Answer: As of July 1, 2021, the OSC will have regulatory oversight over the distribution of NQSMIs to persons that are not permitted clients. Firms distributing NQSMIs to investors that are not permitted clients will need to rely on another available prospectus exemption and will need to be registered as an exempt market dealer (EMD) or engage the services of a third-party EMD (or rely on an available exemption). FSRA will retain regulatory oversight over the distribution of NQSMIs to permitted clients (although there is no prohibition on EMDs distributing NQSMIs to permitted clients under the OSC’s regime).
FSRA requires the filing of a quarterly report containing certain data about each NQSMI with permitted clients. Firms that distribute NQSMIs in reliance on the “accredited investor” prospectus exemption or the “offering memorandum” prospectus exemption will need to file a report of exempt distribution with the OSC (and any other applicable securities regulators) within 10 days of the distribution. Issuers relying on the “offering memorandum” prospectus exemption will need to comply with certain supplemental disclosure obligations and will also need to prepare audited financial statements. Although there are no prescribed disclosure requirements for issuers relying on the “accredited investor” prospectus exemption, be aware that presentations and marketing materials could fall within the broad definition of “offering memorandum” which exposes the issuer to potential liability for misrepresentation and triggers the need to include a summary of applicable damages and rescission rights and to file a copy of the materials with the OSC within 10 days of the distribution.
EMDs distributing NQSMIs must comply with know-your-client, know-your-product and suitability obligations as well as conflicts of interest and client relationship disclosure. While the OSC does not require prescribed forms, the OSC expects registrants to perform a meaningful suitability assessment and to appropriately document that assessment. If you have any questions about the changes to the treatment of NQSMIs, please contact your usual lawyer at AUM Law.
June 30, 2021