'No need for jail terms' in IPO rules

A Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) proposal to tighten regulation of initial public offering sponsors has drawn indignation from investment banks over the possibility of jail sentences under the new law, but investigative firms and lawmakers are throwing their weight behind the tougher rules.

The move aims to help Hong Kong to catch up with Singapore's tougher regulatory regime for sponsors. The proposal would allow prison sentences for sponsors, such as brokers or bankers, who fail to ensure the accuracy of IPO documentation.

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