March 13, 2020
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am a retail investor in ETFs (leveraged and un-leveraged) and have been for a few years. I recently read thru the proposed changes and requirements for ETF guidelines.
My concerns here lie with the requirement that for leveraged ETFs (upto 300%) and related approvals
1) Why limit the leverage up to 300%? Why not allow ETFs to offer 400% or 800%? Yes - we know it adds more risk - but investing in this ETF is a choice that a investor has to make. No one is "forcing" them to do this - it's a "choice".
2) A broker/dealer would have to approve my account to trade these leveraged ETFs.
Why? Why this change now after leveraged ETFs have been on the market for 10 years.
Why do I - as an adult American - who makes my own money - have to be "approved" on where and how to invest it - especially for something as simple as a leveraged ETF?
This appears to be yet more "regulations" and "babying" of the American public. If a retail investor decides to invest any money in the market - whether on options or futures or ETFs (leveraged or otherwise) or equity, then that investor has chosen to risk those funds vs. a savings account at their bank.
If you (SEC) are concerned about liability, blowback or "Covering Your Ass" - then instead of going thru an approval process from our brokers, perhaps a simple "1-2 page disclaimer" is all that the investor needs to sign - and we're off to invest.
Don't put more roadblocks between me and how to invest my money. I earned it - and I can spend it however I please. If I choose to be risky, foolish and uninformed with it - then so be it - it's on me.
I appreciate your attention to this email and hope you will give it some consideration.
Thank you
Rege