SEC Unveils Initiatives To Enhance Capital Market Efficiency

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has introduced various initiatives aimed at reducing time to market and improving efficiency in the capital market, according to Director-General Emomotimi Agama.

In an interview, Agama explained that the initiatives include streamlined registration processes, electronic filing systems, and enhanced regulatory frameworks.

“Shorter time to market can benefit capital market development in several ways, including increased liquidity, which would lead to faster listing.

This would allow companies to access capital more quickly, increase liquidity in the market, and enable firms to allocate resources more efficiently, thereby driving economic growth,” he said.

Agama highlighted the importance of efficient listing processes, noting that “shorter time to market will also improve investor confidence because when the listing processes are efficient, it can enhance investor trust and confidence in the market.”

He added that “a shorter time to market can make a jurisdiction more attractive to companies and investors, promoting competition and growth.”

The SEC has been actively digitising its operations to reduce delays caused by manual processes, Agama said.
 “The Commission has been actively digitising its operations, including the submission and processing of applications for securities registration, to reduce delays caused by manual processes.

This involved the use of electronic platforms for document submissions and approvals, which not only speeds up the process but also improves transparency.”

Agama also mentioned the commission’s efforts to undertake regulatory reforms aimed at simplifying and streamlining the approval processes.

 “We have undertaken regulatory reforms aimed at simplifying and streamlining the approval processes.

These reforms include updating rules and regulations to reflect current market realities and adopting international best practices that enhance efficiency.”

In addition, Agama discussed the framework for the banking sector recapitalisation program, which aims to ensure a smooth, transparent, and efficient process.

 “The major highlight of the framework is the requirement for an e-offering platform to be provided by a Securities Exchange for the capital raising exercise, which allows for end-to-end offering, subscription and payment process.

 This is based on our resolution to enhance time-to-market, efficiency, transparency and integrity of the recapitalisation programme.”

Agama also noted that the use of e-offering platforms eliminates multiple identities and reduces the potential for unclaimed dividends, among other benefits.

 “The use of e-offering platforms eliminates multiple identities and reduces the potential for unclaimed dividends, among other benefits.

Also, a joint team comprising the Commission, CBN and NDIC was set up to facilitate the recapitalisation programme, especially in areas of capital verification, which is a prerequisite for allotment clearance.”

Agama expressed satisfaction with the efforts so far and assured that the current management would continue to unlock the full potential of the capital market.

Boluwatife Enome

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