Self-Regulatory Organizations; New York Stock Exchange LLC; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change Extending the Expiration Date of the Temporary Amendments to Rules 9261 and 9830 as Set Forth in SR-NYSE-2020-76 From December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021, 644-647 [2020-29212]

Download as PDF 644 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 3 / Wednesday, January 6, 2021 / Notices NYSEAMER–2020–87 on the subject line. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Paper Comments [Release No. 34–90821; File No. SR–NYSE– 2020–107] • 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–NYSEAMER–2020–87. 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–NYSEAMER–2020–87 and should be submitted on or before January 27, 2021. For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, pursuant to delegated authority.19 J. Matthew DeLesDernier, Assistant Secretary. [FR Doc. 2020–29222 Filed 1–5–21; 8:45 am] jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with NOTICES BILLING CODE 8011–01–P Self-Regulatory Organizations; New York Stock Exchange LLC; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change Extending the Expiration Date of the Temporary Amendments to Rules 9261 and 9830 as Set Forth in SR–NYSE–2020–76 From December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021 December 30, 2020. Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) 1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (‘‘Act’’ or ‘‘Exchange Act’’) 2 and Rule 19b–4 thereunder,3 notice is hereby given that on December 22, 2020, New York Stock Exchange LLC (‘‘NYSE’’ or the ‘‘Exchange’’) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (‘‘Commission’’) the proposed rule change as described in Items I and II 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 extending the expiration date of the temporary amendments to Rules 9261 and 9830 as set forth in SR–NYSE–2020–76 from December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021, in conformity with recent changes by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (‘‘FINRA’’). The proposed rule change would not make any changes to the text of NYSE Rules 9261 and 9830. The proposed rule change is available on the Exchange’s website at www.nyse.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 self-regulatory organization 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 those statements may be examined at the places specified in Item IV below. The Exchange has prepared summaries, 1 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1). U.S.C. 78a. 3 17 CFR 240.19b–4. 2 15 19 17 CFR 200.30–3(a)(12). VerDate Sep<11>2014 19:08 Jan 05, 2021 Jkt 253001 PO 00000 Frm 00145 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 set forth in sections A, B, and C below, of the most significant parts of such statements. A. Self-Regulatory Organization’s Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change 1. Purpose The Exchange proposes extending the expiration date of the temporary amendments in SR–NYSE–2020–76 4 to Rules 9261 (Evidence and Procedure in Hearing) and 9830 (Hearing) from December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021 to harmonize with recent changes by FINRA to extend the expiration date of the temporary amendments to its Rules 9261 and 9830. SR–NYSE–2020–76 temporarily granted to the Chief or Deputy Chief Hearing Officer the authority to order that hearings be conducted by video conference if warranted by public health risks posed by in-person hearings during the ongoing COVID–19 pandemic. The proposed rule change would not make any changes to the text of Exchange Rules 9261 and 9830.5 Background In 2013, the NYSE adopted disciplinary rules that are, with certain exceptions, substantially the same as the FINRA Rule 8000 Series and Rule 9000 Series, and which set forth rules for conducting investigations and enforcement actions.6 The NYSE disciplinary rules were implemented on July 1, 2013.7 In adopting disciplinary rules modeled on FINRA’s rules, the NYSE adopted the hearing and evidentiary processes set forth in Rule 9261 and in Rule 9830 for hearings in matters involving temporary and permanent cease and desist orders under the Rule 9800 Series. As adopted, the text of Rule 9261 is identical to the counterpart FINRA rule. Rule 9830 is substantially 4 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 90024 (September 28, 2020), 85 FR 62353 (October 2, 2020) (SR–NYSE–2020–76) (‘‘SR–NYSE–2020–76’’). 5 The Exchange may submit a separate rule filing to extend the expiration date of the proposed extension beyond April 30, 2021 if the Exchange requires additional temporary relief from the rule requirements identified in NYSE–SR–2020–76. The amended NYSE rules will revert back to their original state at the conclusion of the temporary relief period and any extension thereof. 6 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 68678 (January 16, 2013), 78 FR 5213 (January 24, 2013) (SR–NYSE–2013–02) (‘‘2013 Notice’’), 69045 (March 5, 2013), 78 FR 15394 (March 11, 2013) (SR– NYSE–2013–02) (‘‘2013 Approval Order’’), and 69963 (July 10, 2013), 78 FR 42573 (July 16, 2013) (SR–NYSE–2013–49). 7 See NYSE Information Memorandum 13–8 (May 24, 2013). E:\FR\FM\06JAN1.SGM 06JAN1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 3 / Wednesday, January 6, 2021 / Notices the same as FINRA’s rule, except for conforming and technical amendments.8 In response to the spread of COVID– 19, on August 31, 2020, FINRA filed with the Commission a proposed rule change for immediate effectiveness, SR– FINRA–2020–027, to temporarily grant FINRA’s Office of Hearing Officers (‘‘OHO’’) and the National Adjudicatory Council (‘‘NAC’’) the authority to conduct certain hearings by video conference, if warranted by the current COVID–19-related public health risks posed by in-person hearings. Among the rules FINRA amended were Rules 9261 and 9830.9 Given that FINRA and OHO administers disciplinary hearings on the Exchange’s behalf, and that the public health concerns addressed by FINRA’s amendments apply equally to Exchange disciplinary hearings, on September 