Subject: File No. S7-08-09
From: Steve Pratt
Affiliation: Economist

February 21, 2010

Re problems with large hedge funds/others artificially revamping stock valuations by short selling.

Pass a rule that says a company can purchase its own stock on the open market without disclosure until the following quarter whenever more than 5% of the float is shorted.

This would keep shorts honest and assist fair value for company owners.

thank you.