[withdrawn by CSA Staff Notice 11-346, September 14, 2023] CSA Staff Notice 51-353 Update on CSA Consultation Paper 51-404 Considerations for Reducing Regulatory Burden for Non-Investment Fund Reporting Issuers

2.1 Extending the application of streamlined rules to smaller reporting issuers

Adopting a size-based distinction (Consultation Questions #4 and 5)

Supportive

13 commenters supported the use of a size-based distinction instead of the current exchange-based distinction for reasons including: the current exchange-based delineation is arbitrary (a size-based metric would provide a more fair distinction), and smaller issuers typically have less complex capital structures as well as fewer resources to devote to regulatory compliance. 11 commenters indicated that market capitalization (either in isolation or in combination with other metrics) would be the best metric to use if a size-based distinction is introduced. Some commenters also provided specific suggestions to reduce potential volatility and increase transparency.

Supportive in certain circumstances

One commenter supported use of a size-based distinction dividing larger and smaller non-venture issuers in addition to the current exchange-based distinction.

Not supportive

15 commenters indicated that they do not support a change to the current delineation between venture and non-venture issuers for reasons including: the current exchange-based method works well (it is straightforward, stable, transparent, and gives the issuer the ability to choose which exchange they are listed on), and a third category would add confusion, cost of capital may increase and may result in Canadian issuers being less competitive among investors.

Extending certain less onerous venture issuer requirements to non-venture issuers (Consultation Question #6)

Supportive

Four commenters supported extending certain venture issuer requirements to non-venture issuers. Some commenters specifically cited the pro forma financial statement requirements and the BAR significance test thresholds as areas where the venture issuer requirements could be extended to non-venture issuers.

Supportive in certain circumstances

Two commenters expressed support for the extension of certain (but not all) venture issuer requirements to non-venture issuers.

Not supportive

Four commenters indicated that the current venture issuer regulatory requirements should not be extended to non-venture issuers for reasons including: it would add confusion to the capital markets, and it may increase the cost of capital for issuers as less disclosure provides less comfort for investors.

2.2 Reducing the regulatory burdens associated with the prospectus rules and offering process

(a) Reducing the audited financial statement requirements in an IPO prospectus (Consultation Questions #7 and 8)

Supportive

Seven commenters supported extending the eligibility criteria for the provision of two years of financial statements in an IPO prospectus to all issuers that intend to become non-venture issuers. Reasons cited by commenters include: the third year of information may not be overly useful or relevant to investors, it would assist in alleviating the burden for issuers which have multiple entities considered the "primary business" of the issuer under Item 32 of Form 41-101F1, and it would more closely align the CSA's rules with the U.S. requirements for emerging growth companies.

Supportive in certain circumstances

Nine commenters expressed support for this option in certain circumstances, such as where issuers had pre-IPO revenues under certain thresholds, or if the delineation between venture and non-venture issuers is modified to be based on size rather than exchange listing.

Not supportive

Eight commenters indicated that they did not support reducing the audited financial statement requirement in an IPO prospectus from three to two years for reasons including that three years of historical data is necessary for investors.

(b) Streamlining other prospectus requirements: (i) auditor review of interim financial statements included in a prospectus (Consultation Question #9)

Supportive

Four commenters supported removing the requirement for auditor review of interim financial statements included in a prospectus. Some commenters noted that the value of an auditor review does not outweigh the increased time and cost.

Supportive in certain circumstances

Four commenters expressed support for this option in certain circumstances only, including for: non-venture issuers, interim financial statements included in a BAR that is incorporated by reference in a short form prospectus, non-IPO prospectus filings, and entities that are already reporting issuers.

Not supportive

14 commenters did not support this option. Many of these commenters indicated that auditor review of the interim financial statements included in a prospectus provides an additional layer of comfort (for investors, as well as for underwriters, agents, and the issuer's directors) on the most current financial information in a prospectus. Some commenters also noted that under Canadian auditing standards, auditors must perform review procedures on unaudited financial statements included in an offering document in accordance with Section 7150 Auditor's Consent to the Use of a Report of the Auditor Included in an Offering Document.

