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CSA Second Notice and Request for Comment Proposed Amendments Related to Syndicated Mortgages
CSA Second Notice and Request for Comment Proposed Amendments Related to Syndicated Mortgages
CSA Second Notice and Request for Comment Proposed Amendments to National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions and National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations relating to Syndicated Mortgages
and
Proposed Changes to Companion Policy 45-106CP Prospectus Exemptions and Companion Policy 31-103CP Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations
March 15, 2019
Introduction
On March 8, 2018, the Canadian Securities Administrators (the CSA or we) published for comment proposed amendments to National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions (NI 45-106) and National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations (NI 31-103) and proposed changes to Companion Policy 45-106CP Prospectus Exemptions (45-106CP) relating to syndicated mortgages (collectively, the March 2018 Proposal).
The March 2018 Proposal included changes to certain prospectus and registration exemptions available for the distribution of syndicated mortgages, including the following:
• removing the prospectus and registration exemptions under sections 2.36 of NI 45-106 and 8.12 of NI 31-103 (the Mortgage Exemptions) respectively for the distribution of syndicated mortgages in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island and Yukon;{1}
• introducing additional requirements to the offering memorandum prospectus exemption under section 2.9 of NI 45-106 (the OM Exemption) that would apply when the exemption is used to distribute syndicated mortgages; and
• amending the private issuer prospectus exemption under section 2.4 of NI 45-106 (the Private Issuer Exemption) so that it is not available for the distribution of syndicated mortgages.
We received 26 comment letters in response to the March 2018 Proposal.
In light of the comments received on the March 2018 Proposal, we are publishing for a 60-day comment period revised proposed amendments to NI 45-106 and NI 31-103 (the Proposed Amendments) and revised proposed changes (the Proposed Changes) to 45-106CP and to Companion Policy 31-103CP Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations (31-103CP) related to syndicated mortgages. The substantive differences between the Proposed Amendments and the Proposed Changes compared to the March 2018 Proposal are the following:
• Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador are proposing dealer registration and prospectus exemptions, and Alberta and Québec are proposing a prospectus exemption, for qualified syndicated mortgages, similar to the exemptions already available in British Columbia under British Columbia Rule 45-501 Mortgages (BCI 45-501);
• Alberta is proposing a prospectus exemption for syndicated mortgages distributed to permitted clients similar to the prospectus exemption for distributions of syndicated mortgages to "institutional investors" under BCI 45-501;
• in relation to the OM Exemption,
• the date of a property appraisal must be within 6 months preceding the date the appraisal is delivered to the purchaser instead of 12 months;
• the proposed mortgage broker certificate has been removed; and
• additional guidance as to the identity of the issuer of a syndicated mortgage has been added; and
• the amendments to the Mortgage Exemptions will both come into effect at the same time instead of the amendments to the registration exemption coming into effect 12 months after the amendments to the prospectus exemption.
This notice will also be available on the following websites of CSA jurisdictions:
nssc.novascotia.cawww.albertasecurities.comwww.bcsc.bc.cawww.fcaa.gov.sk.cawww.fcnb.cawww.lautorite.qc.cawww.mbsecurities.cawww.osc.gov.on.ca
Summary of Changes to the March 2018 Proposal
Exemptions for Qualified Syndicated Mortgages
Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador are proposing to adopt dealer registration and prospectus exemptions for qualified syndicated mortgages. Alberta and Québec are also proposing to adopt a prospectus exemption for qualified syndicated mortgages. These exemptions are being adopted on a local basis for consistency, in some jurisdictions, with local mortgage legislation and regulations. However, the proposed exemptions are substantially harmonized. Other jurisdictions may consider adopting similar or additional exemptions as local rules or blanket orders in the future. As these proposed exemptions are local matters, please refer to Annex G in the relevant jurisdiction for more information.
OM Exemption
As suggested by several commenters, we have revised the requirement regarding the date of a property appraisal so that it must be within 6 months preceding the date the appraisal is delivered to the purchaser. The March 2018 Proposal had proposed that it be within 12 months of the date the appraisal is delivered to the purchaser, but we agree with the commenters that this is too long of a period given the rapidly changing real estate markets in certain jurisdictions.
We have also proposed additional guidance as to the identity of the issuer of a syndicated mortgage. As several commenters noted, the issuer of a syndicated mortgage may be the mortgage broker or other party organizing the syndication, rather than the borrower under the mortgage. Given that a mortgage broker that is the issuer of the syndicated mortgage will provide a certificate as issuer, a separate requirement for a mortgage broker to provide a certificate in their capacity as mortgage broker is not necessary.
Timing
The March 2018 Proposal contemplated that the proposed amendments to the Mortgage Exemptions in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island and Yukon would have a staggered implementation with the amendment to the registration exemption coming into effect 12 months after the amendment to the prospectus exemption. We are now proposing that all the Proposed Amendments will come into force at the same time, as we believe a one-stage implementation will be less disruptive in those jurisdictions.
Subject to necessary regulatory approvals, the Proposed Amendments will come into effect on December 31, 2019. We encourage those persons or companies who may be required to be registered in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island and Yukon to apply for registration well in advance of that date.
Impact on Investors
As with the March 2018 Proposal, investors in syndicated mortgages who purchase under the amended OM Exemption would be entitled to enhanced disclosure relating to their investment. We anticipate that this additional disclosure would result in more informed investment decisions and enable registrants involved in the distribution to better fulfil their obligations related to the distribution.
In the jurisdictions that currently provide a registration exemption for syndicated mortgages, investors will benefit from the protections associated with the involvement of a registrant in the distribution.
