Self-Regulatory Organizations; BATS Exchange, Inc.; Notice of Filing of a Proposed Rule Change, as Modified by Amendment No. 1, To Adopt Listing Standards for Certain Securities
Federal Register, Volume 78 Issue 132 (Wednesday, July 10, 2013)
Federal Register Volume 78, Number 132 (Wednesday, July 10, 2013)
Notices
Pages 41462-41480
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office www.gpo.gov
FR Doc No: 2013-16528
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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Release No. 34-69931; File No. SR-BATS-2013-038
Self-Regulatory Organizations; BATS Exchange, Inc.; Notice of Filing of a Proposed Rule Change, as Modified by Amendment No. 1, To Adopt Listing Standards for Certain Securities
July 3, 2013.
Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the ``Act''),\1\ and Rule 19b-4 thereunder,\2\ notice is hereby given that on June 21, 2013, BATS Exchange, Inc. (the ``Exchange'' or ``BATS'') filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (``Commission'') the proposed rule change as described in Items I, II and III below, which filing was amended and replaced in its entirety by Amendment No. 1 thereto on July 2, 2013, and which Items have been prepared by the Exchange. The Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change, as modified by Amendment No. 1, from interested persons.
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\1\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1).
\2\ 17 CFR 240.19b-4.
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Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Terms of Substance of the Proposed Rule Change
The Exchange filed a proposal to adopt rules for the qualification, listing and delisting of companies on the Exchange. Specifically, the Exchange proposes to adopt rules applicable to the following securities (all of which are defined below): Equity Index-Linked Securities, Commodity-Linked Securities,\3\ Fixed Income Index-Linked Securities, Futures-Linked Securities, Multifactor Index-Linked Securities, Index-
Linked Exchangeable Notes; Equity Gold Shares; Trust Certificates; Commodity-Based Trust Shares; Currency Trust Shares; Commodity Index Trust Shares; Commodity Futures Trust Shares; Partnership Units; Trust Units; Managed Trust Securities; and Currency Warrants. Specifically, the proposal would adopt the relevant listing standards of the NASDAQ Stock Market LLC (``Nasdaq''), as set forth below. The Exchange also proposes changes to delete certain rule text from Rule 14.11(h), ``Listing Requirements for Securities Not Specified Above (Other Securities),'' to conform to the current listing standards of Nasdaq and to delete rule text that would become duplicative at the time the proposed rule becomes operative.
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\3\ Exchange Rules 14.11(d)(2)(G) and (H) currently include initial listing standards applicable to Equity Index-Linked Securities and Commodity-Linked Securities. The Exchange proposes to re-number the existing rule text in Rules 14.11(d)(2)(G) and (H), and to adopt continuing listing standards applicable to Equity Index-Linked Securities and Commodity-Linked Securities, in proposed Rules 14.11(d)(2)(K)(i) and (ii).
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The text of the proposed rule change is available at the Exchange's Web site at http://www.batstrading.com, at the principal office of the Exchange, and at the Commission's Public Reference Room.
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Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change
In its filing with the Commission, the Exchange included statements concerning the purpose of and basis for the proposed rule change and discussed any comments it received on the proposed rule change. The text of these statements may be examined at the places specified in Item IV below. The Exchange has prepared summaries, set forth in Sections A, B, and C below, of the most significant parts of such statements.
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Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and the Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change
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Purpose
This Amendment No. 1 to SR-BATS-2013-038 amends and replaces in its entirety the proposal as originally submitted on September 25, 2012. Amendment No. 1 corrects certain inconsistencies between the proposed rules and the descriptions of such proposed rules as well as various typographical and grammatical errors contained in the original filing.
The Exchange is proposing rules to adopt listing standards for each of the products enumerated above on the Exchange. Chapter XIV of the Exchange's Rules sets forth the rules applicable to securities listed on the Exchange (the ``Listing Rules''). The Exchange is also proposing to make several non-substantive grammatical and technical changes to the Listing Rules. The Exchange's Listing Rules govern the qualification, listing and delisting of Securities on the Exchange.
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The Listing Rules also set forth, among other things, definitions,\4\ the Exchange's regulatory authority to list and maintain securities,\5\ general procedures and prerequisites for initial and continued listing on the Exchange,\6\ and, most significantly to the instant proposed rule change, ``Other Securities,'' \7\ which govern, without limitation, listing and qualification rules applicable to Portfolio Depository Receipts, Index Fund Shares and other types of exchange traded products. The proposed amendment to Rule 14.11(d), Securities Linked to the Performance of Indexes and Commodities (Including Currencies), would add continuing listing standards for Equity Index- Linked Securities and Commodity-Linked Securities, and initial and continuing listing standards for fixed income index-linked securities (``Fixed Income Index-Linked Securities''), futures-linked securities (``Futures Linked Securities'') and multifactor index-linked securities (``Multifactor Index-Linked Securities'' and, together with Equity Index-Linked Securities and Commodity-Linked Securities, Fixed Income Index-Linked Securities and Futures-Linked Securities, ``Linked Securities'') to the rule.
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\4\ See Section 14.1 of the Exchange's Rules.
\5\ See Section 14.2 of the Exchange's Rules.
\6\ See Section 14.3 of the Exchange's Rules.
\7\ See Section 14.11 of the Exchange's Rules.
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Proposed new Rule 14.11(e), Trading of Certain Derivative Securities, would include listing standards for Index-Linked Exchangeable Notes, Equity Gold Shares, Trust Certificates, Commodity-
Based Trust Shares, Currency Trust Shares, Commodity Index Trust Shares, Commodity Futures Trust Shares, Partnership Units, Trust Units, Managed Trust Securities, and Currency Warrants. Existing Rule 14.11(e), Selected Equity-linked Debt Securities (``SEEDS''), would be re-numbered as Rule 14.11(e)(12), and as a result, the Exchange proposes to re-number the sub-paragraphs and cross-references contained in such Rule.
The proposed rule change is intended to define the specific products (see above) that the Exchange intends to list and trade, and the listing and qualification requirements for each such product.
The Exchange also proposes changes to delete certain rule text from Rule 14.11(h), ``Listing Requirements for Securities Not Specified Above (Other Securities),'' to conform to the current listing standards of Nasdaq and to delete rule text that would become duplicative at the time the proposed rule becomes operative. Specifically, the Exchange proposes to delete text to conform Rule 14.11(h) to conform such rule to Nasdaq Rule 5730.
Proposed Changes to Rule 14.11(d)--Linked Securities
Introductory Paragraphs to Rule 14.11(d)
The proposed amendments to Rule 14.11(d) would state that the Exchange will consider for listing and trading the Linked Securities set forth in the introductory paragraphs of the rule. These paragraphs describe the basis for the payment at maturity of the various securities, which is the performance of ``Reference Assets,'' as defined below.
Specifically:
Equity Index-Linked Securities are securities that provide for the payment at maturity of a cash amount based on the performance of an underlying equity index or indexes (an ``Equity Reference Asset'').
The payment at maturity with respect to Commodity-Linked Securities is based on one or more physical Commodities or Commodity futures, options or other Commodity derivatives, Commodity-Related Securities, or a basket or index of any of the foregoing (a ``Commodity Reference Asset''). The terms ``Commodity'' and ``Commodity-Related Security'' are defined in Rule 14.11.
The payment at maturity with respect to Fixed Income Index-Linked Securities is based on the performance of one or more indexes or portfolios of notes, bonds, debentures or evidence of indebtedness that include, but are not limited to, U.S. Department of Treasury securities (``Treasury Securities''), government-sponsored entity securities (``GSE Securities''), municipal securities, trust preferred securities, supranational debt and debt of a foreign country or a subdivision thereof or a basket or index of any of the foregoing (a ``Fixed Income Reference Asset'').
The payment at maturity with respect to Futures-Linked Securities is based on the performance of an index of (a) futures on Treasury Securities, GSE Securities, supranational debt and debt of a foreign country or a subdivision thereof, or options or other derivatives on any of the foregoing; or (b) interest rate futures or options or derivatives on the foregoing in this subparagraph (b); or (c) CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) Futures (a ``Futures Reference Asset'').
The payment at maturity with respect to Multifactor Index-Linked Securities is based on the performance of any combination of two or more Equity Reference Assets, Commodity Reference Assets, Fixed Income Reference Assets or Futures Reference Assets (a ``Multifactor Reference Asset,'' and together with Equity Reference Assets, Commodity Reference Assets, Fixed Income Reference Assets and Futures Reference Assets, ``Reference Assets''). A Multifactor Reference Asset may include as a component a notional investment in cash or a cash equivalent based on a widely accepted overnight loan interest rate, LIBOR, Prime Rate, or an implied interest rate based on observed market spot and foreign currency forward rates.
Linked Securities may or may not provide for the repayment of the original principal investment amount. The Exchange may submit a rule filing pursuant to Section 19(b)(2) of the Act to permit the listing and trading of Linked Securities that do not otherwise meet the standards set forth in Rule 14.11(d).
Additional Changes to Rule 14.11(d)
The Exchange is not proposing any amendments to Rules 14.11(d)(2)(A)-(C) or (E)-(F) and such provisions would apply to all Linked Securities.\8\
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\8\ Current Rule 14.11(d)(2)(A)-(C) states:
(A) Both the issue and the issuer of such security meet the criteria for other securities set forth in Rule 14.11(h), except that if the security is traded in $1,000 denominations or is redeemable at the option of holders thereof on at least a weekly basis, then no minimum number of holders and no minimum public distribution of trading units shall be required.
(B) The issue has a term of not less than one (1) year and not greater than thirty (30) years.
(C) The issue must be the non-convertible debt of the Company.
Current Rule 14.11(d)(2)(E) and (F) state:
(E) The Company will be expected to have a minimum tangible net worth in excess of $250,000,000 and to exceed by at least 20% the earnings requirements set forth in paragraph (a)(1) of this Rule. In the alternative, the Company will be expected: (i) To have a minimum tangible net worth of $150,000,000 and to exceed by at least 20% the earnings requirement set forth in paragraph (a)(1) of this Rule, and (ii) not to have issued securities where the original issue price of all the Company's other index-linked note offerings (combined with index-linked note offerings of the Company's affiliates) listed on a national securities exchange exceeds 25% of the Company's net worth.
(F) The Company is in compliance with Rule 10A-3 under the Act.
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The Exchange proposes to amend Rule 14.11(d)(2)(D) so that the Exchange may list Linked Securities that provide for three times accelerated payment at maturity.\9\ In changing Rule 14.11(d)(2)(D), the Exchange is conforming its rule to the established listing rules of other exchanges. This proposed change to Rule 14.11(d)(2)(D) is based, word-for-word, on Nasdaq
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Rule 5710(d).\10\ Both the Exchanges Rule 14.11(d)(2)(D) and Nasdaq Rule 5710(d) state that pursuant to Rule 19b-4(e) under the Act \11\ a loss or negative payment at maturity of a Linked Security may be accelerated by a multiple of the performance of an underlying asset (known as the ``acceleration provision''). However, in Rule 14.11(d)(2)(D) the Exchange sets the multiple for the acceleration provision at ``twice''; whereas Nasdaq sets the acceleration provision multiple at ``three times''.\12\ Other than changing one word--from ``twice'' to ``three times''--in the Exchange's acceleration provision in Rule 14.11(d)(2)(D), no other change is proposed or made to such sub-paragraph and such provision, as amended, would apply to all Linked Securities.
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\9\ The proposal is applicable only to non-option products.
\10\ The Exchange notes that the proposal is also consistent with NYSE Arca (``Arca'') Equities Rule 5.2(j)(6)(A)(d) and Section 703.22(B)(6) of the New York Stock Exchange Listed Company Manual.
\11\ 17 CFR 240.19b-4(e).
\12\ See Nasdaq Rule 5710(d). See also Securities Exchange Act Release No. 68721 (January 24, 2013), 78 FR 6379 (January 30, 2013) (SR-NASDAQ-2013-008) (notice of filing and immediate effectiveness of rule change to amend Rule 5710 to allow three times (3x) the performance of the underlying Reference Asset).
