FI reviews EQT’s handling of delayed disclosure

2021-09-14 | Market abuse News Markets

On 7 September, FI received a notification from EQT AB regarding a delayed disclosure of inside information. On 14 September, FI requested that the company submit an account of the circumstances that served as a basis for the delayed disclosure. FI will analyse the response from EQT AB in order to decide if there are grounds for further action.

Due to EQT AB's communication on 7 September in conjunction with a change to a lock-up agreement, Finansinspektionen would like to provide the following clarification.

Disclosure of inside information is regulated in Article 17 of the Market Abuse Regulation (MAR). The main rule is that inside information should be disclosed as soon as possible. As an exception and under certain conditions, however, as set out in Article 17(4) of MAR, listed companies may decide to delay such a disclosure. The company must subsequently meet the following criteria: immediate disclosure is likely to prejudice the legitimate interests of the issuer; delay of disclosure is not likely to mislead the public; and the company is able to ensure the confidentiality of that information.

The company must thoroughly document and justify its decision and notify FI that the disclosed information has been subject to delayed disclosure. EQT submitted such a notification to FI on 7 September. Pursuant to the Supplemental Provisions for the EU Market Abuse Regulation Act, Finansinspektionen may request that the company submit an account of the circumstances that served as a basis for the delayed disclosure. On 14 September, FI requested that EQT submit such an account to the authority. FI will analyse the company's response and decide if there are grounds for further action.