Enhancing Focus On The SECâs Enhanced Climate Change Efforts: SEC Commissioner Hester M. Peirce, SEC Commissioner Elad L. Roisman, March 4, 2021 Date
04/03/2021
Over the past two weeks, we and the public have seen a steady flow of SEC “climate” statements and press releases.[1] Our Divisions of Corporation Finance, Examinations, and Enforcement all have announced climate- or ESG-related initiatives. What does this “enhanced focus” on climate-related matters mean? The short answer is: it’s not yet clear. Do these announcements represent a change from current Commission practices or a continuation of the status quo with a new public relations twist? Time will tell. In the meantime, it is important to contextualize the recent announcements by providing some historical and procedural background.