BROKER-DEALER -

SEC Releases Statement on Expiration of Tick Size Pilot -

On September 10, the Securities and Exchange Commission announced the early expiration of its Tick Size Pilot Program. Under the program, the minimum quoting and trading increments (tick sizes) for stocks of certain smaller companies was widened. The program was intended to expire on October 2. However, due to concerns relating to a mid-week shifting in quoting and trading requirements and in response to several requests, the SEC issued exemptions to exchanges and to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority to allow for the end of such requirements on September 28. Data collection and reporting requirements will continue for six months after the end of the program.