[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 226 (Friday, November 22, 2019)]
[Notices]
[Pages 64574-64581]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-25316]


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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

[Release No. 34-87559; File No. SR-NASDAQ-2019-090]


Self-Regulatory Organizations; The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC; 
Notice of Filing of a Proposed Rule Change To Adopt Nasdaq Rule 5704 
and Other Related Amendments

November 18, 2019.
    Pursuant to Section 19(b)(1) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

[[Page 64575]]

(``Act''),\1\ and Rule 19b-4 thereunder,\2\ notice is hereby given that 
on November 8, 2019, The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (``Nasdaq'' or 
``Exchange'') filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission 
(``SEC'' or ``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.
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    \1\ 15 U.S.C. 78s(b)(1).
    \2\ 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 to adopt new Nasdaq Rule 5704 to list and 
trade shares of securities issued by an exchange-traded fund as defined 
herein, as well as amendments to Nasdaq Rule 4120 (Limit Up-Limit Down 
Plan and Trading Halts) and Nasdaq Rule 5615 (Exemptions from Certain 
Corporate Governance Requirements), and to discontinue the quarterly 
reports currently required with respect to Managed Fund Shares under 
Nasdaq Rule 5735(b).
    The Exchange requests that the Commission approve the proposed rule 
change on an accelerated basis so that it may become operative as soon 
as practicable, particularly given that Rule 6c-11 under the Investment 
Company Act of 1940, as amended, becomes effective on December 23, 
2019.
    The text of the proposed rule change is available on the Exchange's 
website at http://nasdaq.cchwallstreet.com, at the principal office of 
the Exchange, and at the Commission's Public Reference Room.

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

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

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

1. Purpose
    The Exchange proposes Nasdaq Rule 5704 to establish generic listing 
standards that permit the listing and trading of shares (``Exchange 
Traded Fund Shares'') of exchange-traded funds (``ETFs'' as defined 
below) that meet the criteria established by the Commissions in its 
adoption of Rule 6c-11 \3\ (``Rule 6c-11'') under the Investment 
Company Act of 1940, as amended (``1940 Act''), to operate without 
obtaining an exemptive order from the SEC under the 1940 Act.\4\ This 
will help to accomplish the SEC's goal in adopting Rule 6c-11 to allow 
such ETFs to come directly to market without the cost and delay of 
obtaining exemptive relief while still protecting the interests of 
investors and other market participants. Rule 6c-11 will provide 
exemptions applicable to both index-based and transparent actively 
managed ETFs. Rule 6c-11 will enhance the regulatory framework through 
streamlining existing procedures and reducing the costs and time frames 
associated with bringing ETFs to market. This, in turn, will also serve 
to enhance competition among ETF issuers and ultimately reduce investor 
costs.\5\
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    \3\ Specifically, Rule 6c-11 applies to open-end funds that (i) 
issue and redeem creation units to and from authorized participants 
in exchange for a basket of securities and other assets (and any 
cash balancing amount), and (ii) whose shares are listed on a 
national securities exchange and trade at market-determined prices. 
Rule 6c-11 does not apply to leveraged, inverse, non-transparent, 
share classes, or exchange-traded funds structured as unit 
investment trusts.
    \4\ See Release Nos. 33-10695; IC-33646; File No. S7-15-18 
(Exchange-Traded Funds) (September 25, 2019), 84 FR 57162 (October 
24, 2019) (``Adopting Release'').
    \5\ The SEC said in the Adopting Release that Rule 6c-11 ``will 
modernize the regulatory framework for ETFs to reflect our more than 
two decades of experience with these investment products. The rule 
is designed to further important Commission objectives, including 
establishing a consistent, transparent, and efficient regulatory 
framework for ETFs and facilitating greater competition and 
innovation among ETFs.'' See Adopting Release at 57163. The SEC also 
said that in reference to the impact of Rule 6c-11 that: ``We 
believe rule 6c-11 will establish a regulatory framework that: (1) 
Reduces the expense and delay currently associated with forming and 
operating certain ETFs unable to rely on existing orders; and (2) 
creates a level playing field for ETFs that can rely on the rule. As 
such, the rule will enable increased product competition among 
certain ETF providers, which can lead to lower fees for investors, 
encourage financial innovation, and increase investor choice in the 
ETF market.'' See Adopting Release at 57204.
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    Nasdaq believes that the proposed generic listing rules for 
Exchange Traded Fund Shares, described below, will facilitate efficient 
procedures for ETFs that are permitted to operate in reliance on Rule 
6c-11. The Exchange also believes that proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704 is 
consistent with, and will further, the Commission's goals in adopting 
Rule 6c-11. Exchange Traded Fund Shares that are permitted to operate 
in reliance on Rule 6c-11 will be permitted to be listed and traded on 
the Exchange without a prior Commission approval order or notice of 
effectiveness pursuant to Section 19(b) of the Act. This will 
significantly reduce the time frame and costs associated with bringing 
Exchange Traded Fund Shares to market, which, in turn, will promote 
competition among issuers of Exchange Traded Fund Shares, to the 
benefit of investors.
    The Exchange also proposes to amend Nasdaq Rule 4120 (Limit Up-
Limit Down Plan and Trading Halts) and Nasdaq Rule 5615 (Exemptions 
from Certain Corporate Governance Requirements), and to discontinue the 
quarterly reports currently required with respect to Managed Fund 
Shares under Nasdaq Rule 5735(b).
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704 will enable ETFs, whether index-based or 
actively managed, to qualify for listing and trading on the Exchange 
both on an initial and continued basis by meeting and maintaining 
compliance with the criteria set forth in Rule 6c-11.\6\ The specific 
provisions of proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704 are presented below, as well as 
amendments to Nasdaq Rule 4120 (Limit Up-Limit Down Plan and Trading 
Halts) and Nasdaq Rule 5615 (Exemptions from Certain Corporate 
Governance Requirements), which would be necessitated by adoption of 
the proposed rule. Additionally, the proposed rule change to 
discontinue the quarterly reports currently required with respect to 
Managed Fund Shares under Nasdaq Rule 5735(b) is also discussed below.
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    \6\ Rule 6c-11 becomes effective on December 23, 2019. Subject 
to approval of this proposed rule change, Exchange Traded Fund 
Shares that are permitted to operate in reliance on Rule 6c-11 will 
be eligible for listing and trading on Nasdaq under proposed Nasdaq 
Rule 5704 after that date.
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Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704
    Proposed Definitions. Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(a)(1)(A), which 
defines the term ``Derivative Securities Product'' to mean a security 
that meets the definition of ``derivative securities product'' in Rule 
19b-4(e) under the Act. Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(a)(1)(B) defines the 
term ``Exchange Traded Fund'' (``ETF'') as having the same meaning as 
the term ``exchange-traded fund'' is defined in