(b) Streamlining other prospectus requirements: (ii) pro forma financial statements for a significant acquisition (Consultation Question #10) [rarr] See section 2.3(a) for comments related to pro forma financial statements

(b) Streamlining other prospectus requirements: (iii) tailoring disclosure requirements for non-IPO prospectuses (Consultation Question #10)

General support

Supportive

17 commenters indicated support for the CSA examining whether prospectus requirements can be removed or modified to reduce issuers' preparation costs, particularly where information is not helpful from an investor protection point of view or is disclosed elsewhere and can be cross-referenced.

The most commonly cited short form prospectus disclosure requirements that commenters recommended the CSA examine were: description of business, description of authorized share capital, prior sales, risk factors, and trading data.

BAR disclosure required to be included in a short form prospectus

Four commenters indicated support for revisiting the requirements for BAR disclosure in a short form prospectus.

One commenter recommended that the CSA consider separately the two significant acquisition disclosure requirements (i.e. BAR filing requirements on a continuous disclosure basis and information about significant (probable) acquisitions in a prospectus).

Use of proceeds

One commenter suggested that more focus and discussion should be given to use of proceeds and future projections/plans.

Listing representations

One commenter recommended that prohibitions on listing representations be modified to allow issuers to state that application will be made to list the offered securities, without having previously made such application or obtaining a prior consent, if the issuer already has a listed class of securities on the relevant exchange.

Supportive in certain circumstances

Not supportive

One commenter noted that fulsome and current disclosure is preferable; it would be worthwhile to explore opportunities to make offerings easier for issuers such as exploring new prospectus exemptions tailored at issuers of a specific ongoing disclosure profile instead of eliminating disclosure requirements that provide pertinent information to investors.

(c) Streamlining public offerings for reporting issuers: (i) short form prospectus offering system and eligibility (Consultation Questions #11 and 12)

Eligibility

Supportive

Four commenters indicated support for extending short form prospectus eligibility to all reporting issuers. Some commenters specified that use of the short form prospectus system should be conditional on an issuer's continuous disclosure record being complete and up-to-date.

One commenter supported making use of a short form prospectus the general rule with long form information required only in specific cases.

Notice of intention to qualify

Two commenters questioned whether filing a notice of intention to be qualified to file a short form prospectus serves a useful purpose, noting that it can represent a 10 business day delay in accessing capital markets. These commenters suggested that, provided that a reporting issuer has a current AIF and is in compliance with its continuous disclosure obligations, it should be permitted to file a short form prospectus.

Personal Information Forms (PIFs)

Three commenters noted that PIFs consist of a lengthy questionnaire that can be difficult to complete, particularly on a bought deal timeline. These commenters recommended changes including: exploring alternative ways to obtain PIF information (e.g. requiring all new directors and officers to file a PIF with the securities regulator at the time of joining the board/management team of the issuer), condensing the required information in a PIF, and extending the number of years for which a PIF remains valid.

Prospectus receipting process

Three commenters suggested considering the prospectus receipting process and whether it can be streamlined or automated.

Right of withdrawal

Two commenters indicated the current two business day right of withdrawal provided to investors under a prospectus offering should be revisited.

Non-issuer submission to jurisdiction

One commenter suggested requiring non-resident directors/signing officers to file one non-issuer submission to jurisdiction and appointment of agent for service at the time such director/officer is appointed to the board or becomes an officer that will apply to all security issuances under prospectus financings in the future, subject to a requirement to update information for changes.

Translation

One commenter noted that the requirement for French translation is a significant burden that does not enhance investor protection.

Consents of Qualified Persons (QPs)

One commenter questioned the value of obtaining QP consents for experts included in an AIF that is incorporated by reference in a prospectus where the related prospectus disclosure is not material or where the prospectus does not include an extract from the technical report.

Well-Known Seasoned Issuers (WKSI) program

Two commenters recommended introducing a program similar to the U.S. WKSI program, noting that this system permits issuers of a certain size and who meet specific criteria to file an automatic shelf registration statement that is not subject to Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) review.

Supportive in certain circumstances

General changes to the short form prospectus system

Not supportive

Six commenters indicated general support for the current short form prospectus system, noting that significant changes are not necessary.

Eligibility

Four commenters indicated that the current qualification criteria work well.

(c) Streamlining public offerings for reporting issuers: (ii) potential alternative prospectus model (Consultation Question #13)

Supportive

12 commenters indicated support for exploring a prospectus offering model for reporting issuers that is more closely linked to continuous disclosure.

Three commenters specifically indicated support for a prospectus model similar to the previously considered Continuous Market Access system.