15, 2020, the Exchange filed to temporarily amend Rule 9261 and Rule 9830 to permit FINRA to conduct virtual hearings on its behalf.10 The temporary amendments to Rule 9261 and Rule 9830, as originally proposed, will expire on December 31, 2020, absent another proposed rule change filing by the Exchange. The COVID–19 conditions necessitating these temporary amendments persist, with cases rapidly escalating nationwide. Based on its assessment of current COVID–19 conditions and the lack of certainty as to when COVID–19-related health concerns will subside, on December 1, 2020, FINRA filed to extend the expiration date of the temporary rule amendments to, among other rules, FINRA Rule 9261 and 9830 from December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021.11 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with NOTICES Proposed Rule Change Consistent with FINRA’s recent proposal, the Exchange proposes to extend the expiration date of the temporary rule amendments to NYSE Rules 9261 and 9830 as set forth in SR– NYSE–2020–76 from December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021. As set forth in SR–FINRA 2020–042, based on its assessment of current COVID–19 conditions, including the recent escalation in COVID–19 cases nationwide, FINRA does not believe that the COVID–19- related health 8 See 2013 Approval Order, 78 FR at 15394, n.7 & 15400; 2013 Notice, 78 FR at 5228 & 5234. 9 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 89737 (September 2, 2020), 85 FR 55712 (September 9, 2020) (SR–FINRA–2020–027) (the ‘‘August 31 FINRA Filing’’). 10 See supra note 4. 11 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 90619 (December 9, 2020), 85 FR 81250 (December 15, 2020) (SR–FINRA–2020–042) (‘‘SR–FINRA–2020– 042’’). VerDate Sep<11>2014 19:08 Jan 05, 2021 Jkt 253001 concerns necessitating this relief will subside by December 31, 2020, and has determined that there will be a continued need for this temporary relief for several months beyond December 31, 2020.12 FINRA accordingly proposed to extend the expiration date of the temporary rule amendments in the August 31 FINRA Filing from December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021. The Exchange proposes to similarly extend the expiration date of the temporary rule amendments to NYSE Rules 9261 and 9830 as set forth in SR– NYSE–2020–76 from December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021. With COVID– 19 cases surging nationwide, the Exchange agrees with FINRA that the COVID–19-related public health risks necessitating this temporary relief have not yet abated and are unlikely to abate by December 31, 2020. The proposed change will permit OHO to continue to assess, based on critical COVID–19 data and criteria and the guidance of health and security consultants, whether an inperson hearing would compromise the health and safety of the hearing participants such that the hearing should proceed by video conference. FINRA has adopted a detailed and thorough protocol to ensure that hearings conducted by video conference will maintain fair process for the parties.13 The Exchange believes that this is a reasonable procedure to continue to follow for hearings under Rules 9261 and 9830 chaired by a FINRA employee. As noted below, the Exchange has filed the proposed rule change for immediate effectiveness and has requested that the SEC waive the requirement that the proposed rule change not become operative for 30 days after the date of the filing, so the Exchange can implement the proposed rule change immediately. 2. Statutory Basis The proposed rule change is consistent with Section 6(b) of the Act,14 in general, and furthers the objectives of Section 6(b)(5),15 in particular, because it is designed to prevent fraudulent and manipulative acts and practices, to promote just and equitable principles of trade, to foster cooperation and coordination with persons engaged in facilitating transactions in securities, to remove impediments to, and perfect the mechanism of, a free and open market 12 See id. SR–FINRA–2020–042, 85 FR at 81251–52; August 31 FINRA Filing, 85 FR at 55713. 14 15 U.S.C. 78f(b). 15 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(5). 13 See PO 00000 Frm 00146 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 645 and a national market system and, in general, to protect investors and the public interest. Additionally, the Exchange believes the proposed rule change is designed to provide a fair procedure for the disciplining of members and persons associated with members, consistent with Sections 6(b)(7) and 6(d) of the Act.16 The Exchange believes that the proposed rule change supports the objectives of the Act by providing greater harmonization between Exchange rules and FINRA rules of similar purpose, resulting in less burdensome and more efficient regulatory compliance. As such, the proposed rule change will foster cooperation and coordination with persons engaged in facilitating transactions in securities and will remove impediments to and perfect the mechanism of a free and open market and a national market system. The proposed rule change, which extends the expiration date of the temporary amendments to Exchange rules consistent with FINRA’s extension to its Rules 9261 and 9830 for four months as set forth in SR–FINRA–2020– 042, will permit the Exchange to continue to effectively conduct hearings during the COVID–19 pandemic in situations where in-person hearings present likely public health risks. The ability to conduct hearings by video conference will permit the adjudicatory functions of the Exchange’s disciplinary rules to continue unabated, thereby avoiding protracted delays. The Exchange believes that this is especially important in matters where temporary and permanent cease and desist orders are sought because the proposed rule change would enable those hearings to continue to proceed without delay, thereby enabling the Exchange to continue to take immediate action to stop significant, ongoing customer harm, to the benefit of the investing public. As set forth in detail in the SR– NYSE–2020–76, the temporary relief to permit hearings to be conducted via video conference maintains fair process and will continue to provide fair process consistent with Sections 6(b)(7) and 6(d) of the Act 17 while striking an appropriate balance between providing fair process and enabling the Exchange to fulfill its statutory obligations to protect investors and maintain fair and orderly markets while accounting for the significant health and safety risks of in-person hearings stemming from the outbreak of COVID–19. The Exchange 16 15 17 15 E:\FR\FM\06JAN1.SGM U.S.C. 78f(b)(7) and 78f(d). U.S.C. 78f(b)(7) and 78f(d). 