October 10, 2005

NFA offers EasyFile training to CPOs

In January 2005, NFA began a pilot program for CPOs to file their pool financial statements using EasyFile, a Web-based filing system. During this voluntary program over 15% of the 2004 statements were filed through EasyFile, and NFA received very positive feedback from the CPOs who used the system.

Based on the success of the pilot program, we have decided to make EasyFile mandatory for the December 31, 2005 filings. We have requested the CFTC to make the rule changes that will require electronic filing and eliminate the need for manual signatures.

To ease the transition to electronic filing, NFA announces an educational initiative to help Member CPOs learn how to use the EasyFile system. The initiative consists of three elements: regional workshops, a Web seminar and in-person demonstrations at NFA's New York office.

NFA will host two EasyFile workshops on the East Coast. One is scheduled for Monday, October 24 in Greenwich, Connecticut from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The second will be held on Tuesday, October 25 in Princeton, New Jersey from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. In addition to demonstrating EasyFile, the workshops will include a discussion of CPO exemptions and other regulatory issues. There is no charge to attend the workshop; however, space is limited and we encourage you to pre-register. You can register online at NFA's Web site (www.nfa.futures.org/member/indexUpcoming.asp) or by calling Peggy McLin at (312) 781-1345.

On Tuesday, November 1, NFA will conduct a Web seminar entitled, "Fulfilling Your Regulatory Responsibilities More Efficiently with NFA's Online Registration System, EasyFile and Other Electronic Filing Systems." The one hour program will begin at 1:00 p.m. CST. During the seminar NFA staff will discuss common registration errors and how they can be avoided, give a demonstration of filing a pool financial statement through EasyFile and answer callers' questions. There is no charge to participate in this seminar; however, registration is required. Please use the following link to register: http://www.iian.ibeam.com/events/nfas001/14242.

On Wednesday and Thursday, November 2 and 3, NFA staff will give live demonstrations of EasyFile at NFA's New York Office (120 Broadway, Suite 1125). CPOs can attend one of three sessions scheduled each day: 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Space is limited, so please all Mary Nickolas at (212) 608-8660 to register for the session you want to attend.