One commenter specifically indicated support for a prospectus model similar to the previously considered Integrated Disclosure System.

Supportive in certain circumstances

One commenter noted that small public companies should be allowed to buy and sell up to 10% of the public float on a continuous basis based on a targeted price range determined by the issuer.

Not supportive

Three commenters did not support a move to an alternative prospectus model for reasons including: the current model works well, concerns regarding the implications on liability, and concerns that the costs associated with any additional burdens placed on the issuer's continuous disclosure record may offset any benefit.

(c) Streamlining public offerings for reporting issuers: (iii) facilitating at-the-market (ATM) offerings (Consultation Questions #14 and 15)

Supportive

10 commenters supported the adoption of the facilitative aspects of the exemptive relief that has historically been granted by the CSA in respect of ATM offering. Some commenters noted that Canadian reporting issuers are at a competitive disadvantage to their counterparts in the U.S. and more issuers, particularly those that are dual-listed, will pursue financing by way of a U.S.-only ATM offering.

Some commenters indicated that certain requirements of prior exemptive relief decisions should not be adopted, including: the 25% limitation on the number of common shares that may be sold on any trading day, the monthly reporting requirement, and the 10% of market capitalization limit on the size restriction.

Cross-border ATM offerings

Two commenters recommended providing additional relief for ATM offerings in order to better align with the requirements and conditions applicable to a concurrent U.S. ATM offering.

Supportive in certain circumstances

One commenter suggested that ATM offerings should only be available to small issuers that have disclosed higher risks and where it is a more important financing strategy.

Not supportive

One commenter indicated that fulsome and current disclosure is preferable, including in the context of ATM offerings.

(d) Other potential areas: (i) facilitating cross-border offerings (Consultation Question #16)

Multijurisdictional Disclosure System (MJDS)

Supportive

Two commenters highlighted the importance of the MJDS and noted it is critical that any changes made by the CSA do not jeopardize the continuation of the MJDS system.

One commenter noted that in the context of a bought deal offering the Canadian rules allow an issuer to commence soliciting expressions of interest prior to filing the short form prospectus subject to complying with Part 7 of National Instrument 44-101 Short Form Prospectus Distributions, however, to the extent that the offering is an MJDS offering an issuer cannot avail themselves of the ability to solicit expressions of interest prior to filing the short form prospectus as the issuer is required to file the prospectus in the U.S. prior to soliciting expressions of interest. The commenter indicated that although this is beyond the jurisdiction of the CSA, it would be beneficial to Canadian issuers to the extent that the CSA could work with the SEC to further streamline the MJDS rules so that a Canadian issuer could utilize the Canadian rules for soliciting expressions of interest when pursuing an offering under the MJDS rules.

One commenter indicated that MJDS generally works well, except in circumstances where issuers have not filed a shelf prospectus, noting that in the U.S., an issuer can use a shelf prospectus immediately without signalling to the market.

Foreign issuer definition

One commenter noted that the definition of "foreign issuer" and "foreign reporting issuer" under National Instrument 71-101 The Multijurisdictional Disclosure System and National Instrument 71-102 Continuous Disclosure and Other Exemptions Relating to Foreign Issuers (NI 71-102) are too restrictive and should be revised to permit issuers to access the Canadian system (as foreign issuers or foreign reporting issuers) even if they are incorporated federally or under a provincial or territorial statue so long as the connection to the Canadian market is minimal.

Regulatory passport reciprocity

One commenter recommended advocating regulatory passport reciprocity for disclosure and financing requirements with other jurisdictions that have similar financial systems.

Other areas

One commenter provided recommendations in the following areas: distributions outside of Canada, the exceptions for U.S. cross-border offerings, offshore marketing, form 10-K exhibits for SEC issuers, and shelf prospectus supplements.

Supportive in certain circumstances

Not supportive

(d) Other potential areas: (ii) further liberalizing the pre-marketing and marketing regime (Consultation Question #17)

Supportive

Eight commenters noted that the rules surrounding the pre-marketing and marketing regime are overly strict. Recommendations by commenters included: revisiting the rules on standard term sheets, permitting issuers to confidentially solicit interest before a deal is certain in the case of a shelf offering, and revisiting some of the mechanics of the regime to prevent such outcomes as the filing of many similar sets of marketing materials, or the filing of a prospectus amendment only to support changed marketing materials.

