Final answer:
When a registered representative of a broker-dealer is convicted of a securities-related misdemeanor, the most likely outcome is the suspension of their registration. Regulatory authorities take such misconduct seriously and aim to maintain the integrity of the financial markets. The correct option is C.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a registered representative of a broker-dealer is convicted of a securities-related misdemeanor, it can lead to various consequences depending on the severity of the offense and the regulations in place. However, the most likely outcome in this case would be suspension of the representative's registration (Option C). This means that the representative's license to engage in securities-related activities would be temporarily revoked, preventing them from conducting business in the industry.
Regulatory authorities, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), take such misconduct seriously and have the power to take disciplinary action to maintain the integrity of the financial markets. Suspension is a common repercussion for securities-related misdemeanors as it serves as a deterrent and allows for further investigation into the representative's actions.
In some cases, depending on the severity of the offense, the representative's registration might be permanently terminated, especially if the misdemeanor involves fraudulent activities or a repeated violation of securities laws. However, without more specific information regarding the nature of the misdemeanor, it is reasonable to assume that suspension would be the most likely consequence.