[[Page 64576]]

Rule 6c-11.\7\ In the case of an Exchange Traded Fund that is not 
currently listed on a national securities exchange, the portion of the 
definition found in Rule 6c-11 requiring such listing will become 
applicable if the Exchange Traded Fund is listed on a national 
securities exchange.
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    \7\ Rule 6c-11(a)(1) defines ``exchange-traded fund'' as a 
registered open-end management company: (i) That issues (and 
redeems) creation units to (and from) authorized participants in 
exchange for a basket and a cash balancing amount if any; and (ii) 
Whose shares are listed on a national securities exchange and traded 
at market-determined prices. The terms ``authorized participant,'' 
``basket'' and ``creation unit'' are defined in Rule 6c-11(a).
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    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(a)(1)(C) defines the term ``Exchange 
Traded Fund Share'' as having the same meaning as the term is defined 
as having in Rule 6c-11.\8\
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    \8\ Rule 6c-11(a)(1) defines ``exchange-traded fund share'' as a 
share of stock issued by an exchange-traded fund.
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    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(a)(1)(D) defines the term ``Reporting 
Authority'' in respect of a particular series of Exchange Traded Fund 
Share means Nasdaq, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nasdaq, or an 
institution or reporting service designated by Nasdaq or its subsidiary 
as the official source for calculating and reporting information 
relating to such series, including, but not limited to, any current 
index or portfolio value; the current value of the portfolio of any 
securities required to be deposited in connection with issuance of 
Exchange Traded Fund Shares; the amount of any dividend equivalent 
payment or cash distribution to holders of Exchange Traded Fund Shares, 
net asset value, and other information relating to the issuance, 
redemption or trading of Exchange Traded Fund Shares. The definition 
also notes that it does not imply that an institution or reporting 
service that is the source for calculating and reporting information 
relating to Exchange Traded Fund Shares must be designated by Nasdaq; 
the term ``Reporting Authority'' does not refer to an institution or 
reporting service not so designated.
    Initial and Continued Listing. Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b) states 
that Nasdaq may approve a series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares for 
listing and trading pursuant to Rule 19b-4(e) under the Act, provided 
it is eligible to operate in reliance on Rule 6c-11 and is in 
compliance with the requirements of Rule 6c-11(c) on an initial and 
continued listing basis.\9\ The requirements of Nasdaq Rule 5704 must 
also be satisfied on an initial and continued listing basis.
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    \9\ Rule 6c-11(c) sets forth certain conditions applicable to 
exchange-traded funds, and specifies the information required to be 
disclosed prominently on the fund's website free of charge, 
including the following: (i) Before the opening of regular trading 
on the primary listing exchange of the exchange-traded fund shares, 
the estimated cash balancing amount (if any) and the following 
information (as applicable) for each portfolio holding that will 
form the basis of the next calculation of current net asset value 
per share: (A) Ticker symbol; (B) CUSIP or other identifier; (C) 
Description of holding; (D) Quantity of each security or other asset 
held; and (E) Percentage weight of the holding in the portfolio; 
(ii) The exchange-traded fund's current net asset value per share, 
market price, and premium or discount, each as of the end of the 
prior business day; (iii) A table showing the number of days the 
exchange-traded fund's shares traded at a premium or discount during 
the most recently completed calendar year and the most recently 
completed calendar quarters since that year (or the life of the 
exchange-traded fund, if shorter); (iv) A line graph showing 
exchange-traded fund share premiums or discounts for the most 
recently completed calendar year and the most recently completed 
calendar quarters since that year (or the life of the exchange-
traded fund, if shorter); (v) The exchange-traded fund's median bid-
ask spread, expressed as a percentage rounded to the nearest 
hundredth (and computed in a manner described in Rule 6c-11(c)(v)(A) 
through (D)); and (vi) If the exchange-traded fund's premium or 
discount is greater than 2% for more than seven consecutive trading 
