Self-Regulatory Organizations; Nasdaq ISE, LLC; Notice of Filing of Proposed Rule Change To Permit the Listing and Trading of NQX Index Options, 61090-61094 [2017-27699]

Download as PDF 61090 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 246 / Tuesday, December 26, 2017 / Notices 19b 4(f)(6) thereunder.8 Because the proposed rule change does not: (i) Significantly affect the protection of investors or the public interest; (ii) impose any significant burden on competition; and (iii) become operative prior to 30 days from the date on which it was filed, or such shorter time as the Commission may designate, if consistent with the protection of investors and the public interest, the proposed rule change has become effective pursuant to Section 19(b)(3)(A) of the Act and Rule 19b–4(f)(6)(iii) thereunder. A proposed rule change filed under Rule 19b–4(f)(6) 9 normally does not become operative prior to 30 days after the date of the filing.10 However, pursuant to Rule 19b–4(f)(6)(iii),11 the Commission may designate a shorter time if such action is consistent with the protection of investors and the public interest. The Exchange has asked the Commission to waive the 30-day operative delay so that the proposal may become operative immediately upon filing. The Commission believes that waiving the 30-day operative delay is consistent with the protection of investors and the public interest because doing so will allow the Pilot Program to continue without interruption in a manner that is consistent with the Commission’s prior approval of the extension and expansion of the Pilot Program and will allow the Exchange and the Commission additional time to analyze the impact of the Pilot Program. Accordingly, the Commission designates the proposed rule change as operative upon filing with the Commission.12 At any time within 60 days of the filing of such proposed rule change, the Commission summarily may temporarily suspend such rule change if it appears to the Commission that such action is necessary or appropriate in the public interest, for the protection of investors, or otherwise in furtherance of the purposes of the Act. If the Commission takes such action, the Commission shall institute proceedings 8 17 CFR 240.19b–4(f)(6). CFR 240.19b–4(f)(6). 10 17 CFR 240.19b–4(f)(6). In addition, Rule 19b– 4(f)(6)(iii) requires the Exchange to give the Commission written notice of the Exchange’s intent to file the proposed rule change along with a brief description and the text of the proposed rule change, at least five business days prior to the date of filing of the proposed rule change, or such shorter time as designated by the Commission. The Exchange has satisfied this pre-filing requirement. 11 17 CFR 240.19b–4(f)(6)(iii). 12 For purposes only of waiving the operative delay for this proposal, the Commission has considered the proposed rule’s impact on efficiency, competition, and capital formation. See 15 U.S.C. 78c(f). ethrower on DSK3G9T082PROD with NOTICES 9 17 VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:21 Dec 22, 2017 Jkt 244001 under Section 19(b)(2)(B) 13 of the Act to determine whether the proposed rule change should be approved or disapproved. IV. Solicitation of Comments Interested persons are invited to submit written data, views, and 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: 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– GEMX–2017–57 on the subject line. should be submitted on or before January 16, 2018. For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, pursuant to delegated authority.14 Eduardo A. Aleman, Assistant Secretary. [FR Doc. 2017–27696 Filed 12–22–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8011–01–P SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION [Release No. 34–82362; File No. SR–ISE– 2017–106] Self-Regulatory Organizations; Nasdaq ISE, LLC; Notice of Filing of Proposed Rule Change To Permit the Listing and Trading of NQX Index Options December 19, 2017. Paper Comments • Send paper comments in triplicate to Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street NE, Washington, DC 20549–1090. All submissions should refer to File Number SR–GEMX–2017–57. 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 website (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 website 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 the filing also will be available for inspection and copying at the principal office of the Exchange. All comments received will be posted without change. Persons submitting comments are cautioned that we do not redact or edit personal identifying information from comment submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make available publicly. All submissions should refer to File Number SR–GEMX–2017–57 and Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the ‘‘Act’’),1 and Rule 19b–4 thereunder,2 notice is hereby given that on December 6, 2017, Nasdaq ISE, LLC (‘‘ISE’’ or ‘‘Exchange’’) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (‘‘SEC’’ or ‘‘Commission’’) the proposed rule change as described in Items I, II, and III below, which Items have been prepared by the Exchange. The Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change from interested persons. I. Self-Regulatory Organization’s Statement of the Terms of Substance of the Proposed Rule Change The Exchange proposes to permit the listing and trading of options based on 1⁄5 the value of the Nasdaq-100 Index (‘‘Nasdaq-100’’) on a twelve month pilot basis. The text of the proposed rule change is available on the Exchange’s website at https://ise.cchwallstreet.com/, at the principal office of the Exchange, and at the Commission’s Public Reference Room. II. Self-Regulatory Organization’s Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change In its filing with the Commission, the Exchange included statements concerning the purpose of and basis for the proposed rule change and discussed any comments it received on the proposed rule change. The text of these statements may be examined at the places specified in Item IV below. The Exchange has prepared summaries, set 14 17 CFR 200.30–3(a)(12). U.S.C. 78s(b)(1). 2 17 CFR 240.19b–4. 1 15 13 15 PO 00000 U.S.C. 78s(b)(2)(B). Frm 00143 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\26DEN1.SGM 26DEN1 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 246 / Tuesday, December 26, 2017 / Notices forth in sections A, B, and C below, of the most significant aspects of such statements. II. NQX Options Contract A. Self-Regulatory Organization’s Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change 1. Purpose The purpose of the proposed rule change is to amend the Exchange’s rules to permit the listing and trading of index options on the Nasdaq 100 Reduced Value Index (‘‘NQX’’) on a twelve month pilot basis. The NQX options contract will be the same in all respects as the current Nasdaq-100 (‘‘NDX’’) options contract listed on the Exchange,3 except that it will be based on 1⁄5 of the value of the Nasdaq-100, and will be P.M.-settled with an exercise settlement value based on the closing index value of the Nasdaq-100 on the day of expiration.4 The Exchange believes that the proposed contract will be valuable for retail and other investors that wish to trade reduce value options on the Nasdaq-100, or who wish to hedge positions in the related E-mini Nasdaq 100 (‘‘NQ’’) futures contract, which is also based on 1⁄5 the value of the Nasdaq-100. I. Nasdaq-100 Index ethrower on DSK3G9T082PROD with NOTICES The Nasdaq-100 is a modified market capitalization-weighted index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on The Nasdaq Stock Market (‘‘Nasdaq’’),5 based on market capitalization.6 It does not contain securities of financial companies, including investment companies. Security types generally eligible for the Nasdaq-100 include common stocks, ordinary shares, American Depository Receipts, and tracking stocks. Security or company types not included in the Nasdaq-100 are closed-end funds, convertible debentures, exchange traded funds, limited liability companies, limited partnership interests, preferred stocks, rights, shares or units of beneficial interest, warrants, units and other derivative securities.7 3 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 51121 (February 1, 2005), 70 FR 6476 (February 7, 2005) (SR–ISE–2005–01) (Approval Order). 4 In addition to the current Nasdaq-100 index value, Nasdaq will disseminate an index value for NQX that is 1⁄5 of the value of the Nasdaq-100. 5 Nasdaq is an affiliate of the Exchange. 6 The Nasdaq-100 is a broad-based index, as defined in Rule 2001(k). 