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Additionally, the Exchange proposes to re-number the current text of Rule 14.11(d) by deleting current Rules 14.11(d)(2)(G) and (H) and moving the text of these two sections into proposed Rules 14.11(d)(2)(K)(i) and (ii).\13\ Further, the Exchange is proposing to re-number the remaining existing sections of Rule 14.11(d), and to amend references and defined terms in such sections such that they would apply to all Linked Securities.
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\13\ See supra note 3.
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Listing Standards for Linked Securities
Proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K) would adopt listing standards for the various Linked Securities, as described below.
Equity Index-Linked Securities
Initial Listing Criteria
Proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(i)(a) would set forth the initial listing criteria for Equity Index-Linked Securities found in current Rule 14.11(d)(2)(G), which would be deleted and replaced in proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(i)(a). Specifically:
In the case of an Equity Index-Linked Security, each underlying index is required to have at least ten (10) component securities. In addition, the index or indexes to which the security is linked shall either: (1) Have been reviewed and approved for the trading of options or other derivatives by the Commission under Section 19(b)(2) of the Act and rules thereunder, and the conditions set forth in the Commission's approval order, including comprehensive surveillance sharing agreements for non-U.S. stocks, continue to be satisfied, or (2) the index or indexes meet the following criteria:
Each component security has a minimum market value of at least $75 million, except that for each of the lowest weighted component securities in the index that in the aggregate account for no more than 10% of the weight of the index, the market value can be at least $50 million;
each component security shall have trading volume in each of the last six months of not less than 1,000,000 shares, except that for each of the lowest weighted component securities in the index that in the aggregate account for no more than 10% of the weight of the index, the trading volume shall be at least 500,000 shares in each of the last six months;
indexes based upon the equal-dollar or modified equal-
dollar weighting method will be rebalanced at least semiannually;
in the case of a capitalization-weighted or modified capitalization- weighted index, the lesser of the five highest weighted component securities in the index or the highest weighted component securities in the index that in the aggregate represent at least 30% of the total number of component securities in the index, each have an average monthly trading volume of at least 2,000,000 shares over the previous six months;
no underlying component security will represent more than 25% of the weight of the index, and the five highest weighted component securities in the index do not in the aggregate account for more than 50% of the weight of the index (60% for an index consisting of fewer than 25 component securities);
90% of the index's numerical value and at least 80% of the total number of component securities will meet the then current criteria for standardized option trading on a national securities exchange or a national securities association, provided, however, that an index will not be subject to this requirement if (i) no underlying component security represents more than 10% of the dollar weight of the index and (ii) the index has a minimum of 20 components; and
all component securities shall be either (i) securities (other than securities of a foreign issuer and American Depository Receipts (``ADRs'')) that are (a) issued by a 1934 Act reporting company or by an investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 that, in each case, has securities listed on a national securities exchange and (b) an ``NMS stock'' (as defined in Rule 600 of Regulation NMS under the Act), or (ii) securities of a foreign issuer or ADRs, provided that securities of a foreign issuer (including when they underlie ADRs) whose primary trading market outside the United States is not a member of the Intermarket Surveillance Group (``ISG'') or a party to a comprehensive surveillance sharing agreement with the Exchange will not in the aggregate represent more than 20% of the dollar weight of the index.
Continued Listing Criteria
Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(i)(b) would adopt continued listing criteria for Equity Index-Linked Securities. Specifically, the Exchange will commence delisting or removal proceedings (unless the Commission has approved the continued trading of the subject Equity Index-Linked Security), if any of the standards set forth above are not continuously maintained, except that:
The criteria that no single component represent more than 25% of the dollar weight of the index and the five highest dollar weighted components in the index cannot represent more than 50% (or 60% for indexes with less than 25 components) of the dollar weight of the index, need only be satisfied at the time the index is rebalanced; and
component stocks that in the aggregate account for at least 90% of the weight of the index each shall have a minimum global monthly trading volume of 500,000 shares, or minimum global notional volume traded per month of $12,500,000, averaged over the last six months.
In connection with an Equity Index-Linked Security that is based on an index that has been reviewed and approved for the trading of options or other derivatives by the Commission under Section 19(b)(2) of the Act and rules thereunder and the conditions set forth in the Commission's approval order, the Exchange will commence delisting or removal proceedings (unless the Commission has approved the continued trading of the subject Equity Index-Linked Security) if an underlying index or indexes fails to satisfy the maintenance standards or conditions for such index or indexes as set forth by the Commission in its order under Section 19(b)(2) of the Act approving the index or indexes for the trading of options or other derivatives. Additionally, the Exchange will commence delisting or removal proceedings (unless the Commission has approved the
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continued trading of the subject Equity Index-Linked Security), under any of the following circumstances:
If the aggregate market value or the principal amount of the Equity Index- Linked Securities publicly held is less than $400,000;
if the value of the index or composite value of the indexes is no longer calculated or widely disseminated on at least a 15-second basis with respect to indexes containing only securities listed on a national securities exchange, or on at least a 60-second basis with respect to indexes containing foreign country securities, provided, however, that, if the official index value does not change during some or all of the period when trading is occurring on the Exchange (for example, for indexes of foreign country securities, because of time zone differences or holidays in the countries where such indexes' component stocks trade) then the last calculated official index value must remain available throughout Regular Trading Hours \14\ and both the Pre-Opening \15\ and After Hours Trading Sessions; \16\ or
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\14\ Regular Trading Hours are defined in Exchange Rule 1.5(w) as the time between 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. E.T.
\15\ The Pre-Opening Session is defined in Exchange Rule 1.5(r) and currently means the time between 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. E.T.
\16\ The After Hours Trading Session is defined in Exchange Rule 1.5(c) and currently means the time between 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. E.T.
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if such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable. Equity-Linked Indexes will be rebalanced at least annually.
The proposed rule change relating to Equity-Linked Securities is based on Nasdaq Rule 5710(k)(i).
Commodity-Linked Securities
Proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(ii) would adopt the initial listing criteria (found in current Rule 14.11(d)(2)(H), which would be deleted and replaced in proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(ii)(a)) and continued listing criteria for Commodity-Linked Securities, as set forth below.
Initial Listing Criteria
The Reference Asset must meet one of the following criteria:
The Reference Asset to which the security is linked shall have been reviewed and approved for the trading of Commodity-Related Securities or options or other derivatives by the Commission under Section 19(b)(2) of the Act and rules thereunder and the conditions set forth in the Commission's approval order, including with respect to comprehensive surveillance sharing agreements, continue to be satisfied; or
the pricing information for each component of a Reference Asset other than a Currency must be derived from a market which is an ISG member or affiliate or with which the Exchange has a comprehensive surveillance sharing agreement. Notwithstanding the previous sentence, pricing information for gold and silver may be derived from the London Bullion Market Association. The pricing information for each component of a Reference Asset that is a Currency must be either: (A) The generally accepted spot price for the currency exchange rate in question; or (B) derived from a market of which (i) is an ISG member or affiliate or with which the Exchange has a comprehensive surveillance sharing agreement and (ii) is the pricing source for a currency component of a Reference Asset that has previously been approved by the Commission. A Reference Asset may include components representing not more than 10% of the dollar weight of such Reference Asset for which the pricing information is derived from markets that do not meet the requirements of subparagraph (2) of the proposed rule, provided, however, that no single component subject to this exception exceeds 7% of the dollar weight of the Reference Asset. The term ``Currency,'' as used in the proposed rule, means one or more currencies, or currency options, futures, or other currency derivatives, Commodity-Related Securities if their underlying Commodities are currencies or currency derivatives, or a basket or index of any of the foregoing.
Continued Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(ii)(b) would establish continued listing criteria for Commodity-Linked Securities. Specifically, the Exchange will commence delisting or removal proceedings if any of the initial listing criteria described above are not continuously maintained. Additionally, the Exchange will also commence delisting or removal proceedings under any of the following circumstances:
If the aggregate market value or the principal amount of the Commodity- Linked Securities publicly held is less than $400,000;
if the value of the Commodity Reference Asset is no longer calculated or available and a new Commodity Reference Asset is substituted, unless the new Commodity Reference Asset meets the requirements of the proposed rule; or
if such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
The proposed rule change relating to Commodity-Linked Securities is based on Nasdaq Rule 5710(k)(ii).
Fixed Income Index-Linked Securities
Proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(iii) would set forth the listing criteria for Fixed Income Index-Linked Securities.
Initial Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(k)(iii)(a) states that either the Fixed Income Reference Asset to which the security is linked shall have been reviewed and approved for the trading of options, Index Fund Shares, or other derivatives by the Commission under Section 19(b)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and rules thereunder and the conditions set forth in the Commission's approval order, continue to be satisfied or the issue must meet the following initial listing criteria:
Components of the Fixed Income Reference Asset that in the aggregate account for at least 75% of the weight of the Fixed Income Reference Asset must each have a minimum original principal amount outstanding of $100 million or more;
a component of the Fixed Income Reference Asset may be a convertible security, however, once the convertible security component converts to the underlying equity security, the component is removed from the Fixed Income Reference Asset;
no component of the Fixed Income Reference Asset (excluding Treasury Securities and GSE Securities) will represent more than 30% of the dollar weight of the Fixed Income Reference Asset, and the five highest dollar weighted components in the Fixed Income Reference Asset will not in the aggregate account for more than 65% of the dollar weight of the Fixed Income Reference Asset;
an underlying Fixed Income Reference Asset (excluding one consisting entirely of exempted securities) must include a minimum of 13 non-affiliated issuers; and
component securities that in the aggregate account for at least 90% of the dollar weight of the Fixed Income Reference Asset must be from one of the following: (i) Issuers that are required to file reports pursuant to Sections 13 and 15(d) of the Act; or (ii) issuers that have a worldwide market value of outstanding common equity held by non-affiliates of $700 million or more; or (iii) issuers that have outstanding securities that are notes, bonds,
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debentures, or evidence of indebtedness having a total remaining principal amount of at least $1 billion; or (iv) exempted securities as defined in Section 3(a)(12) of the Act, or (v) issuers that are a government of a foreign country or a political subdivision of a foreign country.
In addition, proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(k)(iii)(b) states the value of the Fixed Income Reference Asset must be widely disseminated to the public by one or more major market vendors at least once per business day.
Continued Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(iii)(c) would provide that the Exchange will commence delisting or removal proceedings if any of the initial listing criteria described above are not continuously maintained, and that the Exchange will also commence delisting or removal proceedings:
If the aggregate market value or the principal amount of the Fixed Income Index-Linked Securities publicly held is less than $400,000;
if the value of the Fixed Income Reference Asset is no longer calculated or available and a new Fixed Income Reference Asset is substituted, unless the new Fixed Income Reference Asset meets the requirements of proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K); or
if such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
The proposed rule change relating to Fixed-Income Linked Securities is based on Nasdaq Rule 5710(k)(iii).
Futures-Linked Securities
Proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(iv) would establish listing standards for Futures-Linked Securities.
Initial Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(iv)(a) states that the issue must meet either of the following the initial listing standards:
The Futures Reference Asset to which the security is linked shall have been reviewed and approved for the trading of Futures-Linked Securities or options or other derivatives by the Commission under Section 19(b)(2) of the Act and rules thereunder and the conditions set forth in the Commission's approval order, including with respect to comprehensive surveillance sharing agreements, continue to be satisfied, or
the pricing information for components of a Futures Reference Asset must be derived from a market which is an ISG member or affiliate or with which the Exchange has a comprehensive surveillance sharing agreement. A Futures Reference Asset may include components representing not more than 10% of the dollar weight of such Futures Reference Asset for which the pricing information is derived from markets that do not meet the requirements of proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(iv)(a)(2); provided, however, that no single component subject to this exception exceeds 7% of the dollar weight of the Futures Reference Asset.
