Matt Sottile: Bravias Advisor Faced Suitability Complaint

A recent, denied investor complaint against Iselin, New Jersey financial advisor Matt Sottile (CRD# 4774814) alleged that his advice resulted in losses. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority and Securities and Exchange Commission records show that the former David Lerner Associates broker is currently registered as an investment advisor with Bravias Financial.

Mr. Sottile’s BrokerCheck report discloses one investor complaint. Filed in May 2025, it alleged that as a representative of David Lerner Associates, he recommended an unsuitable limited partnership investment. The complaint alleged damages of $52,000 and was denied by the firm. For reference, a complaint’s denial does not necessarily mean its allegations were without merit—simply that the recipient firm determined as much after its own review. Investors whose complaints are denied can still pursue a recovery through other venues, like FINRA arbitration proceedings.

Under FINRA Rule 2111, brokers may only recommend investments that are considered suitable for a given client. To assess whether a recommendation is suitable, the broker must perform reasonable diligence into the customer’s investment profile. This includes such factors as the client’s age, risk tolerance, investment objectives and experience, and more. Brokers who recommend unsuitable investments may be found liable for damages.

Bravias Financial’s website includes a profile of Mr. Sottile that describes his background and experience as a senior vice president at the firm. As it explains, his areas of expertise include financial planning, insurance, and retirement planning. “With his extensive market knowledge,” it states, “Matt has developed an approach to investing that embraces a macro view of the markets in conjunction with the micro needs of his long-term client relationships.”

According to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority and the Securities and Exchange Commission, Matt Sottile holds 21 years of securities industry experience. Based in Iselin, New Jersey, he has been registered as an investment advisor with Bravias Financial since 2018. His past registrations include Spirit of America Management Corporation and David Lerner Associates. His credentials include the passage of four securities industry qualifying exams: the Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination, or Series 65; the Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination, or Series 63; the Securities Industry Essentials Examination, or SIE; and the General Securities Representative Examination, or Series 7. He is licensed in New Jersey. (Information current as of August 19, 2025.)

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