Jailed Broker Misuses Client Funds for Personal Gain

In a significant breach of trust, New Zealand insurance broker in Murray McClune has been sentenced to three years and seven months in prison for embezzling $NZ1.7 million ($1.5 million) from two elderly couples, as reported by the Financial Markets Authority.

McClune, a registered financial adviser during 2016-2018, exploited his long-term relationship with his victims by offering fraudulent investment opportunities through his business, Insurance Plus.

Instead of investing the funds as promised, McClune used the money for personal and business expenses, including purchasing a new home with his wife. Other expenditures included dining, travel, and even funeral planning, according to the authority. Despite some funds being returned, one couple had to resort to legal action to retrieve their money, and both victims remain partially uncompensated.

The court's ruling also stripped McClune of his ability to hold directorships or management roles and banned him from providing any financial advice or client-related services. The head of the FMA's enforcement team, Margot Gatland, emphasized the severity of the situation by highlighting the calculated and deceitful nature of McClune's actions.

This case underscores the critical importance of maintaining public trust in financial advisory services. The legal repercussions for McClune serve as a warning to others in the industry about the severe consequences of violating fiduciary responsibilities.

Looking ahead, McClune's sentencing is expected to have broader implications for the financial industry, reinforcing the necessity for stringent regulatory oversight to protect investors. Financial advisors are urged to uphold transparency and trustworthiness to maintain the integrity of the sector. As a deterrent, McClune’s ban exemplifies the enforcement actions taken to safeguard the public from similar misconduct.

Published:Wednesday, 8th Oct 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

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