SGX - SGX corrects misconceptions
25 October 2013
Singapore Exchange (SGX) would like to correct certain misconceptions which have appeared in the media recently.
Contra trading is a facility extended by brokers to customers
Contra trading is a facility that brokers offer to their customers. It is not specified by SGX.
In contra trading, brokers enter a commercial agreement allowing customers to sell shares they have bought before the purchase consideration of the shares is settled. Or, customers can buy shares on the same day they were sold, before the sale consideration is settled. In doing so, customers either collect any net gain or pay any net loss.
Regulatory tools for fair, orderly and transparent market
SGX has three key regulatory tools to bring about a fair, orderly and transparent market. They are as follows:-
i) Query to listed companies where there is unusual trading not explained by announced developments or industry trends. For investors, even if the query does not elicit new information, it serves to raise awareness that trading activity is unusual. As explained in our
Regulatory Column of 25 Feb 2013 and “Write to SGX” Column of 27 April 2013 , investors do well to take note when there are public queries of listed companies and trade with care;
ii) Designate a security where, in SGX’s judgment, there is manipulation of the security, excessive speculation, or it is otherwise in the interests of the market to do so. Designation is introduced to temper the risk of such activities.
iii) Suspend a security where, in SGX’s opinion, the market is not orderly, informed or fair.
All three tools were used in the cases of Asiasons Capital Limited, Blumont Group Ltd and LionGold Corp Ltd. SGX’s objective is to uphold fair and orderly market. Application of the regulatory tools is not intended as a comment on the fundamentals, or value, of the companies concerned.
When SGX suspended the 3 counters, it was acting to fulfil its responsibilities to preserve a fair, orderly and transparent market. This remained the sole objective when the securities were designated and when trading resumed.
Investigation is a separate matter from maintaining orderly trading
Any investigation into possible breaches of the Securities and Futures Act, including insider trading and market manipulation, is a distinct and separate action from the regulatory tools to bring about informed and orderly trading. Investigations are undertaken to review past trading conduct and detect possible transgressions. In line with global practices, they can proceed without suspension of trading in the securities.
Investigation of misconduct
SGX devotes significant resources into detecting and investigating market misconduct and work closely with statutory authorities against offenders of the law. While we appreciate the interest of the public on recent developments in the 3 securities, we are unable to comment any further to preserve the integrity of any investigation.
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info.sgx.com/webcoranncatth.nsf/VwAttach...ions.pdf?openelement
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