Self-Regulatory Organizations; Chicago Board Options Exchange, Incorporated; Notice of Filing of Amendment No. 1 and Order Granting Accelerated Approval of a Proposed Rule Change, as Modified by Amendment No. 1, to List and Trade a P.M.-settled Mini-SPX Index Option Product, 47809-47813 [2013-18900]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 151 / Tuesday, August 6, 2013 / Notices arguments concerning the foregoing, including whether the proposed rule change is consistent with the Act. Comments may be submitted by any of the following methods: SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Electronic Comments • Use the Commission’s Internet comment form (https://www.sec.gov/ rules/sro.shtml); or • Send an email to rulecomments@sec.gov. Please include File Number SR–NYSEArca–2013–76 on the subject line. Self-Regulatory Organizations; Chicago Board Options Exchange, Incorporated; Notice of Filing of Amendment No. 1 and Order Granting Accelerated Approval of a Proposed Rule Change, as Modified by Amendment No. 1, to List and Trade a P.M.-settled Mini-SPX Index Option Product tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with NOTICES Paper Comments • Send paper comments in triplicate to Elizabeth M. Murphy, Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street NE., Washington, DC 20549–1090. All submissions should refer to File Number SR–NYSEArca-2013–76. This file number should be included on the subject line if email is used. To help the Commission process and review your comments more efficiently, please use only one method. The Commission will post all comments on the Commission’s Internet Web site (https://www.sec.gov/ rules/sro.shtml). Copies of the submission, all subsequent amendments, all written statements with respect to the proposed rule change that are filed with the Commission, and all written communications relating to the proposed rule change between the Commission and any person, other than those that may be withheld from the public in accordance with the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552, will be available for Web site viewing and printing in the Commission’s Public Reference Room on official business days between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Copies of such filing also will be available for inspection and copying at the principal offices of the Exchange. All comments received will be posted without change; the Commission does not edit personal identifying information from submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make available publicly. All submissions should refer to File Number SR– NYSEArca–2013–76, and should be submitted on or before August 27, 2013. For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, pursuant to delegated authority.13 Kevin M. O’Neill, Deputy Secretary. [FR Doc. 2013–18898 Filed 8–5–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8011–01–P 13 17 CFR 200.30–3(a)(12). VerDate Mar<15>2010 19:47 Aug 05, 2013 Jkt 229001 [Release No. 34–70087; File No. SR–CBOE– 2013–055] July 31, 2013. I. Introduction On May 14, 2013, Chicago Board Options Exchange, Incorporated (the ‘‘Exchange’’ or ‘‘CBOE’’) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (‘‘Commission’’), pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (‘‘Act’’),1 and Rule 19b–4 thereunder,2 a proposed rule change to permit the listing and trading of P.M.settled, cash-settled options on the Mini-SPX Index (‘‘XSP’’).3 The proposed rule change was published for comment in theFederal Register on May 30, 2013.4 The Commission received no comment letters on the proposal. On July 31, 2013, the Exchange filed Amendment No. 1 to the proposed rule change.5 The Commission is publishing 1 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1). CFR 240.19b–4. 3 XSP options have 1/10th the value of S&P 500 Index options. 4 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 69638 (May 24, 2013), 78 FR 32524 (May 30, 2013) (‘‘Notice’’). 5 In Amendment No. 1, the Exchange provided more details regarding the volume, open interest, and trading patterns data that the Exchange proposes to include in the report that it will submit to the Commission at least two months before the expiration of the pilot program. The Exchange noted that the analysis would examine trading in the proposed option product as well as trading in the securities that comprise the underlying index. The Exchange also described the interim reports that would be submitted to the Commission pursuant to the pilot program. In addition, the Exchange clarified its proposed amendment to Rule 6.42, Interpretation and Policy .03 to state that for so long as SPY options participate in the Penny Pilot program, the minimum increments for XSP options shall be the same as SPY for all option series (including LEAPS). Further, the Exchange proposed to amend its originally proposed change to Rule 24.9, Interpretation and Policy .11, to lower from $300 to $200 the maximum strike price for which the strike price interval for series of XSP options may be $1. The Exchange also proposed to lower from $5 to $1 the minimum strike price interval for LEAPS and reduced-value LEAPS on XSP options. In addition, the Exchange represented that it has enhanced surveillance and reporting procedures in place that are intended to allow the Exchange to detect and deter possible trading abuses that could otherwise occur in the absence of position limits, and described the Exchange’s requirements for opening for trading additional 2 17 PO 00000 Frm 00140 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 47809 this notice to solicit comments on Amendment No. 1 from interested persons and is approving the proposed rule change, as modified by Amendment No. 1, on an accelerated basis. II. Description of the Proposal The Exchange is proposing to amend its rules to permit it to list and trade, on a pilot basis, cash-settled XSP options with third-Friday-of-the-month (‘‘Expiration Friday’’) expiration dates, for which the exercise settlement value will be based on the index value derived from the closing prices of the component securities (‘‘P.M.-settled’’). CBOE proposes to add P.M.-settled XSP options to the existing SPXPM pilot program on CBOE. SPXPM options, which are P.M.-settled options on the S&P 500 Index,6 are currently listed and traded on CBOE on a 12-month pilot set to end on February 8, 2014. CBOE has proposed to add P.M.-settled XSP options to that pilot so that the end of the pilot period for P.M.-settled XSP options will also be February 8, 2014. CBOE proposes to abide by the same reporting requirements for the trading of P.M.-settled XSP options that it does for the trading of SPXPM options.7 The Exchange proposes to include data regarding P.M.-settled XSP options in a pilot program report that it will submit to the Commission at least two months prior to the expiration date of the pilot program (the ‘‘annual report’’). The annual report will contain an analysis of volume, open interest, and trading patterns; and will examine trading in the proposed option product as well as trading in the securities that comprise the underlying index. In addition, for series that exceed certain minimum open interest parameters, the annual report will provide analysis of index price volatility and share trading series of P.M.-settled XSP options. The Exchange further represented that it and the Options Price Reporting Authority have the necessary systems capacity to handle any potential additional traffic associated with trading of P.M.-settled XSP options. Finally, the Exchange provided a more detailed description of its procedures relating to the changeover from A.M.-settled XSP options. 6 SPXPM options were initially traded on a 14month pilot basis on C2 Options Exchange, Incorporated (‘‘C2’’), an exchange that is wholly owned by CBOE Holdings, Inc., the same corporation that owns CBOE. See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 65256 (September 2, 2011), 76 FR 55969 (September 9, 2011) (‘‘C2 SPXPM Approval Order’’). The pilot to list and trade SPXPM was subsequently transferred from C2 to CBOE and reset to a new 12-month pilot period. See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 68888 (February 8, 2013), 78 FR 10668 (February 14, 2013) (‘‘CBOE SPXPM Approval Order’’). 7 For the details of SPXPM’s reporting requirements, see Securities Exchange Act Release No. 68457 (December 18, 2012), 77 FR 76135 (December 26, 2012). E:\FR\FM\06AUN1.SGM 06AUN1 tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with NOTICES 47810 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 151 / Tuesday, August 6, 2013 / Notices activity. In addition to the annual report, the Exchange will provide the Commission with periodic interim reports while the pilot is in effect that contain some, but not all, of the information contained in the annual report (‘‘interim reports’’). Further, the Exchange proposes to make a number of corresponding amendments to its rules in conjunction with the proposed trading of XSP options on a P.M.-settled basis. Interpretation and Policy .04 to CBOE Rule 24.6 states that on the last trading day, transactions in expiring P.M.settled SPXPM options may be effected on the Exchange between 8:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. (Chicago time) (as opposed to the normal trading hours for nonexpiring SPXPM options, which are from 8:30 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. (Chicago time)). CBOE proposes to amend this Interpretation and Policy to include P.M.