In remarks at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Center for Capital Markets Competitiveness, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Paul S. Atkins set out an agenda to increase initial public offerings and reverse the long-term decline in the number of U.S.-listed public companies, noting the views expressed were his and not necessarily those of the Commission. Atkins cited a drop of roughly 40 percent from more than 7,800 public companies listed on U.S. exchanges in the mid-1990s and framed his approach around three pillars: re-anchoring disclosures in materiality, re-focusing shareholder meetings on significant corporate matters, and creating litigation alternatives for public companies to deter frivolous claims while protecting investors from fraud. He also endorsed elements of the INVEST Act and the Empowering Main Street in America Act, pointing to proposals to allow all companies to “test-the-waters” ahead of an IPO, modernize the accredited investor definition through a knowledge-based exam, and expand investment options available in certain retirement accounts. He characterized House passage of the INVEST Act as a milestone, said the Senate was engaged on the Empowering Main Street in America Act, and indicated the SEC was prepared to contribute to related efforts to support capital formation.
U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission 2026-02-23
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission chair outlines three-pillar agenda to revive IPOs and reverse decline in public listings
SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins outlined an agenda to boost IPOs and address the decline in U.S.-listed public companies, emphasizing his personal views. His strategy includes re-anchoring disclosures in materiality, refocusing shareholder meetings, and creating litigation alternatives to deter frivolous claims. Atkins supported the INVEST Act and the Empowering Main Street in America Act, highlighting proposals for IPO flexibility, modernizing investor definitions, and expanding retirement account investment options.