06JAN1 646 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 3 / Wednesday, January 6, 2021 / Notices notes that this proposal, like SR–NYSE– 2020–76, provides only temporary relief. As proposed, the changes would be in place through April 30, 2021. As noted in SR–NYSE–2020–76 and above, the amended rules will revert back to their original state at the conclusion of the temporary relief period and, if applicable, any extension thereof. Accordingly, the proposed rule change extending this temporary relief is in the public interest and consistent with the Act’s purpose. B. Self-Regulatory Organization’s Statement on Burden on Competition The Exchange does not believe that the proposed temporary rule change will impose any burden on competition that is not necessary or appropriate in furtherance of the purposes of the Act. The proposed rule change is not intended to address competitive issues but is rather intended solely to provide continued temporary relief given the impacts of the COVID–19 pandemic and the related health and safety risks of conducting in-person activities. The Exchange believes that the proposed rule change will prevent unnecessary disruptions that would otherwise result if the temporary amendments were to expire on December 31, 2020. C. Self-Regulatory Organization’s Statement on Comments on the Proposed Rule Change Received From Members, Participants, or Others No written comments were solicited or received with respect to the proposed rule change. III. Date of Effectiveness of the Proposed Rule Change and Timing for Commission Action Because the foregoing 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 for 30 days from the date on which it was filed, or such shorter time as the Commission may designate, it has become effective pursuant to Section 19(b)(3)(A) 18 of the Act and Rule 19b– 4(f)(6) thereunder.19 A proposed rule change filed under Rule 19b–4(f)(6) normally does not become operative for 30 days after the date of filing. However, pursuant to jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with NOTICES 18 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(3)(A). CFR 240.19b–4(f)(6). In addition, Rule 19b– 4(f)(6)(iii) requires a self-regulatory organization to give the Commission written notice of its intent to file the proposed rule change, along with a brief description and 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 requirement. 19 17 VerDate Sep<11>2014 19:08 Jan 05, 2021 Jkt 253001 Rule 19b–4(f)(6)(iii), the Commission may designate a shorter time if such action is consistent with the protection of investors and the public interest. The Exchange has requested that the Commission waive the 30-day operative delay so that the proposed rule change may become operative immediately upon filing. As noted above, the Exchange states that the COVID-related health and safety risks of conducting inperson activities, which necessitated these temporary amendments, persist and that cases are escalating nationwide. Based on FINRA’s assessment of the current COVID–19 conditions and FINRA’s determination that there is a continued need for this temporary relief for several months beyond December 31, 2020, the Exchange states that it agrees with FINRA that the COVID–19-related public health risks necessitating this temporary relief have not yet abated and are unlikely to abate by December 31, 2020.20 Moreover, the Exchange states that FINRA has adopted a detailed and thorough protocol to ensure that hearings conducted by video conference will provide a fair process for all parties and enable the Exchange to fulfill its statutory obligations to protect investors and maintain fair and orderly markets.21 The Exchange believes that this is a reasonable procedure to continue to follow for hearings under Rules 9261 and 9830 chaired by a FINRA employee. Accordingly, the Exchange states that waiver of the operative delay would prevent unnecessary disruptions that would otherwise result if the temporary amendments were to expire on December 31, 2020. The Exchange also indicates that this filing is eligible to become operative immediately because the proposal would continue to provide greater harmonization between the Exchange rules and FINRA rules that serve a similar purpose, resulting in less burdensome and more efficient regulatory compliance. This proposal would serve to extend the expiration date of the temporary amendments to the Exchange rules set forth in SR– NYSE–2020–76, which is consistent with FINRA’s extension to its comparable rules, where FINRA requested and the Commission granted a waiver of the 30-day operative delay.22 The Exchange also indicates that this SR–FINRA–2020–042. id. 22 See supra note 11 (referencing FINRA’s proposal to extend the expiration date of temporary rule amendments allowing hearings to be conducted on a temporary basis by video conference if warranted by COVID–19 related health risks). temporary relief is necessary in order for the continued performance of its adjudicatory functions necessary to meet its statutory obligations in light of COVID–19 related health and safety risks associated with in-person hearings and will only be temporary relief, with the rules reverting back to their original state at the conclusion of the relief period and any extension thereof.23 The Commission observes that this proposal, like SR–NYSE–2020–76 and FINRA’s comparable filing,24 provides only temporary relief during the period in which the Exchange’s operations are impacted by COVID–19. As proposed, the changes would be in place through April 30, 2021. For these reasons, the Commission believes that waiver of the 30-day operative delay is consistent with the protection of investors and the public interest. Accordingly, the Commission hereby waives the 30-day operative delay and designates the proposal operative upon filing.25 At any time within 60 days of the filing of the 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 to determine whether the proposed rule 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– NYSE–2020–107 on the subject line. Paper Comments • Send paper comments in triplicate to: Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street NE, Washington, DC 20549–1090. 