Supportive in certain circumstances

Not supportive

2.3 Reducing ongoing disclosure requirements

(a) Removing or modifying the criteria to file a BAR (Consultation Questions #18, 19, and 20)

Removing the BAR requirements entirely

Supportive

Four commenters recommended removal of the BAR requirements entirely.

Two commenters recommended the CSA conduct a broader review of the BAR requirements, particularly whether the current significance tests are appropriate and whether BAR disclosure (including pro forma disclosure) is considered necessary by investors.

Increasing the significance test thresholds for non-venture issuers

14 commenters supported increasing the significance test thresholds for non-venture issuers for reasons including: BAR disclosure is of little value to investors particularly given its lack of timeliness, and it is costly to prepare and can impede the completion of a transaction. The most commonly recommended threshold was 50%.

Profit or loss test

10 commenters supported removal of the profit or loss significance test (with and without a replacement) for reasons including: anomalous results are often produced, the use of absolute values can distort the results, and there can be a disproportionate impact on smaller issuers.

Three commenters who supported the removal of this test specifically recommended that it should not be replaced. Some commenters suggested that, if the CSA believes that measuring significance based on income is important, financial indicators appropriate for the applicable industry should be utilized (such as net operating income for real estate issuers).

Three commenters suggested introducing an optional significance test based on revenue that could be applied in situations where only the profit or loss test has indicated that the acquisition is significant.

Three commenters recommended replacing the profit or loss test with a test based on revenue.

One commenter recommended eliminating the profit or loss test for smaller reporting issuers, particularly those that are pre-revenue.

Asset test

Two commenters supported removal of the asset significance test.

Investment test

Two commenters supported replacing the current investment test with a test that compares the purchase price against the issuer's market capitalization if readily available (or the carrying value of total assets, if not).

One commenter recommended the investment test be based on proceeds agreed to by both parties at a certain point in time, preferably the date of announcement.

Audit requirement

One commenter suggested reducing or eliminating auditor involvement in BAR financial statements.

Pro forma financial statements

Six commenters questioned the relevancy of including pro forma financial statements in BAR disclosure (and in some cases, in prospectuses as well) given significant assumptions and estimates are required in the preparation of such statements and they are retrospective to a historical point in time.

Alignment of Item 14.2 of Form 51-102F5 Information Circular requirements

Four commenters supported alignment of these rules with the BAR requirements rather than the current requirement to provide prospectus level disclosure as the relevant information for shareholders would be included in BAR-level disclosure.

One commenter supported this option for pre-revenue issuers and for transactions where only some of the assets of the vendor are acquired.

Carve-out financial statements

Three commenters noted that it can be very difficult for a company to prepare full carve-out financial statements, due to the significant co-mingling of costs and other activities.

One commenter suggested that for acquisitions of non-revenue generating assets, a pro forma balance sheet showing the effect of the transaction would be sufficient.

Other comments

Two commenters suggested that the CSA should provide additional clarity as to what is considered to be a "business" for the purpose of the significant acquisition tests.

One commenter suggested that the CSA codify some of the case-by-case BAR relief granted to issuers.

One commenter recommended the CSA provide an exemption from BAR level financial statement disclosure where historical financial statements for the acquired business or portion thereof are not reasonably available.

One commenter noted that in some instances, the CSA has imposed a "super significance test" on issuers which has resulted in additional financial statement requirements. The commenter noted that this test is not found in NI 51-102 and its use results in uncertainty for issuers. The commenter suggested that to the extent that members of the CSA have unwritten significance tests such tests should either be formalized or abandoned.

One commenter suggested that BAR disclosure must be made in clear language; the BAR should explain the cost of the acquisition, how it fits with the current business, why the acquisition was made and what value-added it will bring, and the potential effect on current share value.

One commenter indicated that the CSA should revisit the rationale of all materiality tests in securities legislation (i.e. BAR significance tests, material subsidiary for insider reporting purposes, AIF disclosure of intercorporate relationships, material changes, and shareholder approval of an acquisition under Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) rules), and ensure each test is appropriate for its intended purpose.

Supportive in certain circumstances

Four commenters expressed support for various changes to the BAR requirements in certain circumstances only, such as elimination of the BAR requirements for smaller reporting issuers below a certain size threshold.

Not supportive

Five commenters did not support any changes to the existing BAR regime. These commenters noted that BARs provide relevant information for making investment decisions and that in the absence of a BAR, an issuer's analysis of the impact of an acquisition is not disclosed to the public.

