Investments are assets or items acquired for the purpose of generating interest payments, income, or appreciation in value. Real estate, stocks, bonds, options, annuities, mutual funds, cryptocurrencies, artwork, and collectibles are common examples of investments.
In Texas, investments are regulated by both state and federal laws. The Texas State Securities Board oversees the enforcement of the Texas Securities Act, which governs the registration and sale of securities, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and certain types of investment contracts within the state. Financial professionals, including brokers and investment advisors, must be registered with the state and comply with both state and federal regulations. Real estate investments are subject to property laws and regulations enforced by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Cryptocurrencies, while not specifically regulated as securities in Texas, are subject to general consumer protection laws and federal regulations by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) if they meet certain criteria. Collectibles and artwork are considered personal property and are subject to sales and use tax regulations. It's important for investors in Texas to conduct due diligence and consult with an attorney to understand the specific legal implications of their investment choices.