-settled XSP options.8 CBOE proposes to amend Interpretation and Policy .03 to CBOE Rule 6.42 regarding minimum increments for bids and offers for XSP options. Currently, the minimum increments for bids and offers for XSP options are $0.01 for all option series quoted below $3 (including LEAPS) and $0.05 for all option series $3 and above (including LEAPS). However, the minimum increments for bids and offers for SPDR options (‘‘SPY’’), an exchangetraded fund that also tracks the performance of 1/10th the value of the S&P 500 Index, is $0.01, regardless of whether the options series is quoted above, at, or below $3. Since the prices of both XSP options and SPY options are based, in a similar manner, on 1/ 10th the size of the S&P 500 Index, CBOE proposes to amend Interpretation and Policy .03 to Rule 6.42 to state that for so long as SPY options participate in the Penny Pilot program, the minimum increments for XSP options shall be the same as SPY for all options series (including LEAPS). CBOE also proposes to amend Interpretation and Policy .11 to CBOE Rule 24.9 regarding strike price intervals for XSP options. Currently, Interpretation and Policy .11 to Rule 24.9 states that ‘‘[n]otwithstanding Interpretation and Policy .01(a) to Rule 24.9, the interval between strike prices of series of Mini-SPX options will be $1 or greater,’’ subject to a number of conditions. In Amendment No. 1, the Exchange proposes to simplify this provision by deleting conditions (a) through (c) of Interpretation and Policy .11 to CBOE Rule 24.9 and providing instead that the interval between strike 8 See Notice, supra note 4, at 32525. VerDate Mar<15>2010 19:47 Aug 05, 2013 Jkt 229001 prices of series of XSP options will be $1 or greater where the strike price is $200 or less and $5.00 or greater where the strike price is greater than $200.9 The Exchange proposes to keep in Interpretation and Policy .11 to CBOE Rule 24.9 the language currently in condition (d), which states that the Exchange shall not list LEAPS or reduced-value LEAPS on Mini-SPX options at intervals less than $5. However, CBOE proposes to reduce the threshold from $5 to $1. Because the minimum strike price interval for standard XSP options is proposed to be at least $1 (up to a strike price of $200), the Exchange proposes to reduce the LEAPS minimum strike price interval to be $1 as well in order to correspond to the regular, non-LEAPS minimum strike price interval. Other than the changes described above, trading in P.M.-settled XSP options will operate in the same manner as trading currently operates in A.M.settled XSP options. XSP options will continue to use a $100 multiplier. P.M.settled XSP options will have Europeanstyle exercise, will not be subject to position or exercise limits, and the same position reporting and margin requirements that apply to A.M.-settled XSP options will apply to P.M.-settled XSP options.10 As with A.M.-settled XSP options, the Exchange may list up to six expiration months of P.M.-settled XSP options at one time 11 and the Exchange may open for trading additional series of P.M.-settled XSP options whose exercise price is within 30% of the current XSP value. The Exchange also may open for trading additional series of P.M.-settled XSP options that are more than 30% away from the current index value, provided that demonstrated customer interest exists for such series, as expressed by 9 Under CBOE’s current rules, minimum strike price intervals on XSP options depend on the percentage by which strike prices vary from onetenth of the current value of the S&P 500 Index. CBOE may list series at $1 or greater strike price intervals on XSP options with strike prices that are no more than 20% away from one-tenth of the current value of the S&P 500 Index. CBOE may list series at $3 or greater strike price intervals on XSP options with strike prices that are no more than 25% away from one-tenth of the current value of the S&P 500 Index. CBOE may list series at $5 or greater strike price intervals on XSP options with strike prices that are more than 25% away from one-tenth of the current value of the S&P 500 Index. See Notice, supra note 4, at 32526. 10 See Notice, supra note 4, at 32526. The Exchange represents that it has enhanced surveillance and reporting procedures in place that are intended to allow CBOE to detect and deter possible trading abuses that could otherwise occur in the absence of position limits. See Amendment No. 1, supra note 5. 11 See CBOE Rule 24.9(a)(2). PO 00000 Frm 00141 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 institutional, corporate, or individual customers or their brokers.12 With regard to the impact of this proposal on system capacity, the Exchange has analyzed its capacity and represents that it and the Options Price Reporting Authority have the necessary systems capacity to handle any potential additional traffic associated with trading of P.M.-settled XSP options.13 The Exchange believes that its Trading Permit Holders (‘‘TPHs’’) will not experience a capacity issue as a result of this proposal.14 CBOE represents that it will monitor the trading volume associated with any possible additional options series listed as a result of this proposal and the effect (if any) of these additional series on market fragmentation and on the capacity of the Exchange’s automated systems.15 CBOE will notify TPHs in advance via Regulatory Circular of all plans associated with the adoption of P.M.settled XSP options, and will set a date for the changeover from A.M.-settled XSP options. On that date, P.M.-settled XSP options series will be introduced using the trading symbol XSP, and all remaining A.M.-settled XSP options series will be moved to the trading symbol XSPAM. Beginning with that date, the Exchange will cease issuing new A.M.-settled XSP options series, and on that date, the Exchange will delist any open A.M.-settled XSP options series that do not have any open interest. From that date going forward, the only new XSP options series that will be opened will be P.M.-settled. Regarding any remaining A.M.-settled XSP options series, the Exchange will wait and allow the series to trade until expiration, or if, due to trading, any XSPAM series cease to have open interest, such series will be de-listed. Once all remaining XSPAM series have either expired or been de-listed due to a lack of open interest, the Exchange will have no more A.M.-settled XSP options series, and going forward, all XSP options series will be P.M.-settled for the duration of the pilot. III. Discussion and Commission Findings After careful consideration of the proposal, the Commission finds that the proposed rule change is consistent with the requirements of the Act and the rules and regulations thereunder applicable to a national securities 12 See CBOE Rule 24.9, Interpretation and Policy .04. 13 See Amendment No. 1, supra note 5. id. 15 See id. 14 See E:\FR\FM\06AUN1.SGM 06AUN1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 151 / Tuesday, August 6, 2013 / Notices tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with NOTICES exchange,16 and, in particular, the requirements of Section 6 of the Act.17 Specifically, the Commission finds that the proposed rule change is consistent with Section 6(b)(5) of the Act,18 which provides that an exchange have rules designed to remove impediments to and perfect the mechanism of a free and open market to protect investors and the public interest. As the Commission noted in its orders approving the listing and trading of SPXPM on C2 and on CBOE, the Commission has historically had concerns about the potential impact on the market at expiration for the underlying component stocks for P.M.settled, cash-settled index options.19 The Commission recognizes that these risks may be mitigated today by the enhanced closing procedures that are now in use at the primary equity markets. However, the extent of that mitigation is unclear. To assist the Commission in assessing any potential impact of a P.M.-settled XSP option product on the options markets as well as the underlying cash equities markets, CBOE has obligated itself to submit data to the Commission in connection with the pilot program in the same scope and format as CBOE is required to submit as a condition of the SPXPM pilot.20 The Commission believes that the data and analysis that CBOE will provide to the Commission in connection with adding XSP options to the SPXPM twelve-month pilot, will allow CBOE and the Commission to monitor for and assess any potential for adverse market effects. Specifically, the data and analysis will assist the Commission in evaluating the effect of allowing P.M. settlement for XSP options on the underlying component stocks. The data collected from the pilot program will help inform the Commission’s consideration of whether the pilot program, which will include P.M.-settled XSP options, should be modified, discontinued, extended, or permanently approved. The P.M. settlement pilot information should help the Commission assess the impact on the markets and determine whether other changes are necessary. Furthermore, the Exchange’s ongoing 16 In approving this proposed rule change, the Commission has considered the proposed rule’s impact on efficiency, competition, and capital formation. See 15 U.S.C. 78c(f). 17 15 U.S.C. 78f. 18 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(5). 19 See C2 SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 55972, 55974–75; see also CBOE SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 10669. 20 See CBOE SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 10669. VerDate Mar<15>2010 19:47 Aug 05, 2013 Jkt 229001 analysis of the pilot should help it monitor any potential risks from large P.M.