Investments are assets or items acquired for the purpose of generating interest payments, income, or appreciation in value. Real estate, stocks, bonds, options, annuities, mutual funds, cryptocurrencies, artwork, and collectibles are common examples of investments.
In Wyoming, investments are regulated under various state statutes and federal laws to protect investors and ensure fair practices. Real estate transactions are governed by state property laws and overseen by the Wyoming Real Estate Commission. Stocks, bonds, options, annuities, and mutual funds fall under the jurisdiction of the Wyoming Secretary of State's Compliance Division, which enforces the Wyoming Uniform Securities Act. This Act requires the registration of securities and professionals, as well as disclosure to investors. Cryptocurrencies, while not specifically regulated by Wyoming statutes, are subject to the state's Money Transmitter Act if they are used for monetary transmission. Additionally, Wyoming has enacted blockchain-friendly laws to encourage cryptocurrency investment in the state. Artwork and collectibles, while not heavily regulated, are subject to general consumer protection laws. At the federal level, investments are regulated by agencies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), which impose additional requirements and protections for investors.