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Broker Misconduct Investigation: Ken Ramos (Stifel Nicolaus)

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Updated on: June 9, 2025

National investment loss lawyers KlaymanToskes is investigating broker Ken Ramos (CRD# 2553426) of Stifel, Nicolaus, & Co. in connection with the law firm’s filing of a customer complaint (Claim no. 23-02648) with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”), alleging $1,300,000 in damages due to unsuitable investment recommendations in structured products, Unit Investment Trusts, Crypto, and other investments.

According to the lawsuit filed by KlaymanToskes, unbeknownst to the customer, Ramos falsely coded her risk tolerance as “Moderately Aggressive,” rather than “Conservative.” Ramos allegedly never properly explained to the customer the investment strategy he employed in her accounts as well as the risk of the investments that he was purchasing. Additionally, the customer has no other source of income other than her investment accounts, and entrusted Stifel Nicolaus, & Co. and her advisor Ken Ramos with making recommendations that were in her best interest.

According to FINRA BrokerCheck, broker Ken Ramos is currently registered as a broker and investment advisor with Stifel, Nicolaus, & Co. Ramos was previously registered as a broker with Morgan Stanley in New York, NY. 

Investors that suffered losses with broker Ken Ramos are encouraged to contact attorney Lawrence L. Klayman, Esq., at 888-997-9956 or by email at lawrence@klaymantoskes.com to discuss recovery options. We do not collect attorney’s fees unless we are able to obtain a financial recovery for you.

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Current Investigations About Broker Ken Ramos That You Should Know as an Investor:

KlaymanToskes is a leading national investment loss law firm that represents the interests of investors throughout the world who have suffered losses due to broker misconduct, investment fraud, and securities violations. 

The articles linked below contain important information relating to the complaint filed against broker Ken Ramos:

If you suffered losses with broker Ken Ramos, contact KlaymanToskes at 888-997-9956 or fill out a short contact form for a free and confidential consultation.

The firm has helped recover over $600 million* for investors, and can help you determine if your loss is due to financial advisor misconduct, unsuitable investment advice, and/or other securities violations.

*Exclusive of attorneys fees and costs.

Timeline of Allegations Against Broker Kenneth Ramos

Below is a timeline of customer allegations and regulatory actions involving Kenneth Ramos primarily related to unsuitable investment recommendations and unauthorized transactions (per FINRA).

August 2005

Allegation: Sales practice violations during his tenure at RBC Dain Rauscher.

Settlement: $8,000.

November 2017

Allegation: Executing transactions for non-discretionary accounts without client approval at Morgan Stanley.

Action: Voluntary resignation from Morgan Stanley Wealth Management.

October 2023

Allegation: Breach of fiduciary duty, unsuitable investment recommendations, unauthorized transactions, misrepresentation, excessive commissions, and negligence involving structured notes and unit investment trusts.

Damages Sought: $1.3 million.

Broker Profile: Kenneth Carl Ramos

Kenneth Carl Ramos (CRD# 2553426) is a financial advisor with over 27 years of experience, currently registered with Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated in New York, New York. ​

What is Stifel, Nicolaus, & Co.?

​Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (commonly known as Stifel) is a multinational investment bank and financial services firm headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri. Established in 1890 as the Altheimer and Rawlings Investment Company, it was later renamed after Herman Stifel joined the firm in 1897. ​It currently offers a range of services, including investment banking, wealth management, asset management, and brokerage services.

Ken’s Professional Background

  • Current Position: Financial Advisor at Stifel, Nicolaus & Company (since November 2017).​
  • Previous Registrations:
    • Morgan Stanley (2009–2017)​
    • Bear Stearns & Company (2004–2008)​
    • RBC Dain Rauscher (2002)
    • Tucker Anthony (1997–2002)​

Ken’s Licenses and Examinations:

  • Series 7 – General Securities Representative Examination​
  • Series 65 – Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination​
  • Series 63 – Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination
  • Series 3 – National Commodity Futures Examination

What is Considered an Unsuitable Investment?

An unsuitable investment is one that does not align with an investor’s financial goals, risk tolerance, or investment profile. Financial advisors and brokers are required to make investments investment recommendations that are appropriate based on a client’s age, income, experience, and investment objectives.

Examples of Unsuitable Investments:

  • High-risk stocks for conservative investors
  • Illiquid investments (e.g., non-traded REITs) for clients needing quick access to funds
  • Complex derivatives for inexperienced investors
  • Over-concentration in a single stock or industry

If an advisor misrepresents risks or places a client in an unsuitable investment, it may be considered financial misconduct, and the investor may have legal options to recover losses.

Signs Investors Should Look Out For About Their Brokerage Accounts

As an investor, there are a few signs that you should look out for if you believe you may have a claim against broker Ken Ramos. These signs could potentially indicate misconduct, negligence, or investment fraud. Investors are encouraged to contact our firm immediately if you have experienced any of the following: 

  • You have substantial losses in your investment accounts
  • You received a call, email, or other communication from your broker’s supervisor or manager regarding your portfolio
  • Your broker misrepresented investment opportunities, or failed to disclose details about investments
  • You notice unauthorized transactions in your investment accounts
  • Your broker is not returning your calls or emails
  • You filed a complaint with your brokerage firm that has not been resolved

Some investors have close relationships with their brokers due to the time and trust built over the course of their investment relationship. However, it is crucial to remember that financial decisions should be based on careful analysis and due diligence rather than solely relying on personal relationships.

According to FINRA, brokerage firms such as Joseph Stone Capital and VCS Venture Securities are responsible for the supervision of all of the activities of their registered brokers and investment advisors. Investors may be entitled to a financial recovery if their brokerage firm failed to supervise the representative managing their brokerage account, and/or if their broker/advisor made unsuitable investment recommendations.

Engaging the services of an experienced securities attorney to evaluate your specific circumstances is strongly advised. At KlaymanToskes, our team of experienced securities attorneys has a deep understanding of this complex area of law, allowing us to provide invaluable insight and tailored guidance that directly addresses your individual needs.

Speak to an Attorney about Your Losses with Broker Ken Ramos

If you suffered losses with broker Ken Ramos, or have concerns regarding your investment portfolio at Stifel, Nicolaus, & Co., contact KlaymanToskes at 888-997-9956 or fill out a short contact form for a free and confidential consultation to discuss potential recovery options.