-settled positions and take appropriate action on a timely basis if warranted.21 As the Commission noted when it approved C2’s and CBOE’s proposals to list and trade SPXPM, approval of CBOE’s proposal to add XSP options to the SPXPM pilot program could benefit investors and the public interest to the extent it attracts trading in P.M.-settled XSP options from the opaque OTC market to the more transparent exchange-listed markets, where trading in the product will be subject to exchange trading rules and surveillance.22 CBOE has represented that it has adequate surveillance and reporting procedures to monitor trading in these options, thereby helping to ensure the maintenance of a fair and orderly market, and has represented that it has sufficient capacity to handle additional traffic associated with this new listing.23 In addition, CBOE has represented that it will give its TPHs advance notice of the changeover from A.M. settlement to P.M. settlement for XSP options through a Regulatory Circular and will utilize a clear and unambiguous process to phase out all remaining A.M.-settled XSP options series.24 The Commission believes that CBOE’s proposal to amend Interpretation and Policy .04 to Rule 24.6 to close trading in expiring P.M.-settled XSP options at 3:00 p.m. (Chicago time) (as opposed to the normal closing time of 3:15 p.m. for non-expiring options) is designed to reduce potential investor confusion. The primary listing markets for the component securities that comprise the S&P 500 Index close trading in those securities at 3:00 p.m. (Chicago time). If trading in expiring P.M.-settled XSP options was allowed to continue until 3:15 p.m., a potential pricing divergence could occur between 3:00 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. on the final trading day in expiring P.M.-settled XSP options. The Commission therefore believes that CBOE’s proposal to close trading in expiring P.M.-settled options at 3:00 p.m. (Chicago time) is designed to protect investors by avoid the potential disparities in pricing that could result past 3:00 p.m. In addition, the Commission believes that CBOE’s proposal to amend 21 See C2 SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 55975–76; CBOE SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 10669. 22 See C2 SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 55976; CBOE SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 10669. 23 See Amendment No. 1, supra note 5. 24 See id. PO 00000 Frm 00142 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 47811 Interpretation and Policy .03 to Rule 6.42 to provide that minimum increments for bids and offers for XSP options be the same as those for SPY, regardless of the value at which the option series is quoted, may promote competition and benefit investors. The Commission believes that the proposal to align the minimum increments for XSP options with those for SPY options in order to allow market participants in options series quoted at or above $3 to quote in minimum increments of $0.01 rather than $0.05 is consistent with the Act because allowing participants to quote in smaller increments may provide the opportunity for reduced spreads, thereby lowering costs to investors.25 In addition, because both XSP options and SPY options are based on 1/10th the price of the S&P 500 Index, it may be reasonable for the minimum increments of bids and offers to be the same for both types of options. CBOE’s proposal to simplify Interpretation and Policy .11 to Rule 24.9 to allow strike price intervals of as little as $1 for series of XSP options where the strike price is $200 or less and $5 where the strike price is greater than $200 may help protect investors by providing an easily understandable bright line threshold under which CBOE will offer an increased number of more granular price points. In addition, this proposed provision would harmonize the strike price intervals of XSP to match that of SPY, which may facilitate competition between the two products by allowing investors to trade XSP with the same level of granularity afforded to options on SPY. Further, CBOE’s proposal to reduce the minimum strike price intervals of LEAPS on P.M.-settled XSP options from $5 to $1 allows the strike price intervals of LEAPS on P.M.settled XSP options to match the nonLEAPS strike price intervals where the strike price is $200 or less. Together, these changes will simplify CBOE’s XSP option strike price intervals rules and thereby reduce the potential for investor confusion. Under CBOE’s proposal, position limits would not apply to XSP options. In 2001, the Commission permanently approved a CBOE rule (which had been in place for a two-year pilot period) to eliminate position limits on SPX (as well as options on the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 100 Index).26 The Commission found that 25 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 34– 61061 (November 24, 2009), 74 FR 62857, 62859 (December 1, 2009). 26 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 44994 (October 26, 2001), 66 FR 55722 (November 2, 2001). E:\FR\FM\06AUN1.SGM 06AUN1 47812 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 151 / Tuesday, August 6, 2013 / Notices because the S&P 500 Index is a broadbased index with considerable capitalization, manipulation of the 500 component stocks underlying the index would require extraordinarily large positions that would be readily detectable by enhanced surveillance procedures. In its approval order, the Commission relied in part on CBOE’s enhanced surveillance and reporting procedures that are intended to allow CBOE to detect and deter trading abuses in the absence of position limits. The Exchange has represented in this filing that it has enhanced surveillance and reporting procedures in place that are intended to allow CBOE to detect and deter possible trading abuses that could otherwise occur in the absence of position limits.27 Accordingly, the Commission believes that position limits would not be necessary for XSP options as long as CBOE has in place and enforces effective enhanced surveillance and reporting requirements. These enhanced procedures will allow the Exchange to see, with considerable advance notice, the accumulation of large positions, which it can then monitor more closely as necessary and take additional action if appropriate.28 For the reasons discussed above, the Commission finds that CBOE’s proposal is consistent with the Act, including Section 6(b)(5) thereof, in that it is designed to remove impediments to and perfect the mechanism of a free and open market, and, in general, to protect investors and the public interest. In light of the enhanced closing procedures at the underlying markets and the potential benefits to investors discussed above, the Commission finds that it is appropriate and consistent with the Act to add XSP options to the SPXPM pilot program. The collection of data during the pilot and CBOE’s active monitoring of any effects of P.M.-settled XSP options on the markets should help CBOE and the Commission assess any impact of P.M. settlement for XSP options during the pilot program. IV. Solicitation of Comments Interested persons are invited to submit written data, views, and tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with NOTICES 27 See Amendment No. 1, supra note 5. 28 In addition, the Commission notes that CBOE would have access to information through its membership in the Intermarket Surveillance Group with respect to the trading of the securities underlying the S&P 500 index, as well as tools such as large options positions reports to assist its surveillance of XSP options. In approving the proposed rule change, the Commission also has relied upon the Exchange’s representation that it has the necessary systems capacity to support new options series that will result from this proposal. VerDate Mar<15>2010 19:47 Aug 05, 2013 Jkt 229001 arguments concerning the foregoing, including whether Amendment No. 1 is consistent with the Act. Comments may be submitted by any of the following methods: Electronic Comments • Use the Commission’s Internet comment form (https://www.sec.gov/ rules/sro.shtml); or • Send an email to rulecomments@sec.gov. Please include File Number SR–CBOE–2013–055 on the subject line. Paper Comments • Send paper comments in triplicate to Elizabeth M. Murphy, Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street NE., Washington, DC 20549–1090. All submissions should refer to File Number SR–CBOE–2013–055. This file number should be included on the subject line if email is used. To help the Commission process and review your comments more efficiently, please use only one method. The Commission will post all comments on the Commission’s Internet Web site (https://www.sec.gov/ rules/sro.shtml). Copies of the submission, all subsequent amendments, all written statements with respect to the proposed rule change that are filed with the Commission, and all written communications relating to the proposed rule change between the Commission and any person, other than those that may be withheld from the public in accordance with the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552, will be available for Web site viewing and printing in the Commission’s Public Reference Room, 100 F Street NE., Washington, DC 20549 on official business days between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Copies of such filing also will be available for inspection and copying at the principal office of the Exchange. All comments received will be posted without change; the Commission does not edit personal identifying information from submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make available publicly. All submissions should refer to File Number SR–CBOE– 2013–055, and should be submitted on or before August 27, 2013. V. Accelerated Approval of a Proposed Rule Change As Modified by Amendment No.1 As discussed above, the Exchange submitted Amendment No. 1 to make additional representations regarding: data to include in the pilot program report and interim reports to the PO 00000 Frm 00143 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 Commission; minimum increments for XSP bids and offers; XSP strike price intervals; strike price intervals for LEAPS and reduced-value LEAPS on XSP options; the Exchange’s enhanced surveillance and reporting procedures in place to detect and deter possible trading abuses; systems capacity to handle potential additional traffic associated with trading of P.M.