days, a statement that the exchange-traded fund's premium or 
discount, as applicable, was greater than 2% and a discussion of the 
factors that are reasonably believed to have materially contributed 
to the premium or discount, which must be maintained on the website 
for at least one year thereafter. Rule 6c-11(c)(4) provides that the 
exchange-traded fund may not seek, directly or indirectly, to 
provide investment returns that correspond to the performance of a 
market index by a specified multiple, or to provide investment 
returns that have an inverse relationship to the performance of a 
market index, over a predetermined period of time.
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    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b)(1) says that for a Derivative 
Securities Product listed under this rule, it does not need to 
separately meet either the initial or continued listing requirements of 
any other Exchange rules. For example, an ETF that satisfies the 
requirements of Rule 6c-11 and therefore is listed pursuant to proposed 
Nasdaq Rule 5704 and is also, for example, an Index Fund Share, would 
not need to separately meet the initial or continued listing 
requirements of Nasdaq Rule 5705(b).
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b)(2), [sic] except for paragraph (A) 
below which only applies on an initial listing basis, such securities 
must also satisfy the follow criteria on an initial and continued 
listing basis:
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b)(2)(A) states that for each series of 
Exchange Traded Fund Shares, Nasdaq will establish a minimum number of 
Exchange Traded Fund Shares required to be outstanding at the time of 
commencement of trading on Nasdaq.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b)(2)(B) sets for the requirements 
regarding index calculation and dissemination that must be satisfied on 
both an initial and continued listing basis. Proposed Nasdaq Rule 
5704(b)(2)(i) [sic] states that if the underlying index is maintained 
by a broker-dealer or fund advisor, the broker-dealer or fund advisor 
will erect and maintain a ``fire wall'' around the personnel who have 
access to information concerning changes and adjustments to the index 
and the index will be calculated by a third party who is not a broker-
dealer or fund advisor. Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b)(2)(ii) [sic] 
states that any advisory committee, supervisory board, or similar 
entity that advises a Reporting Authority or that makes decisions on 
the index composition, methodology and related matters, must implement 
and maintain, or be subject to, procedures designed to prevent the use 
and dissemination of material non-public information regarding the 
applicable index.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b)(2)(C) states that regular market 
session trading will occur between 9:30 a.m. and either 4:00 p.m. or 
4:15 p.m. for each series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares, as specified 
by Nasdaq. In addition, Nasdaq may designate a series of Exchange 
Traded Fund Shares for trading during a pre-market session beginning at 
4:00 a.m. and/or a post-market session ending at 8:00 p.m.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b)(2)(D) states that Nasdaq may list and 
trade a series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares based on one or more 
foreign or domestic indexes or portfolios. Each series of Exchange 
Traded Fund Shares based on each particular index or portfolio, or 
combination thereof, will be designated as a separate series and will 
be identified by a unique symbol. The components that are included in 
an index or portfolio on which a series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares 
is based will be selected by such person, which may be Nasdaq or an 
agent or wholly-owned subsidiary thereof, as will have authorized use 
of such index or portfolio. Such index or portfolio may be revised from 
time to time as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to maintain the 
quality and character of the index or portfolio.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b)(2)(E) states that Nasdaq will obtain a 
representation from the ETF that the net asset value per share for each 
series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares will be calculated daily and will 
be made available to all market participants at the same time.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b)(3) sets forth the circumstances under 
which Nasdaq will consider the suspension of trading and removal in, 
and will initiate delisting proceedings under the Rule

[[Page 64577]]

