 and later the SEC’s Regulation Best Interest, this standard holds that brokers must “have a reasonable basis to believe that a recommended transaction or investment strategy” is appropriate for a customer’s investment profile, which includes their age, investment background, net worth, risk tolerance, and other concerns. An investment without principal protection, for instance, might be considered unsuitable for conservative investors with a low risk tolerance. Brokers who recommend their customers invest in unsuitable products or strategies may be held liable in the event of losses.

According to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Rocky Binkowski holds 17 years of securities industry experience. Based in Carlsbad, California, he has been registered as a broker and an investment advisor with Ameriprise Financial Services since 2023. His past registrations include Axxcess Wealth Management, Arete Wealth Management, Lucia Securities, First Allied Securities, and Securities America. His credentials include the passage of three securities industry qualifying exams: the Securities Industry Essentials Examination, or SIE; the Uniform Combined State Law Examination, or Series 66; and the General Securities Representative Examination, or Series 7. He holds 24 state licenses. (Information current as of May 20, 2026.)

Carlson Law represents investors throughout the United States in claims against financial advisors and investment firms. If you or a loved one have suffered investment losses, please call us at 888-976-6111 or complete our contact form for a free and confidential consultation.