Accredited investors who meet certain income and net worth thresholds may participate in unregistered securities offerings. The intended purposes of the accredited investor standard are to (1) protect investors by allowing only those who can withstand financial losses access to unregistered securities offerings and (2) streamline capital formation for small businesses. To qualify as accredited, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requires an investor to have an annual income over $200,000 ($300,000 for a married couple) or a net worth over $1 million, excluding a primary residence. The thresholds were set in the 1980s and 2010. This report examines market participants' views on (1) the existing criteria for accredited investor status and (2) alternative criteria. Tables and figures. This is a print on demand report.
Securities and Exchange Commission : Alternative Criteria for Qualifying As an Accredited Investor Should Be Considered