5800 Series of, a series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares. These 
circumstances will include the following: (i) Proposed Nasdaq Rule 
5704(b)(3)(A) states that if the series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares 
is no longer eligible to operate in reliance on Rule 6c-11 or if any of 
the other requirements set forth in this rule are not continuously 
maintained; (ii) Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b)(3)(B) states that if, 
following the initial twelve month period after commencement of trading 
on Nasdaq of the series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares, there are fewer 
than 50 beneficial holders of such series of Exchange Traded Fund 
Shares; (iii) Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b)(3)(C) states that if the 
value of the index or portfolio of securities on which the series of 
Exchange Traded Fund Shares is based is no longer calculated or 
available or an interruption to the dissemination persists past the 
trading day in which it occurred or the index or portfolio on which the 
series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares is based is replaced with a new 
index or portfolio, unless the new index or portfolio meets the 
requirements of this Rule 5705(b) for listing either pursuant to Rule 
19b-4(e) under the Act (including the filing of a Form 19b-4(e) with 
the Commission) or by Commission approval of a filing pursuant to 
Section 19(b) of the Act; (iv) Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(c)(3)(D) [sic] 
states that if Nasdaq files separate proposals under Section 19(b) of 
the Act, any of the statements or representations regarding (a) the 
index composition; (b) the description of the portfolio; (c) 
limitations on portfolio holdings or reference assets; (d) 
dissemination and availability of the index or intraday indicative 
values; or (e) the applicability of Nasdaq listing rules specified in 
such proposals are not continuously maintained as referenced in 
subsection (h) of this rule; and (v) Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(c)(3)(E) 
[sic] state that if such other event will occur or condition exists 
which in the opinion of Nasdaq, makes further dealings on Nasdaq 
inadvisable.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(c) states that Nasdaq will maintain 
written surveillance procedures for Exchange Traded Fund Shares.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(d) states that upon termination of an 
ETF, Nasdaq requires that each series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares 
issued in connection with such entity be removed from listing.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(e) states that Nasdaq requires that 
members provide to all purchasers of a series of Exchange Traded Fund 
Shares a written description of the terms and characteristics of such 
securities, in a form prepared by the open-end management investment 
company issuing such securities, not later than the time a confirmation 
of the first transaction in such series is delivered to such purchaser. 
In addition, members will include such a written description with any 
sales material relating to an ETF that is provided to customers or the 
public. Any other written materials provided by a member to customers 
or the public making specific reference to an Exchange Traded Fund 
Shares as an investment vehicle must include a statement in 
substantially the following form: ``A circular describing the terms and 
characteristics of [a series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares] has been 
prepared by the [open-end management investment company name] and is 
available from your broker or Nasdaq. It is recommended that you obtain 
and review such circular before purchasing [a series of Exchange Traded 
Fund Shares]. In addition, upon request you may obtain from your broker 
a prospectus for [a series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares].''
    Additionally, a member carrying an omnibus account for a non-member 
broker-dealer is required to inform such non-member that execution of 
an order to purchase a series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares for such 
omnibus account will be deemed to constitute agreement by the non-
member to make such written description available to its customers on 
the same terms as are directly applicable to members and member 
organizations under this rule. Upon request of a customer, a Member 
shall also provide a prospectus for the particular series of Exchange 
Traded Fund Shares.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(f) states that neither Nasdaq, the 
Reporting Authority, nor any agent of Nasdaq will have any liability 
for damages, claims, losses or expenses caused by any errors, 
omissions, or delays in calculating or disseminating any current index 
or portfolio value, the current value of the portfolio of securities 
required to be deposited to the open-end management investment company 
in connection with issuance of a series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares; 
the amount of any dividend equivalent payment or cash distribution to 
holders of a series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares; net asset value; or 
other information relating to the purchase, redemption or trading of a 
series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares, resulting from any negligent act 
or omission by Nasdaq, the Reporting Authority or any agent of Nasdaq, 
or any act, condition or cause beyond the reasonable control of Nasdaq, 
its agent, or the Reporting Authority, including, but not limited to, 
an act of God; fire; flood; extraordinary weather conditions; war; 
insurrection; riot; strike; accident; action of government; 
communications or power failure; equipment or software malfunction; or 
any error, omission or delay in the reports of transactions in one or 
more underlying securities.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(g) states that Nasdaq may approve a 
series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares for listing and trading pursuant 
to Rule 19b-4(e) under the Act that is not eligible to operate in 
reliance on Rule 6c-11 provided the series of Exchange Traded Fund 
Shares satisfies the requirements of Rule 5705(b) or Rule 5735, as 
applicable, and the ETF has received an exemptive relief order under 
the 1940 Act.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(h) states that Nasdaq may submit a rule 
filing pursuant to Section 19(b) of the Act to permit the listing and 
trading of a series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares that is not eligible 
to operate in reliance on Rule 6c-11 and does not satisfy the 
requirements of Rule 5705(b) or Rule 5735, as applicable. Any of the 
statements or representations regarding (a) the index composition; (b) 
the description of the portfolio; (c) limitations on portfolio holdings 
or reference assets; (d) dissemination and availability of the index or 
intraday indicative values; or (e) the applicability of Nasdaq listing 
rules specified in such proposals constitute continued listing 
standards.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(i) states that a Derivative Securities 
Product that has previously been approved for listing on the Exchange 
pursuant to the generic listing requirements specified in Rule 5705(b) 
or Rule 5735(b)(1), or pursuant to a proposed rule change filed and 
approved or subject to a notice of effectiveness by the Commission, 
will be deemed to be considered approved for listing under this Rule if 
such Derivative Securities Product is both (1) permitted to operate in 
reliance on Rule 6c-11 under the 1940 Act, and (2) the prior exemptive 
relief under the 1940 Act for such Derivative Securities Product has 
been rescinded. At such time, the continued listing requirements 
applicable to such previously-listed Derivative Securities Products 
will be those specified in paragraph (b) of this Rule. Any requirements 
for listing as specified in Rule 5705(b) or 5735(b)(1), or an approval 
order or notice of effectiveness of a separate proposed rule change 
that differ from the requirements of this Rule will no longer be 
applicable to such Derivative Securities Products.