20 See 23 See 21 See 24 See PO 00000 Frm 00147 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 supra note 5 and accompanying text. supra notes 9 and 11 and accompanying text. 25 For purposes only of waiving the 30-day operative delay, the Commission has considered the proposed rule change’s impact on efficiency, competition, and capital formation. See 15 U.S.C. 78c(f). E:\FR\FM\06JAN1.SGM 06JAN1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 3 / Wednesday, January 6, 2021 / Notices All submissions should refer to File Number SR–NYSE–2020–107. 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, on business days between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., located at 100 F Street NE, Washington, DC 20549. 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. 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–NYSE–2020–107 and should be submitted on or before February 22, 2021. For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, pursuant to delegated authority.26 J. Matthew DeLesDernier, Assistant Secretary. [FR Doc. 2020–29212 Filed 1–5–21; 8:45 am] jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with NOTICES BILLING CODE 8011–01–P SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION [Release No. 34–90820; File No. SR– NYSEArca–2020–116] Self-Regulatory Organizations; NYSE Arca, Inc.; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change Extending the Expiration Date of the Temporary Amendments to Rules 10.9261 and 10.9830 as Set Forth in SR–NYSEArca–2020–85 From December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021 December 30, 2020. Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) 1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (‘‘Act’’ or ‘‘Exchange Act’’) 2 and Rule 19b–4 thereunder,3 notice is hereby given that on December 22, 2020, NYSE Arca, Inc. (‘‘NYSE Arca’’ or the ‘‘Exchange’’) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (‘‘Commission’’) the proposed rule change as described in Items I and II 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 extending the expiration date of the temporary amendments to Rules 10.9261 and 10.9830 as set forth in SR–NYSEArca– 2020–85 from December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021, in conformity with recent changes by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (‘‘FINRA’’). The proposed rule change would not make any changes to the text of NYSE Arca Rules 10.9261 and 10.9830. The proposed rule change is available on the Exchange’s website at www.nyse.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 self-regulatory organization 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 those statements may be examined at the places specified in Item IV below. The Exchange has prepared summaries, set forth in sections A, B, and C below, 1 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1). U.S.C. 78s(b)(1). 3 17 CFR 240.19b–4. 2 15 26 17 CFR 200.30–3(a)(12). VerDate Sep<11>2014 19:08 Jan 05, 2021 Jkt 253001 PO 00000 Frm 00148 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 647 of the most significant parts of such statements. A. Self-Regulatory Organization’s Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change 1. Purpose The Exchange proposes extending the expiration date of the temporary amendments in SR–NYSEArca–2020– 85 4 to Rules 10.9261 (Evidence and Procedure in Hearing) and 10.9830 (Hearing) from December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021 to harmonize with recent changes by FINRA to extend the expiration date of the temporary amendments to its Rules 9261 and 9830. SR–NYSEArca–2020–85 temporarily granted to the Chief or Deputy Chief Hearing Officer the authority to order that hearings be conducted by video conference if warranted by public health risks posed by in-person hearings during the ongoing COVID–19 pandemic. The proposed rule change would not make any changes to the text of Exchange Rules 10.9261 and 10.9830.5 Background In 2019, NYSE Arca adopted disciplinary rules based on the text of the Rule 8000 and Rule 9000 Series of its affiliate NYSE American LLC (‘‘NYSE American’’), with certain changes. The NYSE American disciplinary rules are, in turn, substantially the same as the Rule 8000 Series and Rule 9000 Series of FINRA and the New York Stock Exchange LLC.6 The NYSE Arca disciplinary rules were implemented on May 27, 2019.7 In adopting disciplinary rules modeled on FINRA’s rules, NYSE Arca adopted the hearing and evidentiary processes set forth in Rule 10.9261 and in Rule 10.9830 for hearings in matters involving temporary and permanent cease and desist orders under the Rule 10.9800 Series. As adopted, the text of Rule 10.9261 and Rule 10.9830 are 4 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 90088 (October 5, 2020), 85 FR 64186 (October 9, 2020) (SR–NYSEArca–2020–85) (‘‘SR–NYSEArca–2020– 85’’). 5 The Exchange may submit a separate rule filing to extend the expiration date of the proposed extension beyond April 30, 2021 if the Exchange requires additional temporary relief from the rule requirements identified in SR–NYSEArca–2020–85. The amended NYSE Arca rules will revert back to their original state at the conclusion of the temporary relief period and any extension thereof. 6 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 85639 (April 12, 2019), 84 FR 16346 (April 18, 2019) (SR– NYSEArca–2019–15) (‘‘2019 Notice’’). 7 See NYSE Arca Equities RB–19–060 & NYSE Arca Options RB–19–02 (April 26, 2019). E:\FR\FM\06JAN1.SGM 06JAN1