In addition, proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(k)(iv)(b) states that the issue must meet both of the following initial listing criteria:
The value of the Futures Reference Asset must be calculated and widely disseminated by one or more major market data vendors on at least a 15- second basis during the regular market session, and
in the case of Futures-Linked Securities that are periodically redeemable, the value of a share of each series (the ``Intraday Indicative Value'') of the subject Futures-Linked Securities must be calculated and widely disseminated by the Exchange or one or more major market data vendors on at least a 15-second basis during the Exchange's regular market session.
Continued Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(iv)(c) states that the Exchange will commence delisting or removal proceedings if any of the initial listing criteria described above are not continuously maintained, and that the Exchange will also commence delisting or removal proceedings under any of the following circumstances:
If the aggregate market value or the principal amount of the Futures-Linked Securities publicly held is less than $400,000;
if the value of the Futures Reference Asset is no longer calculated or available and a new Futures Reference Asset is substituted, unless the new Futures Reference Asset meets the requirements of proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K); or
if such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
The proposed rule change relating to Futures-Linked Securities is based on Nasdaq Rule 5710(k)(iv).
Multifactor Index-Linked Securities
Proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(v) would govern the listing standards for Multifactor Index-Linked Securities.
Initial Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(D)(2)(K)(v)(a) states that the issue must meet one of the following initial listing standards:
Each component of the Multifactor Reference Asset to which the security is linked shall have been reviewed and approved for the trading of either options, Index Fund Shares, or other derivatives under Section 19(b)(2) of the Act and rules thereunder and the conditions set forth in the Commission's approval order continue to be satisfied, or
each Reference Asset included in the Multifactor Reference Asset must meet the applicable initial and continued listing criteria set forth in the relevant subsection of proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K).
In addition to one of the initial listing standards set forth above, proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(v)(b) would state that the issue must meet both of the following initial listing criteria:
The value of the Multifactor Reference Asset must be calculated and widely disseminated to the public on at least a 15-
second basis during the time the Multifactor Index-Linked Security trades on the Exchange; and
in the case of Multifactor Index-Linked Securities that are periodically redeemable, the indicative value of the Multifactor Index-Linked Securities must be calculated and widely disseminated by one or more major market data vendors on at least a 15-second basis during the time the Multifactor Index-Linked Securities trade on the Exchange.
Continued Listing Criteria
Proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K)(v)(c) states that the Exchange will commence delisting or removal proceedings:
If any of the initial listing criteria described above are not continuously maintained;
if the aggregate market value or the principal amount of the Multifactor Index-Linked Securities publicly held is less than $400,000;
if the value of the Multifactor Reference Asset is no longer calculated or available and a new Multifactor Reference Asset is substituted, unless the new Multifactor Reference Asset meets the requirements of proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K); or
if such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
The proposed rule change relating to Multifactor Index-Linked Securities is based on Nasdaq Rule 5710(k)(v).
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Regulatory Requirements for Registered Market Makers in Linked Securities
Interpretation and Policy .01 to proposed Rule 14.11(d)(2)(K) would establish certain regulatory requirements for registered Market Makers in Linked Securities. Specifically, the registered Market Maker in Linked Securities must file with the Exchange, in a manner prescribed by the Exchange, and keep current a list identifying all accounts for trading in the Reference Asset components, the commodities, currencies or futures underlying the Reference Asset components, or any derivative instruments based on the Reference Asset or based on any Reference Asset component or any physical commodity, currency or futures underlying a Reference Asset component, which the registered Market Maker may have or over which it may exercise investment discretion. No registered Market Maker in Linked Securities would be permitted to trade in the Reference Asset components, the commodities, currencies or futures underlying the Reference Asset components, or any derivative instruments based on the Reference Asset or based on any Reference Asset component or any physical commodity, or futures currency underlying a Reference Asset component, in an account in which a registered Market Maker, directly or indirectly, controls trading activities, or has a direct interest in the profits or losses thereof, which has not been reported to the Exchange as required by the proposed Rule.
In addition to the existing obligations under Exchange rules regarding the production of books and records \17\ the registered Market Maker in Linked Securities would be required to make available to the Exchange such books, records or other information pertaining to transactions by such entity or any limited partner, officer or approved person thereof, registered or nonregistered employee affiliated with such entity for its or their own accounts in the Reference Asset components, the commodities, currencies or futures underlying the Reference Asset components, or any derivative instruments based on the Reference Asset or based on any Reference Asset component or any physical commodity, currency or futures underlying a Reference Asset component, as may be requested by the Exchange.
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\17\ See, e.g., Exchange Rule 4.2.
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The proposed rule change relating to regulatory requirements for registered Market Makers in Linked Securities is based on Nasdaq Rule 5710, Commentary .01.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)--Trading of Certain Derivative Securities
The Exchange proposes to adopt new Rule 14.11(e), Trading of Certain Derivative Securities, which would set forth listing standards for the securities described below.
Index-Linked Exchangeable Notes
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(1) would adopt listing standards for Index-
Linked Exchangeable Notes.
Description
Index-Linked Exchangeable Notes are exchangeable debt securities that are exchangeable at the option of the holder (subject to the requirement that the holder in most circumstances exchange a specified minimum amount of notes), on call by the issuer, or at maturity for a cash amount (the ``Cash Value Amount'') based on the reported market prices of the underlying stocks of an underlying index. Each Index-
Linked Exchangeable Note is intended to provide investors with an instrument that closely tracks the underlying index. Notwithstanding that the notes are linked to an index, they will trade as a single security.
Initial Listing Standards
Index-Linked Exchangeable Notes will be considered for listing and trading by the Exchange pursuant to Rule 19b-4(e) under the Act,\18\ provided:
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\18\ 17 CFR 240.19b-4(e).
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Both the issue and the issuer of such security meet the requirements of Rule 14.11(h), Listing Requirements for Securities Not Specified Above (Other Securities), except that the minimum public distribution shall be 150,000 notes with a minimum of 400 public note-
holders, except, if traded in thousand dollar denominations or redeemable at the option of the holders thereof on at least a weekly basis, then no minimum public distribution and no minimum number of holders.
The issue has a minimum term of one year.
The issuer will be expected to have a minimum tangible net worth in excess of $250,000,000, and to otherwise substantially exceed the earnings requirements set forth in Rule 14.8(b)(2). In the alternative, the issuer will be expected: (i) To have a minimum tangible net worth of $150,000,000 and to otherwise substantially exceed the earnings requirements set forth in Rule 14.8(b)(2); and (ii) not to have issued Index-Linked Exchangeable Notes where the original issue price of all the issuer's other Index-Linked Exchangeable Note offerings (combined with other index-linked exchangeable note offerings of the issuer's affiliates) listed on a national securities exchange exceeds 25% of the issuer's net worth.
The index to which an exchangeable-note is linked shall either be (i) indices that have been created by a third party and been reviewed and have been approved for the trading of options or other derivatives securities (each, a ``Third-Party Index'') either by the Commission under Section 19(b)(2) of the Act and rules thereunder or by the Exchange under rules adopted pursuant to Rule 19b-4(e); or (ii) indices which the issuer has created and for which the Exchange will have obtained approval from either the Commission pursuant to Section 19(b)(2) and rules thereunder or from the Exchange under rules adopted pursuant to Rule 19b-4(e) (each an ``Issuer Index''). The Issuer Indices and their underlying securities must meet one of the following: (A) The procedures and criteria set forth in BATS Options Rules 29.6(b) and (c), or (B) the criteria set forth in Rules 14.11(e)(12)(B)(iii) and (iv), the index concentration limits set forth in BATS Options Rule 29.6, and BATS Options Rule 29.6(b)(12) insofar as it relates to BATS Options Rule 29.6(b)(6).
Index-Linked Exchangeable Notes will be treated as equity instruments.
Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(1)(F) the Intraday Indicative Value of the subject Index-Linked Exchangeable Notes must be calculated and widely disseminated by the Exchange or one or more major market data vendors on at least a 15-second basis during the Exchange's regular market session. Additionally, under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(1)(G), the value of the underlying index must be publicly available to investors, on a real time basis, every 15 seconds. For the avoidance of doubt, proposed Rule 14.11(e)(1)(F) also includes a definition of ``Intraday Indicative Value'' that is specific to the proposed rule, i.e., for purposes of the proposed rule, the term ``Intraday Indicative Value'' means an estimate of the value of a note or a share of the series of Index-Linked Exchangeable Notes. Proposed Rules 14.11(e)(1)(F) and (G) would ensure that the value of an Index-Linked Exchangeable Note and its underlying index are publicly available on a real time basis. This will provide investors with up-to-date information on the value of the note and the Third Party Index or Issuer Index. Accordingly, Index-
Linked Exchangeable Notes
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should allow investors to: (i) Respond quickly to market changes through intra-day trading opportunities; (ii) engage in hedging strategies; and (iii) reduce transaction costs for trading a group or index of securities.
Continued Listing Standards
Beginning twelve months after the initial issuance of a series of Index-Linked Exchangeable Notes, the Exchange will consider the suspension of trading in or removal from listing of that series of Index-Linked Exchangeable Notes under any of the following circumstances:
If the series has fewer than 50,000 notes issued and outstanding;
If the market value of all Index-Linked Exchangeable Notes of that series issued and outstanding is less than $1,000,000; or
if such other event shall occur or such other condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
The proposed rule change relating to Index-Linked Exchangeable Notes is based on Nasdaq Rule 5711(a).
Equity Gold Shares
Description
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(2) would apply to Equity Gold Shares that represent units of fractional undivided beneficial interest in, and ownership of, the Equity Gold Trust. While Equity Gold Shares are not technically ``Index Fund Shares,'' and thus are not covered by Exchange Rule 14.11(c), all other of the Exchange's rules that reference ``Index Fund Shares'' shall also apply to Equity Gold Shares.
Applicability
Except to the extent that specific provisions in proposed Rule 14.11(e)(2) govern, or unless the context otherwise requires, the provisions of all other Exchange Rules and policies would be applicable to the trading of Equity Gold Shares on the Exchange. The provisions set forth in proposed Rule 14.11(e)(4) relating to Commodity-Based Trust Shares would also apply to Equity Gold Shares.
The proposed rule change relating to Equity Gold Shares is based on Nasdaq Rule 5711(b).
Trust Certificates
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(3) would govern the listing standards applicable to Trust Certificates. The Exchange will consider for trading, whether by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, Trust Certificates.
Description
Trust Certificates represent an interest in a special purpose trust (the ``Trust'') created pursuant to a trust agreement. The Trust will only issue Trust Certificates. Trust Certificates may or may not provide for the repayment of the original principal investment amount. Trust Certificates pay an amount at maturity which is based upon the performance of specified assets as set forth below:
An underlying index or indexes of equity securities (an ``Equity Reference Asset'');
instruments that are direct obligations of the issuing company, either exercisable throughout their life (i.e., American style) or exercisable only on their expiration date (i.e., European style), entitling the holder to a cash settlement in U.S. dollars to the extent that the foreign or domestic index has declined below (for put warrant) or increased above (for a call warrant) the pre-stated cash settlement value of the index (``Index Warrants''); or
a combination of two or more Equity Reference Assets or Index Warrants.
The Exchange will file separate proposals under Section 19(b) of the Act before trading, either by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, Trust Certificates.
Continued Listing Standards
Proposed Interpretation and Policy .01 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(3) would state that the Exchange will commence delisting or removal proceedings with respect to an issue of Trust Certificates (unless the Commission has approved the continued trading of such issue), under any of the following circumstances:
If the aggregate market value or the principal amount of the securities publicly held is less than $400,000;
If the value of the index or composite value of the indexes is no longer calculated or widely disseminated on at least a 15-second basis with respect to indexes containing only securities listed on a national securities exchange, or on at least a 60-second basis with respect to indexes containing foreign country securities, provided, however, that, if the official index value does not change during some or all of the period when trading is occurring on the Exchange (for example, for indexes of foreign country securities, because of time zone differences or holidays in the countries where such indexes' component stocks trade) then the last calculated official index value must remain available throughout Regular Trading Hours and both the Pre-Opening and After Hours Trading Sessions; or
If such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
Other Provisions
Proposed Interpretation and Policy .02 to Rule 14.11(e)(3) would provide that the stated term of the Trust shall be as stated in the Trust prospectus. However, a Trust may be terminated under such earlier circumstances as may be specified in the Trust prospectus.