[[Page 64578]]

Amendments to Nasdaq Rule 4120. Limit Up-Limit Down Plan and Trading 
Halts
    The Exchange proposes to amend Nasdaq Rule 4120 to include Exchange 
Traded Fund Shares within the definition of ``Derivative Securities 
Product'' as defined in Nasdaq Rule 4120(b)(4)(A). This will ensure the 
applicability of trading halts to the trading of Exchange Traded Fund 
Shares on Nasdaq pursuant to unlisted trading privileges.
Amendments to Nasdaq Rule 5615. Exemptions From Certain Corporate 
Governance Requirements
    The Exchange also proposes to amend the definition of ``Derivative 
Securities'' in Nasdaq Rule 5615 to incorporate to incorporate Exchange 
Traded Fund Shares so Rule 5615 and its exemptions from certain 
corporate governance requirements are applicable to Exchange Traded 
Fund Shares.
Proposed Discontinuance of Quarterly Reporting Obligation for Managed 
Fund Shares
    On September 23, 2016, the SEC approved Nasdaq Rule 5735(b)(1), 
adopting generic listing standards for Managed Fund Shares.\10\ In 
proposing that rule, Nasdaq represented that it would provide the 
Commission staff with a report each calendar quarter about issues of 
Managed Fund Shares listed under that rule.\11\
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    \10\ See Exchange Act Release No. 78918 (September 23, 2016), 81 
FR 67033 (September 29, 2016) (SR-NASDAQ-2016-104).
    \11\ See Exchange Act Release No. 78616 (August 18, 2016), 81 FR 
57968 at 57973 (August 24, 2016) (``the Exchange will provide the 
Commission staff with a report each calendar quarter that includes 
the following information for issues of Managed Fund Shares listed 
during such calendar quarter under Rule 5735(b)(1): (1) Trading 
symbol and date of listing on the Exchange; (2) the number of active 
authorized participants and a description of any failure of an issue 
of Managed Fund Shares or of an authorized participant to deliver 
shares, cash, or cash and financial instruments in connection with 
creation or redemption orders; and (3) a description of any failure 
of an issue of Managed Fund Shares to comply with Nasdaq Rule 
5735'').
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    Nasdaq believes such quarterly reports are no longer necessary in 
light of the requirements set forth in Rule 6c-11(d). As a result, the 
Exchange proposes to discontinue such reporting going forward. Rule 6c-
11(d) includes specific ongoing reporting requirements for ETFs, such 
as written agreements between an authorized participant and a fund 
allowing purchase or redemption of creation units, information 
regarding the baskets exchanged with authorized participants, and the 
identity of authorized participants transacting with a fund.\12\ This 
information will be sufficient for the SEC's examination staff to 
determine compliance with Rule 6c-11 and the applicable federal 
securities laws.\13\
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    \12\ Rule 6c-11(d), which sets forth recordkeeping requirements 
applicable to exchange-traded funds, provides that that the 
exchange-traded fund must maintain and preserve for a period of not 
less than five years, the first two years in an easily accessible 
place: (1) All written agreements (or copies thereof) between an 
authorized participant and the exchange-traded fund or one of its 
service providers that allows the authorized participant to place 
orders for the purchase or redemption of creation units; (2) For 
each basket exchanged with an authorized participant, records 
setting forth: (i) The ticker symbol, CUSIP or other identifier, 
description of holding, quantity of each holding, and percentage 
weight of each holding composing the basket exchanged for creation 
units; (ii) If applicable, identification of the basket as a custom 
basket and a record stating that the custom basket complies with 
policies and procedures that the exchange-traded fund adopted 
pursuant to paragraph (c)(3) of Rule 6c-11; (iii) Cash balancing 
amount (if any); and (iv) Identity of authorized participant 
transacting with the exchange traded fund.
    \13\ In the Adopting Release, the SEC stated, ``requiring ETFs 
to maintain records regarding each basket exchanged with authorized 
participants will provide our examination staff with a basis to 
understand how baskets are being used by ETFs, particularly with 
respect to custom baskets. In order to provide our examination staff 