Agencies

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 3 (Wednesday, January 6, 2021)]
[Notices]
[Pages 644-647]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-29212]


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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

[Release No. 34-90821; File No. SR-NYSE-2020-107]


Self-Regulatory Organizations; New York Stock Exchange LLC; 
Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change 
Extending the Expiration Date of the Temporary Amendments to Rules 9261 
and 9830 as Set Forth in SR-NYSE-2020-76 From December 31, 2020, to 
April 30, 2021

December 30, 2020.
    Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) \1\ of the Securities Exchange Act of 
1934 (``Act'' or ``Exchange Act'') \2\ and Rule 19b-4 thereunder,\3\ 
notice is hereby given that on December 22, 2020, New York Stock 
Exchange LLC (``NYSE'' or the ``Exchange'') filed with the Securities 
and Exchange Commission (``Commission'') the proposed rule change as 
described in Items I and II 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\ 15 U.S.C. 78a.
    \3\ 17 CFR 240.19b-4.
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I. Self-Regulatory Organization's Statement of the Terms of Substance 
of the Proposed Rule Change

    The Exchange proposes extending the expiration date of the 
temporary amendments to Rules 9261 and 9830 as set forth in SR-NYSE-
2020-76 from December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021, in conformity with 
recent changes by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. 
(``FINRA''). The proposed rule change would not make any changes to the 
text of NYSE Rules 9261 and 9830. The proposed rule change is available 
on the Exchange's website at www.nyse.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 self-regulatory organization 
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 those statements may be examined at 
the places specified in Item IV below. The Exchange has prepared 
summaries, set forth in sections A, B, and C below, of the most 
significant parts of such statements.

