Capital Markets including all dealers and advisers declared essential services during COVID-19 pandemic

VANCOUVER, March 26, 2020 /CNW/ - The capital markets, including the British Columbia Securities Commission (BCSC),  have been declared essential services by the B.C. government during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to the BCSC, the province has specifically identified the following as part of the capital markets: 

• self-regulatory organizations
• exchanges
• clearing agencies
• investment-fund dealers, advisers and managers.

The BCSC has clarified with the Ministry of Finance that all dealers and advisers, not just those involved with investment funds, are included  as essential services.  

Although these services are allowed to remain open, they must follow the orders and guidance provided by the Provincial Health Officer to ensure safe operations and reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19.

The list was developed by Emergency Management BC in consultation with other government ministries and the provincial health officer.

Find the full list of essential services here.

More information about the BCSC's response to the COVID-19 crisis is available here.

About the British Columbia Securities Commission (www.bcsc.bc.ca)

The British Columbia Securities Commission is the independent provincial government agency responsible for regulating capital markets in British Columbia through the administration of the Securities Act. Our mission is to protect and promote the public interest by fostering:

• A securities market that is fair and warrants public confidence
• A dynamic and competitive securities industry that provides investment opportunities and access to capital

Learn how to protect yourself and become a more informed investor at www.investright.org

SOURCE British Columbia Securities Commission