7 A description of the Nasdaq-100 is available on Nasdaq’s website at https:// indexes.nasdaqomx.com/docs/methodology_ NDX.pdf. VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:21 Dec 22, 2017 Jkt 244001 Currently, the Exchange lists and trades NDX options that are based on the full value of the Nasdaq-100. In an effort to attract additional interest in index options based on the Nasdaq-100, the Exchange now proposes to list and trade a new reduced value option contract based on this index on a twelve month pilot basis. NQX options will trade independently of and in addition to NDX options, and the NQX options will be subject to the same rules that presently govern the trading of index options based on the Nasdaq-100, including sales practice rules, margin requirements, trading rules, and position and exercise limits. Similar to NDX, NQX options will be Europeanstyle and cash-settled, and will have a contract multiplier of 100. The contract specifications for NQX options will mirror in all respects those of the NDX options contract already listed on the Exchange, except that the Exchange proposes that NQX options will be based on 1⁄5 of the value of the Nasdaq100, and will be P.M.-settled pursuant to proposed Rule 2009(a)(6). Similar features are available with other index options contracts listed and/or approved for trading on the Exchange and other options exchanges, including the Exchange’s affiliate, Nasdaq Phlx (‘‘Phlx’’). Specifically, options contracts based on 1/10 the value of the Nasdaq100, i.e., ‘‘MNX’’ options, are listed on the Exchange with limited strikes, and are also currently listed on Phlx and the Chicago Board Options Exchange (‘‘CBOE’’). In addition, Phlx recently received approval to trade P.M.-settled options on the full value of the Nasdaq100 (‘‘NDXPM’’).8 The value of the Nasdaq-100 has increased significantly in recent years such that the value of the index stood at 6,242.47, as of the opening of trading on December 5, 2017. As a result of the increase in the value of the underlying Nasdaq-100 index, the premium for NDX options has also increased. The Exchange believes that this has caused NDX options to trade at a level that may be uncomfortably high for certain retail and other investors. The Exchange believes that listing options on reduced values will attract a greater source of retail customer business. The Exchange further believes that listing options on reduced values will provide an opportunity for investors to trade and hedge the market risk associated with the Nasdaq-100. 8 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 81293 (August 2, 2017), 82 FR 37138 (August 8, 2017) (SR–Phlx–2017–04) (Approval Order). PO 00000 Frm 00144 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 61091 With an exercise settlement value based on 1⁄5 of the Nasdaq-100, the Exchange believes that retail and other investors would be able to use this trading vehicle while extending a smaller outlay of capital. Furthermore, the proposed reduced value index will have a notional value at a level that is comparable to similar products that have been successful in the market, including the S&P 500, which had an index value of 2,639.78 as of the opening of trading on December 5, 2017, and the Russell 2000, which had an index value of 1,532.72 as of the opening of trading on that date. Finally, options based on 1⁄5 of the value of the Nasdaq-100 will be a particularly useful hedge, as NQ futures are similarly based on the value of 1⁄5 of the value of the Nasdaq-100. The Exchange therefore believes that basing the proposed NQX options contract on 1⁄5 of the value of the Nasdaq-100 should attract additional investors, and, in turn, create a more active and liquid trading environment. NQX options will also be P.M.-settled as the Exchange believes that market participants, and in particular, retail investors, who are the target audience for this product, prefer P.M.-settled index options. P.M.-settlement is preferred by retail investors as it allows market participants to hedge their exposure for the full week. A.M.-settled options by contrast are based on opening prices on the day of expiration and therefore stop trading on the day prior, leaving residual risk on the day of expiration. Feedback from members that handle retail order flow has indicated that P.M.-settlement is needed to garner retail investor support for this product. In this regard, the Exchange notes that there is ample precedent for P.M.settlement of broad-based index options. As described above, the Exchange’s affiliate, Phlx, recently received approval to list NDXPM options. In addition, CBOE offers P.M.-settled index options based on both the Standard & Poor’s 500 index (‘‘SPXW’’),9 and the Standard & Poor’s 100 index (‘‘OEX’’).10 The Exchange does not believe that the introduction of a new P.M.-settled Nasdaq-100 contract will cause any market disruptions. Similar to other P.M.-settled index option products, the Exchange is proposing to list and trade NQX options contracts pursuant to a pilot, and will provide data to the Commission during the pilot period as described in Section VI below. The 9 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 80060 (February 17, 2017), 82 FR 11673 (February 24, 2017) (SR–CBOE–2016–091) (Approval Order). 10 OEX has been P.M. settled since 1983. E:\FR\FM\26DEN1.SGM 26DEN1 61092 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 246 / Tuesday, December 26, 2017 / Notices Exchange will monitor for any disruptions caused by P.M.-settlement of the proposed NQX options contract or the development of any factors that could cause such disruptions. P.M.settled options predominate in the overthe-counter (‘‘OTC’’) market, and the Exchange is not aware of any adverse effects in the OTC market attributable to the P.M.-settlement feature. The Exchange is merely proposing to offer a P.M.-settled product in an exchange environment, which offers the additional benefits of added transparency, price discovery, and stability. III. Trading Hours, Minimum Increments, Expirations and Strike Prices NQX options will be available for trading during the Exchange’s standard trading hours for index options, i.e., from 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. New York time,11 with a minimum trading increment of $0.05 for options trading below $3.00 and $0.10 for all other series.12 NQX options will have monthly expiration dates on the third Friday of each month (i.e., Expiration Friday), and the Exchange proposes to list NQX options in expiration months consistent with those of other index option products available on the Exchange.13 In addition, the Exchange may list long-term index options series (‘‘LEAPS’’) that expire from twelve (12) to sixty (60) months from the date of issuance.14 NQX options would also be eligible to be added to the Short Term Option Series Program (‘‘Weeklies’’) and/or Quarterly Options Series Program (‘‘Quarterlies’’) if designated by the Exchange pursuant to Supplementary Material .01 or .02 to Rule 2009, respectively.15 Generally, pursuant to Rule 2009(c)(1), index options listed on the Exchange are subject to strike price intervals of no less than $5, provided that certain classes of index options (including NDX and MNX) have strike price intervals of no less than $2.50 if the strike price is less than $200. The Exchange proposes to amend Rule 2009(c)(1) to add NQX options to the list of classes where strike price intervals of 11 See Rule 2008(a). Rule 710(a). 13 See Rule 2009(a)(3). Rule 2009(a)(3) currently provides that the Exchange may list up to six expiration months in index option contracts at any one time that may expire at three-month intervals or in consecutive months. The Exchange intends to file separately to modify the expiration months permitted for index option contracts consistent with Phlx Rule 1101A(b). 14 See Rule 2009(b). 