Pro forma financial statements

Five commenters did not support the removal of pro forma financial statements from the BAR disclosure requirements, noting that they provide an understanding of complex financings and implications for capital structure going forward, particularly when the transaction is combined with other capital transactions such as a share issuance or debt refinancing.

One commenter recommended that the CSA provide more robust guidance regarding how pro forma financial statements should be prepared, noting that currently guidance is limited and this may be contributing to inconsistencies in their preparation on common issues.

Alternative tests for specific industries

One commenter noted that it would be difficult to adopt alternative tests for all various industries, however if alternative tests were adopted, the significance tests for oil and gas issuers should address the impact of the acquisition on the reserves and/or production of the issuer as opposed to tests which are seemingly based on book value only.

(b) Reducing disclosure requirements in annual and interim filings (Consultation Questions #21 and 22)

Supportive

19 commenters indicated that it is important to examine whether the volume of information in annual and interim filings can be reduced, as excessive information can obscure the focus on key information.

Support was also expressed for the CSA to provide additional guidance and educational materials to give issuers further clarity on disclosure expectations. Some commenters recommended additional guidance with respect to the application of materiality to disclosures.

MD&A

Nine commenters supported removal of either or both the prior period results discussion and eight quarter summary of results in the MD&A.

Three commenters suggested a significant streamlining of the quarterly MD&A requirements with more emphasis on key information and referencing to the annual disclosures.

Question and answer regime

One commenter recommended a question and answer continuous disclosure regime, akin to that used in Form 45-106F14 Rights Offering Notice for Reporting Issuers for rights offerings.

Supportive in certain circumstances

Not supportive

Four commenters did not support the removal of disclosure from annual and interim filings for reasons including: information available to investors should be reduced only when it can be clearly shown that it is undue and that no harm is likely to result to investors, disclosure is an essential mechanism to ensure issuers are held responsible and prevents inaccurate financial reporting through transparency requirements, and concerns that modifying or reducing regulatory requirements may not be an effective way to address the deficiencies in the quality and accessibility of disclosure.

(c) Permitting semi-annual reporting (Consultation Questions #23, 24, and 25)

Supportive

Nine commenters supported permitting semi-annual reporting for all reporting issuers for reasons including: addressing short-termism, the continued requirement for issuers to disclose material changes and material information in a timely manner, and time and cost savings would allow issuers to better allocate limited resources. Some commenters also raised the experience in other jurisdictions such as the U.K., certain European countries and Australia as having positive experiences with respect to permitting semi-annual reporting.

Supportive in certain circumstances

17 commenters expressed support for this option in certain circumstances only, such as for issuers with no revenues or operations, or as the option pertains to the MD&A but not the financial statements.

Not supportive

16 commenters indicated that they were not supportive of permitting semi-annual reporting for reasons including: quarterly reporting provides investors with timely, consistent disclosure, and it instills discipline and accountability in reporting practices. Some commenters also noted that extending the period between reports may increase the risk of selective disclosure.

Some commenters noted that issuers listed in the U.S. would not benefit from a semi-annual reporting requirement, and that a move to semi-annual reporting could have an impact on the market value of Canadian issuers in comparison to U.S. counterparts.

Some commenters questioned the impact permitting semi-annual reporting would have on short-termism. Certain commenters cited a March 2017 study by the CFA Institute Research Foundation which looked at the U.K. experience where mandatory quarterly reporting was initiated in 2007 and discontinued in 2014 and found no reason to believe that removing quarterly reporting requirements would stop companies from engaging in short-termism.

Disclosure of long-term goals

Two commenters suggested the CSA require or encourage issuers to do a better job of identifying long-term goals and measures and report their progress towards these goals to relieve some of the focus from the issuer's short-term quarterly performance.

Use of quarterly highlights by non-venture issuers (Consultation Question #26)

Supportive

11 commenters supported this option, noting that quarterly highlights can focus investors on key information in the quarter and reduce the duplication of information.

Supportive in certain circumstances

Four commenters expressed support for this option in certain circumstances only, such as for non-venture issuers with no revenue.

Four commenters indicated they are open to further exploration of this option but would require additional guidance, particularly regarding the eligibility and information that would need to be included in a quarterly highlights document.

Not supportive

One commenter noted that a quarterly highlights document, rather than a full MD&A, would allow too much discretion for the issuer to highlight information they want investors to know, rather than the information that the investor wants to know.

