With the first half of 2025 behind us, firms are making strong progress toward meeting their annual Firm Element Continuing Education (CE) requirements. At Quest CE, we’ve analyzed the data to uncover the top courses financial professionals are taking this year.

From evolving AML threats and cybersecurity risks to the growing influence of AI and updates on Regulation Best Interest, these courses reflect the industry’s current priorities and regulatory focus areas. Below are the 10 most popular Firm Element courses so far in 2025, each designed to help firms stay compliant, informed, and ahead of emerging challenges.

Before you dive in, remember to consider your firm’s size, structure, and business scope.

Please Note: *A comprehensive Needs Analysis is required.

1.) AML and Evolving Threats: A Guide for Financial Professionals (FE INT)

Course Code: 14679

This course equips financial professionals with a working knowledge of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations and practical tools to detect and prevent financial crime. Topics include red flag identification, the Five Pillars of AML compliance, and emerging risks like cryptocurrency and shell companies. The course also emphasizes reporting obligations, enforcement trends, and the consequences of non-compliance.

2.) Off-Channel Communications (FE INT)

Course Code: 11922

This course explores the ongoing regulatory scrutiny surrounding off-channel communications and the compliance risks they pose to financial professionals. Through real-world scenarios and actual disciplinary actions from FINRA and the SEC, learners will gain insight into behaviors that can trigger violations, fines, and firm-level sanctions. The course underscores the importance of proper recordkeeping and communication oversight.

3.) Communicating with Clients in the Digital Age (FE INT)

Course Code: 13462

This course provides financial professionals with practical guidance for managing off-channel communications in today’s digital landscape. Learners will explore regulatory expectations, recent enforcement actions, and best practices for handling personal devices, messaging apps, and record retention. Featuring real-world scenarios and interactive modules, the course emphasizes proactive compliance strategies and internal advocacy.

4.) Annual AML Update 2025 (FE)

Course Code: 14682

This annual refresher highlights recent developments in Anti-Money Laundering, including updated regulatory guidance, cryptocurrency risks, enforcement trends, and real-world case studies. Learners will gain a clearer understanding of how money laundering is identified and prosecuted in today’s evolving financial landscape.

5.) Regulation Best Interest Update (RegBI): Recent Regulatory Developments (FE INT)

Course Code: 14661

This course provides an in-depth look at how broker-dealers are meeting—or falling short of—Reg BI obligations since the rule took effect in 2020. It covers key updates, including the SEC’s 2023 staff bulletin on the Care Obligation, FINRA’s report on Reg BI exam findings, and recent enforcement actions from both regulators. The course is ideal for professionals looking to stay current with Reg BI expectations and compliance gaps.

6.) AI in Finance: Navigating Compliance and Ethical Considerations (FE INT)

Course Code: 13318

This course explores the growing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in financial services, with a focus on its regulatory, ethical, and practical implications. Financial professionals will learn how to navigate evolving compliance standards, mitigate risks, and responsibly implement AI-driven tools. The course offers actionable insights to help firms stay ahead of potential ethical and supervisory challenges.

7.) Advanced Anti-Money Laundering Overview (FE INT)

Course Code: 4897

This advanced-level course offers a deeper dive into AML laws, enforcement practices, and red flag detection across the financial services industry. Through real-world case studies, learners will explore how financial criminals exploit systems, how red flags are identified or overlooked, and how reporting tools are used by FinCEN and law enforcement. Ideal for professionals seeking a more nuanced understanding of money laundering risks and responses.

8.) Cybersecurity (FE INT)

Course Code: 10599

This course explores the evolving threat landscape of cyberattacks and their impact on the financial industry. It covers key disclosure requirements, recent FINRA guidance, and practical steps representatives can take to reduce cybersecurity risks. Learners will also review enforcement trends, and the consequences firms may face for failing to implement adequate protections.

9.) Cybersecurity & FINRA (FE INT)

Course Code: 10602

This course focuses on the cybersecurity expectations and requirements set forth by FINRA for registered firms. It examines the types of cyberattacks targeting the financial sector, key disclosure rules, and regulatory measures firms must follow. Learners will review FINRA’s cybersecurity guidance, including exam priorities and investor alerts, and gain actionable strategies to mitigate risk and avoid regulatory pitfalls.

10.) Beyond the Office: Maintaining Information Security When Working Remotely

Course Code: 13675

This course prepares financial professionals to navigate the unique cybersecurity risks of remote work. Topics include securing home workspaces, using VPNs, managing devices, and defending against phishing and social engineering attacks. Through real-world scenarios and best practices, learners will gain the tools to protect sensitive data, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain operational security, wherever they work.

To add one of the courses to your training program, please contact us here. To access the full Firm Element course catalog, please click here.