15 The Exchange expects that it will add NQX options to the Weeklies program. ethrower on DSK3G9T082PROD with NOTICES 12 See VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:21 Dec 22, 2017 Jkt 244001 no less than $2.50 are generally permitted if the strike price is less than $200. In addition, Rule 2009(c)(5) provides finer strike price intervals for MNX options as these contracts are based on a reduced value of the Nasdaq100. Specifically, Rule 2009(c)(5) provides that notwithstanding Rule 2009(c)(1) discussed above, the interval between strike prices of series of MNX options will be $1 or greater, subject to certain conditions. The Exchange proposes to adopt the same strike price intervals for NQX options as currently approved for MNX options. Thus, notwithstanding Rule 2009(c)(1), the interval between strike prices of series of NQX options will be $1 or greater, subject to the conditions described in Rule 2009(c)(5), which currently apply to the listing of strikes in reduced value MNX contracts. The Exchange will not list LEAPS on NQX options at intervals less than $5. If the Exchange determines to add NQX options to the Weeklies or Quarterlies programs such options will be listed with expirations and strike prices described in Supplementary Material .01 or .02 to Rule 2009. IV. Position and Exercise Limits; Margin As with NDX, in determining compliance with Rule 2004—i.e., Position Limits for Broad-Based Index Options—there will be no position limits for broad-based index option contracts in the NQX class. Although there will be no position limits for NQX options, the Exchange proposes to amend Rule 2004(c) to correctly describe how positions in reduced-value options would be aggregated with fullvalue options. Rule 2004(c) provides that positions in reduced-value index options shall be aggregated with positions in full-value indices. In addition, the rule currently states that for such purposes, ten reduced-value contracts shall equal one contract, as this was consistent with other reducedvalue contracts offered on the Exchange—i.e., MNX, which is based on 1⁄10 of the value of the Nasdaq-100. Since the Exchange is proposing to list a reduced-value NQX contract that is based on 1⁄5 of the value of the Nasdaq100, the Exchange proposes to amend this language to state instead that reduced-value contracts will be counted consistent with their value (e.g., 5 NQX reduced-value contracts equal 1 NDX full-value contract). With this change, the rule will more accurately reflect how the Exchange would aggregate reduced-value and full-value positions for NQX. In addition, as with NDX, there would be no exercise limits for PO 00000 Frm 00145 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 NQX.16 Finally, the Exchange proposes to apply broad-based index margin requirements for the purchase and sale of NQX options that are the same as margin requirements currently in place for NDX options. V. Surveillance and Capacity The Exchange represents that it has sufficient capacity to handle additional quotations and message traffic associated with the proposed listing and trading of NQX options. In addition, index options are integrated into the Exchange’s existing surveillance system architecture and are thus subject to the relevant surveillance processes. The Exchange represents that it has adequate surveillance procedures to monitor trading in NQX options thereby aiding in the maintenance of a fair and orderly market. VI. Pilot Program Reports The Exchange proposes to list and trade NQX options on a pilot basis for period of twelve months (‘‘Pilot Program’’). If the Exchange were to propose an extension of the program or should the Exchange propose to make the program permanent, then the Exchange would submit a filing proposing such amendments to the program. The Exchange notes that any positions established under the pilot would not be impacted by the expiration of the pilot. For example, a position in an NQX options series that expires beyond the conclusion of the pilot period could be established during the pilot. If the Pilot Program were not extended, then the position could continue to exist. However, the Exchange notes that any further trading in the series would be restricted to transactions where at least one side of the trade is a closing transaction. The Exchange proposes to submit a Pilot Program report to the Commission at least two months prior to the expiration date of the Pilot Program (the ‘‘annual report’’). The annual report would contain an analysis of volume, open interest, and trading patterns. The analysis would examine trading in the proposed option product as well as trading in the securities that comprise the Nasdaq-100. In addition, for series that exceed certain minimum open interest parameters, the annual report would provide analysis of index price volatility and share trading activity. In addition to the annual report, the Exchange would provide the Commission with periodic interim 16 See Rule 2007(a), which provides that exercise limits for index options products are equivalent to the position limits in place for those products. E:\FR\FM\26DEN1.SGM 26DEN1 ethrower on DSK3G9T082PROD with NOTICES Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 246 / Tuesday, December 26, 2017 / Notices reports while the pilot is in effect that would contain some, but not all, of the information contained in the annual report. The annual report would be provided to the Commission on a confidential basis. The annual report would contain the following volume and open interest data:17 (1) Monthly volume aggregated for all trades; (2) monthly volume aggregated by expiration date; (3) monthly volume for each individual series; (4) month-end open interest aggregated for all series; (5) month-end open interest for all series aggregated by expiration date; and (6) month-end open interest for each individual series. In addition to the annual report, the Exchange would provide the Commission with interim reports of the information listed in Items (1) through (6) above periodically as required by the Commission while the pilot is in effect. These interim reports would also be provided on a confidential basis. Finally, the annual report would contain the following analysis of trading patterns in Expiration Friday, P.M.settled NQX option series in the pilot: (1) A time series analysis of open interest; and (2) an analysis of the distribution of trade sizes. Also, for series that exceed certain minimum parameters, the annual report would contain the following analysis related to index price changes and underlying share trading volume at the close on Expiration Fridays: A comparison of index price changes at the close of trading on a given Expiration Friday with comparable price changes from a control sample. The data would include a calculation of percentage price changes for various time intervals and compare that information to the respective control sample. The Exchange would provide a calculation of share volume for a sample set of the component securities representing an upper limit on share trading that could be attributable to expiring in-the-money series. The data would include a comparison of the calculated share volume for securities in the sample set to the average daily trading volumes of those securities over a sample period. The minimum open interest parameters, control sample, time intervals, method for randomly selecting the component securities, and sample periods would be determined by the Exchange and the Commission. 17 Based on the data elements to be provided to the Commission for the NDXPM pilot. See supra note 7. VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:21 Dec 22, 2017 Jkt 244001 61093 of the Nasdaq-100 will encourage additional participation by retail and The Exchange believes that the proposed rule change is consistent with other investors due to the reduced Section 6(b) of the Act,18 in general, and capital outlay needed to trade these furthers the objectives of Section 6(b)(5) options. While the Exchange previously listed a reduced value MNX contract of the Act,19 in particular, in that it is that product never attracted significant designed to promote just and equitable trading volume. The Exchange believes principles of trade, to remove that basing NQX options on 1⁄5 the value impediments to and perfect the of the Nasdaq-100 strikes a more mechanism of a free and open market appropriate balance than the MNX and a national market system, and, in product that is based on 1⁄10 the value general to protect investors and the of this index, as this value is more public interest. Specifically, the similar to other competitive index Exchange believes that the listing and option products and is also helpful for trading of a reduced value P.M.-settled market participants that want to hedge index option contract based on the exposure to NQ futures that are Nasdaq-100 will attract order flow to the similarly based on 1⁄5 the value of the Exchange, increase the variety of listed Nasdaq-100. options, and provide a valuable hedge Furthermore, based on member tool to retail and other investors. feedback, the Exchange believes that The Exchange believes that the providing P.M.-settlement will make proposed rule change will further the this product more attractive to market Exchange’s goal of introducing new and participants and help garner additional innovative products to the marketplace. support for this new index options Specifically, the Exchange believes that product. Specifically, the Exchange NQX options would provide additional believes that P.M.-settlement will be opportunities for market participants to attractive to retail and other investors trade and hedge exposure to the Nasdaq- that want to use these options to hedge 100. The proposed NQ [sic] options an entire week of risk without leaving product is similar to NDX options that residual risk on the day of expiration, are currently listed and traded on the and without having to actively manage Exchange with two important these positions, for example, by rolling differences: (1) NQX options will be their hedge into the next expiration. For based on 1⁄5 the value of the Nasdaq-100, this reason, other popular index option and (2) NQX options will be P.M.products have been transitioning to settled. These differences are based on P.M.-settlement. For example, due to the Exchanges experience listing NDX market demand for P.M.-settlement, options, and are designed to attract CBOE recently transitioned its heavily additional participation from retail and traded SPX index options to P.M.other investors. Based on feedback settlement, and removed related A.M.received from members, the Exchange settled products.20 The Exchange believes that the proposed contract believes that market participants specifications will be attractive to similarly desire P.M.-settlement for market participants, and will remove index options on the Nasdaq-100, and impediments to and perfect the proposes to offer such a product so that mechanism of a free and open market it can compete effectively with similar and a national market system. index option products offered by CBOE. When cash-settled index options were Currently, the Exchange believes that first introduced in the 1980s, they there is unmet market demand for generally utilized closing-price exchange-listed index options on the settlement procedures (i.e., P.M.Nasdaq-100. This unmet demand stems settlement). Due to concerns raised by in part from the high value of the the Commission on the impact of P.M.Nasdaq-100 and the consequently settlement on market volatility and the higher cost of purchasing NDX options. operation of fair and orderly markets on The value of the Nasdaq-100 was 6,242.47, as of the opening of trading on the underlying cash market at or near the close of trading on expiration day, December 5, 2017, and this high value however, exchanges moved to A.M.has made it more difficult for retail and other investors to comfortably purchase settlement for these products. As discussed in the recent approval of the options on the index. The Exchange NDXPM product,21 however, the believes that a reduced value index Commission has recognized that these option would allow additional risks may be mitigated today by the participation from these investors. enhanced closing procedures that are Specifically, the Exchange believes that now employed by the primary equity basing the contract on a reduced value 2. Statutory Basis 18 15 19 15 PO 00000 U.S.C. 78f(b). U.S.C. 78f(b)(5). Frm 00146 Fmt 4703 20 See 21 See Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\26DEN1.SGM CBOE Regulatory Circular RG10–112. supra note 7. 26DEN1 61094 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 246 / Tuesday, December 26, 2017 / Notices ethrower on DSK3G9T082PROD with NOTICES markets. The Exchange believes that the concerns that led to the transition to A.M.-settlement for index derivatives have been largely mitigated today. Opening procedures in the 1990s were deemed acceptable to mitigate one-sided order flow driven by index option expiration. Nasdaq now has an automated closing cross that that facilitates orderly closings by aggregating a large pool of liquidity, across a variety of order types, in a single venue. The Exchange believes that Nasdaq’s closing procedures are well-equipped to mitigate imbalance pressure at the close. Furthermore, the Exchange believes that the proposed Pilot Program is designed to mitigate any potential concerns regarding P.M. settlement. Specifically, the Exchange believes that the Pilot Program will provide additional trading and hedging opportunities for investors while providing the Commission with data to monitor for and assess any potential for adverse market effects of allowing P.M.settlement for NQX options, including on the underlying component stocks. Finally, NQX options will be subject to the same rules that presently govern the trading of index options based on the Nasdaq-100, including sales practice rules, margin requirements, trading rules, and position and exercise limits. The Exchange therefore believes that the rules applicable to trading in NQX options are consistent with the protection of investors and the public interest. Furthermore, the Exchange represents that it has sufficient systems capacity and adequate surveillance procedures to handle trading in NQX options. B. Self-Regulatory Organization’s Statement on Burden on Competition The Exchange does not believe that the proposed rule change will impose any burden on competition that is not necessary or appropriate in furtherance of the purposes of the Act. NQX options would be available for trading to all market participants. The proposed rule change will facilitate the listing and trading of a new option product that will enhance competition among market participants, to the benefit of investors and the marketplace. The listing of NQX will enhance competition by providing investors with an additional investment vehicle, in a fully-electronic trading environment, through which investors can gain and hedge exposure to the Nasdaq-100. Furthermore, this product could offer a competitive alternative to other existing investment products that seek to allow investors to gain broad market exposure. Finally, it is possible for other exchanges to develop or VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:21 Dec 22, 2017 Jkt 244001 license the use of a new or different index to compete with the Nasdaq-100 and seek Commission approval to list and trade options on such an index. C. Self-Regulatory Organization’s Statement on Comments on the Proposed Rule Change Received From Members, Participants, or Others No written comments were either solicited or received. III. Date of Effectiveness of the Proposed Rule Change and Timing for Commission Action Within 45 days of the date of publication of this notice in the Federal Register or within such longer period (i) as the Commission may designate up to 90 days of such date if it finds such longer period to be appropriate and publishes its reasons for so finding or (ii) as to which the Exchange consents, the Commission shall: (a) By order approve or disapprove such proposed rule change, or (b) institute proceedings to determine whether the proposed rule change should be disapproved. those that may be withheld from the public in accordance with the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 552, will be available for website 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 the filing also will be available for inspection and copying at the principal office of the Exchange. All comments received will be posted without change. Persons submitting comments are cautioned that we do not redact or edit personal identifying information from comment submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make available publicly. All submissions should refer to File Number SR–ISE–2017–106 and should be submitted on or before January 16, 2018. For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, pursuant to delegated authority.22 Eduardo A. Aleman, Assistant Secretary. IV. Solicitation of Comments Interested persons are invited to submit written data, views, and 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: [FR Doc. 2017–27699 Filed 12–22–17; 8:45 am] 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– ISE–2017–106 on the subject line. FQF Trust, et al. Paper Comments • Send paper comments in triplicate to Brent J. Fields, Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street NE, Washington, DC 20549–1090. All submissions should refer to File Number SR–ISE–2017–106. 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 website (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 PO 00000 Frm 00147 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 BILLING CODE 8011–01–P SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION [Investment Company Act Release No. 32942; 812–14742] December 19, 2017. Securities and Exchange Commission (‘‘Commission’’). ACTION: Notice. AGENCY: Notice of an application for an order under section 6(c) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the ‘‘Act’’) for an exemption from sections 2(a)(32), 5(a)(1), 22(d), and 22(e) of the Act and rule 22c–1 under the Act, under sections 6(c) and 17(b) of the Act for an exemption from sections 17(a)(1) and 17(a)(2) of the Act, and under section 12(d)(1)(J) for an exemption from sections 12(d)(1)(A) and 12(d)(1)(B) of the Act. The requested order would permit (a) actively-managed series of certain open-end management investment companies (‘‘Funds’’) to issue shares redeemable in large aggregations only (‘‘Creation Units’’); (b) secondary market transactions in Fund shares to occur at negotiated market prices rather than at net asset value (‘‘NAV’’); (c) certain Funds to pay redemption proceeds, under certain circumstances, more than seven days 22 17 E:\FR\FM\26DEN1.SGM CFR 200.30–3(a)(12). 26DEN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 246 (Tuesday, December 26, 2017)]
[Notices]
[Pages 61090-61094]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-27699]