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

1. Purpose
    The Exchange proposes extending the expiration date of the 
temporary amendments in SR-NYSE-2020-76 \4\ to Rules 9261 (Evidence and 
Procedure in Hearing) and 9830 (Hearing) from December 31, 2020, to 
April 30, 2021 to harmonize with recent changes by FINRA to extend the 
expiration date of the temporary amendments to its Rules 9261 and 9830. 
SR-NYSE-2020-76 temporarily granted to the Chief or Deputy Chief 
Hearing Officer the authority to order that hearings be conducted by 
video conference if warranted by public health risks posed by in-person 
hearings during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The proposed rule change 
would not make any changes to the text of Exchange Rules 9261 and 
9830.\5\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \4\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 90024 (September 28, 
2020), 85 FR 62353 (October 2, 2020) (SR-NYSE-2020-76) (``SR-NYSE-
2020-76'').
    \5\ The Exchange may submit a separate rule filing to extend the 
expiration date of the proposed extension beyond April 30, 2021 if 
the Exchange requires additional temporary relief from the rule 
requirements identified in NYSE-SR-2020-76. The amended NYSE rules 
will revert back to their original state at the conclusion of the 
temporary relief period and any extension thereof.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Background
    In 2013, the NYSE adopted disciplinary rules that are, with certain 
exceptions, substantially the same as the FINRA Rule 8000 Series and 
Rule 9000 Series, and which set forth rules for conducting 
investigations and enforcement actions.\6\ The NYSE disciplinary rules 
were implemented on July 1, 2013.\7\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \6\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 68678 (January 16, 
2013), 78 FR 5213 (January 24, 2013) (SR-NYSE-2013-02) (``2013 
Notice''), 69045 (March 5, 2013), 78 FR 15394 (March 11, 2013) (SR-
NYSE-2013-02) (``2013 Approval Order''), and 69963 (July 10, 2013), 
78 FR 42573 (July 16, 2013) (SR-NYSE-2013-49).
    \7\ See NYSE Information Memorandum 13-8 (May 24, 2013).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In adopting disciplinary rules modeled on FINRA's rules, the NYSE 
adopted the hearing and evidentiary processes set forth in Rule 9261 
and in Rule 9830 for hearings in matters involving temporary and 
permanent cease and desist orders under the Rule 9800 Series. As 
adopted, the text of Rule 9261 is identical to the counterpart FINRA 
rule. Rule 9830 is substantially

[[Page 645]]

