Self-Regulatory Organizations; NYSE American LLC; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change Extending the Expiration Date of the Temporary Amendments to Rules 9261 and 9830, 22471-22474 [2021-08854]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 80 / Wednesday, April 28, 2021 / Notices exercise of the duties of the Office of the Athlete Ombuds. b. Work product—Any memorandum, work product, notes, or case file of the Office of the Athlete Ombuds— i. shall be confidential; and ii. shall not be— 1. subject to discovery, subpoena, or any other means of legal compulsion; or 2. admissible as evidence in a judicial or administrative proceeding. D. Applicability—The confidentiality requirements under this paragraph shall not apply to information relating to— a. applicable federally mandated reporting requirements; b. a felony personally witnessed by a member of the Office of the Athlete Ombuds; c. a situation, communicated to the Office of the Athlete Ombuds, in which an individual is at imminent risk of serious harm; or d. a congressional subpoena. Dated: April 22, 2021. Kathleen C. Wallace, Athlete Ombuds. [FR Doc. 2021–08990 Filed 4–26–21; 4:15 pm] POSTAL SERVICE Sunshine Act Meeting; Board of Governors Thursday, May 6, 2021, at 10:00 a.m.; and Friday, May 7, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. PLACE: Washington, DC, at U.S. Postal Service Headquarters, 475 L’Enfant Plaza, SW, in the Benjamin Franklin Room. STATUS: Thursday, May 6, 2021, at 10:00 a.m.—Closed; Friday, May 7, 2021, at 9:00 a.m.—Open. MATTERS TO BE CONSIDERED: TIME AND DATE: Thursday, May 6, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. (Closed) 1. Strategic Issues. 2. Financial and Operational Matters. 3. Compensation and Personnel Matters. 4. Administrative Items. jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with NOTICES Friday, May 7, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. (Open) 1. Remarks of the Chairman of the Board of Governors. 2. Remarks of the Postmaster General and CEO. 3. Approval of Minutes of Previous Meetings. 4. Committee Reports. 5. Quarterly Financial Report. 6. Quarterly Service Performance Report. 19:17 Apr 27, 2021 Jkt 253001 CONTACT PERSON FOR MORE INFORMATION: Michael J. Elston, Secretary of the Board, U.S. Postal Service, 475 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20260–1000. Telephone: (202) 268–4800. Michael J. Elston, Secretary. [FR Doc. 2021–08941 Filed 4–26–21; 11:15 am] BILLING CODE 7710–12–P SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION [Release No. 34–91631; File No. SR– NYSEAMER–2021–23] Self-Regulatory Organizations; NYSE American LLC; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change Extending the Expiration Date of the Temporary Amendments to Rules 9261 and 9830 April 22, 2021. BILLING CODE P VerDate Sep<11>2014 7. Approval of Tentative Agendas for August Meetings. Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) 1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the ‘‘Act’’) 2 and Rule 19b–4 thereunder,3 notice is hereby given that on April 20, 2021, NYSE American LLC (‘‘NYSE American’’ or the ‘‘Exchange’’) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the ‘‘Commission’’) the proposed rule change as described in Items I and II below, which Items have been prepared by the self-regulatory organization. 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–NYSEAMER–2020–69 from April 30, 2021, to August 31, 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 American 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. 1 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1). U.S.C. 78a. 3 17 CFR 240.19b–4. 2 15 PO 00000 Frm 00088 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 22471 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 as set forth in SR– NYSEAMER–2020–69 4 to Rules 9261 (Evidence and Procedure in Hearing) and 9830 (Hearing) from April 30, 2021 to August 31, 2021, to harmonize with recent changes by FINRA to extend the expiration date of the temporary amendments to its Rules 9261 and 9830. SR–NYSEAMER–2020–69 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 2016, NYSE American (then known as NYSE MKT LLC) adopted disciplinary rules that are, with certain exceptions, substantially the same as the Rule 8000 Series and Rule 9000 Series of FINRA and its affiliate the New York Stock Exchange LLC (‘‘NYSE’’), and which set forth rules for conducting investigations and enforcement actions.6 4 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 90085 (October 2, 2020), 85 FR 63603 (October 8, 2020) (SR–NYSEAMER–2020–69) (‘‘SR–NYSEAMER– 2020–69’’). 5 The Exchange may submit a separate rule filing to extend the expiration date of the proposed extension beyond August 31, 2021 if the Exchange requires additional temporary relief from the rule requirements identified in SR–NYSEAMER–2020– 69. The amended NYSE American 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 Nos. 77241 (February 26, 2016), 81 FR 11311 (March 3, 2016) (SR–NYSEMKT–2016–30) (‘‘2016 Notice’’). E:\FR\FM\28APN1.SGM 28APN1 22472 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 80 / Wednesday, April 28, 2021 / Notices jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with NOTICES The NYSE American disciplinary rules were implemented on April 15, 2016.7 In adopting disciplinary rules modeled on FINRA’s rules, NYSE American 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 and Rule 9830 are substantially the same as the FINRA rules with certain modifications.8 In response to the COVID–19 global health crisis and the corresponding need to restrict in-person activities, on August 31, 2020, FINRA filed with the Commission a proposed rule change for immediate effectiveness, SR–FINRA– 2020–027, which allowed FINRA’s Office of Hearing Officers (‘‘OHO’’) to conduct hearings, on a temporary basis, by video conference, if warranted by the current COVID–19-related public health risks posed by an in-person hearing. 