Proposed Interpretation and Policy .03 to Rule 14.11(e)(3) would provide that the trustee of a Trust must be a trust company or banking institution having substantial capital and surplus and the experience and facilities for handling corporate trust business. In cases where, for any reason, an individual has been appointed as trustee, a qualified trust company or banking institution must be appointed co-
trustee. No change is to be made in the trustee of a listed issue without prior notice to and approval of the Exchange.
Proposed Interpretation and Policy .04 to Rule 14.11(e)(3) would provide that voting rights will be as set forth in the applicable Trust prospectus.
Proposed Interpretation and Policy .05 to Rule 14.11(e)(3) would provide that the Exchange will implement written surveillance procedures for Trust Certificates.
Proposed Interpretation and Policy .06 to Rule 14.11(e)(3) would provide that the Trust Certificates will be subject to the Exchange's equity trading rules.
Proposed Interpretation and Policy .07 to Rule 14.11(e)(3) would provide that prior to the commencement of trading of a particular Trust Certificates listing pursuant to this Rule, the Exchange will evaluate the nature and complexity of the issue and, if appropriate, distribute a circular to Members providing guidance regarding compliance responsibilities (including suitability recommendations and account approval) when handling transactions in Trust Certificates.
Proposed Interpretation and Policy .08 to Rule 14.11(e)(3) would provide that Trust Certificates may be exchangeable at the option of the holder into securities that participate in the return of the applicable underlying asset. In the event that the Trust Certificates are exchangeable at the option of the holder and contain an Index Warrant, then a Member must ensure that the Member's account is approved for options trading in accordance with the rules of the
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Exchange's options market (``BATS Options'') in order to exercise such rights.
Proposed Interpretation and Policy .09 to Rule 14.11(e)(3) would provide that Trust Certificates may pass-through periodic payments of interest and principle of the underlying securities.
Proposed Interpretation and Policy .10 to Rule 14.11(e)(3) would provide that the Trust payments may be guaranteed pursuant to a financial guaranty insurance policy which may include swap agreements.
Proposed Interpretation and Policy .11 to Rule 14.11(e)(3) would provide that the Trust Certificates may be subject to early termination or call features.
The proposed rule change relating to Trust Certificates is based on Nasdaq Rule 5711(c).
Commodity-Based Trust Shares
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(4) would permit the listing and trading, or trading pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, of Commodity-Based Trust Shares on the Exchange. Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(4) would be applicable only to Commodity-Based Trust Shares. Except to the extent inconsistent with the proposed Rule, or unless the context otherwise requires, the provisions of the trust issued receipts rules, Bylaws, and all other rules and procedures of the Board of Directors shall be applicable to the trading on the Exchange of such securities. Commodity-Based Trust Shares are included within the definition of ``security'' or ``securities'' as such terms are used in the Rules of the Exchange.
Description
``Commodity-Based Trust Shares,'' as defined in proposed Rule 14.11(e)(4)(C)(i), means a security (a) that is issued by a Trust that holds a specified commodity deposited with the Trust; (b) that is issued by such Trust in a specified aggregate minimum number in return for a deposit of a quantity of the underlying commodity; and (c) that, when aggregated in the same specified minimum number, may be redeemed at a holder's request by such Trust which will deliver to the redeeming holder the quantity of the underlying commodity. Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(4)(C)(ii) states that the term ``commodity'' is defined in Section 1(a)(4) of the Commodity Exchange Act.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(4)(D) states that the Exchange may trade, either by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, Commodity-Based Trust Shares based on an underlying commodity. Each issue of a Commodity-Based Trust Share will be designated as a separate series and will be identified by a unique symbol.
Initial Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(4)(E)(i) states that the Exchange will establish a minimum number of Commodity-Based Trust Shares required to be outstanding at the time of commencement of trading on the Exchange.
Continued Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(4)(E)(ii) provides that following the initial 12-month period following commencement of trading on the Exchange of Commodity-Based Trust Shares, the Exchange will consider the suspension of trading in or removal from listing of such series under any of the following circumstances if:
The Trust has more than 60 days remaining until termination and there are fewer than 50 record and/or beneficial holders of Commodity-Based Trust Shares for 30 or more consecutive trading days;
The Trust has fewer than 50,000 receipts issued and outstanding;
The market value of all receipts issued and outstanding is less than $1,000,000;
The value of the underlying commodity is no longer calculated or available on at least a 15-second delayed basis from a source unaffiliated with the sponsor, Trust, custodian or the Exchange or the Exchange stops providing a hyperlink on its Web site to any such unaffiliated commodity value;
The Intraday Indicative Value \19\ is no longer made available on at least a 15-second delayed basis; or
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\19\ The Intraday Indicative Value is an estimate, updated at least every 15 seconds, of the value of a share of each series during the Exchange's regular market session. See, e.g., Exchange Rules 14.11(b)(3)(C) and (c)(3)(C).
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Such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
Other Provisions
Upon termination of a Trust, the Exchange requires that Commodity-
Based Trust Shares issued in connection with such entity Trust be removed from Exchange listing. A Trust may terminate in accordance with the provisions of the Trust prospectus, which may provide for termination if the value of the Trust falls below a specified amount.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(4)(E)(iii) provides that the stated term of the Trust shall be as stated in the Trust prospectus. However, a Trust may be terminated under such earlier circumstances as may be specified in the Trust prospectus.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(4)(E)(iv) would apply the following requirements to the trustee of a Trust:
The trustee of a Trust must be a trust company or banking institution having substantial capital and surplus and the experience and facilities for handling corporate trust business. In cases where, for any reason, an individual has been appointed as trustee, a qualified trust company or banking institution must be appointed co-
trustee.
No change is to be made in the trustee of a listed issue without prior notice to and approval of the Exchange.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(4)(E)(v) states that voting rights shall be as set forth in the applicable Trust prospectus.
Proposed Rules 14.11(e)(4)(F) and (G) describe the limitation of the Exchange liability and requirements for Market Makers in Commodity-
Based Trust Shares (see below for a general discussion of these requirements).
Interpretation and Policy .01 to proposed Exchange Rule 14.11(e)(4) provides that a Commodity-Based Trust Share is a Trust Issued Receipt that holds a specified commodity deposited with the Trust.
Interpretation and Policy .02 to proposed Exchange Rule 14.11(e)(4) provides that the Exchange requires that Members provide all purchasers of newly issued Commodity-Based Trust Shares a prospectus for the series of Commodity-Based Trust Shares.
Interpretation and Policy .03 to proposed Exchange Rule 14.11(e)(4) provides that transactions in Commodity-Based Trust Shares will occur during Regular Trading Hours and both the Pre-Opening and After Hours Trading Sessions.
Interpretation and Policy .04 to proposed Exchange Rule 14.11(e)(4) provides that the Exchange will file separate proposals under Section 19(b) of the Exchange Act before the listing and/or trading of Commodity-Based Trust Shares.
The proposed rule change relating to Commodity-Based Trust Shares is based on Nasdaq Rule 5711(d).
Currency Trust Shares
The Exchange proposes to adopt new Exchange Rule 14.11(e)(5) for the purpose of permitting the listing and trading, or trading pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, of Currency Trust Shares. Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5) would be applicable only to Currency Trust Shares. Except to the extent inconsistent with the proposed Rule, or unless the context otherwise requires, the
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provisions of the trust issued receipts rules, Bylaws, and all other rules and procedures of the Board of Directors shall be applicable to the trading on the Exchange of such securities. Currency Trust Shares are included within the definition of ``security'' or ``securities'' as such terms are used in the Rules of the Exchange.
Description
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5)(C) provides that the term ``Currency Trust Shares'' as used in these proposed rules means, unless the context otherwise requires, a security that:
is issued by a Trust that holds a specified non-U.S. currency or currencies deposited with the Trust;
when aggregated in some specified minimum number may be surrendered to the Trust by an Authorized Participant (as defined in the Trust's prospectus) to receive the specified non-U.S. currency or currencies; and
pays beneficial owners interest and other distributions on the deposited non-U.S. currency or currencies, if any, declared and paid by the Trust.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5)(D) states that the Exchange may trade, either by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, Currency Trust Shares that hold a specified non- U.S. currency or currencies. Each issue of Currency Trust Shares would be designated as a separate series and shall be identified by a unique symbol.
Initial Listing Standards
The Exchange will establish a minimum number of Currency Trust Shares required to be outstanding at the time of commencement of trading on the Exchange.
Continued Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5)(E)(ii) provides that, following the initial 12 month period following commencement of trading on the Exchange of Currency Trust Shares, the Exchange will consider the suspension of trading in or removal from listing of such series under any of the following circumstances:
If the Trust has more than 60 days remaining until termination and there are fewer than 50 record and/or beneficial holders of Currency Trust Shares for 30 or more consecutive trading days;
if the Trust has fewer than 50,000 Currency Trust Shares issued and outstanding;
if the market value of all Currency Trust Shares issued and outstanding is less than $1,000,000;
if the value of the applicable non-U.S. currency is no longer calculated or available on at least a 15-second delayed basis from a source unaffiliated with the sponsor, Trust, custodian or the Exchange or the Exchange stops providing a hyperlink on its Web site to any such unaffiliated applicable non-U.S. currency value;
if the Intraday Indicative Value is no longer made available on at least a 15-second delayed basis; or
if such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
Upon termination of a Trust, the Exchange would require that Currency Trust Shares issued in connection with such entity Trust be removed from Exchange listing. A Trust may terminate in accordance with the provisions of the Trust prospectus, which may provide for termination if the value of the Trust falls below a specified amount.
Other
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5)(E)(iii) states that the stated term of the Trust shall be as stated in the Trust prospectus. However, a Trust may be terminated under such earlier circumstances as may be specified in the Trust prospectus.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5)(E)(iv) states that the following requirements apply to the trustee of a Trust:
The trustee of a Trust must be a trust company or banking institution having substantial capital and surplus and the experience and facilities for handling corporate trust business. In cases where, for any reason, an individual has been appointed as trustee, a qualified trust company or banking institution must be appointed co-
trustee.
No change is to be made in the trustee of a listed issue without prior notice to and approval of the Exchange.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5)(E)(v) states that voting rights shall be as set forth in the applicable Trust prospectus.
Proposed Rules 14.11(e)(5)(F) and (G) set forth the requirements respecting limitation of the Exchange liability and Market Maker Accounts (see below for a general discussion of these requirements).
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5)(H) states that the Exchange may submit a rule filing pursuant to Section 19(b)(2) of the Act to permit the listing and trading of Currency Trust Shares that do not otherwise meet the standards set forth in Interpretation and Policy .04 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5).
Interpretation and Policy .01 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5) states that a Currency Trust Share is a Trust Issued Receipt that holds a specified non-U.S. currency or currencies deposited with the Trust.
Interpretation and Policy .02 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5) states that the Exchange requires that Members provide all purchasers of newly issued Currency Trust Shares a prospectus for the series of Currency Trust Shares.
Interpretation and Policy .03 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5) provides that transactions in Currency Trust Shares will occur during Regular Trading Hours and both the Pre-Opening and After Hours Trading Sessions.
Interpretation and Policy .04 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5) provides that the Exchange may approve an issue of Currency Trust Shares for listing and/or trading (including pursuant to unlisted trading privileges) pursuant to Rule 19b-4(e) under the Act. Such issue shall satisfy the criteria set forth in the proposed rule, together with the following criteria:
A minimum of 100,000 shares of a series of Currency Trust Shares is required to be outstanding at commencement of trading (this would not apply to issues trading pursuant to unlisted trading privileges);
the value of the applicable non-U.S. currency, currencies or currency index must be disseminated by one or more major market data vendors on at least a 15-second delayed basis;
the Intraday Indicative Value must be calculated and widely disseminated by the Exchange or one or more major market data vendors on at least a 15- second basis during the regular market session; and
The Exchange will implement written surveillance procedures applicable to Currency Trust Shares.
