New listing criteria for reverse merger companies approved for US markets
Earlier this month, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission announced the approval of additional listing criteria for companies that become public through a reverse merger.
Under the new requirements, a reverse merger company will be unable to list on the NYSE, NYSE Amex or Nasdaq until the completion of a one-year "seasoning period" following the merger. During this period, the company must trade in the U.S. over-the-counter market or another regulated U.S. or foreign exchange. The company must also file with the SEC all required reports since the merger and would have to maintain a minimum share price for a sustained period immediately prior to its listing application. Exemptions to the new requirements, however, would be available in certain circumstances.