-settled XSP options; and the Exchange’s procedures relating to the changeover from A.M.-settled XSP options.29 The Commission believes these additional representations are useful to, among other things: (1) Provide greater transparency with respect to the data that the Exchange must submit to the Commission regarding the pilot program; (2) clarify the Exchange’s proposal by providing: that minimum increments for bids and offers on XSP options will be the same as those for SPY options, further detail on the minimum strike price intervals for XSP options, and the minimum strike price interval for LEAPS and reduced-value LEAPS on XSP options; (3) assure investors and the public of the Exchange’s ability to detect and deter trading abuses; (4) provide assurance that the Exchange has sufficient capacity to handle the additional traffic resulting from the trading of P.M.settled XSP options; and (5) provide greater detail regarding how the changeover from A.M.-settled XSP options will proceed. The content of Amendment No. 1, which does not raise any novel issues, provides additional clarifying information to support CBOE’s analysis of how its proposal is consistent with the Act and thus facilitates the Commission’s ability to herein approve the proposal on a pilot basis. Accordingly, the Commission finds good cause, pursuant to Section 19(b)(2) of the Act,30 for approving the proposed rule change, as modified by Amendment No. 1, prior to the 30th day after the date of publication of notice in the Federal Register. VI. Conclusion It is therefore ordered, pursuant to Section 19(b)(2) of the Act,31 that the proposed rule change (SR–CBOE–2013– 055), as modified by Amendment No. 1, be, and hereby is, approved on an accelerated basis for a pilot period that is set to expire on February 8, 2014. 29 See Amendment No. 1, supra note 5. U.S.C. 78s(b)(2). 31 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(2). 30 15 E:\FR\FM\06AUN1.SGM 06AUN1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 151 / Tuesday, August 6, 2013 / Notices For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, pursuant to delegated authority.32 Kevin M. O’Neill, Deputy Secretary. [FR Doc. 2013–18900 Filed 8–5–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8011–01–P SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION [File No. 500–1] In the Matter of Bergamo Acquisition Corp.; Order of Suspension of Trading August 2, 2013. It appears to the Securities and Exchange Commission that there is a lack of current and accurate information concerning the securities of Bergamo Acquisition Corp. (‘‘Bergamo’’). Bergamo is a Delaware corporation based in Henderson, Nevada, and its stock is currently quoted on OTC Link, operated by OTC Markets Group, Inc. under the symbol BGMO. Questions have arisen concerning the adequacy and accuracy of press releases and other public statements concerning Bergamo’s business operations and financial condition. The Commission is of the opinion that the public interest and the protection of investors require a suspension of trading in the securities of Bergamo. Therefore, it is ordered, pursuant to Section 12(k) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, that trading in the securities of the above-listed company is suspended for the period from 9:30 a.m. EDT, on August 2, 2013 through 11:59 p.m. EDT, on August 15, 2013. By the Commission. Jill M. Peterson, Assistant Secretary. [FR Doc. 2013–19044 Filed 8–2–13; 4:15 pm] BILLING CODE 8011–01–P SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Data Collection Available for Public Comments 60 Day Notice and request for comments. ACTION: In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces the Small Business Administration’s intentions to request approval on a new and/or currently approved information collection. DATES: Submit comments on or before October 7, 2013. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with NOTICES SUMMARY: 32 17 CFR 200.30–3(a)(12). VerDate Mar<15>2010 19:47 Aug 05, 2013 Jkt 229001 Send all comments regarding whether these information collections are necessary for the proper performance of the function of the agency, whether the burden estimates are accurate, and if there are ways to minimize the estimated burden and enhance the quality of the collections, to Eric Wall, Financial Analyst, Office of Financial Assistance, Small Business Administration, 409 3rd Street SW., 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20416. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eric Wall, Financial Analyst, 202–619–1625 eric.wall@sba.gov Curtis B. Rich, Management Analyst, 202–205–7030 curtis.rich@sba.gov. Title: ’’CDC Annual Report Guide’’. Abstract: 13 CFR, Section 120.830 requires CDCs to submit an annual report which contains financial statements, operational and management information. It is used by the district offices, Office of Financial Assistance, and Office of Lender Oversight to obtain information from the CDCs. The 1253 is a valuable tool for SBA to ensure that CDCs are operating according to the statues, regulations and policies governing the CDC loan program (504 program). Description of Respondents: Certified Development Companies. Form Number: 1253. Annual Responses: 266. Annual Burden: 7,488. Title: ’’Lender Advantage’’. Abstract: The information collected through these forms from the small business applicants and participating lenders will be used to determine eligibility and to properly evaluate and consider the merits of each loan request based on such criteria as character, capacity, credit, collateral, etc. for the purpose of extending credit under the 7(a) loan program. Description of Respondents: 7(A) Lenders. Form Numbers: 2301 Parts A, B, C, D, E. Annual Responses: 13,650. Annual Burden: 48,990. Title: ’’SBA Express and Pilot Loan Program (Export Express, Community Express and Patriot Express’’. Abstract: Section 7a of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C) subsection 626(a) authorizes the Small Business Administration to guaranty loans in the SBA Express and Pilot Loan Programs. The regulations covering these and other loan programs at 13 CFR part 120 require certain information from loan applicants and lenders. These forms are the means for collecting that information. Description of Respondents: Small Business Clients. ADDRESSES: PO 00000 Frm 00144 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 47813 Form Numbers: 1919, 1920, 2237. Annual Responses: 120,719. Annual Burden: 58,856. Curtis Rich, Management Analyst. [FR Doc. 2013–18902 Filed 8–5–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8025–01–P SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Data Collection Available for Public Comments 60 Day notice and request for comments. ACTION: In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces the Small Business Administration’s intentions to request approval on a new and/or currently approved information collection. DATES: Submit comments on or before October 7, 2013. ADDRESSES: Send all comments regarding whether these information collections are necessary for the proper performance of the function of the agency, whether the burden estimates are accurate, and if there are ways to minimize the estimated burden and enhance the quality of the collections, to Carol Fendler, Supervisor System Accountant, Office of Investment, Small Business Administration, 409 3rd Street SW., 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20416. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Carol Fendler, Supervisor System Accountant, 202–205–7559 carol.fendler@sba.gov Curtis B. Rich, Management Analyst, 202–205–7030 curtis.rich@sba.gov. Title: ’’Size Status Declaration’’. Abstract: The information collected on SBA Form 480, ‘‘Size Status Declaration’’ is a certification of small business size status. This information collection is used to ensure that SBIC financial assistance is provided only to small business concerns as defined in the Small Business Investment Act and SBA size regulations. Without this certification, businesses that exceed SBA’s size standards could benefit from program resources meant for small businesses. Description of Respondents: Small businesses requesting size determinations. Form Number: 480. Annual Responses: 2,500. Annual Burden: 417. Title: ’’Financing Eligibility Statement –Social Disadvantaged/Economic: Disadvantage’’. Abstract: Small businesses seeking financing from specialized small SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\06AUN1.SGM 06AUN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 151 (Tuesday, August 6, 2013)]
[Notices]
[Pages 47809-47813]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-18900]


