Are Securities Laws Applicable To Me?

Securities laws in British Columbia apply to any issuer, including those not listed on a stock exchange. Securities laws apply from the moment of incorporation or formation. Forming an organization usually involves issuing securities to the owner(s) or founder(s). It is a common misconception that securities laws only apply to public companies; this misconception results in many start-up and early stage issuers unintentionally breaking the law. This memorandum will provide a general understanding of securities regulation. It will also provide some simple guidance on how an organization can comply with securities laws in British Columbia. The trading of securities is also governed by separate legislation in each of the provinces and territories. As a result, when considering a securities offering, an issuer may have to comply with the laws of more than one jurisdiction. For example, an issuer wishing to sell securities to investors in Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia