Toronto-based Aequitas NEO Exchange Inc. is proposing changes to its rules to allow it to start listing emerging market issuers (EMIs).
A request for comment published Thursday on the Ontario Securities Commission website sets out initial and ongoing listing requirements for emerging market issuers.
The proposals include measures designed to mitigate the particular risks that can be associated with companies operating in emerging markets, including corporate governance and suitability requirements to address those specific risks.
According to the request for comment, the proposed rules will allow the NEO Exchange to accept applications from emerging market issuers.
“This will provide foreign issuers with an additional choice of listing venue in Canada,” the request for comment says. “By offering EMIs a choice of listing venue for their securities, NEO Exchange continues to encourage competition, confidence and participation in Canada’s capital markets for investors, issuers and dealers.”
The proposals are out for comment until Dec. 4, and the exchange indicates that it intends to implement the new requirements that month.