LOS GATOS, Calif. — October 2, 2026 — The recent U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) proposals concerning private-market access and potential new pathways for individuals to qualify as accredited investors are drawing renewed attention to the evolving securities-law landscape.

On September 30, 2026, the SEC announced proposed amendments intended to facilitate greater access to private-market investments and separately requested public comment on potential additional ways individuals could qualify as accredited investors. The proposals include consideration of certain professional credentials and a potential accredited-investor examination.

For businesses involved in private capital raising, securities offerings, and corporate transactions, these developments highlight the importance of understanding the legal framework surrounding securities transactions.

Understanding the Impact on Private Capital Transactions

Private-market transactions can involve complex legal and regulatory considerations. Companies raising capital may need to evaluate the structure of an offering, applicable securities exemptions, investor eligibility, disclosure obligations, and related documentation.

The SEC's latest proposals do not automatically change the existing requirements for private offerings. They remain subject to the applicable regulatory process, including public comment.

Companies should therefore distinguish between proposed regulatory changes and requirements currently in effect.

Accredited Investor Rules Remain an Important Consideration

The SEC is considering whether certain professional certifications, designations, and licenses could provide additional pathways for individuals to qualify as accredited investors.

Among the credentials identified by the SEC are U.S. CPA licenses, CFA designations, CFP certifications, FINRA Series 79 licenses, and FINRA Series 86 and Series 87 licenses. The SEC is also considering whether passage of a FINRA-developed examination could provide another qualification pathway.

The public comment periods for these notices are scheduled to remain open for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register.

Why Companies Should Monitor Securities Developments

For companies considering a private placement or other securities transaction, regulatory developments can affect how businesses evaluate potential investors and structure transactions.

Companies may need to consider:

The type of security being offered
The applicable registration exemption
Investor eligibility
Offering documentation
Disclosure requirements
Corporate approvals
Existing shareholder rights
Potential future transfers or resales
The impact of the transaction on future financing or M&A activity

The appropriate legal analysis depends on the facts and structure of each transaction.

The Verona Firm's Corporate and Securities Practice

The Verona Firm, PLLC advises businesses on corporate and securities matters, including private placements, SEC registrations and reporting, Rule 144 opinion letters, corporate transactions, and mergers and acquisitions.

The firm's practice is focused on providing businesses with legal guidance tailored to their individual circumstances and transactional objectives.

As securities regulations continue to develop, companies considering capital raising or other securities transactions can benefit from reviewing the legal requirements applicable to their specific situation.

For more information about The Verona Firm and its corporate and securities law practice, visit:

https://theveronafirm.com/

About The Verona Firm, PLLC

The Verona Firm, PLLC is a boutique private law practice representing businesses and companies in securities law, corporate matters, capital-raising transactions, corporate formation and growth strategies, mergers and acquisitions, SEC registrations and reporting, private placements, Rule 144 opinion letters, and OTC Markets matters.

Media Contact

The Verona Firm, PLLC
Website: https://theveronafirm.com/

This press release is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. The SEC developments described above are proposals and notices for public comment and should not be interpreted as final changes to applicable securities laws or regulations.