Apr. 17, 2023
April 17, 2023 I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to express my strong support for the Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) proposal to require electronic filing or submission of certain forms and other filings or submissions under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and its associated rules and regulations. A key aspect of this proposal is the enhanced transparency it will bring to the financial markets, which will be highly beneficial to investors and market participants alike. By requiring the use of the Commission's Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval (EDGAR) system for certain forms filed by self-regulatory organizations (SROs), along with the use of structured data where appropriate, the proposal will ensure the timely dissemination of accurate information to the public. The requirement for public posting of information contained in Form 19b-4(e) on the SRO's website further underscores the proposal's commitment to transparency. By making such information readily accessible, investors and other stakeholders will be better equipped to make informed decisions and monitor the activities of SROs. Extending the electronic filing or submission requirements on EDGAR to certain forms, reports, and notices provided by broker-dealers, security-based swap dealers, and major security-based swap participants will also contribute to the overall transparency of the financial markets. This consistency across the regulatory framework will make it easier for investors and market participants to access and interpret essential information. In addition, the proposal to allow electronic signatures in certain broker-dealer filings, as well as the proposed amendments to the Financial and Operational Combined Uniform Single Report (FOCUS Report), will not only harmonize the rules and regulations but also streamline the submission process, enabling faster access to the filed data and enhancing transparency. In conclusion, I strongly support the SEC's proposal to require electronic filing or submission of certain forms and filings, with a particular emphasis on the increased transparency it will bring to the financial markets. This proposal will greatly enhance the efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of the filing process, ultimately benefiting both regulators and market participants. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I encourage the adoption of these proposed amendments to improve the regulatory landscape surrounding the stock market and foster a more transparent environment.