Canadian Regulators Release Results of Hedge Fund Review

    TORONTO, Jan. 12 /CNW/ - The Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA)
today issued Staff Notice 81-316 Hedge Funds, summarizing the findings of a
sample-based review of hedge funds in Canada.
    The CSA conducted the review in response to increased retail interest in
hedge funds. The review was done through a combination of compliance reviews
of fund managers and advisers, disclosure reviews and industry consultations.
Based on the review, the CSA determined that while an appropriate securities
regulatory framework exists for hedge funds in Canada, certain areas can be
improved.
    "Regulators in Canada recognize the increased popularity of hedge funds
among retail investors," said Jean St-Gelais, Chair of the CSA and President &
Chief Executive Officer of the Autorité des marchés financiers (Québec).
"While we feel the necessary regulatory framework is in place, it is important
to continually examine the framework against new products in our evolving
markets."
    The review identified areas for improvement, including issues with
principal protected notes (PPNs), referral arrangements, distribution,
disclosure and registration of fund managers. The notice sets out the CSA's
views on how these areas will be monitored or improved.
    CSA Staff Notice 81-316 Hedge Funds is available on several CSA members'
websites.

    The CSA, the council of the securities regulators of Canada's provinces
and territories, co-ordinates and harmonizes regulation for the Canadian
capital markets.

For further information: Tamera Van Brunt, Alberta Securities
Commission, (403) 297-2664; Ainsley Cunningham, Manitoba Securities
Commission, (204) 945-4733; Frédéric Alberro, Autorité des marchés financiers,
(514) 940-2176; Jane Gillies, New Brunswick Securities Commission, (506)
643-7745; Andrew Poon, British Columbia Securities Commission, (604) 899-6880;
Nicholas A. Pittas, Nova Scotia Securities Commission, (902) 424-6859; Carolyn
Shaw-Rimmington, Ontario Securities Commission, (416) 593-2361; Barbara
Shourounis, Saskatchewan Financial Service Commission, (306) 787-5842