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1 – 4 of 4Perrie M. Weiner, Edward Totino and Robert D. Weber
Over the past few years, regulators, issuers, investors, and other market participants have expressed increasing concerns regarding the real or perceived effects of short selling…
Abstract
Over the past few years, regulators, issuers, investors, and other market participants have expressed increasing concerns regarding the real or perceived effects of short selling. For example, thinly‐capitalized issuers whose shares trade on the over‐the‐counter market often blame short sellers for declines in the prices of their stocks. Recently, these issuers’ ire has focused on so‐called “naked short sellers,” i.e. short sellers who do not locate or borrow shares before selling. Likewise, other market participants have expressed apprehension about conduct involving short sales that may be viewed as disruptive or manipulative. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the self‐regulatory organizations (SROs) have addressed these concerns both by promulgating new regulations governing short sales and by pursing enforcement actions. This article summarizes the new short sales rules contained in Regulation SHO and the amendments to Regulation M, and discusses recent enforcement actions pertaining to short sales.
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Perrie Michael Weiner, Edward D. Totino and Aaron Goodman
To analyze the evolution of market manipulation and fraud by short-sellers and online bloggers and mechanisms available for addressing and remediating the damage caused by such…
Abstract
Purpose
To analyze the evolution of market manipulation and fraud by short-sellers and online bloggers and mechanisms available for addressing and remediating the damage caused by such fraud, including recent activity by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC” or “Commission”).
Design/methodology/approach
This article discusses the development of a modern market manipulation and fraud scheme – the “short and distort” – including a review of potential claims by the targeted companies and anticipated impediments to asserting such claims.It further examines the need for regulation and the possibility that the SEC has opened the door for civil claims for this type of fraud.
Findings
Companies wrongfully targeted by illegitimate short-sellers may pursue claims for securities violations, defamation, business interference, securities fraud and extortion, among other claims.However, each of these claims has had, and still has, both business and legal challenges, as the short-seller’s initial defense tends to be to attempt to prove the truth of their statements to the market or establish those statements as legitimate opinion.The SEC has made the pursuit easier but there is still a long way to go.
Originality/value
This article contains valuable information about recent SEC enforcement activity and practical guidance from experienced securities lawyers.
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Perrie Michael Weiner, Patrick Hunnius and Sean R. Crain
To address “Conflicts, Conflicts Everywhere,” a speech at the recent IA Watch 17th Annual Compliance Conference by Julie M. Riewe, co-chief of the Securities and Exchange…
Abstract
Purpose
To address “Conflicts, Conflicts Everywhere,” a speech at the recent IA Watch 17th Annual Compliance Conference by Julie M. Riewe, co-chief of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Enforcement Division’s Asset Management Unit (AMU).
Design/methodology/approach
Provide information on the AMU’s creation, the AMU’s 2015 priorities for each of the primary investment vehicles it polices –registered investment companies; private funds (both hedge funds and private equity funds); and other client accounts, such as separately managed accounts/retail accounts – and the AMU’s central concern across all of the investment vehicles it polices: conflicts of interest.
Findings
Conflicts of interest will be receiving much attention from the Commission in the coming months. In order to help avoid an SEC inquiry or, worse yet, an enforcement action, corporations and individuals should seek counsel.
Originality/value
Practical explanation and guidance from experienced securities and financial services lawyers.
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