WEMA changes name, rebrands

The Western Exempt Market Association is changing its name to the National Exempt Market Association, effective immediately, as part of a rebranding initiative.

It says the new name better reflects its mandate, membership base, and future plans.

The association was founded in May of 2011 by individuals who wanted to preserve the flexibility of the Western Canadian capital markets, specifically the newly regulated exempt market.

And it’s now made significant strides, says Craig Skauge, president of NEMA. It’s attracted a considerable membership base, as well as relationships with regulators across Canada.

While its original intent was to focus on Western Canada, industry feedback has pushed them to expand. NEMA adds that while the constitution doesn’t allow for a national securities regulator, the financial industry can still have a united voice.

Read:

What’s next for private placements?, for a link to NEMA’s November 2012 event

5 reasons for a national regulator

National securities regulator not dead: CFA

National regulator could cure arbitrage

National regulator unconstitutional: Alberta court

Fraud slipping past Canadian regulators

Provinces support national regulator plans