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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

[Release No. 34-70087; File No. SR-CBOE-2013-055]


Self-Regulatory Organizations; Chicago Board Options Exchange, 
Incorporated; Notice of Filing of Amendment No. 1 and Order Granting 
Accelerated Approval of a Proposed Rule Change, as Modified by 
Amendment No. 1, to List and Trade a P.M.-settled Mini-SPX Index Option 
Product

 July 31, 2013.

I. Introduction

    On May 14, 2013, Chicago Board Options Exchange, Incorporated (the 
``Exchange'' or ``CBOE'') filed with the Securities and Exchange 
Commission (``Commission''), pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) of the 
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (``Act''),\1\ and Rule 19b-4 
thereunder,\2\ a proposed rule change to permit the listing and trading 
of P.M.-settled, cash-settled options on the Mini-SPX Index 
(``XSP'').\3\ The proposed rule change was published for comment in 
theFederal Register on May 30, 2013.\4\ The Commission received no 
comment letters on the proposal. On July 31, 2013, the Exchange filed 
Amendment No. 1 to the proposed rule change.\5\ The Commission is 
publishing this notice to solicit comments on Amendment No. 1 from 
interested persons and is approving the proposed rule change, as 
modified by Amendment No. 1, on an accelerated basis.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1).
    \2\ 17 CFR 240.19b-4.
    \3\ XSP options have 1/10th the value of S&P 500 Index options.
    \4\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 69638 (May 24, 
2013), 78 FR 32524 (May 30, 2013) (``Notice'').
    \5\ In Amendment No. 1, the Exchange provided more details 
regarding the volume, open interest, and trading patterns data that 
the Exchange proposes to include in the report that it will submit 
to the Commission at least two months before the expiration of the 
pilot program. The Exchange noted that the analysis would examine 
trading in the proposed option product as well as trading in the 
securities that comprise the underlying index. The Exchange also 
described the interim reports that would be submitted to the 
Commission pursuant to the pilot program. In addition, the Exchange 
clarified its proposed amendment to Rule 6.42, Interpretation and 
Policy .03 to state that for so long as SPY options participate in 
the Penny Pilot program, the minimum increments for XSP options 
shall be the same as SPY for all option series (including LEAPS). 
Further, the Exchange proposed to amend its originally proposed 
change to Rule 24.9, Interpretation and Policy .11, to lower from 
$300 to $200 the maximum strike price for which the strike price 
interval for series of XSP options may be $1. The Exchange also 
proposed to lower from $5 to $1 the minimum strike price interval 
for LEAPS and reduced-value LEAPS on XSP options. In addition, the 
Exchange represented that it has enhanced surveillance and reporting 
procedures in place that are intended to allow the Exchange to 
detect and deter possible trading abuses that could otherwise occur 
in the absence of position limits, and described the Exchange's 
requirements for opening for trading additional series of P.M.-
settled XSP options. The Exchange further represented that it and 
the Options Price Reporting Authority have the necessary systems 
capacity to handle any potential additional traffic associated with 
trading of P.M.-settled XSP options. Finally, the Exchange provided 
a more detailed description of its procedures relating to the 
changeover from A.M.-settled XSP options.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

II. Description of the Proposal

    The Exchange is proposing to amend its rules to permit it to list 
and trade, on a pilot basis, cash-settled XSP options with third-
Friday-of-the-month (``Expiration Friday'') expiration dates, for which 
the exercise settlement value will be based on the index value derived 
from the closing prices of the component securities (``P.M.-settled'').
    CBOE proposes to add P.M.-settled XSP options to the existing SPXPM 
pilot program on CBOE. SPXPM options, which are P.M.-settled options on 
the S&P 500 Index,\6\ are currently listed and traded on CBOE on a 12-
month pilot set to end on February 8, 2014. CBOE has proposed to add 
P.M.-settled XSP options to that pilot so that the end of the pilot 
period for P.M.-settled XSP options will also be February 8, 2014.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \6\ SPXPM options were initially traded on a 14-month pilot 
basis on C2 Options Exchange, Incorporated (``C2''), an exchange 
that is wholly owned by CBOE Holdings, Inc., the same corporation 
that owns CBOE. See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 65256 
(September 2, 2011), 76 FR 55969 (September 9, 2011) (``C2 SPXPM 
Approval Order''). The pilot to list and trade SPXPM was 
subsequently transferred from C2 to CBOE and reset to a new 12-month 
pilot period. See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 68888 
(February 8, 2013), 78 FR 10668 (February 14, 2013) (``CBOE SPXPM 
Approval Order'').
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    CBOE proposes to abide by the same reporting requirements for the 
trading of P.M.-settled XSP options that it does for the trading of 
SPXPM options.\7\ The Exchange proposes to include data regarding P.M.-
settled XSP options in a pilot program report that it will submit to 
the Commission at least two months prior to the expiration date of the 
pilot program (the ``annual report''). The annual report will contain 
an analysis of volume, open interest, and trading patterns; and will 
examine trading in the proposed option product as well as trading in 
the securities that comprise the underlying index. In addition, for 
series that exceed certain minimum open interest parameters, the annual 
report will provide analysis of index price volatility and share 
trading