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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

[Release No. 34-82362; File No. SR-ISE-2017-106]


Self-Regulatory Organizations; Nasdaq ISE, LLC; Notice of Filing 
of Proposed Rule Change To Permit the Listing and Trading of NQX Index 
Options

December 19, 2017.
    Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 
(the ``Act''),\1\ and Rule 19b-4 thereunder,\2\ notice is hereby given 
that on December 6, 2017, Nasdaq ISE, LLC (``ISE'' or ``Exchange'') 
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (``SEC'' or 
``Commission'') the proposed rule change as described in Items I, II, 
and III below, which Items have been prepared by the Exchange. The 
Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the 
proposed rule change from interested persons.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1).
    \2\ 17 CFR 240.19b-4.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

I. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Terms of Substance 
of the Proposed Rule Change

    The Exchange proposes to permit the listing and trading of options 
based on \1/5\ the value of the Nasdaq-100 Index (``Nasdaq-100'') on a 
twelve month pilot basis.
    The text of the proposed rule change is available on the Exchange's 
website at https://ise.cchwallstreet.com/, at the principal office of 
the Exchange, and at the Commission's Public Reference Room.

II. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and 
Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change

    In its filing with the Commission, the Exchange included statements 
concerning the purpose of and basis for the proposed rule change and 
discussed any comments it received on the proposed rule change. The 
text of these statements may be examined at the places specified in 
Item IV below. The Exchange has prepared summaries, set

[[Page 61091]]

forth in sections A, B, and C below, of the most significant aspects of 
such statements.

A. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Purpose of, and 
Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change

1. Purpose
    The purpose of the proposed rule change is to amend the Exchange's 
rules to permit the listing and trading of index options on the Nasdaq 
100 Reduced Value Index (``NQX'') on a twelve month pilot basis. The 
NQX options contract will be the same in all respects as the current 
Nasdaq-100 (``NDX'') options contract listed on the Exchange,\3\ except 
that it will be based on \1/5\ of the value of the Nasdaq-100, and will 
be P.M.-settled with an exercise settlement value based on the closing 
index value of the Nasdaq-100 on the day of expiration.\4\ The Exchange 
believes that the proposed contract will be valuable for retail and 
other investors that wish to trade reduce value options on the Nasdaq-
100, or who wish to hedge positions in the related E-mini Nasdaq 100 
(``NQ'') futures contract, which is also based on \1/5\ the value of 
the Nasdaq-100.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 51121 (February 1, 
2005), 70 FR 6476 (February 7, 2005) (SR-ISE-2005-01) (Approval 
Order).
    \4\ In addition to the current Nasdaq-100 index value, Nasdaq 
will disseminate an index value for NQX that is \1/5\ of the value 
of the Nasdaq-100.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

I. Nasdaq-100 Index
    The Nasdaq-100 is a modified market capitalization-weighted index 
that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on The 
Nasdaq Stock Market (``Nasdaq''),\5\ based on market capitalization.\6\ 
It does not contain securities of financial companies, including 
investment companies. Security types generally eligible for the Nasdaq-
100 include common stocks, ordinary shares, American Depository 
Receipts, and tracking stocks. Security or company types not included 
in the Nasdaq-100 are closed-end funds, convertible debentures, 
exchange traded funds, limited liability companies, limited partnership 
interests, preferred stocks, rights, shares or units of beneficial 
interest, warrants, units and other derivative securities.\7\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \5\ Nasdaq is an affiliate of the Exchange.
    \6\ The Nasdaq-100 is a broad-based index, as defined in Rule 
2001(k).
    \7\ A description of the Nasdaq-100 is available on Nasdaq's 
website at https://indexes.nasdaqomx.com/docs/methodology_NDX.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

