What is the effect of failing to register an offering or failing to perfect an exemption to registration?

Violating Section 5 of the 33 Act by failing to register an issuance or failing to carry out an issuance in accordance with an applicable exemption can subject the issuer to liability to purchasers of the securities. Specifically, Section 12(a)(1) allows any purchaser to bring a lawsuit to rescind the purchase of the securities (along with interest on the purchase funds) or, if the securities have been sold, to receive the damages suffered from the purchase. Rescinding the purchase transaction is often referred to as buying a put, because the purchaser will have the right to force the seller to repurchase the security. The SEC may also have a civil cause of action against the issuer who sells securities in violation of Section 5.

The result of failing to comply with failing to comply with a relevant exemption can be detrimental to an issuer. Rule 508 provides some relief from these effects if an anticipated exemption under Rules 504 - 506 fail because of an insignificant reason. That is, the issuer may be able to defend an action for rescission by demonstrating the following:

• the issuers deviation from the exemption requirement was insignificant with regard to the overall offering;
• the requirements were not specifically imposed to protect this type of purchasers interest; and
• the issuer honestly (in good faith) attempted to comply with the exemption requirements.

An issuer who successfully demonstrates these elements may be relieved from liability to plaintiff investors or the SEC.

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