Privacy Policy

The FDSM Institute ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to safeguarding the privacy and security of all individuals and organizations that engage with our research, digital platforms, and advisory services. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect personal data in compliance with global data protection laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), and other applicable regulations.

By accessing our website, digital platforms, or services, you agree to the data practices described in this Privacy Policy.

If you do not agree with any part of this policy, you should discontinue use of our services immediately.
 

1. Information We Collect

We collect personal and institutional data to provide high-level financial intelligence and advisory services. The types of data we collect include:

1.1 Information You Provide Directly

• Identity & Contact Information – Name, email address, phone number, and organization details.

• Financial & Strategic Inquiry Data – Information provided through inquiry forms, applications, and consulting engagements.

• Account & Subscription Data – Information related to user accounts, memberships, or newsletter subscriptions.

1.2 Information Collected Automatically

• Technical Data – IP addresses, browser types, device information, and geographic location.

• Cookies & Tracking Data – Behavioural data collected through cookies, analytics, and tracking pixels.

• Usage Data – Log files, website interaction data, and engagement metrics.

1.3 Information from Third Parties

We may receive data from external sources, such as:

• Business Intelligence Partners – Industry research and market analytics.

• Regulatory Authorities & Compliance Databases – Verification for compliance and risk assessment.
   

2. How We Use Your Data

We process personal data for the following purposes:

Strategic Advisory & Service Delivery – To provide high-value financial intelligence, research, and consulting services.
Communication & Client Engagement – To respond to inquiries, provide updates, and deliver insights.
Legal & Regulatory Compliance – To meet legal, contractual, and regulatory obligations.
Security & Fraud Prevention – To protect against unauthorized access, fraud, and cyber threats.
Analytics & Improvement – To refine our offerings, optimize user experience, and enhance service delivery.

We do not engage in the sale or unauthorized distribution of personal data.
 

3. Legal Basis for Processing (GDPR Compliance)

Under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), we rely on the following legal bases for data processing:

Consent – Where users explicitly consent to data collection (e.g., newsletter subscriptions).
Legitimate Interests – For research, advisory services, and security measures.
Contractual Necessity – When data processing is required to fulfil a service agreement.
Legal Obligation – When compliance with regulatory or governmental bodies is necessary.
 

4. Data Storage & Security

We implement industry-leading security measures to protect personal data, including:

End-to-End Encryption – Protecting data transmission with SSL/TLS security.
Access Control & Authentication – Restricted access to authorized personnel only.
Data Minimization & Retention Policies – Storing only essential data for the required duration.

Despite these measures, no digital transmission or storage method is 100% secure. Users assume the inherent risks associated with digital data processing.
 

5. Data Sharing & Third-Party Disclosure

We may share limited data under the following conditions:

Regulatory & Compliance Authorities – When legally required to comply with financial regulations.

Strategic Partners & Advisors – In cases where collaboration enhances service quality.

Technology & Analytics Providers – To improve system performance and user experience (e.g., Google Analytics).

We do not sell, rent, or share personal data for marketing or unsolicited purposes.
 

6. International Data Transfers

As a global organization, the FDSM Institute may process data in multiple jurisdictions. We ensure cross-border data protection compliance, including:

Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) – For EU-U.S. data transfers.
GDPR Adequacy Decisions – Aligning with approved data protection frameworks.
CCPA Compliance – Ensuring privacy protections for U.S.-based users.

If you are located outside the UK, EU, or U.S., by using our services, you consent to the transfer of your data to these regions.
 

7. Your Rights & Control Over Your Data

Under GDPR, CCPA, and other privacy laws, users have the right to:

Access & Review – Request a copy of the personal data we hold.
Rectification & Updates – Correct inaccuracies in personal data.
Data Portability – Request a structured, machine-readable export of data.
Objection & Restriction – Limit or object to specific processing activities.
Erasure ("Right to Be Forgotten") – Request the deletion of personal data, subject to legal and contractual obligations.

To exercise your rights, contact us at [Your Contact Email] with the subject "Data Request."

8. Use of Cookies & Tracking Technologies

Our website uses cookies to enhance user experience and optimize performance. We use:

Essential Cookies – Required for core website functionality.
Analytics Cookies – To track site usage and improve service delivery.
Security Cookies – For fraud prevention and authentication.

Users can modify cookie preferences via browser settings. Disabling cookies may impact functionality.

9. Policy Updates & Amendments

We reserve the right to update this Privacy Policy at any time. Changes will be reflected in the "Last Updated" date above. Users are encouraged to review this policy periodically.

Continued use of our website or services after updates constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.

10. Contact Information

For any inquiries regarding this Privacy Policy or data rights, please contact:

Email: contact@fdsminstitute.com
Website: fdsminstitute.com

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