II. NQX Options Contract
    Currently, the Exchange lists and trades NDX options that are based 
on the full value of the Nasdaq-100. In an effort to attract additional 
interest in index options based on the Nasdaq-100, the Exchange now 
proposes to list and trade a new reduced value option contract based on 
this index on a twelve month pilot basis. NQX options will trade 
independently of and in addition to NDX options, and the NQX options 
will be subject to the same rules that presently govern the trading of 
index options based on the Nasdaq-100, including sales practice rules, 
margin requirements, trading rules, and position and exercise limits. 
Similar to NDX, NQX options will be European-style and cash-settled, 
and will have a contract multiplier of 100. The contract specifications 
for NQX options will mirror in all respects those of the NDX options 
contract already listed on the Exchange, except that the Exchange 
proposes that NQX options will be based on \1/5\ of the value of the 
Nasdaq-100, and will be P.M.-settled pursuant to proposed Rule 
2009(a)(6). Similar features are available with other index options 
contracts listed and/or approved for trading on the Exchange and other 
options exchanges, including the Exchange's affiliate, Nasdaq Phlx 
(``Phlx''). Specifically, options contracts based on 1/10 the value of 
the Nasdaq-100, i.e., ``MNX'' options, are listed on the Exchange with 
limited strikes, and are also currently listed on Phlx and the Chicago 
Board Options Exchange (``CBOE''). In addition, Phlx recently received 
approval to trade P.M.-settled options on the full value of the Nasdaq-
100 (``NDXPM'').\8\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \8\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 81293 (August 2, 
2017), 82 FR 37138 (August 8, 2017) (SR-Phlx-2017-04) (Approval 
Order).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The value of the Nasdaq-100 has increased significantly in recent 
years such that the value of the index stood at 6,242.47, as of the 
opening of trading on December 5, 2017. As a result of the increase in 
the value of the underlying Nasdaq-100 index, the premium for NDX 
options has also increased. The Exchange believes that this has caused 
NDX options to trade at a level that may be uncomfortably high for 
certain retail and other investors. The Exchange believes that listing 
options on reduced values will attract a greater source of retail 
customer business. The Exchange further believes that listing options 
on reduced values will provide an opportunity for investors to trade 
and hedge the market risk associated with the Nasdaq-100.
    With an exercise settlement value based on \1/5\ of the Nasdaq-100, 
the Exchange believes that retail and other investors would be able to 
use this trading vehicle while extending a smaller outlay of capital. 
Furthermore, the proposed reduced value index will have a notional 
value at a level that is comparable to similar products that have been 
successful in the market, including the S&P 500, which had an index 
value of 2,639.78 as of the opening of trading on December 5, 2017, and 
the Russell 2000, which had an index value of 1,532.72 as of the 
opening of trading on that date. Finally, options based on \1/5\ of the 
value of the Nasdaq-100 will be a particularly useful hedge, as NQ 
futures are similarly based on the value of \1/5\ of the value of the 
Nasdaq-100. The Exchange therefore believes that basing the proposed 
NQX options contract on \1/5\ of the value of the Nasdaq-100 should 
attract additional investors, and, in turn, create a more active and 
liquid trading environment.
    NQX options will also be P.M.-settled as the Exchange believes that 
market participants, and in particular, retail investors, who are the 
target audience for this product, prefer P.M.-settled index options. 
P.M.-settlement is preferred by retail investors as it allows market 
participants to hedge their exposure for the full week. A.M.-settled 
options by contrast are based on opening prices on the day of 
expiration and therefore stop trading on the day prior, leaving 
residual risk on the day of expiration. Feedback from members that 
handle retail order flow has indicated that P.M.-settlement is needed 
to garner retail investor support for this product. In this regard, the 
Exchange notes that there is ample precedent for P.M.-settlement of 
broad-based index options. As described above, the Exchange's 
affiliate, Phlx, recently received approval to list NDXPM options. In 
addition, CBOE offers P.M.-settled index options based on both the 
Standard & Poor's 500 index (``SPXW''),\9\ and the Standard & Poor's 
100 index (``OEX'').\10\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \9\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 80060 (February 17, 
2017), 82 FR 11673 (February 24, 2017) (SR-CBOE-2016-091) (Approval 
Order).
    \10\ OEX has been P.M. settled since 1983.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Exchange does not believe that the introduction of a new P.M.-
settled Nasdaq-100 contract will cause any market disruptions. Similar 
to other P.M.-settled index option products, the Exchange is proposing 
to list and trade NQX options contracts pursuant to a pilot, and will 
provide data to the Commission during the pilot period as described in 
Section VI below. The

[[Page 61092]]

Exchange will monitor for any disruptions caused by P.M.-settlement of 
the proposed NQX options contract or the development of any factors 
that could cause such disruptions. P.M.-settled options predominate in 
the over-the-counter (``OTC'') market, and the Exchange is not aware of 
any adverse effects in the OTC market attributable to the P.M.-
settlement feature. The Exchange is merely proposing to offer a P.M.-
settled product in an exchange environment, which offers the additional 
benefits of added transparency, price discovery, and stability.
III. Trading Hours, Minimum Increments, Expirations and Strike Prices
    NQX options will be available for trading during the Exchange's 
standard trading hours for index options, i.e., from 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 
p.m. New York time,\11\ with a minimum trading increment of $0.05 for 
options trading below $3.00 and $0.10 for all other series.\12\ NQX 
options will have monthly expiration dates on the third Friday of each 
month (i.e., Expiration Friday), and the Exchange proposes to list NQX 
options in expiration months consistent with those of other index 
option products available on the Exchange.\13\ In addition, the 
Exchange may list long-term index options series (``LEAPS'') that 
expire from twelve (12) to sixty (60) months from the date of 
issuance.\14\ NQX options would also be eligible to be added to the 
Short Term Option Series Program (``Weeklies'') and/or Quarterly 
Options Series Program (``Quarterlies'') if designated by the Exchange 
pursuant to Supplementary Material .01 or .02 to Rule 2009, 
respectively.\15\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ See Rule 2008(a).
    \12\ See Rule 710(a).
    \13\ See Rule 2009(a)(3). Rule 2009(a)(3) currently provides 
that the Exchange may list up to six expiration months in index 
option contracts at any one time that may expire at three-month 
intervals or in consecutive months. The Exchange intends to file 
separately to modify the expiration months permitted for index 
option contracts consistent with Phlx Rule 1101A(b).
    \14\ See Rule 2009(b).
    \15\ The Exchange expects that it will add NQX options to the 
Weeklies program.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Generally, pursuant to Rule 2009(c)(1), index options listed on the 
Exchange are subject to strike price intervals of no less than $5, 
provided that certain classes of index options (including NDX and MNX) 
have strike price intervals of no less than $2.50 if the strike price 
is less than $200. The Exchange proposes to amend Rule 2009(c)(1) to 
add NQX options to the list of classes where strike price intervals of 
no less than $2.50 are generally permitted if the strike price is less 
than $200. In addition, Rule 2009(c)(5) provides finer strike price 
intervals for MNX options as these contracts are based on a reduced 
value of the Nasdaq-100. Specifically, Rule 2009(c)(5) provides that 
notwithstanding Rule 2009(c)(1) discussed above, the interval between 
strike prices of series of MNX options will be $1 or greater, subject 
to certain conditions. The Exchange proposes to adopt the same strike 
price intervals for NQX options as currently approved for MNX options. 
Thus, notwithstanding Rule 2009(c)(1), the interval between strike 
prices of series of NQX options will be $1 or greater, subject to the 
conditions described in Rule 2009(c)(5), which currently apply to the 
listing of strikes in reduced value MNX contracts. The Exchange will 
not list LEAPS on NQX options at intervals less than $5. If the 
Exchange determines to add NQX options to the Weeklies or Quarterlies 
programs such options will be listed with expirations and strike prices 
described in Supplementary Material .01 or .02 to Rule 2009.
IV. Position and Exercise Limits; Margin
    As with NDX, in determining compliance with Rule 2004--i.e., 
Position Limits for Broad-Based Index Options--there will be no 
position limits for broad-based index option contracts in the NQX 
class. Although there will be no position limits for NQX options, the 
Exchange proposes to amend Rule 2004(c) to correctly describe how 
positions in reduced-value options would be aggregated with full-value 
options. Rule 2004(c) provides that positions in reduced-value index 
options shall be aggregated with positions in full-value indices. In 
addition, the rule currently states that for such purposes, ten 
reduced-value contracts shall equal one contract, as this was 
consistent with other reduced-value contracts offered on the Exchange--
i.e., MNX, which is based on \1/10\ of the value of the Nasdaq-100. 
Since the Exchange is proposing to list a reduced-value NQX contract 
that is based on \1/5\ of the value of the Nasdaq-100, the Exchange 
proposes to amend this language to state instead that reduced-value 
contracts will be counted consistent with their value (e.g., 5 NQX 
reduced-value contracts equal 1 NDX full-value contract). With this 
change, the rule will more accurately reflect how the Exchange would 
aggregate reduced-value and full-value positions for NQX. In addition, 
as with NDX, there would be no exercise limits for NQX.\16\ Finally, 
the Exchange proposes to apply broad-based index margin requirements 
for the purchase and sale of NQX options that are the same as margin 
requirements currently in place for NDX options.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \16\ See Rule 2007(a), which provides that exercise limits for 
index options products are equivalent to the position limits in 
place for those products.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