with detailed information regarding basket composition, however, we 
have modified rule 6c-11 to require the ticker symbol, CUSIP or 
other identifier, description of holding, quantity of each holding, 
and percentage weight of each holding composing the basket exchanged 
for creation units as part of the basket records, instead of the 
name and quantities of each position as proposed. We believe that 
this additional information will better enable our examination staff 
to evaluate compliance with the rule and other applicable provisions 
of the federal securities laws.'' See Adopting Release at 57195.
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    Nasdaq believes that the quarterly reports as currently are 
duplicative of the new Rule 6c-11(d) requirements. To avoid unnecessary 
overlap and potential inconsistency, as well as to avoid unnecessary, 
duplicative burdens on authorized participants and their firms in 
providing and maintaining information regarding creation and redemption 
activity, the Exchange proposes to discontinue the filing of quarterly 
reports with respect to Managed Fund Shares under Nasdaq Rule 5735(b).
2. Statutory Basis
    The Exchange believes that its proposal is consistent with Section 
6(b) of the Act,\14\ in general, and furthers the objectives of Section 
6(b)(5) of the Act,\15\ in particular, because it is designed to 
prevent fraudulent and manipulative acts and practices, to promote just 
and equitable principles of trade, to remove impediments to, and 
perfect the mechanisms of, a free and open market and a national market 
system and, in general, to protect investors and the public interest.
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    \14\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b).
    \15\ 15 U.S.C. 78f(b)(5).
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    The proposed rule change is designed to perfect the mechanism of a 
free and open market and, in general, to protect investors and the 
public interest because it would facilitate the listing and trading of 
additional Exchange Traded Fund Shares, which would enhance competition 
among market participants, to the benefit of investors and the 
marketplace.
    The generic listing rules in proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704, as 
described above, will facilitate efficient procedures for listing ETFs 
that are permitted to operate in reliance on Rule 6c-11 and are 
consistent with and will further the SEC's goals in adopting Rule 6c-
11. Additionally, by allowing Exchange Traded Fund Shares to be listed 
and traded on the Exchange without a prior SEC approval order or notice 
of effectiveness pursuant to Section 19(b) of the Act, proposed Nasdaq 
Rule 5704 will significantly reduce the time frame and costs associated 
with bringing Exchange Traded Fund Shares to market, thereby promoting 
market competition among issuers of these securities, to the benefit of 
the investors. Also, the proposed change would fulfill the intended 
objective of Rule 19b-4(e) under the Act by permitting Exchange Traded 
Fund Shares that satisfy the proposed listing standards to be listed 
and traded without separate SEC approval.
    With respect to proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(a)(1)(A), which defines 
the term ``Derivative Securities Product'' to mean a security that 
meets the definition of ``derivative securities product'' in Rule 19b-
4(e) under the Act will increase the clarity of the Nasdaq rules to the 
benefit of investors and the marketplace.
    With respect to both proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(a)(1)(B), which 
defines the term ``Exchange Traded Fund'', and proposed Nasdaq Rule 
5704(a)(1)(C), which defines the term ``Exchange Traded Fund Share'', 
the Exchange believes these definitions will increase the clarity to 
the benefit of investors and the marketplace. Additionally, these terms 
mirror the definitions as set forth in Rule 6c-11.\16\
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    \16\ See Adopting Release at 57178 and at 57234, respectively.
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    With respect to proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(a)(1)(D), which defines 
the term ``Reporting Authority'', the Exchange believes that defining 
the term generally consistent with how it is defined in Nasdaq Rule 
5705 \17\ and Nasdaq Rule