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. On December 22, 2020, the Exchange similarly filed to extend the temporary amendments to Rule 9261 and Rule 9830 to April 30, 2021, after which the temporary amendments will expire absent another proposed rule change filing by the Exchange.11 While there are signs of improvement, FINRA has determined that the COVID– 19 conditions necessitating these temporary amendments persist and, based on its assessment of current COVID–19 conditions and the lack of certainty as to when COVID–19-related health concerns and corresponding restrictions will meaningfully subside, that there is a continued need for this 7 See NYSE MKT Information Memorandum 16– 02 (March 14, 2016). 8 See 2016 Notice, 81 FR at 11327 & 11332. 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 note 4, supra. 11 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 90823 (December 30, 2020), 86 FR 650 (January 6, 2021) (SR–NYSEAMER–2020–88). VerDate Sep<11>2014 19:17 Apr 27, 2021 Jkt 253001 temporary relief for several months beyond April 30, 2021. On April 1, 2021, FINRA accordingly filed to extend the expiration date of the temporary rule amendments to, among other rules, FINRA Rule 9261 and 9830 from April 30, 2021, to August 31, 2021.12 Proposed Rule Change Consistent with FINRA’s recent proposal, the Exchange proposes to extend the expiration date of the temporary rule amendments to NYSE American Rules 9261 and 9830 as set forth in SR–NYSEAMER–2020–69 from April 30, 2021, to August 31, 2021. As set forth in SR–FINRA 2021–006, while there are signs of improvement, the COVID–19 conditions necessitating these temporary amendments persist and, based on FINRA’s assessment of current COVID–19 conditions and the lack of certainty as to when COVID–19related health concerns and corresponding restrictions will meaningfully subside, FINRA has determined that there is a continued need for this temporary relief for several months beyond April 30, 2021.13 FINRA accordingly proposed to extend the expiration date of the temporary rule amendments from April 30, 2021, to August 31, 2021. The Exchange proposes to similarly extend the expiration date of the temporary rule amendments to NYSE American Rules 9261 and 9830 as set forth in SR–NYSEAMER–2020–69 from April 30, 2021, to August 31, 2021. The Exchange agrees with FINRA that the COVID–19 conditions necessitating these temporary amendments persist and, for the reasons set forth in SR– FINRA–2021–006, that there is a continued need for this temporary relief for several months beyond April 30, 2021. The proposed change would 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. As noted in SR– FINRA–2021–006, in deciding whether to schedule a hearing by video conference, OHO may consider a variety of other factors in addition to COVID– 19 trends. In SR–FINRA–2020–027, FINRA provided a non-exhaustive list of other factors OHO may take into consideration, including a hearing participant’s individual health concerns 12 See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 91495 (April 7, 2021), 86 FR 19306 (April 13, 2021) (SR– FINRA–2021–006) (‘‘SR–FINRA–2021–006’’). 13 See id. PO 00000 Frm 00089 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 and access to the connectivity and technology necessary to participate in a video conference hearing.14 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,15 in general, and furthers the objectives of Section 6(b)(5),16 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.17 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–2021– 006, will permit the Exchange to continue to effectively conduct hearings 14 See SR–FINRA–2020–042, 85 FR at 81251–52; August 31 FINRA Filing, 85 FR at 55713. 15 15 U.S.C. 78f(b). 16 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(5). 17 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(7) & 78f(d). E:\FR\FM\28APN1.SGM 28APN1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 80 / Wednesday, April 28, 2021 / Notices jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with NOTICES during the COVID–19 pandemic. Given current COVID–19 conditions and the uncertainty around when those conditions will meaningfully improve, without this relief allowing OHO to proceed by video conference, some or all hearings may have to be postponed indefinitely. 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– NYSEAMER–2020–69, 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 18 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 avoiding the COVID–19-related public health risks for hearing participants. The Exchange notes that this proposal, like SR–NYSEAMER–2020–69, provides only temporary relief. As proposed, the changes would be in place through August 31, 2021. As noted in SR– NYSEAMER–2020–69 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 18 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(7) & 78f(d). VerDate Sep<11>2014 19:17 Apr 27, 2021 Jkt 253001 Exchange believes that the proposed rule change will prevent unnecessary impediments to critical adjudicatory processes and its ability to fulfill its statutory obligations to protect investors and maintain fair and orderly markets that would otherwise result if the temporary amendments were to expire on April 30, 2021. 