Exchange-Traded Funds

The Securities and Exchange Commission ("Commission' or "SEC') is proposing a new rule under the Investment Company Act of 1940 that would exempt exchange-traded funds ("ETFs') from certain provisions of that Act and our rules. The rule would permit certain ETFs to begin operating without the expense and delay of obtaining an exemptive order from the Commission. The rule is designed to eliminate unnecessary regulatory burdens, and to facilitate greater competition and innovation among ETFs. The Commission also is proposing amendments to our disclosure form for open-end investment companies, Form N-1A, to provide more useful information to investors who purchase and sell ETF shares on national securities exchanges. In addition, the Commission is proposing a new rule to allow mutual funds (and other types of investment companies) to invest in ETFs to a greater extent than currently permitted under the Investment Company Act.