meta_id 3232802

On June 11, 2026, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) proposed amendments to rescind Rules 611 and 610(e) of Regulation NMS (National Market System). Rule 611 contains the trade-through prohibition for national market system stocks, which prevents trades from executing at prices inferior to better prices displayed in other markets. Rule 610(e) contains restrictions on locking and crossing quotations in national market system stocks. The SEC's proposal would rescind both rules, rescind related defined terms in Rule 600 of Regulation NMS, and make conforming changes to other related provisions. SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins said the proposal aims to simplify market structure and reduce costs for market participants while allowing competition, innovation, and market forces to shape the continuing evolution of equity markets. Atkins noted that after two decades of Rule 611, the SEC is reviewing its unintended consequences, which he said have hindered rather than enhanced long-term market growth. The chairman emphasised the SEC's intention to take a careful, deliberative approach to avoid repeating past mistakes. The public comment period will remain open for 60 days following publication of the proposing release in the Federal Register. Market participants, including equity market exchanges, trading venues, broker-dealers, and institutional investors, should review the proposal and consider submitting comments during this period. The SEC will review all public comments before determining whether to adopt, modify, or withdraw the proposed amendments.