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) of the Act 19 and Rule 19b– 4(f)(6) thereunder.20 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. As the Exchange requested in connection with SR–NYSEAMER–2020–88,21 here too the Exchange has requested that the Commission waive the 30-day operative delay so that this proposed rule change may become operative immediately upon filing. The Exchange has indicated that extending this proposed rule change will prevent unnecessary impediments to critical adjudicatory processes and its ability to fulfill its statutory obligations to protect investors and maintain fair and orderly markets that would otherwise result if the temporary amendments were to expire on April 30, 2021.22 The Commission also notes that this proposal, like SR–NYSEAMER– 19 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. 21 See SR–NYSEAMER–2020–88, 86 FR at 650. 22 See supra p. 8. 20 17 PO 00000 Frm 00090 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 22473 2020–88, 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 August 31, 2021 23 and the amended rules will revert back to their original state at the conclusion of the temporary relief period and, if applicable, any extension thereof.24 For these reasons, the Commission believes that waiver of the 30-day operative delay for this proposal 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– NYSEAMER–2021–23 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. All submissions should refer to File Number SR–NYSEAMER–2021–23. This file number should be included on the 23 As noted above, see supra note 5, the Exchange states that if it requires temporary relief from the rule requirements identified in this proposal beyond August 31, 2021, it may submit a separate rule filing to extend the effectiveness of the temporary relief under these rules. 24 See supra note 5. 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\28APN1.SGM 28APN1 22474 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 80 / Wednesday, April 28, 2021 / Notices 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 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–NYSEAMER–2021–23 and should be submitted on or before May 19, 2021. For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, pursuant to delegated authority.26 J. Matthew DeLesDernier, Assistant Secretary. [FR Doc. 2021–08854 Filed 4–27–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8011–01–P SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 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 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with NOTICES April 22, 2021. Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) 1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the ‘‘Act’’) 2 and Rule 19b–4 thereunder,3 notice is hereby given that on April 20, CFR 200.30–3(a)(12). U.S.C. 78s(b)(1). 2 15 U.S.C. 78a. 3 17 CFR 240.19b–4. 19:17 Apr 27, 2021 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 April 30, 2021, to August 31, 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. 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 substantially the same as the FINRA rules with certain modifications.8 In response to the COVID–19 global health crisis and the corresponding need to restrict in-person activities, on August 31, 2020, FINRA filed with the Commission a proposed rule change for immediate effectiveness, SR–FINRA– 2020–027, which allowed FINRA’s Office of Hearing Officers (‘‘OHO’’) to conduct hearings, on a temporary basis, by video conference, if warranted by the current COVID–19-related public health risks posed by an in-person hearing. 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 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. 1. Purpose The Exchange proposes extending the expiration date of the temporary amendments as set forth in SR– NYSEArca–2020–85 4 to Rules 10.9261 (Evidence and Procedure in Hearing) and 10.9830 (Hearing) from April 30, 2021, to August 31, 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 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’’). 1 15 VerDate Sep<11>2014 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 A. Self-Regulatory Organization’s Statement of the Purpose of, and Statutory Basis for, the Proposed Rule Change [Release No. 34–91633; File No. SR– NYSEARCA–2021–27] 26 17 2021, NYSE Arca, Inc. (‘‘NYSE Arca’’ or the ‘‘Exchange’’) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the ‘‘Commission’’) the proposed rule change as described in Items I and II below, which Items have been prepared by the self-regulatory organization. The Commission is publishing this notice to solicit comments on the proposed rule change from interested persons. Jkt 253001 PO 00000 Frm 00091 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 5 The Exchange may submit a separate rule filing to extend the expiration date of the proposed extension beyond August 31, 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). 8 See 2019 Notice, 84 FR at 16365 & 16373–4. 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’’). E:\FR\FM\28APN1.SGM 28APN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 80 (Wednesday, April 28, 2021)]
[Notices]
[Pages 22471-22474]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-08854]