Interpretation and Policy .05 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5) states that if the value of a Currency Trust Share is based in whole or in part on an index that is maintained by a broker-dealer, the broker-
dealer would be required to erect a ``firewall'' around the personnel responsible for the maintenance of such index or who have access to information concerning changes and adjustments to the index, and the index shall be calculated by a third party who is not a broker-dealer. Additionally, any advisory committee, supervisory board or similar entity that advises an index licensor or administrator or that makes decisions regarding the index or portfolio composition, methodology and related matters must implement and maintain, or be subject to, procedures designed to prevent the use and dissemination of material, non-public information regarding the applicable index or portfolio.
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Interpretation and Policy .06 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(5) provides that Currency Trust Shares will be subject to the Exchange's equity trading rules.
Trading Halts
Proposed Interpretation and Policy .07 to Rule 14.11(e)(5) states that if the Intraday Indicative Value, or the value of the non-U.S. currency or currencies or the currency index applicable to a series of Currency Trust Shares is not being disseminated as required, the Exchange may halt trading during the day on which such interruption first occurs. If such interruption persists past the trading day in which it occurred, the Exchange will halt trading no later than the beginning of the trading day following the interruption. If the Exchange becomes aware that the net asset value applicable to a series of Currency Trust Shares is not being disseminated to all market participants at the same time, it will halt trading in such series until such time as the net asset value is available to all market participants.
The proposed rule change relating to Currency Trust Shares is based on Nasdaq Rule 5711(e).
Commodity Index Trust Shares
The Exchange will consider for trading, whether by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, Commodity Index Trust Shares that meet the criteria of proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6). Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6)(B) states that proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6) would be applicable only to Commodity Index Trust Shares. Except to the extent inconsistent with the proposed Rule, or unless the context otherwise requires, the provisions of the trust issued receipts rules, Bylaws, and all other rules and procedures of the Board of Directors shall be applicable to the trading on the Exchange of such securities. Commodity Index Trust Shares are included within the definition of ``security'' or ``securities'' as such terms are used in the Rules of the Exchange.
Description
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6)(C) defines the term ``Commodity Index Trust Shares'' to mean, as used in these proposed Rules (unless the context otherwise requires), a security that (i) is issued by a Trust that (a) is a commodity pool as defined in the Commodity Exchange Act and regulations thereunder, and that is managed by a commodity pool operator registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission; and (b) that holds long positions in futures contracts on a specified commodity index, or interests in a commodity pool which, in turn, holds such long positions; and (ii) when aggregated in some specified minimum number may be surrendered to the Trust by the beneficial owner to receive positions in futures contracts on a specified index and cash or short term securities. The term ``futures contract'' is commonly known as a ``contract of sale of a commodity for future delivery'' set forth in Section 2(a) of the Commodity Exchange Act.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6)(D) states that the Exchange may trade, either by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, Commodity Index Trust Shares based on one or more securities. The Commodity Index Trust Shares based on particular securities would be designated as a separate series and would be identified by a unique symbol.
Initial Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6)(E)(i) states that the Exchange will establish a minimum number of Commodity Index Trust Shares required to be outstanding at the time of commencement of trading on the Exchange.
Continued Listing Standards
Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6)(E)(ii), the Exchange will consider the suspension of trading in or removal from listing of a series of Commodity Index Trust Shares under any of the following circumstances:
Following the initial twelve-month period beginning upon the commencement of trading of the Commodity Index Trust Shares, there are fewer than 50 record and/or beneficial holders of Commodity Index Trust Shares for 30 or more consecutive trading days;
if the value of the applicable underlying index is no longer calculated or available on at least a 15-second delayed basis from a source unaffiliated with the sponsor, the Trust or the trustee of the Trust;
if the net asset value for the trust is no longer disseminated to all market participants at the same time;
if the Intraday Indicative Value is no longer made available on at least a 15-second delayed basis; or
if such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
Upon termination of a Trust, the Exchange would require that Commodity Index Trust Shares issued in connection with such entity Trust be removed from Exchange listing. A Trust may terminate in accordance with the provisions of the Trust prospectus, which may provide for termination if the value of the Trust falls below a specified amount.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6)(E)(iii) provides that the stated term of the Trust shall be as stated in the Trust prospectus. However, a Trust may be terminated under such earlier circumstances as may be specified in the Trust prospectus.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6)(E)(iv) states that the following requirements apply to the trustee of a Trust:
The trustee of a Trust must be a trust company or banking institution having substantial capital and surplus and the experience and facilities for handling corporate trust business. In cases where, for any reason, an individual has been appointed as trustee, a qualified trust company or banking institution must be appointed co-
trustee.
No change is to be made in the trustee of a listed issue without prior notice to and approval of the Exchange.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6)(E)(v) provides that voting rights shall be as set forth in the applicable Trust prospectus.
Proposed Rules 14.11(e)(6)(F) and (G) set forth the requirements respecting limitation of the Exchange liability and Market Maker Accounts (see below for a general discussion of these requirements).
Interpretation and Policy .01 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6) states that a Commodity Index Trust Share is a Trust Issued Receipt that holds long positions in futures contracts on a specified commodity index, or interests in a commodity pool which, in turn, holds such long positions, deposited with the Trust.
Interpretation and Policy .02 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6) states that the Exchange requires that Members provide all purchasers of newly issued Commodity Index Trust Shares a prospectus for the series of Commodity Index Trust Shares.
Interpretation and Policy .03 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6) states that transactions in Commodity Index Trust Shares will occur during Regular Trading Hours and both the Pre-Opening and After Hours Trading Sessions.
Interpretation and Policy .04 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(6) states that the Exchange will file separate proposals under Section 19(b) of the Act before trading, either by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, Commodity Index Trust Shares.
The proposed rule change relating to Commodity Index Trust Shares is based on Nasdaq Rule 5711(f).
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Commodity Futures Trust Shares
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7) governs the listing of Commodity Futures Trust Shares. The Exchange will consider for trading, whether by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, Commodity Futures Trust Shares that meet the criteria of proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7). Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7)(B) states that proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7) would apply only to Commodity Futures Trust Shares. Except to the extent inconsistent with the proposed Rule, or unless the context otherwise requires, the provisions of the trust issued receipts rules, Bylaws, and all other rules and procedures of the Board of Directors shall be applicable to the trading on the Exchange of such securities. Commodity Futures Trust Shares are included within the definition of ``security'' or ``securities'' as such terms are used in the Rules of the Exchange.
Description
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7)(C) states that the term ``Commodity Futures Trust Shares'' as used in the proposed Rules means, unless the context otherwise requires, a security that: (i) is issued by a Trust that (a) is a commodity pool as defined in the Commodity Exchange Act and regulations thereunder, and that is managed by a commodity pool operator registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, and (b) holds positions in futures contracts that track the performance of a specified commodity, or interests in a commodity pool which, in turn, holds such positions; and (ii) is issued and redeemed daily in specified aggregate amounts at net asset value. The term ``futures contract'' is a ``contract of sale of a commodity for future delivery'' set forth in Section 2(a) of the Commodity Exchange Act. The term ``commodity'' is defined in Section 1(a)(4) of the Commodity Exchange Act.
Designation of an Underlying Commodity Futures Contract
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7)(D) states that the Exchange may trade, either by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, Commodity Futures Trust Shares based on an underlying commodity futures contract. Each issue of Commodity Futures Trust Shares shall be designated as a separate series and shall be identified by a unique symbol.
Initial Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7)(E)(i) states that the Exchange will establish a minimum number of Commodity Futures Trust Shares required to be outstanding at the time of commencement of trading on the Exchange.
Continued Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7)(E)(ii) states that the Exchange will consider the suspension of trading in or removal from listing of a series of Commodity Futures Trust Shares under any of the following circumstances:
If, following the initial twelve-month period beginning upon the commencement of trading of the Commodity Futures Trust Shares: (1) the Trust has fewer than 50,000 Commodity Futures Trust Shares issued and outstanding; or (2) the market value of all Commodity Futures Trust Shares issued and outstanding is less than $1,000,000; or (3) there are fewer than 50 record and/or beneficial holders of Commodity Futures Trust Shares for 30 consecutive trading days;
if the value of the underlying futures contracts is no longer calculated or available on at least a 15-second delayed basis during the Exchange's regular market session from a source unaffiliated with the sponsor, the Trust or the trustee of the Trust;
if the net asset value for the Trust is no longer disseminated to all market participants at the same time;
if the Intraday Indicative Value is no longer disseminated on at least a 15- second delayed basis during the Exchange's regular market session; or
if such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
Upon termination of a Trust, the Exchange requires that Commodity Futures Trust Shares issued in connection with such trust be removed from Exchange listing. A Trust will terminate in accordance with the provisions of the Trust prospectus.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7)(E)(iii) states that the stated term of the Trust shall be as stated in the prospectus. However, a Trust may be terminated under such earlier circumstances as may be specified in the Trust prospectus.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7)(E)(iv) states that the following requirements apply to the trustee of a Trust:
The trustee of a Trust must be a trust company or banking institution having substantial capital and surplus and the experience and facilities for handling corporate trust business. In cases where, for any reason, an individual has been appointed as trustee, a qualified trust company or banking institution must be appointed co-
trustee.
No change is to be made in the trustee of a listed issue without prior notice to and approval of the Exchange.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7)(E)(v) states that voting rights shall be as set forth in the applicable Trust prospectus.
Proposed Rules 14.11(e)(7)(F) and (G) describe the requirements for Market Makers and the limitation of the Exchange liability in Commodity Futures Trust Shares (see below for a general discussion of these requirements).
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7)(H) states that the Exchange will file separate proposals under Section 19(b) of the Act before listing and trading separate and distinct Commodity Futures Trust Shares designated on different underlying futures contracts.
Interpretation and Policy .01 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7) would require Members trading in Commodity Futures Trust Shares to provide all purchasers of newly issued Commodity Futures Trust Shares a prospectus for the series of Commodity Futures Trust Shares.
Interpretation and Policy .02 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7) states that transactions in Commodity Futures Trust Shares will occur during Regular Trading Hours and both the Pre-Opening and After Hours Trading Sessions.
Interpretation and Policy .03 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7) states that if the Intraday Indicative Value or the value of the underlying futures contract is not being disseminated as required, the Exchange may halt trading during the day in which the interruption to the dissemination of the Intraday Indicative Value or the value of the underlying futures contract occurs. If the interruption to the dissemination of the Intraday Indicative Value or the value of the underlying futures contract persists past the trading day in which it occurred, the Exchange will halt trading no later than the beginning of the trading day following the interruption.
In addition, if the Exchange becomes aware that the net asset value with respect to a series of Commodity Futures Trust Shares is not disseminated to all market participants at the same time, it will halt trading in such series until such time as the net asset value is available to all market participants.
Interpretation and Policy .04 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7) states that the Exchange's rules governing the trading of equity securities apply.
Interpretation and Policy .05 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(7) states that the Exchange will implement written surveillance procedures for Commodity Futures Trust Shares.
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The proposed rule change relating to Commodity Futures Trust Shares is based on Nasdaq Rule 5711(g).
Partnership Units
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8) would govern the listing of Partnership Units. Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8)(A), the Exchange will consider for trading, whether by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, Partnership Units that meet the criteria of proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8).
Description
Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8)(B), the following terms as used in the proposed Rule would, unless the context otherwise requires, have the following meanings:
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8)(B)(i) states that the term ``commodity'' is defined in Section 1(a)(4) of the Commodity Exchange Act.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8)(B)(ii) defines a Partnership Unit for purposes of the proposed Rule as a security (a) that is issued by a partnership that invests in any combination of futures contracts, options on futures contracts, forward contracts, commodities and/or securities; and (b) that is issued and redeemed daily in specified aggregate amounts at net asset value.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8)(C) states that the Exchange may list and trade Partnership Units based on an underlying asset, commodity or security. Each issue of a Partnership Unit would be designated as a separate series and would be identified by a unique symbol.
