Here is a link to our client alert addressing the SEC’s proposed change to the “exchange” definition, including introduction of the new term “communication protocol system.” There were zero references to crypto, blockchain, DeFi, or distributed ledger technology in the 654-page proposal. Nevertheless, the proposal makes clear that it applies…
On January 26, 2022, SEC Chairman Gary Gensler issued a brief statement noting the agency’s efforts to address the market volatility in January 2021 and beyond. The statement referenced the SEC staff report on volatility and market structure conditions and a request for comment related to digital engagement practices or…
Our recent client alert discusses the SEC’s recent securities lending proposal, which, if adopted, would create a new reporting and disclosure framework for the securities lending market. Rule 10c-1 would require any person who loans a security on behalf of itself or another person to report to FINRA certain material…
Here is a link to our Client Alert discussing this SEC proposed rulemaking. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Persons registered with a broker-dealer historically have had two years from their Form U5 filing date to re-register with another firm before their prior qualifications (examinations) would lapse. Our recent Client Alert discusses a FINRA rule change that extends this to five years under certain circumstances.
SEC Commission Elad Roisman recently spoke about cybersecurity threats and challenges facing the agency’s registrants, including public companies and financial institutions. One source of challenges (our words, not Roisman’s) may come from the government itself—the combination of (1) the lack of clarity on requirements and expectations from the SEC in…
The onset of fall signals a sad realization that summer has ended, but also the joy that “market structure” season has arrived for securities industry participants and policy wonks. Right on cue, in early October, SEC staff issued a report on equity and option market structure conditions related to the…
The SEC recently solicited public comment on digital engagement practices (DEPs) used by some broker-dealers and investment advisers, including predictive data analytics, differential marketing, and behavioral prompts (such as gamification). The public comment window closes October 1, 2021. Comments letters submitted already are available here—viewpoints run the gamut and are…
Word to the wise: when a regulator kindly reminds you on multiple occasions that you need to comply with its rules, you should probably heed those warnings. On July 26, 2021, the SEC announced settlements with 21 investment advisers and 6 broker-dealers that apparently did just the opposite. In particular,…
FINRA recently amended its rules in order to strengthen its tools to respond to brokers with a significant history of misconduct and the firms that employ them. Firms must comply with the changes by September 1, 2021. Our recent Client Alert covers this rule change in greater detail.