What is 'churning' in investment practices?

Churning refers to the practice of excessively buying and selling securities within a client's account primarily to generate commissions for the broker, rather than to benefit the client. This unethical behavior can lead to increased transaction costs for the investor, often resulting in diminished investment returns. Brokers who engage in churning prioritize their own financial gain over their clients’ best interests, violating ethical standards and regulations in the investment industry.

In the context of the other potential answers, investing in high-risk stocks does not inherently involve a lack of regard for the investor's interest; it simply denotes a strategy that can be part of a well-considered investment plan. Buying options for future sales can be a legitimate part of an investment strategy and does not imply improper behavior. Pooling client funds for diversified investments typically reflects a cooperative investment approach aimed at reducing risk through diversification, which is generally a prudent strategy. Each of these practices differs significantly from the concept of churning, which is specifically centered around excessive trading for the broker's benefit.