[[Page 47810]]

activity. In addition to the annual report, the Exchange will provide 
the Commission with periodic interim reports while the pilot is in 
effect that contain some, but not all, of the information contained in 
the annual report (``interim reports'').
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \7\ For the details of SPXPM's reporting requirements, see 
Securities Exchange Act Release No. 68457 (December 18, 2012), 77 FR 
76135 (December 26, 2012).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Further, the Exchange proposes to make a number of corresponding 
amendments to its rules in conjunction with the proposed trading of XSP 
options on a P.M.-settled basis. Interpretation and Policy .04 to CBOE 
Rule 24.6 states that on the last trading day, transactions in expiring 
P.M.-settled SPXPM options may be effected on the Exchange between 8:30 
a.m. and 3:00 p.m. (Chicago time) (as opposed to the normal trading 
hours for non-expiring SPXPM options, which are from 8:30 a.m. until 
3:15 p.m. (Chicago time)). CBOE proposes to amend this Interpretation 
and Policy to include P.M.-settled XSP options.\8\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \8\ See Notice, supra note 4, at 32525.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    CBOE proposes to amend Interpretation and Policy .03 to CBOE Rule 
6.42 regarding minimum increments for bids and offers for XSP options. 
Currently, the minimum increments for bids and offers for XSP options 
are $0.01 for all option series quoted below $3 (including LEAPS) and 
$0.05 for all option series $3 and above (including LEAPS). However, 
the minimum increments for bids and offers for SPDR options (``SPY''), 
an exchange-traded fund that also tracks the performance of 1/10th the 
value of the S&P 500 Index, is $0.01, regardless of whether the options 
series is quoted above, at, or below $3. Since the prices of both XSP 
options and SPY options are based, in a similar manner, on 1/10th the 
size of the S&P 500 Index, CBOE proposes to amend Interpretation and 
Policy .03 to Rule 6.42 to state that for so long as SPY options 
participate in the Penny Pilot program, the minimum increments for XSP 
options shall be the same as SPY for all options series (including 
LEAPS).
    CBOE also proposes to amend Interpretation and Policy .11 to CBOE 
Rule 24.9 regarding strike price intervals for XSP options. Currently, 
Interpretation and Policy .11 to Rule 24.9 states that 
``[n]otwithstanding Interpretation and Policy .01(a) to Rule 24.9, the 
interval between strike prices of series of Mini-SPX options will be $1 
or greater,'' subject to a number of conditions. In Amendment No. 1, 
the Exchange proposes to simplify this provision by deleting conditions 
(a) through (c) of Interpretation and Policy .11 to CBOE Rule 24.9 and 
providing instead that the interval between strike prices of series of 
XSP options will be $1 or greater where the strike price is $200 or 
less and $5.00 or greater where the strike price is greater than 
$200.\9\ The Exchange proposes to keep in Interpretation and Policy .11 
to CBOE Rule 24.9 the language currently in condition (d), which states 
that the Exchange shall not list LEAPS or reduced-value LEAPS on Mini-
SPX options at intervals less than $5. However, CBOE proposes to reduce 
the threshold from $5 to $1. Because the minimum strike price interval 
for standard XSP options is proposed to be at least $1 (up to a strike 
price of $200), the Exchange proposes to reduce the LEAPS minimum 
strike price interval to be $1 as well in order to correspond to the 
regular, non-LEAPS minimum strike price interval.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \9\ Under CBOE's current rules, minimum strike price intervals 
on XSP options depend on the percentage by which strike prices vary 
from one-tenth of the current value of the S&P 500 Index. CBOE may 
list series at $1 or greater strike price intervals on XSP options 
with strike prices that are no more than 20% away from one-tenth of 
the current value of the S&P 500 Index. CBOE may list series at $3 
or greater strike price intervals on XSP options with strike prices 
that are no more than 25% away from one-tenth of the current value 
of the S&P 500 Index. CBOE may list series at $5 or greater strike 
price intervals on XSP options with strike prices that are more than 
25% away from one-tenth of the current value of the S&P 500 Index. 
See Notice, supra note 4, at 32526.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Other than the changes described above, trading in P.M.-settled XSP 
options will operate in the same manner as trading currently operates 
in A.M.-settled XSP options. XSP options will continue to use a $100 
multiplier. P.M.-settled XSP options will have European-style exercise, 
will not be subject to position or exercise limits, and the same 
position reporting and margin requirements that apply to A.M.-settled 
XSP options will apply to P.M.-settled XSP options.\10\ As with A.M.-
settled XSP options, the Exchange may list up to six expiration months 
of P.M.-settled XSP options at one time \11\ and the Exchange may open 
for trading additional series of P.M.-settled XSP options whose 
exercise price is within 30% of the current XSP value. The Exchange 
also may open for trading additional series of P.M.-settled XSP options 
that are more than 30% away from the current index value, provided that 
demonstrated customer interest exists for such series, as expressed by 
institutional, corporate, or individual customers or their brokers.\12\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ See Notice, supra note 4, at 32526. The Exchange represents 
that it has enhanced surveillance and reporting procedures in place 
that are intended to allow CBOE to detect and deter possible trading 
abuses that could otherwise occur in the absence of position limits. 
See Amendment No. 1, supra note 5.
    \11\ See CBOE Rule 24.9(a)(2).
    \12\ See CBOE Rule 24.9, Interpretation and Policy .04.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    With regard to the impact of this proposal on system capacity, the 
Exchange has analyzed its capacity and represents that it and the 
Options Price Reporting Authority have the necessary systems capacity 
to handle any potential additional traffic associated with trading of 
P.M.-settled XSP options.\13\ The Exchange believes that its Trading 
Permit Holders (``TPHs'') will not experience a capacity issue as a 
result of this proposal.\14\ CBOE represents that it will monitor the 
trading volume associated with any possible additional options series 
listed as a result of this proposal and the effect (if any) of these 
additional series on market fragmentation and on the capacity of the 
Exchange's automated systems.\15\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \13\ See Amendment No. 1, supra note 5.
    \14\ See id.
    \15\ See id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    CBOE will notify TPHs in advance via Regulatory Circular of all 
plans associated with the adoption of P.M.-settled XSP options, and 
will set a date for the changeover from A.M.-settled XSP options. On 
that date, P.M.-settled XSP options series will be introduced using the 
trading symbol XSP, and all remaining A.M.-settled XSP options series 
will be moved to the trading symbol XSPAM. Beginning with that date, 
the Exchange will cease issuing new A.M.-settled XSP options series, 
and on that date, the Exchange will de-list any open A.M.-settled XSP 
options series that do not have any open interest. From that date going 
forward, the only new XSP options series that will be opened will be 
P.M.-settled. Regarding any remaining A.M.-settled XSP options series, 
the Exchange will wait and allow the series to trade until expiration, 
or if, due to trading, any XSPAM series cease to have open interest, 
such series will be de-listed. Once all remaining XSPAM series have 
either expired or been de-listed due to a lack of open interest, the 
Exchange will have no more A.M.-settled XSP options series, and going 
forward, all XSP options series will be P.M.-settled for the duration 
of the pilot.