2.4 Eliminating overlap in regulatory requirements

Eliminating overlap between the financial statements and MD&A, and within NI 51-102 forms (Consultation Questions #27, 28 and 30)

Supportive

36 commenters supported eliminating duplicative disclosure for reasons including: it would improve the quality of disclosure by providing users with more relevant, concise and clear information, and the time and cost savings for issuers.

The areas of overlap in International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and MD&A disclosure requirements most frequently cited by commenters were: accounting policies and future accounting changes, contractual obligations, financial instruments, off-balance sheet arrangements, related party transactions, and significant accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions.

Some commenters also noted that while there are many subtle differences between IFRS and MD&A requirements, these differences do not provide additional useful information; the existing disclosure requirements under IFRS adequately cover these areas.

The areas of overlap in the disclosure requirements of the NI 51-102 forms most frequently cited by commenters were director information and risk disclosures.

AIF

Five commenters suggested reviewing the value of some of the information currently required to be included in the AIF.

Cross-referencing

Four commenters recommended encouraging preparers to cross-reference to other documents when information is duplicative.

Critical accounting estimates and changes in accounting policies

Supportive in certain circumstances

Two commenters noted that the MD&A requirements regarding critical accounting estimates can be helpful to a user in understanding how events and the passage of time will impact the financial statements in the future. One commenter indicated that the CSA should consider a principles-based requirement that is focused on providing investors with an understanding of the estimation process and areas in which changes in the assumptions would have a material impact on the financial statements.

One commenter noted that the MD&A requirements regarding changes in accounting policies can also be helpful to a user in understanding the impact of such changes on the financial statements. The commenter indicated that the CSA should also consider a principles-based requirement in this area.

Related-party disclosures

One commenter supported limiting the MD&A requirements in this area to only the disclosures that are incremental beyond the financial statement disclosure, such as the identification of the related person or entity.

Not supportive

One commenter noted that, while overlap may exist, the purpose of the financial statements and the MD&A are different and are used by investors in different ways; as a result, overlap is necessary.

One commenter expressed concerns about the CSA abdicating responsibility for the overlapping financial statement and MD&A disclosures to the accounting standard setters and the preparers of financial statements.

Consolidating the financial statements, MD&A and AIF into one annual reporting document (Consultation Question #29)

Supportive

20 commenters supported the consolidation of the financial statements, MD&A and AIF into one annual reporting document for reasons including: facilitation of the elimination of duplication, presentation of information to investors in a more cohesive manner, and streamlining of the preparation and review process for issuers.

Three commenters recommended including the annual National Instrument 52-109 Certification of Disclosure in Issuers' Annual and Interim Filings (NI 52-109) certifications in the consolidated annual reporting document.

Two commenters recommended including annual meeting proxy circulars in the consolidated annual reporting document.

Two commenters suggested making the use of a consolidated document optional to accommodate issuers that may have resourcing constraints.

Supportive in certain circumstances

13 commenters expressed support for this option in certain circumstances, such as integrating the annual MD&A and AIF only, integrating the financial statements and MD&A only, or if the use of a consolidated document was voluntary and not mandatory.

Not supportive

Four commenters did not support this option for reasons including: consolidation would raise questions about the extent of information covered by an audit opinion that could result in additional audit costs and might have an impact on an issuer's legal liability, and it would apply additional time pressure on preparers due to the simultaneous preparation of the AIF. These concerns were also raised by many supporters of this option as well.

2.5 Enhancing electronic delivery of documents (Consultation Questions #31, 32 and 33)

General support

Supportive

28 commenters expressed support for developments which would further facilitate the electronic delivery of documents for reasons including: investor preference has changed (requests for printed materials are now very rare), the significant costs and timing delays associated with the printing and delivery of various documents, and the environmental benefit of reduced printing.

Electronic delivery without consent

20 commenters indicated that electronic delivery of financial statements and MD&A should not require consent from the securityholder. 19 commenters extended this support to proxy materials. 16 commenters indicated broader support for electronic delivery of all documents without consent. Some commenters recommended that some form of notice be provided to investors to indicate that the documents are available electronically. Some commenters also indicated that paper documents should be provided if an investor specifically requests them.

Other comments regarding notice-and-access

Three commenters encouraged providing all issuers the ability to utilize notice-and-access to ensure consistency across all jurisdictions.

