On October 26, 2016, the SEC adopted final rules that modernize how companies can raise money to fund their businesses through intrastate and small offerings while maintaining investor protections.
The final rules amend Securities Act Rule 147 to modernize the safe harbor under Section 3(a)(11) of the Securities Act, so issuers may continue to use state law exemptions that are conditioned upon compliance with both Section 3(a)(11) and Rule 147. The final rules also establish a new intrastate offering exemption, Securities Act Rule 147A, that further accommodates offers accessible to out-of-state residents and companies that are incorporated or organized out-of-state. To facilitate capital formation through regional offerings, the final rules amend Rule 504 of Regulation D under the Securities Act to increase the aggregate amount of securities that may be offered and sold from $1 million to $5 million. The rules also apply bad actor disqualifications to Rule 504 offerings to provide additional investor protection, consistent with other rules in Regulation D. In light of the changes to Rule 504, the final rules repeal Rule 505 of Regulation D. Amended Rule 147 and new Rule 147A will be effective 150 days after publication in the Federal Register. Amended Rule 504 will be effective 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. The repeal of Rule 505 will be effective 180 days after publication in the Federal Register.
The SEC press release, including links to the final rules, is available at: http://www.sec.gov/news/pressrelease/2016-226.html.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.