[[Page 64579]]

5735 \18\ will increase the clarity to the benefit of investors and the 
marketplace.
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    \17\ See Nasdaq Rule 5705(b)(1)(C).
    \18\ See Nasdaq Rule 5735(c)(4).
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    With respect to proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b), Exchange Traded Fund 
Shares will be listed and traded on the Exchange subject to the 
requirement that each series of Exchange Traded Fund Shares is eligible 
to operate in reliance on Rule 6c-11 \19\ and must satisfy the 
requirements of this Rule on an initial and continued listing basis. 
This requirement will ensure that Exchange-listed Exchange Traded Fund 
Shares continue to operate in a manner that fully complies with the 
portfolio transparency requirements of Rule 6c-11(c). This will also 
ensure that Exchange Traded Fund Shares listed and traded on the 
Exchange in accordance with Nasdaq Rule 5704 on an initial and 
continued listing basis will serve to perfect the mechanisms of, a free 
and open market and a national market system and, in general, to 
protect investors and the public interest.
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    \19\ Rule 6c-11(c) sets forth certain conditions applicable to 
ETFs, including information required to be disclosed on the ETF's 
website.
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    With respect to proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b) and subparagraphs (1)-
(6) [sic] thereunder (with the exception that subparagraph (1) [sic] 
only applies on an initial listing basis),\20\ the Exchange believes it 
is to the benefit of investors and the marketplace that Nasdaq may 
approve an ETF for listing and trading pursuant to Rule 19b-4(e) under 
the Act. The approval is also contingent on the ETF being eligible to 
operate in reliance on Rule 6c-11 and satisfies the requirements of the 
rule on an initial and continued listing basis. Nasdaq will monitor for 
compliance with the continued listing requirements. If the ETF is not 
in compliance with the applicable listing requirements, the Exchange 
will commence delisting procedures under proposed Nasdaq Rule 
5704(b)(3). The Exchange believes that this will help to prevent 
fraudulent and manipulative acts and practices.
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    \20\ Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(b)(1)-(6) [sic] covers: (i) 
Establishing a minimum number of Exchange Traded Fund Shares 
required to be outstanding at the time of commencement of trading on 
Nasdaq (only applicable on an initial listing basis); (ii) written 
surveillance procedures for ETFs; (iii) index calculation and 
dissemination and ``fire walls'' around the personnel who have 
access to information concerning changes and adjustments to the 
index; (iv) regular market session trading; (v) the listing and 
trading of ETFs based on one or more foreign or domestic indexes or 
portfolios; and (vi) Nasdaq will obtain a representation from the 
ETF that the net asset value per share for the ETF will be 
calculated daily and will be made available to all market 
participants at the same time.
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    The Exchange believes this also fulfills the intended objective of 
Rule 19b-4(e) under the Act by allowing Exchange Traded Fund Shares to 
be listed and traded without requiring separate Commission approval and 
this will provide investors with additional investment choices that 
they may choose to invest in.
    With respect to proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(c), the Exchange will 
implement written surveillance procedures for Exchange Traded Fund 
Shares and represents that its surveillance procedures are adequate to 
properly monitor such trading in all trading sessions and to deter and 
detect violations of Nasdaq rules. Specifically, the Exchange intends 
to utilize its existing surveillance procedures applicable to 
derivative products, which will include Exchange Traded Fund Shares, to 
monitor trading in the Exchange Traded Fund Shares (additional 
surveillance processes and procedures are described infra). These 
surveillance procedures promote just and equitable principles of trade, 
to remove impediments to, and perfect the mechanisms of, a free and 
open market and a national market system and, in general, to protect 
investors and the public interest.
    With respect to proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(d), which states that 
upon termination of an ETF that Nasdaq will remove from listing the 
Exchange Traded Fund Shares issued in connection with such entity. The 
Exchange believes that adopting language similar to language already 
included in Nasdaq Rule 5705(b)(9)(B)f. [sic] and in Nasdaq Rule 
5735(d)(2)(E) makes for consistency among Nasdaq's rules and benefits 
investors and the marketplace by making clear rules that lessen 
potential confusion.
    With respect to proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(e), which states that 
Nasdaq requires that members provide to all purchasers of Exchange 
Traded Fund Shares a written description of the terms and 
characteristics of such securities and a written description with any 
sales material relating to an ETF that is provided to customers or the 
public, the Exchange believes that requiring similar written disclosure 
to that already required under Nasdaq Rule 5705(b)(2) and Nasdaq Rule 
5735(f) makes for consistency among Nasdaq's rules and benefits 
investors and the marketplace by making clear rules that lessen 
potential confusion.
    With respect to proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(f), which sets forth the 
limitation of liability applicable to Nasdaq, the Reporting Authority, 
or any agent of Nasdaq, the Exchange believes that requiring similar 
written disclosure to that already required under Nasdaq Rule 
5707(b)(11) and Nasdaq Rule 5735(e) makes for consistency among 
Nasdaq's rules and benefits investors and the marketplace by reducing 
potential confusion.
    With respect to proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(g), which states that 
Nasdaq may approve an ETF for listing and trading pursuant to Rule 19b-
4(e) under the Act that is not eligible to operate in reliance on Rule 
6c-11 provided the ETF satisfies the requirements of Rule 5705(b) or 
Rule 5735, as applicable, the Exchange believes will benefit of 
investors and the marketplace by providing them with additional 
investment products that qualify as Index Fund Shares or Managed Fund 
Shares that they may choose to invest in.
    With respect to proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(h), which allows Nasdaq 
to submit a rule filing pursuant to Section 19(b) of the Act to permit 
the listing and trading of an ETF that is not eligible to operate in 
reliance on Rule 6c-11 and does not satisfy the requirements of Rule 
5705(b) or Rule 5735, as applicable, the Exchange believes will benefit 
of investors and the marketplace by providing them with innovative 
additional investment products that do not qualify as Exchange Traded 
Fund Shares, Index Fund Shares or Managed Fund Shares but that 
investors and the marketplace may choose to invest in.
    With respect to proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(i), which states that a 
Derivative Securities Product that has previously been approved for 
listing on the Exchange pursuant to the generic listing requirements 
specified in Rule 5705(b) or Rule 5735(b)(1), or pursuant to a proposed 
rule change filed and approved or subject to a notice of effectiveness 
by the Commission, will be deemed to be considered approved for listing 
under this Rule if such Derivative Securities Product is both (1) 
permitted to operate in reliance on Rule 6c-11 under the 1940 Act, and 
(2) the prior exemptive relief under the 1940 Act for such Derivative 
Securities Product has been rescinded, the Exchange believes makes for 
consistency among Nasdaq's rules and benefits investors and the 
marketplace by making clear rules that lessen potential confusion. The 
Exchange believes the rest of proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704(i), which 
states any requirements for listing as specified in Rule 5705(b) or 
5735(b)(1), or an approval order or notice of effectiveness of a 
separate proposed rule change that differ from the requirements of this 
Rule will no longer be applicable to such Derivative Securities 
Products will streamline the listing process for such securities, 
consistent with the regulatory