V. Surveillance and Capacity
    The Exchange represents that it has sufficient capacity to handle 
additional quotations and message traffic associated with the proposed 
listing and trading of NQX options. In addition, index options are 
integrated into the Exchange's existing surveillance system 
architecture and are thus subject to the relevant surveillance 
processes. The Exchange represents that it has adequate surveillance 
procedures to monitor trading in NQX options thereby aiding in the 
maintenance of a fair and orderly market.
VI. Pilot Program Reports
    The Exchange proposes to list and trade NQX options on a pilot 
basis for period of twelve months (``Pilot Program''). If the Exchange 
were to propose an extension of the program or should the Exchange 
propose to make the program permanent, then the Exchange would submit a 
filing proposing such amendments to the program. The Exchange notes 
that any positions established under the pilot would not be impacted by 
the expiration of the pilot. For example, a position in an NQX options 
series that expires beyond the conclusion of the pilot period could be 
established during the pilot. If the Pilot Program were not extended, 
then the position could continue to exist. However, the Exchange notes 
that any further trading in the series would be restricted to 
transactions where at least one side of the trade is a closing 
transaction.
    The Exchange proposes to submit a Pilot Program report to the 
Commission at least two months prior to the expiration date of the 
Pilot Program (the ``annual report''). The annual report would contain 
an analysis of volume, open interest, and trading patterns. The 
analysis would examine trading in the proposed option product as well 
as trading in the securities that comprise the Nasdaq-100. In addition, 
for series that exceed certain minimum open interest parameters, the 
annual report would provide analysis of index price volatility and 
share trading activity. In addition to the annual report, the Exchange 
would provide the Commission with periodic interim

[[Page 61093]]

reports while the pilot is in effect that would contain some, but not 
all, of the information contained in the annual report. The annual 
report would be provided to the Commission on a confidential basis. The 
annual report would contain the following volume and open interest 
data:\17\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \17\ Based on the data elements to be provided to the Commission 
for the NDXPM pilot. See supra note 7.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (1) Monthly volume aggregated for all trades;
    (2) monthly volume aggregated by expiration date;
    (3) monthly volume for each individual series;
    (4) month-end open interest aggregated for all series;
    (5) month-end open interest for all series aggregated by expiration 
date; and
    (6) month-end open interest for each individual series.
    In addition to the annual report, the Exchange would provide the 
Commission with interim reports of the information listed in Items (1) 
through (6) above periodically as required by the Commission while the 
pilot is in effect. These interim reports would also be provided on a 
confidential basis.
    Finally, the annual report would contain the following analysis of 
trading patterns in Expiration Friday, P.M.-settled NQX option series 
in the pilot: (1) A time series analysis of open interest; and (2) an 
analysis of the distribution of trade sizes. Also, for series that 
exceed certain minimum parameters, the annual report would contain the 
following analysis related to index price changes and underlying share 
trading volume at the close on Expiration Fridays: A comparison of 
index price changes at the close of trading on a given Expiration 
Friday with comparable price changes from a control sample. The data 
would include a calculation of percentage price changes for various 
time intervals and compare that information to the respective control 
sample. The Exchange would provide a calculation of share volume for a 
sample set of the component securities representing an upper limit on 
share trading that could be attributable to expiring in-the-money 
series. The data would include a comparison of the calculated share 
volume for securities in the sample set to the average daily trading 
volumes of those securities over a sample period. The minimum open 
interest parameters, control sample, time intervals, method for 
randomly selecting the component securities, and sample periods would 
be determined by the Exchange and the Commission.
2. Statutory Basis
    The Exchange believes that the proposed rule change is consistent 
with Section 6(b) of the Act,\18\ in general, and furthers the 
objectives of Section 6(b)(5) of the Act,\19\ in particular, in that it 
is designed to promote just and equitable principles of trade, to 
remove impediments to and perfect the mechanism of a free and open 
market and a national market system, and, in general to protect 
investors and the public interest. Specifically, the Exchange believes 
that the listing and trading of a reduced value P.M.-settled index 
option contract based on the Nasdaq-100 will attract order flow to the 
Exchange, increase the variety of listed options, and provide a 
valuable hedge tool to retail and other investors.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \18\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b).
    \19\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(5).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Exchange believes that the proposed rule change will further 
the Exchange's goal of introducing new and innovative products to the 
marketplace. Specifically, the Exchange believes that NQX options would 
provide additional opportunities for market participants to trade and 
hedge exposure to the Nasdaq-100. The proposed NQ [sic] options product 
is similar to NDX options that are currently listed and traded on the 
Exchange with two important differences: (1) NQX options will be based 
on \1/5\ the value of the Nasdaq-100, and (2) NQX options will be P.M.-
settled. These differences are based on the Exchanges experience 
listing NDX options, and are designed to attract additional 
participation from retail and other investors. Based on feedback 
received from members, the Exchange believes that the proposed contract 
specifications will be attractive to market participants, and will 
remove impediments to and perfect the mechanism of a free and open 
market and a national market system.
    Currently, the Exchange believes that there is unmet market demand 
for exchange-listed index options on the Nasdaq-100. This unmet demand 
stems in part from the high value of the Nasdaq-100 and the 
consequently higher cost of purchasing NDX options. The value of the 
Nasdaq-100 was 6,242.47, as of the opening of trading on December 5, 
2017, and this high value has made it more difficult for retail and 
other investors to comfortably purchase options on the index. The 
Exchange believes that a reduced value index option would allow 
additional participation from these investors. Specifically, the 
Exchange believes that basing the contract on a reduced value of the 
Nasdaq-100 will encourage additional participation by retail and other 
investors due to the reduced capital outlay needed to trade these 
options. While the Exchange previously listed a reduced value MNX 
contract that product never attracted significant trading volume. The 
Exchange believes that basing NQX options on \1/5\ the value of the 
Nasdaq-100 strikes a more appropriate balance than the MNX product that 
is based on \1/10\ the value of this index, as this value is more 
similar to other competitive index option products and is also helpful 
for market participants that want to hedge exposure to NQ futures that 
are similarly based on \1/5\ the value of the Nasdaq-100.
    Furthermore, based on member feedback, the Exchange believes that 
providing P.M.-settlement will make this product more attractive to 
market participants and help garner additional support for this new 
index options product. Specifically, the Exchange believes that P.M.-
settlement will be attractive to retail and other investors that want 
to use these options to hedge an entire week of risk without leaving 
residual risk on the day of expiration, and without having to actively 
manage these positions, for example, by rolling their hedge into the 
next expiration. For this reason, other popular index option products 
have been transitioning to P.M.-settlement. For example, due to market 
demand for P.M.-settlement, CBOE recently transitioned its heavily 
traded SPX index options to P.M.-settlement, and removed related A.M.-
settled products.\20\ The Exchange believes that market participants 
similarly desire P.M.-settlement for index options on the Nasdaq-100, 
and proposes to offer such a product so that it can compete effectively 
with similar index option products offered by CBOE.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \20\ See CBOE Regulatory Circular RG10-112.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    When cash-settled index options were first introduced in the 1980s, 
they generally utilized closing-price settlement procedures (i.e., 
P.M.-settlement). Due to concerns raised by the Commission on the 
impact of P.M.-settlement on market volatility and the operation of 
fair and orderly markets on the underlying cash market at or near the 
close of trading on expiration day, however, exchanges moved to A.M.-
settlement for these products. As discussed in the recent approval of 
the NDXPM product,\21\ however, the Commission has recognized that 
these risks may be mitigated today by the enhanced closing procedures 
that are now employed by the primary equity

