Nasdaq Proposes Changes to its Listing Standards

Core Points - Nasdaq proposed enhancements to its initial and continued listing standards to reinforce capital formation, investor protection, and market integrity [1][2] - The updates include increased requirements for minimum public float and capital raised during IPOs, along with stricter suspension and delisting procedures for non-compliant companies [1][2][5] Summary by Sections Revised Standards - The new standards aim to improve investor protection and market integrity, reflecting Nasdaq's commitment to adapt to market realities [2] - Enhanced requirements include a minimum public offering proceeds of $25 million for companies operating in China and a minimum market value of public float of $15 million for new listings [3][7] Liquidity Requirements - Nasdaq is recalibrating its minimum liquidity standards to align with current market dynamics and company valuations [2] - The proposed changes are part of a broader industry effort to examine trading behaviors in small company securities [2] Compliance and Oversight - Nasdaq will continue to refer cases of potentially manipulative trading to the SEC and FINRA, enhancing cooperation with regulators to maintain high standards [4] - The proposed rules will be submitted to the SEC for review, with a 30-day period for companies already in the listing process to comply with prior standards [5] Historical Context - The changes build on Nasdaq's previous regulatory leadership, including rules for IPOs from "restrictive markets" and adjustments to improve liquidity and compliance timelines [6][13] - Previous rules required companies from restrictive markets to have a minimum public offering size of $25 million, consistent with the new proposals [6][7]