SEC warns of insider trading risks during coronavirus turbulence

The Securities and Exchange Commission is warning of the risk of insider trading. The coronavirus has affected U.S. markets in “unprecedented” ways, Stephanie Avakian and Steven Peikin, co-directors of the SEC’s Division of Enforcement, said in a statement. Given that, “corporate insiders are regularly learning new material nonpublic information that may hold an even greater value than under normal circumstances,” the statement said. Corporate executives, directors, employees and consultants should remember to keep confidential information private, they said, with the SEC committed to ensuring “our Main Street investors are not victims of fraud or illegal practices.”