[[Page 64580]]

framework adopted in Rule 6c-11 under the 1940 Act.
    The Exchange believes that proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704, as well as 
amendments to Nasdaq Rules 4120 and 5615 will facilitate the listing 
and trading of additional types of exchange-traded products that will 
enhance competition among market participants, to the benefit of 
investors and the marketplace.
    Proposed Nasdaq Rule 5704 and related amendments to other Nasdaq 
rules are also designed to protect investors and the public interest 
because Exchange Traded Fund Shares listed and traded pursuant to Rule 
5704 and that rely on the conditions and requirements of Rule 6c-11 
will continue to be subject to the full panoply of Exchange rules and 
procedures that currently govern the trading of equity securities on 
the Exchange.\21\
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    \21\ See note 4 above, Adopting Release at 57171.
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    Nasdaq believes that the proposed rule change is designed to 
prevent fraudulent and manipulative acts and practices. The Exchange 
has in place written surveillance procedures that are adequate to 
properly monitor trading in the Exchange Traded Fund Shares in all 
trading sessions and to deter and detect violations of Exchange rules 
and applicable federal securities laws. The surveillance procedures for 
monitoring compliance with Rule 6c-11 will be consistent with the 
manner in which the Exchange conducts its trading surveillance for 
ETFs. The Exchange will also require that issuers of Exchange Traded 
Fund Shares listed under the Nasdaq Rule 5704 must notify the Exchange 
regarding instances of non-compliance. Additionally, the Exchange will 
require periodic certifications from the issuer that it has maintained 
compliance with Rule 6c-11. Nasdaq will also check the ETF's website on 
a periodic basis for the inclusion of proper disclosure in compliance 
with Rule 6c-11.
    The Exchange believes that the proposed rule changes enumerated 
above that seek to incorporate Rule 6c-11 into Nasdaq's rules will 
promote just and equitable principles of trade, to remove impediments 
to, and perfect the mechanisms of, a free and open market and a 
national market system and, in general, to protect investors and the 
public interest. As the SEC noted in its Adopting Release, Rule 6c-11 
may to allow ETFs to operate are in the public interest and consistent 
with the protection of investors and the purposes fairly intended by 
the policy and provisions of the Act,\22\ as well as lead to increased 
capital formation particularly in the form of an increased demand for 
ETFs.\23\
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    \22\ Id. at 57166.
    \23\ Id. at 57220.
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    The Exchange believes that the discontinuance of quarterly reports 
currently required for Managed Fund Shares under Nasdaq Rule 5735(b) 
are no longer necessary in light of the requirements of Rule 6c-
11(d).\24\ promotes just and equitable principles of trade, removes 
impediments to, and perfects the mechanisms of, a free and open market 
and a national market system by eliminating a requirement no longer 
necessary or of benefit to the Commission
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    \24\ See note 12 supra.
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    As discussed above, Rule 6c-11(d) includes specific ongoing 
reporting requirements for exchange-traded funds, including written 
agreements between an authorized participant and a fund allowing 
purchase or redemption of creation units, information regarding the 
baskets exchanged with authorized participants, and the identity of 
authorized participants transacting with a fund. The SEC has stated 
that the information required by Rule 6c-11(d) will provide the SEC's 
examination staff with information to determine compliance with Rule 
6c-11 and applicable federal securities laws.
    As a result, Nasdaq believes it should discontinue the filing of 
quarterly reports with respect to Managed Fund Shares under Nasdaq Rule 
5735(b). This will avoid unnecessary overlap and potential 
inconsistency between the quarterly reports and the reporting 
requirements of Rule 6c-11(d). It will also avoid unnecessary, 
duplicative burdens on authorized participants and their firms in 
providing and maintaining information regarding creation and redemption 
activity.
    For the above reasons, the Exchange believes that the proposal is 
consistent with the requirements of Section 6(b)(5) of the Act.

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

    The Exchange does not believe that the proposed rule change will 
impose any burden on competition not necessary or appropriate in 
furtherance of the purposes of the Act, as amended. Rather, the 
Exchange believes that the proposed rule change would facilitate the 
listing and trading of Exchange Traded Fund Shares and result in a 
significantly more efficient process surrounding the listing and 
trading of ETFs, which will enhance competition among market 
participants, to the benefit of investors and the marketplace.
    The Exchange believes that this would reduce the time frame for 
bringing ETFs to market, thereby reducing the burdens on issuers and 
other market participants and promoting competition. In turn, the 
Exchange believes that the proposed change would make the process for 
listing Exchange Traded Fund Shares more competitive by applying 
uniform listing standards with respect to Exchange Traded Fund Shares.

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

    No written comments were either solicited or received.

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

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

IV. Solicitation of Comments

    Interested persons are invited to submit written data, views, and 
arguments concerning the foregoing, including whether the proposed rule 
change is consistent with the Act. Comments may be submitted by any of 
the following methods:

Electronic Comments

     Use the Commission's internet comment form (http://www.sec.gov/rules/sro.shtml); or
     Send an email to [email protected]. Please include 
File Number SR-NASDAQ-2019-090 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-NASDAQ-2019-090. 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

[[Page 64581]]

post all comments on the Commission's internet website (http://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-
NASDAQ-2019-090, and should be submitted on or before December 13, 
2019.
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    \25\ 17 CFR 200.30-3(a)(12).

    For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, 
pursuant to delegated authority.\25\
Jill M. Peterson,
Assistant Secretary.
[FR Doc. 2019-25316 Filed 11-21-19; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 8011-01-P