SECP seeks public feedback on capital issue, ESOS, stock splits, intermediary registration

February 21, 2025 (MLN): The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has released four draft guidelines on capital issue, Employee Stock Option Schemes (ESOS), stock splits, and the submission of applications for registration and renewal as an intermediary.

All these guidelines have been developed to facilitate stakeholders and are based upon frequent queries and issues raised by the stakeholders over time.

Three guidelines aimed at supporting unlisted companies in three critical areas including capital issue, Employee Stock Option Schemes (ESOS), and stock splits.

These guidelines aim to promote corporate governance, enhance transparency, and provide an overview of the legal framework to assist unlisted companies thrive in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

The guidelines outline essential steps for issuing capital, offering employee stock options, and implementing stock splits, ensuring compliance with applicable regulatory frameworks.

By adopting these guidelines, unlisted companies will be better equipped to raise capital, reward and incentivize employees, and undertake capital restructuring, ultimately strengthening the corporate ecosystem.

Additionally, SECP has placed draft guidelines for the submission of applications for registration and renewal as an Intermediary on its website for public consultation.

These guidelines provide clarity and structure for intermediaries seeking registration or renewal, further supporting regulatory transparency.

The SECP emphasizes that these guidelines are intended to supplement existing regulatory frameworks and provide procedural clarity without overriding any legal obligations.

To ensure the guidelines are practical, comprehensive, and aligned with stakeholder needs, SECP has opened a public consultation process.

Stakeholders are encouraged to review the draft guidelines, available on the SECP website, and submit their feedback by March 10, 2025, at the email address provided in the draft guidelines.

Afterward, SECP will incorporate stakeholder feedback and finalize the guidelines.

SECP also plans to conduct webinars for key stakeholders in the first week of March. This session will facilitate a better understanding of the guidelines and support their effective implementation.

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