FINRA Arbitration Statistics

FINRA Arbitration Statistics [2025 Update]: Key Insights for Investors

August M. Iorio, founder and managing attorney of Iorio Law PLLC in New York, NY, has dedicated his career to representing investors nationwide in FINRA arbitration claims. With over 700 cases handled and nearly $100 million recovered, including groundbreaking wins like the first arbitration award against Robinhood for meme stock restrictions, Mr. Iorio knows firsthand how FINRA statistics can inform your decision to pursue justice.

These numbers reveal trends in case filings, win rates, and resolutions, helping investors understand their odds against broker misconduct, investment fraud, or stockbroker negligence. This 2025 update draws from the latest FINRA Dispute Resolution Services data through May 2025. While statistics fluctuate, they underscore a key truth: with experienced representation, investors can achieve favorable outcomes.

If you’ve suffered losses due to unsuitable investments, churning, or breach of fiduciary duty, contact Iorio Law PLLC for a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, fighting exclusively for investors like you.

What Is FINRA Arbitration?

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) provides a mandatory arbitration forum for resolving disputes between investors and their brokers or brokerage firms. It is a streamlined alternative to traditional litigation, typically resolving disputes more quickly and cost-effectively.

FINRA publishes annual statistics that provide transparency and insight into how arbitration claims are handled, including filing trends, types of disputes, and investor success rates.

Key FINRA Arbitration Statistics & Trends (2025 Update)

Understanding the statistical landscape of FINRA arbitration is crucial for any investor considering a claim. The data reveals how cases proceed, how often investors succeed, and what issues are most common.

Overall Case Trends

• Annual Case Filings: Between 3,000 and 4,000 new claims are typically filed each year, though filings have been trending downward. Total cases in 2024 were about 2,469, with projections for 2025 at a similar level. This may reflect fewer market disruptions, but customer-related claims consistently make up the majority (62%) of all filings.
• Settlement Rates: The majority of cases settle before a final hearing. In 2025, 60% of cases have settled, often through direct negotiation (45%) or mediation (15%). Since 2019, the overall settlement rate has been around 70%. These settlements are typically confidential and negotiated between parties.
• Investor Win Rates: When cases proceed to a final hearing, the investor “win rate” has seen recent improvements. While the decade-long average has been 30-40%, customer win rates fell below 30% between 2022 and 2024. However, in 2025, customers won 30% of decided cases. Notably, hearings conducted via Zoom have seen a 61%-win rate.

Common Disputes and Top Security Types

• Most Common Claims (Causes of Action): According to FINRA, the most frequently cited claims in arbitration include:
  • Breach of Fiduciary Duty
  • Negligence
  • Misrepresentation / Omission of Facts
  • Failure to Supervise
  • Unsuitable Recommendations / Violation of Reg BI
  • Fraud
• Top Security Types in Securities Arbitrations:
  • Common Stock
  • Real Estate Investment Trust (REITs)
  • Mutual Funds
  • Private Equities
  • Options
  • Corporate Bonds
  • Exchange-Traded Funds
  • Annuities

Case Timelines and Logistics

• Time to Resolution: The average duration of a FINRA arbitration case is historically 12 to 18 months. In 2025, the average has been 13.6 months overall, with cases that go to a final hearing averaging 15.5 months.
• Arbitration Panels: Claims under $100,000 typically have one public arbitrator. Claims over $100,000 have a panel of three arbitrators (two public, one industry-affiliated, unless an all-public panel is requested).
• Hearing Locations: FINRA holds hearings in every U.S. state, typically near the investor’s residence. Top locations include New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, and Dallas. Iorio Law PLLC represents investors in venues across the country.

Case Study: GWG L Bond Cases Outperform FINRA Averages

Statistics provide a baseline, but strong legal advocacy can lead to superior results. GWG L Bond cases are a prime example.

• Success Rate: Of the 20 GWG L Bond cases that have proceeded to a final FINRA hearing, investors have won monetary awards 17 times.
• Winning Percentage: This represents an 85% success rate—nearly three times higher than the average customer win rate since 2021.

Mr. Iorio has successfully recovered over $3.5 million for GWG L Bond investors nationwide and secured a FINRA arbitration award for a GWG investor in January 2025. If you invested in GWG L Bonds, contact Iorio Law PLLC today for a free case evaluation.

What These Statistics Mean for You

FINRA arbitration is the primary forum for resolving investor-broker disputes. Understanding these statistics helps you set realistic expectations and make informed decisions.

• Evaluate Your Odds: The data on win rates and settlements provides a general idea of potential outcomes.
• Prepare for the Timeline: Knowing that a case typically takes 12-18 months helps you prepare for the process.
• Recognize the Value of Representation: The high settlement rate and the success in targeted cases like GWG show that well-prepared claims, backed by experienced attorneys, are often taken more seriously by brokerage firms.

Why Choose Iorio Law PLLC for Your FINRA Arbitration Claim?

At our New York-based firm, we don’t just cite stats—we beat them. August M. Iorio, a PIABA Board Director, has helped investors recover nearly $100 million throughout his career by crafting winning strategies based on deep knowledge of the statistical landscape. Our firm stands out for:

• Proven Results: We’ve secured significant awards and favorable settlements for clients nationwide.
• Tailored Strategy: Each case receives personalized attention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About FINRA Arbitration Statistics

• What is the average customer win rate in FINRA arbitration? In 2025, it’s 30% for cases that go to a final hearing, up from 26% in 2024.
• What percentage of FINRA cases settle? About 60 – 70% of cases settle, often through direct negotiation or mediation.
• How long does FINRA arbitration take? The average time is 13.6 months in 2025, with cases that go to a hearing taking about 15.5 months.
• Do these statistics apply to AAA or JAMS arbitration? No, these are FINRA-specific. Disputes with Registered Investment Advisers (RIAs) may use AAA or JAMS, which have their own statistics.

Ready to Beat the Odds? Contact Iorio Law PLLC Today

FINRA statistics provide a roadmap, but your case deserves personalized advocacy. If broker misconduct caused your losses, let’s discuss your options in a free, confidential consultation.

• Call Us: (646) 330-4624
• Email Us: info@iorio.law
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📍 Based in New York. Representing Investors Nationwide.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Statistics are from FINRA as of May 2025; actual outcomes may vary. Past results do not guarantee future success. Consult an attorney for your specific case.