SEC Press Releases

SEC Enforcement Director Margaret Ryan Resigns; Sam Waldon Named Acting Director

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced that Margaret A. Ryan has resigned as Director of the Division of Enforcement. Principal Deputy Director Sam Waldon has been named Acting Director, effective March 16, 2026. The SEC noted progress in reprioritizing enforcement cases towards fraud and investor harm.

SEC Proposes Amendments to Exchange Act Rule 15c2-11

The SEC has proposed amendments to Exchange Act Rule 15c2-11, which governs information requirements for broker-dealers quoting securities in the OTC market. The proposed changes would clarify that the rule applies only to equity securities.

SEC and CFTC Announce Inter-Agency Coordination MOU

The SEC and CFTC have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance coordination and collaboration between the agencies. This agreement aims to support lawful innovation, uphold market integrity, and protect investors and customers by harmonizing regulatory definitions and coordinating oversight.

SEC Hosts Roundtable on Options Market Structure Reform

The SEC announced it will host a roundtable on April 16, 2026, to discuss listed options market structure. The event aims to foster dialogue on competition, customer experience, and growth opportunities in the options market. Public comments are being accepted.

SEC Investor Advisory Committee Meeting on Disclosure Reform and Tokenization

The SEC's Investor Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting on March 12, 2026, to discuss public company disclosure reform, fund proxy voting, and a potential recommendation on the tokenization of equity securities. The meeting will be webcast and include panel discussions on these topics.

SEC and FSA Hold Dialogue on Market Developments and Crypto

The SEC and Japan's FSA held their Spring Financial Regulatory Dialogue to discuss market developments, including crypto and digital assets. The meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation on cross-border issues and enhance investor protection in global capital markets.

SEC Adopts Final Rules for Holding Foreign Insiders Accountable Act

The SEC has adopted final rules and form amendments implementing the Holding Foreign Insiders Accountable Act (HFIA). These changes require directors and officers of foreign private issuers to electronically disclose their holdings and transactions in the issuer's equity securities, effective March 18, 2026.

SEC Enforcement Manual Updates

The SEC's Division of Enforcement has updated its Enforcement Manual to enhance fairness, transparency, and efficiency in its investigative processes. Key changes include a uniform Wells process with a four-week submission period and guidance on simultaneous settlement and waiver consideration.

SEC Proposes Form N-PORT Amendments to Reduce Reporting Burdens

The SEC has proposed amendments to Form N-PORT to reduce reporting burdens for registered investment companies. Key changes include extending the filing deadline, reducing public disclosure frequency from monthly to quarterly, and streamlining certain reporting items. The SEC also extended compliance dates for Names Rule reporting.

SEC and CFTC Joint Event on Crypto Harmonization

The SEC and CFTC will hold a joint event on January 27, 2026, to discuss harmonization efforts and U.S. financial leadership in the crypto era. The event aims to address regulatory clarity for market participants and foster innovation in the cryptocurrency space.