US authorities are investigating Geller Group, a retirement plan administrator and registered investment advisor, for failing to disclose alleged ties to an accounting firm it recommended as an auditor and for other possible violations, Investment News reported, citing a variety of sources.

The probe, which began with the Labor Department's Employee Benefits Security Administration and includes at least one representative of the Office of Labor Racketeering and Fraud, is in the early stages but could lead to prosecution by the Justice Department, the publication said.

Lester Caesar, who headed the auditing firm in question, confirmed that he has been reported by the EBSA to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants' professional-ethics division. He said he is contesting EBSA's conclusions.

The AICPA doesn't comment on cases unless sanctions are brought. However, it has the power to expel a member and also can refer its findings to the New York State Education Department, which can revoke a CPA's certification, said Bill Roberts, a spokesman for the accounting group.

Geller administers $1.8 billion of corporate retirement plans to about 1,000 clients and is an affiliate of Focus Financial Partners, the network of financial advisory businesses.