March, 2025 | Based in New York, NY
If you’ve been affected by potential broker misconduct, don’t hesitate to seek help. Call 800-950-6553 or complete our online form to schedule your no-obligation case evaluation.
Critical Information About Martin Barwikowski
- Full Name: Martin Barwikowski
- CRD Number: 5257475
- Current Location: New York, NY
- Registration Status: Not currently registered
- Most Recent Employer: Stirlingshire Investments (12/2022 – 06/2024)
- Previous Employers:
- Spartan Capital Securities, LLC (01/2017 – 12/2022)
- Newbridge Securities Corporation (06/2016 – 01/2017)
- Great Point Capital LLC (05/2015 – 06/2016)
- Dinosaur Securities, L.L.C. (08/2014 – 02/2015)
- Avenir Financial Group (03/2014 – 06/2014)
- Disclosure Events: Criminal (1), Termination (1), Judgment/Lien (1)
- Ability to Recover Losses: Investors who worked with Barwikowski may be eligible for FINRA arbitration to recover losses
Detailed Case Overview
Martin Barwikowski, a former registered representative with Stirlingshire Investments in New York, is no longer registered with FINRA following his termination in June 2024. According to publicly available records, Barwikowski was discharged from his position at Stirlingshire Investments on June 14, 2024, amid allegations of substance abuse issues that reportedly affected his work performance.
The termination disclosure indicates that the firm became aware that Barwikowski was “dealing with substance abuse issues that were effecting [sic] his work,” prompting management to remove his trading capabilities. The report further states that Stirlingshire Investments offered to pay for treatment, but when Barwikowski allegedly refused to seek help, the firm made the decision to terminate their relationship.
This recent termination raises significant concerns regarding potential investor harm. When a financial advisor struggles with personal issues that impact their professional performance, client accounts may be exposed to various forms of misconduct, including neglect, unauthorized trading, or other fiduciary breaches.
Particularly troubling is that this termination follows a pattern of concerning behavior in Barwikowski’s history. His record shows multiple job changes within the securities industry, holding positions at six different firms between 2014 and 2024. This level of movement between firms—sometimes referred to as “broker migration”—is often considered a red flag by industry regulators. FINRA has specifically identified frequent job changes as a potential indicator of problematic brokers who may be moving to avoid regulatory scrutiny or customer complaints.
Historical and Background Information
Barwikowski entered the securities industry in 2014, obtaining his Series 7 license on March 13, 2014, and his Series 63 license on May 5, 2014. He also passed the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Examination in October 2018. However, according to his FINRA BrokerCheck report, he has not obtained any principal/supervisory qualifications during his career.
His employment history shows a concerning pattern of job changes:
- Stirlingshire Investments (12/2022 – 06/2024)
- Spartan Capital Securities, LLC (01/2017 – 12/2022)
- Newbridge Securities Corporation (06/2016 – 01/2017)
- Great Point Capital LLC (05/2015 – 06/2016)
- Dinosaur Securities, L.L.C. (08/2014 – 02/2015)
- Avenir Financial Group (03/2014 – 06/2014)
This pattern of frequent moves across multiple brokerage firms within a relatively short period raises questions about Barwikowski’s stability and performance. While some career changes are normal in the financial industry, changing firms six times in ten years exceeds typical industry movement and may indicate underlying issues.
Beyond his employment history, Barwikowski’s record contains several concerning disclosures that potential investors and former clients should be aware of:
- Criminal Record: Barwikowski has a criminal disclosure from 2005-2006, predating his securities career. While some charges were dismissed, he pleaded guilty to operating under the influence of liquor or drugs, which resulted in fines, license suspension, and community service requirements.
- Employment Termination: As noted above, Barwikowski was discharged from Stirlingshire Investments in June 2024 due to alleged substance abuse issues affecting his work performance.
- Civil Judgment/Lien: There is an outstanding civil judgment against Barwikowski in the amount of $1,306.00 filed by Capital One Bank in October 2009.
These disclosures, particularly when viewed collectively, paint a concerning picture of Barwikowski’s professional history and potential risk to investors.
Red Flags & Warning Signs
Based on the information available in Martin Barwikowski’s record, several significant red flags emerge that investors should be aware of:
1. Substance Abuse Allegations
The most recent and perhaps most concerning disclosure is Barwikowski’s termination from Stirlingshire Investments due to alleged substance abuse issues affecting his work. When a financial advisor’s personal struggles impact their professional duties, clients’ financial interests can be severely compromised. This may manifest as:
- Poor judgment in investment recommendations
- Neglect of client accounts
- Failure to execute transactions properly or in a timely manner
- Inability to keep proper records
- Lapses in communication with clients
2. Frequent Job Changes
As mentioned earlier, Barwikowski’s pattern of moving between multiple brokerage firms in a relatively short timeframe is troubling. FINRA and the SEC have repeatedly identified frequent firm changes as a potential indicator of problematic behavior. Brokers with concerning practices may move to new firms to avoid mounting customer complaints or heightened supervision at their previous employers.
3. Prior Criminal Record
While Barwikowski’s criminal record predates his securities career, it does involve substance-related charges, which align with the recent allegations leading to his termination. This suggests a potential long-term pattern rather than an isolated incident.