Three commenters recommended that the CSA consider the timelines for use of notice-and-access.

One commenter recommended expanding the notice-and-access model to include beneficial shareholders.

One commenter recommended the creation of a new notice-and-access process for financing documents (prospectuses, offering memoranda, and private placement subscription documents).

One commenter noted that currently, issuers using the same transfer agent are not permitted to make use of security holder consents previously obtained by other issuers, including in situations where a new company is created through a spin-off mechanism, which results in an initial share register for the spin-off company that is an exact duplicate.

One commenter noted that there is a disconnect in the process used by issuers when they choose to mail meeting material directly to their Non-Objecting Beneficial Owners.

One commenter noted that the requirement to include a toll-free number in the notice-- and-access is expensive for issuers and not helpful to investors.

Access equals delivery

Four commenters indicated support for an "access equals delivery" model. Some commenters referred specifically to prospectus offerings, whereas others recommended a broader application to all documents required to be sent to investors. Some commenters noted that in the U.S., the SEC implemented such a policy in 2005 for prospectus offerings and current rules suggest the CSA is comfortable that investors participating in short form prospectus offerings have the ability to access any prospectus-incorporated documents filed on SEDAR. One commenter noted that the CSA has further demonstrated its comfort with a deemed prospectus delivery concept through the relief routinely accorded to reporting issuers with ATM programs.

One commenter recommended with respect to preliminary prospectuses that any delivery obligation should be satisfied by access to the preliminary prospectus on SEDAR alone without regard to whether the investor has opted for physical delivery of the final prospectus.

Use of technology

Four commenters recommended the CSA consider how new technologies can used for electronic delivery as they emerge (e.g. cloud communication, blockchain).

Two commenters recommended encouraging or requiring issuers to utilize hyperlinks.

One commenter indicated that a centralized website where investors could get information to vote proxies would facilitate voting at shareholders' meetings.

One commenter suggested that the CSA may want to consider a similar scheme to that of the Enhanced Broker Internet Platforms, a concept introduced by the SEC and the New York Stock Exchange in 2010 to increase electronic delivery adoption.

Ease of use

One commenter noted that issuers should always communicate with investors using plain language and a readable, clear font. All communication should be meaningful and have sufficient context and clarity to make it useful for investors. The commenter indicated that communications should also be easily accessible to investors.

Proxy process

One commenter expressed concerns with the role of a service provider in the proxy communication process. The commenter indicated that the service provider currently enjoys a monopolistic position with respect to beneficial shareholders and operates within a framework in which accountability for its services is divorced from responsibility for payment for such services.

Certificates

One commenter recommended eliminating all paper certificates and for CDS shares, eliminating the Objecting Beneficial Owner Shareholder category. The commenter indicated that there should be one class of digital shareholder (Non-Objecting Beneficial Owner) which will ensure direct, efficient, fair and timely distribution of all material information to all shareholders.

Supportive in certain circumstances

General

Not supportive

Two commenters indicated that no changes are required to the guidance provided in National Policy 11-201 Electronic Delivery of Documents as a change in the process would result in a significant and irreversible decline in investors' engagement with disclosure materials, and behavioural economics have shown that fewer investors will review a document if it is not delivered to them.

Notice-and-access

One commenter expressed dissatisfaction with the existing notice-and-access model as it is time-consuming and cumbersome to get the desired paper documents. The commenter suggested asking investors whether they want to receive proxy materials at the same time as asking whether they want to receive hard copies of annual and interim financial statements.

Electronic delivery of proxy materials

One commenter indicated that for meeting materials, it is necessary to provide securityholders with a paper proxy containing the control number or other means to allow securityholders to vote. The commenter noted that requiring a securityholder to access information such as their proxy control number themselves would be expected to lead to decreased voter participation.

One commenter expressed concerns with the impact allowing issuers to make documents publically available electronically without prior notice or consent would have on operational processes surrounding security holder validation and voting.

Other recommendations (options that were not identified in the Consultation Paper)

Revisit the "primary business" requirements

Six commenters suggested that the requirements under Item 32 of Form 41-101F1 for an issuer to include three years of historic financial statements for each entity considered the "primary business" of the issuer should be revisited. Commenters noted that considerable time and resources can be required to create these statements if none have been prepared, and this may delay or prevent the issuer from completing an IPO.

