Saskatchewan and Alberta make cross-border financing easier
CALGARY, Dec. 12, 2017 /CNW/ - The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority of Saskatchewan (FCAA) has changed its start-up crowdfunding exemption to allow businesses in Saskatchewan and Alberta to raise funds from investors residing in those provinces.
"This change will enhance capital raising opportunities for businesses in Saskatchewan and Alberta and investment opportunities for investors in those provinces. Given the geographical proximity, and similarities in industries, it makes sense for us to coordinate our efforts to facilitate cross-border financings with our neighbouring provinces," said FCAA CEO Roger Sobotkiewicz.
To allow for the interjurisdictional raising of capital, Saskatchewan has amended General Order 45-929 Start-up Crowdfunding Registration and Prospectus Exemptions (SK GO 45-929), and Alberta has changed the Companion Policy to Alberta Securities Commission (ASC) Rule 45-517 to clarify how cross-border financings will work.
Start-ups and early stage businesses must be aware of the different requirements in each jurisdiction and comply with the requirements of both SK GO 45-929 and ASC Rule 45-517. One significant difference between the two exemptions is that to raise money through a crowdfunding portal in Alberta, businesses must use a registered dealer. In Saskatchewan businesses must use an online funding portal, which is not required to be operated by a registered dealer.
For more information about SK GO 45-929 visit http://www.fcaa.gov.sk.ca/Exemption-Order-45-929. The ASC Rule 45-517 can be found on the ASC website at albertasecurities.com.
The FCAA is a crown corporation responsible for developing and enforcing Saskatchewan securities laws, which regulate Saskatchewan capital markets and protect investors. The ASC is the regulatory authority responsible for administering Alberta's securities laws. The ASC is entrusted to foster a fair and efficient capital market in Alberta and to protect investors.
As members of the Canadian Securities Administrators, the FCAA and ASC work to improve, coordinate and harmonize the regulation of Canada's capital markets.
SOURCE Alberta Securities Commission
For further information: For Media Inquiries: Matthew Barton, Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority Saskatchewan, Communications Consultant, 306-787-6067; Hilary McMeekin, Alberta Securities Commission, Manager, Communications, 403.592.8186; For Investor Inquiries: ASC Public Inquiries, Toll Free 1.877.355.4488
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