Which institution is responsible for the regulation and supervision of capital markets in Nigeria?
Answer Details
The institution responsible for the regulation and supervision of capital markets in Nigeria is the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
SEC is a government agency that was established in 1979 and has the mandate to regulate and develop the Nigerian capital market. Its primary goal is to protect investors and maintain fair and efficient operations in the market.
SEC carries out its responsibilities through various functions, including:
1. Regulation: SEC regulates capital market activities by setting rules and regulations that govern the conduct of market participants. These regulations cover areas such as the registration of market operators, disclosure requirements for listed companies, insider trading, and market manipulation.
2. Supervision: SEC monitors the activities of market operators to ensure compliance with the regulations. It conducts inspections, audits, and investigations to detect and prevent any misconduct or violation of the rules. This helps to maintain the integrity and stability of the capital market.
3. Licensing: SEC is responsible for granting licenses to market intermediaries such as stockbrokers, investment advisers, and fund managers. It ensures that these intermediaries meet certain standards of professionalism and competence before they can operate in the market.
4. Investor Protection: SEC is dedicated to protecting the interests of investors. It educates and sensitizes investors on their rights and the risks associated with investing in the capital market. SEC also provides a platform for investors to lodge complaints and seek redress in case of disputes.
In summary, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is the institution entrusted with the responsibility of regulating and supervising the capital markets in Nigeria. It plays a crucial role in maintaining a fair, transparent, and efficient market environment, ensuring investor protection, and promoting the growth and development of the Nigerian capital market.