Initial Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8)(D)(i) states that the Exchange will establish a minimum number of Partnership Units required to be outstanding at the time of commencement of trading on the Exchange.
Continued Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8)(D)(ii) provides that the Exchange will consider removal of Partnership Units from listing under any of the following circumstances:
If, following the initial twelve month period from the date of commencement of trading of the Partnership Units, (1) the partnership has more than 60 days remaining until termination and there are fewer than 50 record and/or beneficial holders of the Partnership Units for 30 or more consecutive trading days; (2) the partnership has fewer than 50,000 Partnership Units issued and outstanding; or (3) the market value of all Partnership Units issued and outstanding is less than $1,000,000;
if the value of the underlying benchmark investment, commodity or asset is no longer calculated or available on at least a 15-second delayed basis or the Exchange stops providing a hyperlink on its Web site to any such investment, commodity or asset value;
if the Intraday Indicative Value is no longer made available on at least a 15-second delayed basis; or
if such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
Upon termination of a partnership, the Exchange requires that Partnership Units issued in connection with such partnership be removed from Exchange listing. A partnership will terminate in accordance with the provisions of the partnership prospectus.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8)(D)(iii) provides that the stated term of the partnership shall be as stated in the prospectus. However, such entity may be terminated under such earlier circumstances as may be specified in the Partnership prospectus.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8)(D)(iv) would adopt the following requirements that apply to the general partner of a partnership:
The general partner of a partnership must be an entity having substantial capital and surplus and the experience and facilities for handling partnership business. In cases where, for any reason, an individual has been appointed as general partner, a qualified entity must also be appointed as general partner.
No change is to be made in the general partner of a listed issue without prior notice to and approval of the Exchange.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8)(D)(v) states that voting rights shall be as set forth in the applicable partnership prospectus.
Proposed Rules 14.11(e)(8)(E) and (F) describe the limitation of the Exchange liability and requirements for Market Makers in Partnership Units (see below for a general discussion of these requirements).
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8)(G) states that the Exchange will file separate proposals under Section 19(b) of the Act before listing and trading separate and distinct Partnership Units designated on different underlying investments, commodities and/or assets.
Interpretation and Policy .01 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(8) states that the Exchange requires that Members provide to all purchasers of newly issued Partnership Units a prospectus for the series of Partnership Units.
The proposed rule change relating to Partnership Units is based on Nasdaq Rule 5711(h).
Trust Units
The Exchange proposes to add new Rule 14.11(e)(9) in order to permit trading, either by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, of Trust Units.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9)(A) states that the provisions in proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9) are applicable only to Trust Units. In addition, except to the extent inconsistent with this Rule, or unless the context otherwise requires, the rules and procedures of the Board of Directors shall be applicable to the trading on the Exchange of such securities. Trust Units are included within the definition of ``security,'' ``securities'' and ``derivative securities products'' as such terms are used in the Rules of the Exchange.
Description
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9)(B) states that the following terms as used in the proposed Rule shall, unless the context otherwise requires, have the following meanings:
The term ``commodity'' is defined in Section 1(a)(4) of the Commodity Exchange Act.
A Trust Unit is a security that is issued by a trust or other similar entity that is constituted as a commodity pool that holds investments comprising or otherwise based on any combination of futures contracts, options on futures contracts, forward contracts, swap contracts, commodities and/or securities.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9)(C) states that the Exchange may list and trade Trust Units based on an underlying asset, commodity, security or portfolio. Each issue of a Trust Unit shall be designated as a separate series and shall be identified by a unique symbol.
Initial Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9)(D)(i) states that the Exchange will establish a minimum number of Trust Units required to be outstanding at the time of commencement of trading on the Exchange. The Exchange will obtain a representation from the issuer of each series of Trust Units that the net asset value per share for the series will be calculated daily and will be made available to all market participants at the same time.
Continued Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9)(D)(ii)(a) states that the Exchange will remove Trust Units from listing under any of the following circumstances:
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If following the initial twelve month period following the commencement of trading of Trust Units, (A) the trust has more than 60 days remaining until termination and there are fewer than 50 record and/or beneficial holders of Trust Units for 30 or more consecutive trading days; (B) the trust has fewer than 50,000 Trust Units issued and outstanding; or (C) the market value of all Trust Units issued and outstanding is less than $1,000,000; or
if such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
Trading Halts
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9)(D)(ii)(b) states that the Exchange will halt trading in a series of Trust Units if the circuit breaker parameters in Rule 11.18 have been reached. In exercising its discretion to halt or suspend trading in a series of Trust Units, the Exchange may consider any relevant factors. In particular, if the portfolio and net asset value per share are not being disseminated as required, the Exchange may halt trading during the day in which the interruption to the dissemination of the portfolio holdings or net asset value per share occurs. If the interruption to the dissemination of the portfolio holdings or net asset value per share persists past the trading day in which it occurred, the Exchange will halt trading no later than the beginning of the trading day following the interruption.
Upon termination of a trust, the Exchange would require that Trust Units issued in connection with such trust be removed from Exchange listing. A trust will terminate in accordance with the provisions of the prospectus.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9)(D)(iii) provides that the stated term of the trust shall be as stated in the prospectus. However, such entity may be terminated under such earlier circumstances as may be specified in the prospectus.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9)(D)(iv) would adopt the following requirements applicable to the trustee of a Trust:
The trustee of a trust must be a trust company or banking institution having substantial capital and surplus and the experience and facilities for handling corporate trust business. In cases where, for any reason, an individual has been appointed as trustee, a qualified trust company or banking institution must be appointed co-
trustee.
No change is to be made in the trustee of a listed issue without prior notice to and approval of the Exchange.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9)(D)(v) states that voting rights shall be as set forth in the prospectus.
Proposed Rules 14.11(e)(9)(E) and (F) describe the requirements for Market Makers and the limitation of the Exchange liability respecting Trust Units (see below for a general discussion of these requirements).
Interpretation and Policy .01 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9) states that the Exchange requires that Members provide to all purchasers of newly issued Trust Units a prospectus for the series of Trust Units.
Interpretation and Policy .02 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9) states that transactions in Trust Units will occur during Regular Trading Hours and both the Pre-Opening and After Hours Trading Sessions.
Interpretation and Policy .03 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(9) states that the Exchange will file separate proposals under Section 19(b) of the Act before listing and trading separate and distinct Trust Units designated on different underlying investments, commodities, assets and/or portfolios.
The proposed rule change relating to Trust Units is based on Nasdaq Rule 5711(i).
Managed Trust Securities
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10) would adopt listing standards for Managed Trust Securities. Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(A), the Exchange will consider for trading, whether by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, Managed Trust Securities that meet the criteria of the proposed Rule. Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(B) states that the proposed Rule would apply only to Managed Trust Securities. Managed Trust Securities are included within the definition of ``security'' or ``securities'' as such terms are used in the Rules of the Exchange.
Description
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(C)(i) defines the term ``Managed Trust Securities'' to mean, unless the context otherwise requires, a security that is registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and which (a) is issued by a Trust that (1) is a commodity pool as defined in the Commodity Exchange Act and regulations thereunder, and that is managed by a commodity pool operator registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, and (2) holds long and/or short positions in exchange- traded futures contracts and/or certain currency forward contracts selected by the Trust's advisor consistent with the Trust's investment objectives, which will only include, exchange-traded futures contracts involving commodities, currencies, stock indices, fixed income indices, interest rates and sovereign, private and mortgage or asset backed debt instruments, and/or forward contracts on specified currencies, each as disclosed in the Trust's prospectus as such may be amended from time to time; and (b) is issued and redeemed continuously in specified aggregate amounts at the next applicable net asset value. Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(C) also includes the following definitions concerning Managed Trust Securities:
Disclosed Portfolio. Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(C)(ii), the term ``Disclosed Portfolio'' means the identities and quantities of the securities and other assets held by the Trust that will form the basis for the Trust's calculation of net asset value at the end of the business day.
Intraday Indicative Value. Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(C)(iii), the term ``Intraday Indicative Value'' is the estimated indicative value of a Managed Trust Security based on current information regarding the value of the securities and other assets in the Disclosed Portfolio.
Reporting Authority. Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(C)(iv)), the term ``Reporting Authority'' in respect of a particular series of Managed Trust Securities means the Exchange, an institution, or a reporting or information service designated by the Exchange or by the Trust or the exchange that lists a particular series of Managed Trust Securities (if the Exchange is trading such series pursuant to unlisted trading privileges) as the official source for calculating and reporting information relating to such series, including, but not limited to, the Intraday Indicative Value; the Disclosed Portfolio; the amount of any cash distribution to holders of Managed Trust Securities, net asset value, or other information relating to the issuance, redemption or trading of Managed Trust Securities. A series of Managed Trust Securities may have more than one Reporting Authority, each having different functions.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(D) states that the Exchange may trade, either by listing or pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, Managed Trust Securities based on the underlying portfolio of exchange-traded futures and/or certain currency forward contracts described in the related prospectus. Each issue of Managed Trust Securities shall be designated as a separate trust or series and shall be identified by a unique symbol.
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Initial Listing Standards
Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(E)(i), Managed Trust Securities will be listed and traded on the Exchange subject to application of the following initial listing criteria:
The Exchange will establish a minimum number of Managed Trust Securities required to be outstanding at the time of commencement of trading on the Exchange.
The Exchange will obtain a representation from the issuer of each series of Managed Trust Securities that the net asset value per share for the series will be calculated daily and that the net asset value and the Disclosed Portfolio will be made available to all market participants at the same time.
Continued Listing Standards
Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(E)(ii), each series of Managed Trust Securities will be listed and traded on the Exchange subject to application of the following continued listing criteria:
The Intraday Indicative Value for Managed Trust Securities will be widely disseminated by one or more major market data vendors at least every 15 seconds during Regular Trading Hours.
The Disclosed Portfolio will be disseminated at least once daily and will be made available to all market participants at the same time.
The Reporting Authority that provides the Disclosed Portfolio must implement and maintain, or be subject to, procedures designed to prevent the use and dissemination of material non-public information regarding the actual components of the portfolio.
Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(E)(ii)(c), the Exchange will consider the suspension of trading in or removal from listing of a series of Managed Trust Securities under any of the following circumstances:
If, following the initial twelve-month period beginning upon the commencement of trading of the Managed Trust Securities: (A) the Trust has fewer than 50,000 Managed Trust Securities issued and outstanding; (B) the market value of all Managed Trust Securities issued and outstanding is less than $1,000,000; or (C) there are fewer than 50 record and/or beneficial holders of Managed Trust Securities for 30 consecutive trading days;
if the Intraday Indicative Value for the Trust is no longer calculated or available or the Disclosed Portfolio is not made available to all market participants at the same time;
if the Trust issuing the Managed Trust Securities has failed to file any filings required by the Securities and Exchange Commission or if the Exchange is aware that the Trust is not in compliance with the conditions of any exemptive order or no-action relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission to the Trust with respect to the series of Managed Trust Securities; or
if such other event shall occur or condition exists which in the opinion of the Exchange makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable.
Trading Halts
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(E)(ii)(d) states that, if the Intraday Indicative Value of a series of Managed Trust Securities is not being disseminated as required, the Exchange may halt trading during the day in which the interruption to the dissemination of the Intraday Indicative Value occurs. If the interruption to the dissemination of the Intraday Indicative Value persists past the trading day in which it occurred, the Exchange will halt trading no later than the beginning of the trading day following the interruption. If a series of Managed Trust Securities is trading on the Exchange pursuant to unlisted trading privileges, the Exchange will halt trading in that series as specified in Rule 11.18. In addition, if the Exchange becomes aware that the net asset value or the Disclosed Portfolio with respect to a series of Managed Trust Securities is not disseminated to all market participants at the same time, it will halt trading in such series until such time as the net asset value or the Disclosed Portfolio is available to all market participants.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(E)(ii)(e) states that upon termination of a Trust, the Exchange requires that Managed Trust Securities issued in connection with such Trust be removed from Exchange listing. A Trust will terminate in accordance with the provisions of the Trust prospectus.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(E)(iii) states that the term of the Trust shall be as stated in the prospectus. However, a Trust may be terminated under such earlier circumstances as may be specified in the Trust prospectus.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(E)(iv) would state that the following requirements apply to the trustee of a Trust:
The trustee of a Trust must be a trust company or banking institution having substantial capital and surplus and the experience and facilities for handling corporate trust business. In cases where, for any reason, an individual has been appointed as trustee, a qualified trust company or banking institution must be appointed co-
trustee.