[[Page 61094]]

markets. The Exchange believes that the concerns that led to the 
transition to A.M.-settlement for index derivatives have been largely 
mitigated today. Opening procedures in the 1990s were deemed acceptable 
to mitigate one-sided order flow driven by index option expiration. 
Nasdaq now has an automated closing cross that that facilitates orderly 
closings by aggregating a large pool of liquidity, across a variety of 
order types, in a single venue. The Exchange believes that Nasdaq's 
closing procedures are well-equipped to mitigate imbalance pressure at 
the close. Furthermore, the Exchange believes that the proposed Pilot 
Program is designed to mitigate any potential concerns regarding P.M. 
settlement. Specifically, the Exchange believes that the Pilot Program 
will provide additional trading and hedging opportunities for investors 
while providing the Commission with data to monitor for and assess any 
potential for adverse market effects of allowing P.M.-settlement for 
NQX options, including on the underlying component stocks.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \21\ See supra note 7.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Finally, NQX options will be subject to the same rules that 
presently govern the trading of index options based on the Nasdaq-100, 
including sales practice rules, margin requirements, trading rules, and 
position and exercise limits. The Exchange therefore believes that the 
rules applicable to trading in NQX options are consistent with the 
protection of investors and the public interest. Furthermore, the 
Exchange represents that it has sufficient systems capacity and 
adequate surveillance procedures to handle trading in NQX options.

B. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement on Burden on Competition

    The Exchange does not believe that the proposed rule change will 
impose any burden on competition that is not necessary or appropriate 
in furtherance of the purposes of the Act. NQX options would be 
available for trading to all market participants. The proposed rule 
change will facilitate the listing and trading of a new option product 
that will enhance competition among market participants, to the benefit 
of investors and the marketplace. The listing of NQX will enhance 
competition by providing investors with an additional investment 
vehicle, in a fully-electronic trading environment, through which 
investors can gain and hedge exposure to the Nasdaq-100. Furthermore, 
this product could offer a competitive alternative to other existing 
investment products that seek to allow investors to gain broad market 
exposure. Finally, it is possible for other exchanges to develop or 
license the use of a new or different index to compete with the Nasdaq-
100 and seek Commission approval to list and trade options on such an 
index.

C. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement on Comments on the Proposed 
Rule Change Received From Members, Participants, or Others

    No written comments were either solicited or received.

III. Date of Effectiveness of the Proposed Rule Change and Timing for 
Commission Action

    Within 45 days of the date of publication of this notice in the 
Federal Register or within such longer period (i) as the Commission may 
designate up to 90 days of such date if it finds such longer period to 
be appropriate and publishes its reasons for so finding or (ii) as to 
which the Exchange consents, the Commission shall: (a) By order approve 
or disapprove such proposed rule change, or (b) institute proceedings 
to determine whether the proposed rule change should be disapproved.

IV. Solicitation of Comments

    Interested persons are invited to submit written data, views, and 
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:

Electronic Comments

     Use the Commission's internet comment form (https://www.sec.gov/rules/sro.shtml); or
     Send an email to [email protected]. Please 
include File Number SR-ISE-2017-106 on the subject line.

Paper Comments

     Send paper comments in triplicate to Brent J. Fields, 
Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street NE, 
Washington, DC 20549-1090.

All submissions should refer to File Number SR-ISE-2017-106. 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 website (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 website 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 the filing also will be available for inspection 
and copying at the principal office of the Exchange. All comments 
received will be posted without change. Persons submitting comments are 
cautioned that we do not redact or edit personal identifying 
information from comment submissions. You should submit only 
information that you wish to make available publicly. All submissions 
should refer to File Number SR-ISE-2017-106 and should be submitted on 
or before January 16, 2018.

    For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, 
pursuant to delegated authority.\22\
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    \22\ 17 CFR 200.30-3(a)(12).
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Eduardo A. Aleman,
Assistant Secretary.
[FR Doc. 2017-27699 Filed 12-22-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 8011-01-P


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