III. Discussion and Commission Findings

    After careful consideration of the proposal, the Commission finds 
that the proposed rule change is consistent with the requirements of 
the Act and the rules and regulations thereunder applicable to a 
national securities

[[Page 47811]]

exchange,\16\ and, in particular, the requirements of Section 6 of the 
Act.\17\ Specifically, the Commission finds that the proposed rule 
change is consistent with Section 6(b)(5) of the Act,\18\ which 
provides that an exchange have rules designed to remove impediments to 
and perfect the mechanism of a free and open market to protect 
investors and the public interest.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \16\ In approving this proposed rule change, the Commission has 
considered the proposed rule's impact on efficiency, competition, 
and capital formation. See 15 U.S.C. 78c(f).
    \17\ 15 U.S.C. 78f.
    \18\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(5).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As the Commission noted in its orders approving the listing and 
trading of SPXPM on C2 and on CBOE, the Commission has historically had 
concerns about the potential impact on the market at expiration for the 
underlying component stocks for P.M.-settled, cash-settled index 
options.\19\ The Commission recognizes that these risks may be 
mitigated today by the enhanced closing procedures that are now in use 
at the primary equity markets. However, the extent of that mitigation 
is unclear.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \19\ See C2 SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 55972, 55974-
75; see also CBOE SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 10669.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    To assist the Commission in assessing any potential impact of a 
P.M.-settled XSP option product on the options markets as well as the 
underlying cash equities markets, CBOE has obligated itself to submit 
data to the Commission in connection with the pilot program in the same 
scope and format as CBOE is required to submit as a condition of the 
SPXPM pilot.\20\ The Commission believes that the data and analysis 
that CBOE will provide to the Commission in connection with adding XSP 
options to the SPXPM twelve-month pilot, will allow CBOE and the 
Commission to monitor for and assess any potential for adverse market 
effects. Specifically, the data and analysis will assist the Commission 
in evaluating the effect of allowing P.M. settlement for XSP options on 
the underlying component stocks.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \20\ See CBOE SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 10669.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The data collected from the pilot program will help inform the 
Commission's consideration of whether the pilot program, which will 
include P.M.-settled XSP options, should be modified, discontinued, 
extended, or permanently approved. The P.M. settlement pilot 
information should help the Commission assess the impact on the markets 
and determine whether other changes are necessary. Furthermore, the 
Exchange's ongoing analysis of the pilot should help it monitor any 
potential risks from large P.M.-settled positions and take appropriate 
action on a timely basis if warranted.\21\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \21\ See C2 SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 55975-76; 
CBOE SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 10669.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As the Commission noted when it approved C2's and CBOE's proposals 
to list and trade SPXPM, approval of CBOE's proposal to add XSP options 
to the SPXPM pilot program could benefit investors and the public 
interest to the extent it attracts trading in P.M.-settled XSP options 
from the opaque OTC market to the more transparent exchange-listed 
markets, where trading in the product will be subject to exchange 
trading rules and surveillance.\22\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \22\ See C2 SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 55976; CBOE 
SPXPM Approval Order, supra note 6, at 10669.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    CBOE has represented that it has adequate surveillance and 
reporting procedures to monitor trading in these options, thereby 
helping to ensure the maintenance of a fair and orderly market, and has 
represented that it has sufficient capacity to handle additional 
traffic associated with this new listing.\23\ In addition, CBOE has 
represented that it will give its TPHs advance notice of the changeover 
from A.M. settlement to P.M. settlement for XSP options through a 
Regulatory Circular and will utilize a clear and unambiguous process to 
phase out all remaining A.M.-settled XSP options series.\24\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \23\ See Amendment No. 1, supra note 5.
    \24\ See id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Commission believes that CBOE's proposal to amend 
Interpretation and Policy .04 to Rule 24.6 to close trading in expiring 
P.M.-settled XSP options at 3:00 p.m. (Chicago time) (as opposed to the 
normal closing time of 3:15 p.m. for non-expiring options) is designed 
to reduce potential investor confusion. The primary listing markets for 
the component securities that comprise the S&P 500 Index close trading 
in those securities at 3:00 p.m. (Chicago time). If trading in expiring 
P.M.-settled XSP options was allowed to continue until 3:15 p.m., a 
potential pricing divergence could occur between 3:00 p.m. and 3:15 
p.m. on the final trading day in expiring P.M.-settled XSP options. The 
Commission therefore believes that CBOE's proposal to close trading in 
expiring P.M.-settled options at 3:00 p.m. (Chicago time) is designed 
to protect investors by avoid the potential disparities in pricing that 
could result past 3:00 p.m.
    In addition, the Commission believes that CBOE's proposal to amend 
Interpretation and Policy .03 to Rule 6.42 to provide that minimum 
increments for bids and offers for XSP options be the same as those for 
SPY, regardless of the value at which the option series is quoted, may 
promote competition and benefit investors. The Commission believes that 
the proposal to align the minimum increments for XSP options with those 
for SPY options in order to allow market participants in options series 
quoted at or above $3 to quote in minimum increments of $0.01 rather 
than $0.05 is consistent with the Act because allowing participants to 
quote in smaller increments may provide the opportunity for reduced 
spreads, thereby lowering costs to investors.\25\ In addition, because 
both XSP options and SPY options are based on 1/10th the price of the 
S&P 500 Index, it may be reasonable for the minimum increments of bids 
and offers to be the same for both types of options.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \25\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 34-61061 (November 
24, 2009), 74 FR 62857, 62859 (December 1, 2009).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    CBOE's proposal to simplify Interpretation and Policy .11 to Rule 
24.9 to allow strike price intervals of as little as $1 for series of 
XSP options where the strike price is $200 or less and $5 where the 
strike price is greater than $200 may help protect investors by 
providing an easily understandable bright line threshold under which 
CBOE will offer an increased number of more granular price points. In 
addition, this proposed provision would harmonize the strike price 
intervals of XSP to match that of SPY, which may facilitate competition 
between the two products by allowing investors to trade XSP with the 
same level of granularity afforded to options on SPY. Further, CBOE's 
proposal to reduce the minimum strike price intervals of LEAPS on P.M.-
settled XSP options from $5 to $1 allows the strike price intervals of 
LEAPS on P.M.-settled XSP options to match the non-LEAPS strike price 
intervals where the strike price is $200 or less. Together, these 
changes will simplify CBOE's XSP option strike price intervals rules 
and thereby reduce the potential for investor confusion.
    Under CBOE's proposal, position limits would not apply to XSP 
options. In 2001, the Commission permanently approved a CBOE rule 
(which had been in place for a two-year pilot period) to eliminate 
position limits on SPX (as well as options on the Dow Jones Industrial 
Average and the S&P 100 Index).\26\ The Commission found that