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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

[Release No. 34-91631; File No. SR-NYSEAMER-2021-23]


Self-Regulatory Organizations; NYSE American LLC; Notice of 
Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change Extending 
the Expiration Date of the Temporary Amendments to Rules 9261 and 9830

April 22, 2021.
    Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) \1\ of the Securities Exchange Act of 
1934 (the ``Act'') \2\ and Rule 19b-4 thereunder,\3\ notice is hereby 
given that on April 20, 2021, NYSE American LLC (``NYSE American'' or 
the ``Exchange'') filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission 
(the ``Commission'') the proposed rule change as described in Items I 
and II below, which Items have been prepared by the self-regulatory 
organization. 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.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

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-
NYSEAMER-2020-69 from April 30, 2021, to August 31, 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 American 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 as set forth in SR-NYSEAMER-2020-69 \4\ to Rules 
9261 (Evidence and Procedure in Hearing) and 9830 (Hearing) from April 
30, 2021 to August 31, 2021, to harmonize with recent changes by FINRA 
to extend the expiration date of the temporary amendments to its Rules 
9261 and 9830. SR-NYSEAMER-2020-69 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. 90085 (October 2, 
2020), 85 FR 63603 (October 8, 2020) (SR-NYSEAMER-2020-69) (``SR-
NYSEAMER-2020-69'').
    \5\ The Exchange may submit a separate rule filing to extend the 
expiration date of the proposed extension beyond August 31, 2021 if 
the Exchange requires additional temporary relief from the rule 
requirements identified in SR-NYSEAMER-2020-69. The amended NYSE 
American rules will revert back to their original state at the 
conclusion of the temporary relief period and any extension thereof.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Background
    In 2016, NYSE American (then known as NYSE MKT LLC) adopted 
disciplinary rules that are, with certain exceptions, substantially the 
same as the Rule 8000 Series and Rule 9000 Series of FINRA and its 
affiliate the New York Stock Exchange LLC (``NYSE''), and which set 
forth rules for conducting investigations and enforcement actions.\6\

[[Page 22472]]

The NYSE American disciplinary rules were implemented on April 15, 
2016.\7\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \6\ See Securities Exchange Act Release Nos. 77241 (February 26, 
2016), 81 FR 11311 (March 3, 2016) (SR-NYSEMKT-2016-30) (``2016 
Notice'').
    \7\ See NYSE MKT Information Memorandum 16-02 (March 14, 2016).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In adopting disciplinary rules modeled on FINRA's rules, NYSE 
American 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 and Rule 9830 are substantially the same 
as the FINRA rules with certain modifications.\8\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \8\ See 2016 Notice, 81 FR at 11327 & 11332.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In response to the COVID-19 global health crisis and the 
corresponding need to restrict in-person activities, on August 31, 
2020, FINRA filed with the Commission a proposed rule change for 
immediate effectiveness, SR-FINRA-2020-027, which allowed FINRA's 
Office of Hearing Officers (``OHO'') to conduct hearings, on a 
temporary basis, by video conference, if warranted by the current 
COVID-19-related public health risks posed by an in-person hearing. 
Among the rules FINRA amended were Rules 9261 and 9830.\9\
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    \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. On December 22, 2020, the 
Exchange similarly filed to extend the temporary amendments to Rule 
9261 and Rule 9830 to April 30, 2021, after which the temporary 
amendments will expire absent another proposed rule change filing by 
the Exchange.\11\
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    \10\ See note 4, supra.
    \11\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 90823 (December 30, 
2020), 86 FR 650 (January 6, 2021) (SR-NYSEAMER-2020-88).
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    While there are signs of improvement, FINRA has determined that the 
COVID-19 conditions necessitating these temporary amendments persist 
and, based on its assessment of current COVID-19 conditions and the 
lack of certainty as to when COVID-19-related health concerns and 
corresponding restrictions will meaningfully subside, that there is a 
continued need for this temporary relief for several months beyond 
April 30, 2021. On April 1, 2021, FINRA accordingly filed to extend the 
expiration date of the temporary rule amendments to, among other rules, 
FINRA Rule 9261 and 9830 from April 30, 2021, to August 31, 2021.\12\
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    \12\ See Securities Exchange Act Release No. 91495 (April 7, 
2021), 86 FR 19306 (April 13, 2021) (SR-FINRA-2021-006) (``SR-FINRA-
2021-006'').
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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 
American Rules 9261 and 9830 as set forth in SR-NYSEAMER-2020-69 from 
April 30, 2021, to August 31, 2021.
    As set forth in SR-FINRA 2021-006, while there are signs of 
improvement, the COVID-19 conditions necessitating these temporary 
amendments persist and, based on FINRA's assessment of current COVID-19 
conditions and the lack of certainty as to when COVID-19-related health 
concerns and corresponding restrictions will meaningfully subside, 
FINRA has determined that there is a continued need for this temporary 
relief for several months beyond April 30, 2021.\13\ FINRA accordingly 
proposed to extend the expiration date of the temporary rule amendments 
from April 30, 2021, to August 31, 2021.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \13\ See id.
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    The Exchange proposes to similarly extend the expiration date of 
the temporary rule amendments to NYSE American Rules 9261 and 9830 as 
set forth in SR-NYSEAMER-2020-69 from April 30, 2021, to August 31, 
2021. The Exchange agrees with FINRA that the COVID-19 conditions 
necessitating these temporary amendments persist and, for the reasons 
set forth in SR-FINRA-2021-006, that there is a continued need for this 
temporary relief for several months beyond April 30, 2021. The proposed 
change would 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. As noted in SR-FINRA-2021-006, in deciding 
whether to schedule a hearing by video conference, OHO may consider a 
variety of other factors in addition to COVID-19 trends. In SR-FINRA-
2020-027, FINRA provided a non-exhaustive list of other factors OHO may 
take into consideration, including a hearing participant's individual 
health concerns and access to the connectivity and technology necessary 
to participate in a video conference hearing.\14\ 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.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \14\ 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,\15\ in general, and furthers the objectives of Section 
6(b)(5),\16\ 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.\17\
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    \15\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b).
    \16\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(5).
    \17\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(7) & 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-2021-006, will permit the Exchange to continue to effectively 
conduct hearings