No change is to be made in the trustee of a listed issue without prior notice to and approval of the Exchange.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(E)(v) states that voting rights shall be as set forth in the applicable Trust prospectus.
Proposed Rules 14.11(e)(10)(F) and (G) describe the regulatory requirements for registered Market Makers in Managed Trust Securities, and the limitation of the Exchange liability respecting Managed Trust Securities (see below for a general discussion of these requirements).
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10)(H) states that the Exchange will file separate proposals under Section 19(b) of the Act before listing and trading separate and distinct Managed Trust Securities.
In addition to the above, the Interpretations and Policies to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10) include the following provisions:
Interpretation and Policy .01 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10) states that the Exchange requires that Members provide all purchasers of newly issued Managed Trust Securities a prospectus for the series of Managed Trust Securities.
Interpretation and Policy .02 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10) states that transactions in Managed Trust Securities will occur during Regular Trading Hours and both the Pre-Opening and After Hours Trading Sessions.
Interpretation and Policy .03 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10) states that the Exchange's rules governing the trading of equity securities apply.
Interpretation and Policy .04 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10) states that the Exchange will implement written surveillance procedures for Managed Trust Securities.
Interpretation and Policy .05 to proposed Rule 14.11(e)(10) states that if the Trust's advisor is affiliated with a broker-dealer, the broker-dealer shall erect a ``fire wall'' around the personnel who have access to information concerning changes and adjustments to the Disclosed Portfolio. Personnel who make decisions on the Trust's portfolio composition must be subject to procedures designed to prevent the use and dissemination of material nonpublic information regarding the applicable Trust portfolio.
The proposed rule change relating to Managed Trust Securities is based on Nasdaq Rule 5711(j).
Currency Warrants
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11) would govern the listing of Currency Warrants.
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Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(A), the listing of Currency Warrant issues is considered on a case-by-case basis. Currency Warrant issues will be evaluated for listing against the following criteria:
Initial Listing Standards
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(A)(i) requires the warrant issuer to have a minimum tangible net worth in excess of $250,000,000 and otherwise to exceed substantially the earnings requirements set forth in Rule 14.8(b)(2).\20\ In the alternative, the warrant issuer will be expected to have a minimum tangible net worth of $150,000,000 and otherwise to exceed substantially the earnings requirements set forth in Rule 14.8(b)(2), and not to have issued warrants where the original issue price of all the issuer's currency warrant offerings (combined with currency warrant offerings of the issuer's affiliates) listed on a national securities exchange or traded through the facilities of the Exchange exceeds 25% of the warrant issuer's net worth.
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\20\ Rule 14.8(b)(2) sets forth initial listing standards for primary equity securities.
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Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(A)(ii) states that the term must be one to five years from date of issuance.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(A)(iii) requires that there must be a minimum public distribution of 1,000,000 warrants together with a minimum of 400 public holders, and an aggregate market value of $4,000,000. In the alternative, there must be a minimum public distribution of 2,000,000 warrants together with a minimum number of public warrant holders determined on a case by case basis, an aggregate market value of $12,000,000 and an initial warrant price of $6.
Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(A)(iv), the warrants will be cash settled in U.S. dollars.
Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(A)(v), all currency warrants must include in their terms provisions specifying the time by which all exercise notices must be submitted, and that all unexercised warrants that are in the money will be automatically exercised on their expiration date or on or promptly following the date on which such warrants are delisted by the Exchange (if such warrant issue has not been listed on another organized securities market in the United States).
Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(B), the Exchange will file separate proposals under Section 19(b) of the Act before listing and trading separate and distinct Currency Warrants.
Regulatory Matters
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(C) describes regulatory matters applicable to Currency Warrants. Specifically:
No Member shall accept an order from a customer to purchase or sell a Currency Warrant unless the customer's account has been approved for options trading pursuant to Rule 26.2.
Suitability. The provisions of Rule 26.4 shall apply to recommendations in Currency Warrants and the term ``option'' as used therein shall be deemed for purposes of this Rule to include such warrants.
Discretionary Accounts. Any account in which a Member exercises discretion to trade in Currency Warrants shall be subject to the provisions of Rule 26.5 with respect to such trading. For purposes of the proposed Rule, the terms, ``option'' and ``options contract'' as used in Rule 26.5 shall be deemed to include Currency Warrants.
Supervision of Accounts. Rule 26.3 shall apply to all customer accounts of a Member in which transactions in Currency Warrants are effected. The term ``option'' as used in Chapter XI, Section 8 shall be deemed to include Currency Warrants.
Public Customer Complaints. Rule 26.17 shall apply to all public customer complaints received by a Member regarding Currency Warrants. The term ``option'' as used in Rule 26.17 shall be deemed to include such warrants.
Communications with Public Customers. Members participating in Currency Warrants shall be bound to comply with the Communications and Disclosures rule of FINRA, as applicable, as though such rule were part of these Rules.
Trading Halts or Suspensions
Under proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(D) trading on the Exchange in any Currency Warrant will be halted whenever the Exchange deems such action appropriate in the interests of a fair and orderly market or to protect investors. Trading in Currency Warrants that have been the subject of a halt or suspension by the Exchange may resume if the Exchange determines that the conditions which led to the halt or suspension are no longer present, or that the interests of a fair and orderly market are best served by a resumption of trading.
Reporting of Warrant Positions
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(E) would govern reporting of warrant positions. Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(E)(i) would require each Member to file with the Exchange a report with respect to each account in which the Member has an interest, each account of a partner, officer, director, or employee of such Member, and each customer account that has established an aggregate position (whether long or short) of 100,000 warrants covering the same underlying currency, combining for purposes of the proposed Rule: (a) long positions in put warrants and short positions in call warrants, and (b) short positions in put warrants with long positions in call warrants. The report shall be in such form as may be prescribed by the Exchange and shall be filed no later than the close of business on the next day following the day on which the transaction or transactions requiring the filing of such report occurred.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(E)(ii) states that whenever a report shall be required to be filed with respect to an account pursuant to the proposed Rule, the Member filing the same must file with the Exchange such additional periodic reports with respect to such account as the Exchange may from time to time require.
Proposed Rule 14.11(e)(11)(E)(iii) states that all reports required by the proposed Rule shall be filed with the Exchange in such manner and form as prescribed by the Exchange.
The proposed rule change relating to Currency Warrants is based on Nasdaq Rule 5711(k).
General Provisions
To the extent not specifically addressed in the respective proposed rules, the following general provisions apply to all of the proposed rules and subject securities affected by the proposed rules (the ``securities''):
Trading Rules
The Exchange deems the securities to be equity securities, thus rendering trading in the securities subject to the Exchange's existing rules governing the trading of equity securities. The securities will trade on the Exchange during Regular Trading Hours, as well as during the Pre-Opening Session and the After Hours Trading Session. The Exchange has appropriate rules to facilitate transactions in the securities during all trading sessions. The minimum price increment for quoting and entry of orders in equity securities traded on the Exchange is $0.01, with the exception of securities that are priced less than $1.00 for which the minimum price increment for order entry is $0.0001.\21\
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\21\ See, e.g., Rule 11.11. Regulation NMS Rule 612, Minimum Pricing Increment, provides:
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No national securities exchange, national securities association, alternative trading system, vendor, or broker or dealer shall display, rank, or accept from any person a bid or offer, an order, or an indication of interest in any NMS stock priced in an increment smaller than $0.01 if that bid or offer, order, or indication of interest is priced equal to or greater than $1.00 per share.
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No national securities exchange, national securities association, alternative trading system, vendor, or broker or dealer shall display, rank, or accept from any person a bid or offer, an order, or an indication of interest in any NMS stock priced in an increment smaller than $0.0001 if that bid or offer, order, or indication of interest is priced less than $1.00 per share.
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The Commission, by order, may exempt from the provisions of this section, either unconditionally or on specified terms and conditions, any person, security, quotation, or order, or any class or classes of persons, securities, quotations, or orders, if the Commission determines that such exemption is necessary or appropriate in the public interest, and is consistent with the protection of investors.
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Information Circular
Prior to the commencement of trading, the Exchange will inform its Members in an Information Circular of the special characteristics and risks associated with trading the securities. Specifically, the Information Circular will discuss the following: (1) The procedures for purchases and redemptions of the securities (and/or that the securities are not individually redeemable); (2) Exchange Rule 3.7, which imposes suitability obligations on the Exchange Members with respect to recommending transactions in the securities to customers; (3) how information regarding the Intraday Indicative Value is disseminated; (4) the requirement that Members deliver a prospectus to investors purchasing newly issued securities prior to or concurrently with the confirmation of a transaction; and (5) trading information.
In addition, the Information Circular will advise Members, prior to the commencement of trading, of the prospectus delivery requirements applicable to the securities. Members purchasing securities for resale to investors will deliver a prospectus to such investors. The Information Circular will also discuss any exemptive, no-action and interpretive relief granted by the Commission from any rules under the Act.
In addition, the Information Circular will reference that the securities are subject to various fees and expenses described in the registration statement. If applicable, the Information Circular will also reference that the CFTC has regulatory jurisdiction over the trading of futures contracts.
The Information Circular will also disclose the trading hours of the securities and, if applicable, the Net Asset Value (``NAV'') calculation time for the securities. The Information Circular will disclose that information about the securities and the corresponding indexes, if applicable, will be publicly available on the Web site for the securities. The Information Circular will also reference, if applicable, the fact that there is no regulated source of last sale information regarding physical commodities, and that the Commission has no jurisdiction over the trading of physical commodities or futures contracts on which the value of the securities may be based.
The Information Circular will also reference the risks involved in trading the securities during the Pre-Opening and After Hours Trading Sessions when an updated Intraday Indicative Value will not be calculated or publicly disseminate and, if applicable, the risks involved in trading the securities during Regular Trading Hours when the Intraday Indicative Value may be static or based in part on the fluctuation of currency exchange rates when the underlying markets have closed prior to the close of the Exchange's Regular Trading Hours.
Limitation of Exchange Liability
Neither the Exchange, any agent of the Exchange, nor the Reporting Authority (if applicable), shall have any liability for damages, claims, losses or expenses caused by any errors, omissions, or delays in calculating or disseminating any applicable underlying index or asset value; the current value of the applicable positions or interests required to be deposited to a Trust, if applicable, in connection with issuance of the securities; net asset value; or any other information relating to the purchase, redemption, or trading of the securities, resulting from any negligent act or omission by the Exchange, any agent of the Exchange, or the Reporting Authority (if applicable), or any act, condition or cause beyond the reasonable control of the Exchange, any agent of the Exchange, or the Reporting Authority (if applicable), including, but not limited to, an act of God; fire; flood; extraordinary weather conditions; war; insurrection; riot; strike; accident; action of government; communications or power failure; equipment or software malfunction; or any error, omission or delay in the reports of transactions in the applicable positions or interests.