4. Financial Judgment
The outstanding civil judgment, while relatively small in amount, indicates potential financial irresponsibility. Financial professionals who cannot manage their own finances may present a risk when managing client assets.
5. Current Registration Status
Perhaps most critically, Barwikowski is not currently registered with FINRA or any state securities regulator. This means he cannot legally sell securities or provide investment advice. Any attempt to continue operating in such capacity would constitute a serious regulatory violation.
Legal & Regulatory Framework
Financial advisors like Martin Barwikowski are bound by numerous regulations designed to protect investors. Understanding these regulations helps clients recognize when their rights may have been violated:
FINRA Rule 2010: Standards of Commercial Honor
This foundational rule requires brokers to observe high standards of commercial honor and just and equitable principles of trade. Substance abuse affecting work performance could easily compromise these standards.
FINRA Rule 2111: Suitability
Brokers must have a reasonable basis to believe that a recommended transaction or investment strategy is suitable for their client. Impaired judgment due to substance abuse could lead to unsuitable recommendations.
FINRA Rule 3270: Outside Business Activities
Brokers must disclose any outside business activities to their employing firm. Failure to properly disclose such activities is a violation.
FINRA Rule 2020: Use of Manipulative, Deceptive or Fraudulent Devices
This rule prohibits the use of manipulative, deceptive, or fraudulent devices in connection with the purchase or sale of securities.
FINRA Rule 3110: Supervision
Brokerage firms have a duty to establish and maintain a system to supervise their registered representatives. Stirlingshire Investments’ actions in removing Barwikowski’s trading capabilities and ultimately terminating him may have been part of their supervisory obligations.
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Fiduciary Standards
Investment advisers are generally held to a fiduciary standard, requiring them to act in the best interests of their clients and to disclose any conflicts of interest. Substance abuse that affects professional judgment could constitute a breach of fiduciary duty.
Guidance for Affected Investors
If you were a client of Martin Barwikowski and believe you may have been affected by potential misconduct, consider taking the following steps:
1. Review Your Account Statements
Carefully examine your investment account statements for any unauthorized transactions, excessive trading (churning), or unusual activity. Look for:
- Transactions you don’t recognize
- Higher than normal frequency of trades
- Concentration in high-risk or unsuitable investments
- Unexplained fees or commissions
2. Document Everything
Maintain a detailed record of all communications with Barwikowski and his employing firms. This includes:
- Emails and text messages
- Notes from phone calls or in-person meetings
- Account statements and trade confirmations
- Any promotional materials or investment recommendations you received
3. Assess Performance Against Benchmarks
Compare your investment performance against appropriate benchmarks to determine if your portfolio significantly underperformed the market without justification.
4. Understand the Statute of Limitations
Be aware that there are time constraints for filing complaints or arbitration claims:
- FINRA arbitration claims generally must be filed within six years of the event giving rise to the claim
- State securities laws may have different statutes of limitations
- Delay can seriously impact your ability to recover losses
5. Consult with a Securities Attorney
Perhaps most importantly, consult with a securities attorney specializing in investment fraud and broker misconduct. An experienced attorney can:
- Evaluate the specifics of your situation
- Determine if you have a viable claim
- Guide you through the FINRA arbitration process
- Help you understand potential recovery options
How Our Securities Fraud Attorneys Can Help
Our firm specializes in representing investors who have suffered losses due to broker misconduct, securities fraud, and investment fraud. If you were a client of Martin Barwikowski, we offer several specialized services to help recover your losses:
Forensic Account Analysis
Our team will conduct a detailed forensic analysis of your investment accounts to identify potential misconduct, including:
- Unauthorized trading
- Excessive trading (churning)
- Unsuitable investment recommendations
- Misrepresentations or omissions
- Breach of fiduciary duty
FINRA Arbitration Representation
Most investment disputes are resolved through FINRA arbitration rather than in court. Our attorneys are experienced in navigating this specialized forum and will:
- Prepare and file your Statement of Claim
- Gather and present compelling evidence
- Represent you throughout the arbitration process
- Negotiate potential settlements
- Present your case before arbitrators if necessary
Investigation of Firm Liability
In many cases, the brokerage firm may share responsibility for your losses. We investigate potential firm liability, including:
- Failure to supervise
- Negligent hiring practices
- Failure to conduct proper due diligence
- Firm-wide policies that encouraged misconduct
Client-Centered Approach
We understand that investment losses can be devastating, both financially and emotionally. Our approach emphasizes:
- Clear communication throughout the process
- Personalized attention to your specific situation
- Regular updates on your case
- Transparent fee structures (contingency fee basis – no recovery, no fee)
- Commitment to maximizing your recovery
Proven Track Record
Our firm has successfully recovered millions of dollars for investors who have suffered losses due to broker misconduct and securities fraud. We have the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t let potential misconduct go unchallenged. If you invested with Martin Barwikowski and experienced losses or have concerns about how your accounts were handled, reach out today. Call 800-950-6553 or complete our online form to schedule your no-obligation case evaluation and take the first step toward potential recovery.