the same as FINRA's rule, except for conforming and technical 
amendments.\8\
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    \8\ See 2013 Approval Order, 78 FR at 15394, n.7 & 15400; 2013 
Notice, 78 FR at 5228 & 5234.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In response to the spread of COVID-19, on August 31, 2020, FINRA 
filed with the Commission a proposed rule change for immediate 
effectiveness, SR-FINRA-2020-027, to temporarily grant FINRA's Office 
of Hearing Officers (``OHO'') and the National Adjudicatory Council 
(``NAC'') the authority to conduct certain hearings by video 
conference, if warranted by the current COVID-19-related public health 
risks posed by in-person hearings. Among the rules FINRA amended were 
Rules 9261 and 9830.\9\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \9\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 89737 (September 2, 
2020), 85 FR 55712 (September 9, 2020) (SR-FINRA-2020-027) (the 
``August 31 FINRA Filing'').
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    Given that FINRA and OHO administers disciplinary hearings on the 
Exchange's behalf, and that the public health concerns addressed by 
FINRA's amendments apply equally to Exchange disciplinary hearings, on 
September 15, 2020, the Exchange filed to temporarily amend Rule 9261 
and Rule 9830 to permit FINRA to conduct virtual hearings on its 
behalf.\10\ The temporary amendments to Rule 9261 and Rule 9830, as 
originally proposed, will expire on December 31, 2020, absent another 
proposed rule change filing by the Exchange.
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    \10\ See supra note 4.
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    The COVID-19 conditions necessitating these temporary amendments 
persist, with cases rapidly escalating nationwide. Based on its 
assessment of current COVID-19 conditions and the lack of certainty as 
to when COVID-19-related health concerns will subside, on December 1, 
2020, FINRA filed to extend the expiration date of the temporary rule 
amendments to, among other rules, FINRA Rule 9261 and 9830 from 
December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021.\11\
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    \11\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 90619 (December 9, 
2020), 85 FR 81250 (December 15, 2020) (SR-FINRA-2020-042) (``SR-
FINRA-2020-042'').
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Proposed Rule Change
    Consistent with FINRA's recent proposal, the Exchange proposes to 
extend the expiration date of the temporary rule amendments to NYSE 
Rules 9261 and 9830 as set forth in SR-NYSE-2020-76 from December 31, 
2020, to April 30, 2021.
    As set forth in SR-FINRA 2020-042, based on its assessment of 
current COVID-19 conditions, including the recent escalation in COVID-
19 cases nationwide, FINRA does not believe that the COVID-19- related 
health concerns necessitating this relief will subside by December 31, 
2020, and has determined that there will be a continued need for this 
temporary relief for several months beyond December 31, 2020.\12\ FINRA 
accordingly proposed to extend the expiration date of the temporary 
rule amendments in the August 31 FINRA Filing from December 31, 2020, 
to April 30, 2021.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \12\ See id.
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    The Exchange proposes to similarly extend the expiration date of 
the temporary rule amendments to NYSE Rules 9261 and 9830 as set forth 
in SR-NYSE-2020-76 from December 31, 2020, to April 30, 2021. With 
COVID-19 cases surging nationwide, the Exchange agrees with FINRA that 
the COVID-19-related public health risks necessitating this temporary 
relief have not yet abated and are unlikely to abate by December 31, 
2020. The proposed change will permit OHO to continue to assess, based 
on critical COVID-19 data and criteria and the guidance of health and 
security consultants, whether an in-person hearing would compromise the 
health and safety of the hearing participants such that the hearing 
should proceed by video conference. FINRA has adopted a detailed and 
thorough protocol to ensure that hearings conducted by video conference 
will maintain fair process for the parties.\13\ The Exchange believes 
that this is a reasonable procedure to continue to follow for hearings 
under Rules 9261 and 9830 chaired by a FINRA employee.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \13\ See SR-FINRA-2020-042, 85 FR at 81251-52; August 31 FINRA 
Filing, 85 FR at 55713.
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    As noted below, the Exchange has filed the proposed rule change for 
immediate effectiveness and has requested that the SEC waive the 
requirement that the proposed rule change not become operative for 30 
days after the date of the filing, so the Exchange can implement the 
proposed rule change immediately.
2. Statutory Basis
    The proposed rule change is consistent with Section 6(b) of the 
Act,\14\ in general, and furthers the objectives of Section 
6(b)(5),\15\ in particular, because it is designed to prevent 
fraudulent and manipulative acts and practices, to promote just and 
equitable principles of trade, to foster cooperation and coordination 
with persons engaged in facilitating transactions in securities, 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. Additionally, the Exchange believes 
the proposed rule change is designed to provide a fair procedure for 
the disciplining of members and persons associated with members, 
consistent with Sections 6(b)(7) and 6(d) of the Act.\16\
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    \14\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b).
    \15\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(5).
    \16\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(7) and 78f(d).
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    The Exchange believes that the proposed rule change supports the 
objectives of the Act by providing greater harmonization between 
Exchange rules and FINRA rules of similar purpose, resulting in less 
burdensome and more efficient regulatory compliance. As such, the 
proposed rule change will foster cooperation and coordination with 
persons engaged in facilitating transactions in securities and will 
remove impediments to and perfect the mechanism of a free and open 
market and a national market system.
    The proposed rule change, which extends the expiration date of the 
temporary amendments to Exchange rules consistent with FINRA's 
extension to its Rules 9261 and 9830 for four months as set forth in 
SR-FINRA-2020-042, will permit the Exchange to continue to effectively 
conduct hearings during the COVID-19 pandemic in situations where in-
person hearings present likely public health risks. The ability to 
conduct hearings by video conference will permit the adjudicatory 
functions of the Exchange's disciplinary rules to continue unabated, 
thereby avoiding protracted delays. The Exchange believes that this is 
especially important in matters where temporary and permanent cease and 
desist orders are sought because the proposed rule change would enable 
those hearings to continue to proceed without delay, thereby enabling 
the Exchange to continue to take immediate action to stop significant, 
ongoing customer harm, to the benefit of the investing public.
    As set forth in detail in the SR-NYSE-2020-76, the temporary relief 
to permit hearings to be conducted via video conference maintains fair 
process and will continue to provide fair process consistent with 
Sections 6(b)(7) and 6(d) of the Act \17\ while striking an appropriate 
balance between providing fair process and enabling the Exchange to 
fulfill its statutory obligations to protect investors and maintain 
fair and orderly markets while accounting for the significant health 
and safety risks of in-person hearings stemming from the outbreak of 
COVID-19. The Exchange

[[Page 646]]

notes that this proposal, like SR-NYSE-2020-76, provides only temporary 
relief. As proposed, the changes would be in place through April 30, 
2021. As noted in SR-NYSE-2020-76 and above, the amended rules will 
revert back to their original state at the conclusion of the temporary 
relief period and, if applicable, any extension thereof.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \17\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(7) and 78f(d).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Accordingly, the proposed rule change extending this temporary 
relief is in the public interest and consistent with the Act's purpose.

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

    The Exchange does not believe that the proposed temporary rule 
change will impose any burden on competition that is not necessary or 
appropriate in furtherance of the purposes of the Act. The proposed 
rule change is not intended to address competitive issues but is rather 
intended solely to provide continued temporary relief given the impacts 
of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related health and safety risks of 
conducting in-person activities. The Exchange believes that the 
proposed rule change will prevent unnecessary disruptions that would 
otherwise result if the temporary amendments were to expire on December 
31, 2020.

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

    No written comments were solicited or received with respect to the 
proposed rule change.