[[Page 47812]]

because the S&P 500 Index is a broad-based index with considerable 
capitalization, manipulation of the 500 component stocks underlying the 
index would require extraordinarily large positions that would be 
readily detectable by enhanced surveillance procedures. In its approval 
order, the Commission relied in part on CBOE's enhanced surveillance 
and reporting procedures that are intended to allow CBOE to detect and 
deter trading abuses in the absence of position limits.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \26\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 44994 (October 26, 
2001), 66 FR 55722 (November 2, 2001).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Exchange has represented in this filing that it has enhanced 
surveillance and reporting procedures in place that are intended to 
allow CBOE to detect and deter possible trading abuses that could 
otherwise occur in the absence of position limits.\27\ Accordingly, the 
Commission believes that position limits would not be necessary for XSP 
options as long as CBOE has in place and enforces effective enhanced 
surveillance and reporting requirements. These enhanced procedures will 
allow the Exchange to see, with considerable advance notice, the 
accumulation of large positions, which it can then monitor more closely 
as necessary and take additional action if appropriate.\28\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \27\ See Amendment No. 1, supra note 5.
    \28\ In addition, the Commission notes that CBOE would have 
access to information through its membership in the Intermarket 
Surveillance Group with respect to the trading of the securities 
underlying the S&P 500 index, as well as tools such as large options 
positions reports to assist its surveillance of XSP options.
     In approving the proposed rule change, the Commission also has 
relied upon the Exchange's representation that it has the necessary 
systems capacity to support new options series that will result from 
this proposal.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    For the reasons discussed above, the Commission finds that CBOE's 
proposal is consistent with the Act, including Section 6(b)(5) thereof, 
in that it is designed to remove impediments to and perfect the 
mechanism of a free and open market, and, in general, to protect 
investors and the public interest. In light of the enhanced closing 
procedures at the underlying markets and the potential benefits to 
investors discussed above, the Commission finds that it is appropriate 
and consistent with the Act to add XSP options to the SPXPM pilot 
program. The collection of data during the pilot and CBOE's active 
monitoring of any effects of P.M.-settled XSP options on the markets 
should help CBOE and the Commission assess any impact of P.M. 
settlement for XSP options during the pilot program.

IV. Solicitation of Comments

    Interested persons are invited to submit written data, views, and 
arguments concerning the foregoing, including whether Amendment No. 1 
is consistent with the Act. Comments may be submitted by any of the 
following methods:

Electronic Comments

     Use the Commission's Internet comment form (https://www.sec.gov/rules/sro.shtml); or
     Send an email to rule-comments@sec.gov. Please include 
File Number SR-CBOE-2013-055 on the subject line.

Paper Comments

     Send paper comments in triplicate to Elizabeth M. Murphy, 
Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street NE., 
Washington, DC 20549-1090.
All submissions should refer to File Number SR-CBOE-2013-055. This file 
number should be included on the subject line if email is used. To help 
the Commission process and review your comments more efficiently, 
please use only one method. The Commission will post all comments on 
the Commission's Internet Web site (https://www.sec.gov/rules/sro.shtml). Copies of the submission, all subsequent amendments, all 
written statements with respect to the proposed rule change that are 
filed with the Commission, and all written communications relating to 
the proposed rule change between the Commission and any person, other 
than those that may be withheld from the public in accordance with the 
provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552, will be available for Web site viewing and 
printing in the Commission's Public Reference Room, 100 F Street NE., 
Washington, DC 20549 on official business days between the hours of 
10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Copies of such filing also will be available 
for inspection and copying at the principal office of the Exchange. All 
comments received will be posted without change; the Commission does 
not edit personal identifying information from submissions. You should 
submit only information that you wish to make available publicly. All 
submissions should refer to File Number SR-CBOE-2013-055, and should be 
submitted on or before August 27, 2013.

V. Accelerated Approval of a Proposed Rule Change As Modified by 
Amendment No.1

    As discussed above, the Exchange submitted Amendment No. 1 to make 
additional representations regarding: data to include in the pilot 
program report and interim reports to the Commission; minimum 
increments for XSP bids and offers; XSP strike price intervals; strike 
price intervals for LEAPS and reduced-value LEAPS on XSP options; the 
Exchange's enhanced surveillance and reporting procedures in place to 
detect and deter possible trading abuses; systems capacity to handle 
potential additional traffic associated with trading of P.M.-settled 
XSP options; and the Exchange's procedures relating to the changeover 
from A.M.-settled XSP options.\29\ The Commission believes these 
additional representations are useful to, among other things: (1) 
Provide greater transparency with respect to the data that the Exchange 
must submit to the Commission regarding the pilot program; (2) clarify 
the Exchange's proposal by providing: that minimum increments for bids 
and offers on XSP options will be the same as those for SPY options, 
further detail on the minimum strike price intervals for XSP options, 
and the minimum strike price interval for LEAPS and reduced-value LEAPS 
on XSP options; (3) assure investors and the public of the Exchange's 
ability to detect and deter trading abuses; (4) provide assurance that 
the Exchange has sufficient capacity to handle the additional traffic 
resulting from the trading of P.M.-settled XSP options; and (5) provide 
greater detail regarding how the changeover from A.M.-settled XSP 
options will proceed. The content of Amendment No. 1, which does not 
raise any novel issues, provides additional clarifying information to 
support CBOE's analysis of how its proposal is consistent with the Act 
and thus facilitates the Commission's ability to herein approve the 
proposal on a pilot basis. Accordingly, the Commission finds good 
cause, pursuant to Section 19(b)(2) of the Act,\30\ for approving the 
proposed rule change, as modified by Amendment No. 1, prior to the 30th 
day after the date of publication of notice in the Federal Register.
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    \29\ See Amendment No. 1, supra note 5.
    \30\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(2).
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VI. Conclusion

    It is therefore ordered, pursuant to Section 19(b)(2) of the 
Act,\31\ that the proposed rule change (SR-CBOE-2013-055), as modified 
by Amendment No. 1, be, and hereby is, approved on an accelerated basis 
for a pilot period that is set to expire on February 8, 2014.
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    \31\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(2).


[[Page 47813]]


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    For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, 
pursuant to delegated authority.\32\
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    \32\ 17 CFR 200.30-3(a)(12).
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Kevin M. O'Neill,
Deputy Secretary.
[FR Doc. 2013-18900 Filed 8-5-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 8011-01-P
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