[[Page 22473]]

during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given current COVID-19 conditions and the 
uncertainty around when those conditions will meaningfully improve, 
without this relief allowing OHO to proceed by video conference, some 
or all hearings may have to be postponed indefinitely. 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-NYSEAMER-2020-69, 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 \18\ 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 avoiding the 
COVID-19-related public health risks for hearing participants. The 
Exchange notes that this proposal, like SR-NYSEAMER-2020-69, provides 
only temporary relief. As proposed, the changes would be in place 
through August 31, 2021. As noted in SR-NYSEAMER-2020-69 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.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \18\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(7) & 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 impediments to critical 
adjudicatory processes and its ability to fulfill its statutory 
obligations to protect investors and maintain fair and orderly markets 
that would otherwise result if the temporary amendments were to expire 
on April 30, 2021.

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) of the Act \19\ and Rule 19b-
4(f)(6) thereunder.\20\
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    \19\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(3)(A).
    \20\ 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. As the Exchange requested in 
connection with SR-NYSEAMER-2020-88,\21\ here too the Exchange has 
requested that the Commission waive the 30-day operative delay so that 
this proposed rule change may become operative immediately upon filing.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \21\ See SR-NYSEAMER-2020-88, 86 FR at 650.
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    The Exchange has indicated that extending this proposed rule change 
will prevent unnecessary impediments to critical adjudicatory processes 
and its ability to fulfill its statutory obligations to protect 
investors and maintain fair and orderly markets that would otherwise 
result if the temporary amendments were to expire on April 30, 
2021.\22\ The Commission also notes that this proposal, like SR-
NYSEAMER-2020-88, 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 August 31, 2021 \23\ and the 
amended rules will revert back to their original state at the 
conclusion of the temporary relief period and, if applicable, any 
extension thereof.\24\ For these reasons, the Commission believes that 
waiver of the 30-day operative delay for this proposal 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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    \22\ See supra p. 8.
    \23\ As noted above, see supra note 5, the Exchange states that 
if it requires temporary relief from the rule requirements 
identified in this proposal beyond August 31, 2021, it may submit a 
separate rule filing to extend the effectiveness of the temporary 
relief under these rules.
    \24\ See supra note 5.
    \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-NYSEAMER-2021-23 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.

All submissions should refer to File Number SR-NYSEAMER-2021-23. This 
file number should be included on the

[[Page 22474]]

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 
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-NYSEAMER-2021-
23 and should be submitted on or before May 19, 2021.

    For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, 
pursuant to delegated authority.\26\
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    \26\ 17 CFR 200.30-3(a)(12).
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J. Matthew DeLesDernier,
Assistant Secretary.
[FR Doc. 2021-08854 Filed 4-27-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 8011-01-P
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