SEC and CFTC issue Joint Report on Regulatory Harmonization

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to summarize the Joint Report on Regulatory Harmonization issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) on October 16, 2009. Design/methodology/approach – The paper explains the background and purpose of the report and lists its recommendations concerning the regulation of markets and financial intermediaries, enforcement, and operations coordination. Findings – The paper finds that Congress is not currently considering any bills that would combine the SEC and CFTC. SEC Chairman Mary Schapiro said the agencies want to “fill regulatory gaps, eliminate inconsistent oversight, and promote greater collaboration.” Originality/value – The paper summarizes the Joint Report on Regulatory Harmonization issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission on October 16, 2009.