Revisit National Policy 51-201 Disclosure Standards (NP 51-201)

Five commenters provided recommendations regarding NP 51-201, including eliminating duplicative dissemination of information, and reconsidering what constitutes "generally disclosed".

Shelf offerings

Four commenters provided recommendations regarding the base shelf prospectus regime, including: remove the requirement to file an amendment to a final prospectus after closing of a base offering but prior to the exercise of the over-allotment option, extend the life of a shelf beyond the current 25 months, and permit an unspecified amount of securities to be qualified by the shelf.

Executive compensation

Four commenters recommended revisiting the executive compensation disclosure requirements as the required information is complex and not understood by investors.

Confidential filings

Three commenters recommended the CSA consider adopting a process for confidential filings of prospectuses. These commenters indicated that this would be consistent with policy changes adopted by the SEC in June 2017 which permit all issuers to confidentially submit draft registration statements for review by SEC staff in certain circumstances.

One commenter expressed concern that this development could mean less transparency in the U.S. market and, while acknowledging that Canada must remain competitive, indicated that the CSA should be cautious of reducing regulation in our unique market in an effort to keep up with others at any given moment in time.

Fund Facts-like document

Two commenters supported the introduction of a new Fund Facts-like document for corporate reporting issuers which would provide investors with key information about the issuer, in language they can easily understand, at a time that is relevant to their decision making.

Earnings guidance

Two commenters suggested prohibiting issuers from providing earnings guidance entirely, or limiting issuers to providing such guidance annually. These commenters indicated that this may be a more direct driver of short-termism than quarterly reporting as it risks incentivizing management and boards to make decisions that focus on meeting guidance rather than focusing on long-term strategy.

Designated foreign jurisdictions

Two commenters suggested expanding the list of "designated foreign jurisdictions" included in NI 71-102, indicating that the limited number of jurisdictions named therein risks excluding countries that have the same or substantially similar requirements for prospectuses or similar offering or disclosure documents as those countries that are listed.

Forward-looking information

One commenter noted that forward-looking information is important to investors, however companies are sometimes reluctant to communicate their expectations for the future because of legal liability concerns. The commenter suggested that the CSA reconsider its forward-looking information requirements to facilitate more meaningful disclosure, and clarify when forward-looking disclosure is required versus voluntary.

Proxy advisory groups

One commenter noted that proxy advisory groups add to the expense and frustration for reporting issuers. The commenter noted that trying to comply with the ever changing set of voting and corporate governance guidelines issued by these groups is difficult, time consuming, and expensive. The commenter indicated that these guidelines amount to pseudo regulatory requirements due to the impact such groups can have on voting at shareholder meetings.

Use of U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (U.S. GAAP)

One commenter noted that restricting the application of U.S. GAAP to SEC issuers is not in the interest of Canadian investors. The commenter indicated that Canadian issuers are electing to register with the SEC (the incremental cost of which is significant) primarily to qualify as an SEC issuer to facilitate their use of U.S. GAAP.

One commenter recommended that the CSA permit the historical financial statements included in an IPO prospectus to be prepared using U.S. GAAP.

Promoter

One commenter noted that CSA staff's interpretation of the definition of "promoter" is broader than what is provided for in the legislation.

Share ownership disclosure

One commenter recommended requiring greater transparency of share ownership information so that issuers can proactively identify and engage with investors.

NI 52-109 Certifications

One commenter recommend modifying the NI 52-109 certification requirements to allow newly public entities, especially those listing on the TSX, additional time to comply with the full NI 52-109 certification requirements.

One commenter recommended requiring annual certifications only.

Changes to National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101)

One commenter noted that in NI 43-101, the requirement to file a current technical report in support of a preliminary long form prospectus, an AIF and other base disclosure documents specified in subsection 4.2(1), should be modified to align with the requirement for a preliminary short form prospectus.

Contingent resources

One commenter noted that the requirement to have any and all contingent resources volumes which are disclosed in an issuer's AIF to be either evaluated or audited by an Independent Qualified Reserves Evaluator/Auditor (IQRE) is more stringent than the requirement for reserves disclosure (in which case the IQRE must evaluate or audit at least 75% of the future net revenue, and review the balance).

Capital Pool Company (CPC) qualifying transactions

One commenter suggested that CPCs that are reporting issuers in Ontario should not be required to file a non-offering prospectus in connection with a qualifying transaction involving non-mining and non-oil and gas assets outside Canada and the U.S.