Market Maker Accounts
A registered Market Maker in the securities described below must file with the Exchange, in a manner prescribed by the Exchange, and keep current a list identifying all accounts for trading in:
In the case of Commodity-Based Trust Shares, the applicable underlying commodity, related commodity futures or options on commodity futures, or any other related commodity derivatives, which the registered Market Maker may have or over which it may exercise investment discretion (the ``Underlying Commodities'');
in the case of Currency Trust Shares, the applicable underlying non-U.S. currency, options, futures or options on futures on such currency, or any other derivatives based on such currency, which the registered Market Maker may have or over which it may exercise investment discretion (the ``Underlying Currencies'');
in the case of Commodity Index Trust Shares, the applicable physical commodities included in, or options, futures or options on futures on, an index underlying an issue of Commodity Index Trust Shares or any other derivatives based on such index or based on any commodity included in such index, which the registered Market Maker may have or over which it may exercise investment discretion (the ``Underlying Commodity Index Assets'');
in the case of Commodity Futures Trust Shares, the applicable underlying commodity, related futures or options on futures, or any other related derivatives, which the registered Market Maker may have or over which it may exercise investment discretion (the ``Underlying Commodity Futures'');
in the case of Partnership Units, the applicable underlying asset or commodity, related futures or options on futures, or any other related derivatives, which the registered Market Maker may have or over which it may exercise investment discretion (the ``Underlying Partnership Unit Assets'');
in the case of Trust Units, the applicable underlying commodity, related commodity futures or options on commodity futures, or any other related commodity derivatives, which the registered Market Maker may have or over which it may exercise investment discretion (the ``Underlying Trust Unit Assets''); and
in the case of Managed Trust Securities, the underlying commodity or applicable currency, related futures or options on futures, or any other related derivatives, which a registered Market Maker may have or over which it may exercise investment discretion (the ``Underlying Managed Trust Assets'').
No registered Market Maker in the above mentioned securities shall trade in the respective Underlying
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Commodities, Underlying Currencies, Underlying Commodity Index Assets, Underlying Commodity Futures, Underlying Partnership Unit Assets, Underlying Trust Unit Assets, and/or the Underlying Managed Trust Assets (collectively, the ``Underlying Assets'') in an account in which a market maker, directly or indirectly, controls trading activities, or has a direct interest in the profits or losses thereof, which has not been reported to the Exchange.
In addition to the existing obligations under Exchange rules regarding the production of books and records (see e.g., Rule 4.2), a registered Market Maker in the above mentioned securities is required to make available to the Exchange such books, records or other information pertaining to transactions by such entity or registered or non-registered employee affiliated with such entity for its or their own accounts for trading the applicable Underlying Assets as may be requested by the Exchange.
Surveillance
The Exchange believes that its surveillance procedures are adequate to address any concerns about the trading of the securities on the Exchange. Trading of the securities on the Exchange will be subject to the Exchange's surveillance procedures during all trading sessions in order to deter and detect violations of Exchange rules and the applicable federal securities laws. Trading of the securities on the Exchange will be subject to the Exchange's surveillance procedures for derivative products. The Exchange may obtain information via the ISG from other exchanges who are members or affiliates of the ISG or any other exchanges with which the Exchange has comprehensive surveillance sharing agreements.\22\
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\22\ For a list of the current members and affiliate members of ISG, see www.isgportal.com.
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In addition, to the extent that a fund invests in futures contracts, not more than 10% of the weight of such futures contracts in the aggregate shall consist of components whose principal trading market is not a member of ISG or is a market with which the Exchange does not have a comprehensive surveillance sharing agreement. The Exchange has a general policy prohibiting the distribution of material, non-public information by its employees.
As a general matter, the Exchange has regulatory jurisdiction over its Members and their associated persons, which includes any person or entity controlling a Member, as well as a subsidiary or affiliate of a Member that is in the securities business. A subsidiary or affiliate of a Member that does business only in commodities or futures contracts would not be subject to the Exchange jurisdiction, but the Exchange could obtain information regarding the activities of such subsidiary or affiliate through surveillance sharing agreements with regulatory organizations of which such subsidiary or affiliate is a Member.
Trading Halts
With respect to trading halts, in addition to the halt requirements in the proposed rules, the Exchange may consider all relevant factors in exercising its discretion to halt or suspend trading in the securities. Trading in the securities may be halted because of market conditions or for reasons that, in the view of the Exchange, make trading in the securities inadvisable. These may include: (1) The extent to which trading in the underlying asset or assets is not occurring; or (2) whether other unusual conditions or circumstances detrimental to the maintenance of a fair and orderly market are present. In addition, trading in the securities will be subject to trading halts caused by extraordinary market volatility pursuant to the Exchange's ``circuit breaker'' Rule 11.18(d) or by the halt or suspension of the trading of the current underlying asset or assets.
If the applicable Intraday Indicative Value, value of the underlying index, or the value of the underlying asset or assets (e.g., securities, commodities, currencies, futures contracts, or other assets) is not being disseminated as required, the Exchange may halt trading during the day in which such interruption to the dissemination occurs. If the interruption to the dissemination of the applicable Intraday Indicative Value, value of the underlying index, or the value of the underlying asset or assets persists past the trading day in which it occurred, the Exchange will halt trading no later than the beginning of the trading day following the interruption. In addition, if the Exchange becomes aware that the net asset value with respect to a series of the securities is not disseminated to all market participants at the same time, it will halt trading in such series until such time as the net asset value is available to all market participants.
Suitability
Currently, Exchange Rule 3.7 governs Recommendations to Customers (Suitability). Prior to the commencement of trading of any inverse, leveraged, or inverse leveraged securities, the Exchange will inform its Members of the suitability requirements of Exchange Rule 3.7 in an Information Circular. Specifically, Members will be reminded in the Information Circular that, in recommending transactions in these securities, they must have a reasonable basis to believe that (1) the recommendation is suitable for a customer given reasonable inquiry concerning the customer's other securities holdings, financial situation and needs, and (2) the customer can evaluate the risks of the recommended transaction and is financially able to bear the risks of an investment in the securities.
In addition, FINRA has implemented increased sales practice and customer margin requirements for FINRA members applicable to inverse, leveraged, and inverse leveraged securities and options on such securities, as described in FINRA Regulatory Notices 09-31 (June 2009), 09-53 (August 2009) and 09-65 (November 2009) (``FINRA Regulatory Notices''). Members that carry customer accounts will be required to follow the FINRA guidance set forth in the FINRA Regulatory Notices. The Information Circular will reference the FINRA Regulatory Notices regarding sales practice and customer margin requirements for FINRA members applicable to inverse, leveraged, and inverse leveraged securities and options on such securities.
The Exchange notes that, for such inverse, leveraged, and inverse leveraged securities, the corresponding funds seek leveraged, inverse, or leveraged inverse returns on a daily basis, and do not seek to achieve their stated investment objective over a period of time greater than one day because compounding prevents the funds from perfectly achieving such results. Accordingly, results over periods of time greater than one day typically will not be a leveraged multiple (+200%), the inverse (-100%) or a leveraged inverse multiple (-200%) of the period return of the applicable benchmark and may differ significantly from these multiples. The Exchange's Information Circular, as well as the applicable registration statement, will provide information regarding the suitability of an investment in such securities.
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Statutory Basis
The proposed rule change, as amended, is consistent with section 6(b) of the Act,\23\ in general, and furthers the
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objectives of section 6(b)(5),\24\ particular, in that it is designed to prevent fraudulent and manipulative acts and practices, to promote just and equitable principles of trade, and to remove impediments to and perfect the mechanism of a free and open market and a national market system, and, in general, to protect investors and the public interest. The Exchange further believes that the proposal, as amended by this Amendment No. 1, remains consistent the Act because this Amendment No. 1 does not propose to make any substantive changes to the proposal as originally filed.
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\23\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b).
\24\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(5).
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Specifically, the Exchange believes that the proposed rule change should enhance depth and liquidity, and should promote narrower markets in the subject securities. Furthermore, the Exchange's listing requirements as proposed herein are at least as stringent as those of any other national securities exchange and, consequently, the proposed rule change is consistent with the protection of investors and the public interest.
Additionally, the proposal is designed to prevent fraudulent and manipulative acts and practices, as all of the proposed new products are subject to existing Exchange trading rules, together with specific requirements for registered market makers, books and record production, surveillance procedures, suitability and prospectus requirements, and requisite the Exchange approvals, all set forth above. With respect to the proposed changes to Rule 14.11(h), the proposal is designed to avoid duplication within the Exchange's rules.
The proposal is intended to ensure that investors receive up-to-
date information on the value of certain underlying securities and indices in the products in which they invest, and protect investors and the public interest, enabling investors to: (i) Respond quickly to market changes through intra-day trading opportunities; (ii) engage in hedging strategies; and (iii) reduce transaction costs for trading a group or index of securities.
The proposal is also designed to promote just and equitable principles of trade by way of initial and continued listing standards which, if not maintained, will result in the discontinuation of trading in the affected products. These requirements, together with the applicable the Exchange equity trading rules (which apply to the proposed products), ensure that no investor would have an unfair advantage over another respecting the trading of the subject products. On the contrary, all investors will have the same access to, and use of, information concerning the specific products and trading in the specific products, all to the benefit of public customers and the marketplace as a whole.
Furthermore, the proposal is designed to remove impediments to and perfect the mechanism of a free and open market and a national market system by adopting listing standards that will lead ultimately to the trading of the proposed new products on the Exchange, just as they are currently traded on other exchanges. The Exchange believes that individuals and entities permitted to make markets on the Exchange in the proposed new products should enhance competition within the mechanism of a free and open market and a national market system, and customers and other investors in the national market system should benefit from more depth and liquidity in the market for the proposed new products.
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Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement on Burden on Competition
The Exchange does not believe that the proposed rule change will impose any burden on competition not necessary or appropriate in furtherance of the purposes of the Act. To the contrary, the current variances between the Exchange's listing rules and the listing rules of other exchanges limit competition in that there are certain products that the Exchange cannot list while other exchanges can list such products. Thus, approval of the proposed rule change will promote competition because it will allow the Exchange to compete with other national securities exchanges for additional product listings.
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Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement on Comments on the Proposed Rule Change Received From Members, Participants, or Others
The Exchange has neither solicited nor received written comments on the proposed rule change.
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Date of Effectiveness of the Proposed Rule Change and Timing for Commission Action
Within 45 days of the date of publication of this notice in the Federal Register or within such longer period (i) as the Commission may designate up to 90 days of such date if it finds such longer period to be appropriate and publishes its reasons for so finding or (ii) as to which the self-regulatory organization consents, the Commission will:
(A) By order approve or disapprove the proposed rule change, or
(B) institute proceedings to determine whether the proposed rule change should be disapproved.
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Solicitation of Comments
Interested persons are invited to submit written data, views, and arguments concerning the foregoing, including whether the proposed rule change, as modified, is consistent with the Act. Comments may be submitted by any of the following methods:
Electronic Comments
Use the Commission's Internet comment form (http://www.sec.gov/rules/sro.shtml); or
Send an email to rule-comments@sec.gov. Please include File Number SR-BATS-2013-038 on the subject line.
Paper Comments
Send paper comments in triplicate to Elizabeth M. Murphy, Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street NE., Washington, DC 20549-1090.
All submissions should refer to File Number SR-BATS-2013-038. This file number should be included on the subject line if email is used. To help the Commission process and review your comments more efficiently, please use only one method. The Commission will post all comments on the Commission's Internet Web site (http://www.sec.gov/rules/sro.shtml). Copies of the submission, all subsequent amendments, all written statements with respect to the proposed rule change that are filed with the Commission, and all written communications relating to the proposed rule change between the Commission and any person, other than those that may be withheld from the public in accordance with the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552, will be available for Web site viewing and printing in the Commission's Public Reference Room, 100 F Street NE., Washington, DC 20549, on official business days between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Copies of the filing also will be available for inspection and copying at the principal office of the Exchange. All comments received will be posted without change; the Commission does not edit personal identifying information from submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make available publicly. All submissions should refer to File Number SR-BATS-2013-038, and should be submitted on or before July 31, 2013.
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For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, pursuant to delegated authority.\26\
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\26\ 17 CFR 200.30-3(a)(12).
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Elizabeth M. Murphy,
Secretary.
FR Doc. 2013-16528 Filed 7-9-13; 8:45 am
BILLING CODE 8011-01-P