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

    Because the foregoing 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 for 30 days from the date on which it was filed, or 
such shorter time as the Commission may designate, it has become 
effective pursuant to Section 19(b)(3)(A) \18\ of the Act and Rule 19b-
4(f)(6) thereunder.\19\
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    \18\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(3)(A).
    \19\ 17 CFR 240.19b-4(f)(6). In addition, Rule 19b-4(f)(6)(iii) 
requires a self-regulatory organization to give the Commission 
written notice of its intent to file the proposed rule change, along 
with a brief description and 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 requirement.
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    A proposed rule change filed under Rule 19b-4(f)(6) normally does 
not become operative for 30 days after the date of filing. However, 
pursuant to Rule 19b-4(f)(6)(iii), the Commission may designate a 
shorter time if such action is consistent with the protection of 
investors and the public interest. The Exchange has requested that the 
Commission waive the 30-day operative delay so that the proposed rule 
change may become operative immediately upon filing. As noted above, 
the Exchange states that the COVID-related health and safety risks of 
conducting in-person activities, which necessitated these temporary 
amendments, persist and that cases are escalating nationwide. Based on 
FINRA's assessment of the current COVID-19 conditions and FINRA's 
determination that there is a continued need for this temporary relief 
for several months beyond December 31, 2020, the Exchange states that 
it agrees with FINRA that the COVID-19-related public health risks 
necessitating this temporary relief have not yet abated and are 
unlikely to abate by December 31, 2020.\20\ Moreover, the Exchange 
states that FINRA has adopted a detailed and thorough protocol to 
ensure that hearings conducted by video conference will provide a fair 
process for all parties and enable the Exchange to fulfill its 
statutory obligations to protect investors and maintain fair and 
orderly markets.\21\ The Exchange believes that this is a reasonable 
procedure to continue to follow for hearings under Rules 9261 and 9830 
chaired by a FINRA employee. Accordingly, the Exchange states that 
waiver of the operative delay would prevent unnecessary disruptions 
that would otherwise result if the temporary amendments were to expire 
on December 31, 2020.
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    \20\ See SR-FINRA-2020-042.
    \21\ See id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Exchange also indicates that this filing is eligible to become 
operative immediately because the proposal would continue to provide 
greater harmonization between the Exchange rules and FINRA rules that 
serve a similar purpose, resulting in less burdensome and more 
efficient regulatory compliance. This proposal would serve to extend 
the expiration date of the temporary amendments to the Exchange rules 
set forth in SR-NYSE-2020-76, which is consistent with FINRA's 
extension to its comparable rules, where FINRA requested and the 
Commission granted a waiver of the 30-day operative delay.\22\ The 
Exchange also indicates that this temporary relief is necessary in 
order for the continued performance of its adjudicatory functions 
necessary to meet its statutory obligations in light of COVID-19 
related health and safety risks associated with in-person hearings and 
will only be temporary relief, with the rules reverting back to their 
original state at the conclusion of the relief period and any extension 
thereof.\23\
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    \22\ See supra note 11 (referencing FINRA's proposal to extend 
the expiration date of temporary rule amendments allowing hearings 
to be conducted on a temporary basis by video conference if 
warranted by COVID-19 related health risks).
    \23\ See supra note 5 and accompanying text.
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    The Commission observes that this proposal, like SR-NYSE-2020-76 
and FINRA's comparable filing,\24\ provides only temporary relief 
during the period in which the Exchange's operations are impacted by 
COVID-19. As proposed, the changes would be in place through April 30, 
2021. For these reasons, the Commission believes that waiver of the 30-
day operative delay is consistent with the protection of investors and 
the public interest. Accordingly, the Commission hereby waives the 30-
day operative delay and designates the proposal operative upon 
filing.\25\
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    \24\ See supra notes 9 and 11 and accompanying text.
    \25\ For purposes only of waiving the 30-day operative delay, 
the Commission has considered the proposed rule change's impact on 
efficiency, competition, and capital formation. See 15 U.S.C. 
78c(f).
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    At any time within 60 days of the filing of the 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 to 
determine whether the proposed rule 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 [email protected]. Please include 
File Number SR-NYSE-2020-107 on the subject line.

Paper Comments

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


[[Page 647]]


All submissions should refer to File Number SR-NYSE-2020-107. 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, on business days between the 
hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., located at 100 F Street NE, 
Washington, DC 20549. 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. 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-NYSE-2020-107 and should be 
submitted on or before February 22, 2021.
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    \26\ 17 CFR 200.30-3(a)(12).

    For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, 
pursuant to delegated authority.\26\
J. Matthew DeLesDernier,
Assistant Secretary.
[FR Doc. 2020-29212 Filed 1-5-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 8011-01-P

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