Business Law Newsletters

Investor Suitability Requirements for Broker Dealer Recommendations

Broker dealers may make investment recommendations to investors only if the broker dealer first determines that the recommended investment would be suitable for the investor. Suitability depends upon the investor's tolerance for risk, other investments, income, net worth, financial requirements, and investment objectives.

Restrictions on Short Sales of Securities

A short sale of a security is a sale of the security by an investor before the investor actually owns the security being sold. The investor profits if the value of the security declines between the time of the sale and the time of delivery of the security. Short sales may also allow an investor to lock in changes in value shares already held or to hedge against significant changes in value in securities.

Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Employers have a general duty under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) to provide a workplace free from "recognized" hazards. A violation of this duty can lead to criminal sanctions in addition to civil penalties. An employer can also be exposed to liability under occupational safety and health regulations promulgated by the Secretary of the Department of Labor. Directors and high-level executive officers must act to reduce or eliminate workplace dangers or risk OSHA liability.

Securities Law> Additional Offerings, Disclosure & the Securities Exchange Act of 1934> Tender Offers

(Going Private Reporting Requirements for Public Companies)

Types of Mergers Analyzed Under Section 7 of the Clayton Act

Mergers which are likely to substantially lessen competition or tend to create a monopoly in any line of commerce are illegal under Section Seven of the Clayton Act, 15 U.S.C.S. § 18. The type of merger -- horizontal, vertical, or conglomerate -- will affect consideration of the potential illegality of the merger.