The Department of Corporations, under the direction of the California Corporations Commissioner, provides consumer and investor protections by regulating the conduct of a variety of businesses, including securities brokers and dealers, investment advisers and financial planners, and certain fiduciaries and lenders. The Department also oversees the offer and sale of securities, franchises and off-exchange commodities.

The mission of the Department of Corporations is to:

• Ensure an orderly and transparent marketplace for investors, borrowers and industry through licensure and oversight.
• Promote financial literacy and educate the public about the risks and rewards in investing and borrowing.
• Foster a professional and innovative working environment.
• Protect the public from fraud and abuse through enforcing California's financial services laws.