Anticipated Costs and Benefits of the Proposed Amendments and Proposed Changes
The anticipated costs and benefits of the Proposed Amendments and Proposed Changes are expected to be substantially the same as described in the March 2018 Proposal. In those jurisdictions that are proposing local amendments or changes, including an exemption for qualified syndicated mortgages, Annex G contains further discussion.
Alternatives Considered
We considered adopting the March 2018 Proposal in its original form as well as the alternatives suggested by the commenters as detailed in Annex B.
Local Matters
Annex G is being published in any local jurisdiction that is proposing related changes to local securities laws, including local notices or other policy instruments in that jurisdiction. It may also include additional information that is relevant to that jurisdiction only.
Request for Comments
We welcome your comments on the Proposed Amendments and Proposed Changes.
Please submit your comments in writing on or before May 14, 2019. If you are not sending your comments by email, please send a CD containing the submissions (in Microsoft Word format).
Address your submission to all the CSA as follows:
Alberta Securities CommissionAutorité des marchés financiersBritish Columbia Securities CommissionFinancial and Consumer Affairs Authority of SaskatchewanFinancial and Consumer Services Commission (New Brunswick)Manitoba Securities CommissionNova Scotia Securities CommissionNunavut Securities OfficeOffice of the Superintendent of Securities, Newfoundland and LabradorOffice of the Superintendent of Securities, Northwest TerritoriesOffice of the Yukon Superintendent of SecuritiesOntario Securities CommissionSuperintendent of Securities, Department of Justice and Public Safety, Prince Edward Island
Deliver your comments only to the addresses below. Your comments will be distributed to the other CSA jurisdictions.
We cannot keep submissions confidential because securities legislation in certain provinces requires publication of the written comments received during the comment period. All comments received will be posted on the websites of each of the Alberta Securities Commission at www.albertasecurities.com, the Autorité des marchés financiers at www.lautorite.qc.ca and the Ontario Securities Commission at www.osc.gov.on.ca. Therefore, you should not include personal information directly in comments to be published. It is important that you state on whose behalf you are making the submission.
Contents of Annexes
Annex A -- List of Commenters
Annex B -- Summary of Comments and Responses
Annex C -- Proposed Amendments to National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions
Annex D -- Proposed Changes to Companion Policy 45-106CP Prospectus Exemptions
Annex E -- Proposed Amendments to National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations
Annex F -- Proposed Changes to Companion Policy 31-103CP Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations
Annex G -- Local Matters
Questions
Please refer your questions to any of the following:
Ontario Securities CommissionDavid SuratSenior Legal Counsel, Corporate Finance416.593.8052Matthew AuSenior Accountant, Corporate Finance416.593.8132Melissa TaylorLegal Counsel, Corporate Finance416.596.4295Adam BraunLegal Counsel, Compliance and Registrant Regulation416.593.2348Alberta Securities CommissionLanion BeckSenior Legal Counsel403.355.3884Jan BaghSenior Legal Counsel403.355.2804Autorité des marchés financiersAlexandra LeeSenior Policy Adviser514.395.0337, ext. 4465British Columbia Securities CommissionLeslie RoseSenior Legal Counsel, Corporate Finance604.899.6654Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority of SaskatchewanMikale WhiteLegal Counsel, Securities Division306.798.3381Financial and Consumer Services Commission (New Brunswick)Ella-Jane LoomisSenior Legal Counsel, Securities506.453.6591Manitoba Securities CommissionChris BeskoDirector, General Counsel204.945.2561Nova Scotia Securities CommissionH. Jane AndersonDirector, Policy & Market Regulation and Secretary to the Commission902.424.0179
{1} Syndicated mortgages are already excluded from the Mortgage Exemptions in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Québec and Saskatchewan.
ANNEX A
LIST OF COMMENTERS
No. |
Commenter |
Date of Letter |
1. |
Secure Capital MIC Inc. |
April 6, 2018 |
2. |
Paragon Capital Corp. Inc. |
May 15, 2018 |
3. |
The Canadian Advocacy Council for Canadian CFA Institute Societies |
May 18, 2018 |
4. |
First Source Mortgage Corporation |
May 30, 2018 |
5. |
Donna Lewczuk |
June 1, 2018 |
6. |
Brownlee LLP |
June 1, 2018 |
7. |
TELB Investments Ltd. |
June 1, 2018 |
8. |
Appraisal Institute of Canada |
June 5, 2018 |
9. |
Paul Mangion |
June 5, 2018 |
10. |
MCAP Commercial LP |
June 5, 2018 |
11. |
Chuck Barrett |
June 5, 2018 |
12. |
Canadian Mortgage Brokers Association |
June 5, 2018 |
13. |
Empirical Capital Corp. |
June 4, 2018 |
14. |
Private Capital Markets Association of Canada |
June 6, 2018 |
15. |
McMillan LLP |
June 6, 2018 |
16. |
The Ontario Mortgage Investment Companies Association |
June 6, 2018 |
17. |
Farris, Vaughn, Wills & Murphy LLP |
June 6, 2018 |
18. |
McLeod Law LLP |
June 6, 2018 |
19. |
Olympia Trust Company |
June 6, 2018 |
20. |
Koffman Kalef LLP |
June 6, 2018 |
21. |
Lanyard Financial Corporation |
June 6, 2018 |
22. |
Foremost Financial Corporation |
June 6, 2018 |
23. |
Borden Ladner Gervais LLP |
June 6, 2018 |
24. |
Mortgage Professionals Canada |
June 6, 2018 |
25. |
Canadian Foundation for Advancement of Investor Rights |
June 13, 2018 |
26. |
Realtech Capital Group Inc. |
June 25, 2018 |
ANNEX B
SUMMARY OF COMMENTS AND RESPONSES
No. |
Subject |
Summarized Comment |
Response |
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GENERAL COMMENTS |
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1. |
Necessity |
Four commenters expressed their general support for the March 2018 Proposal and greater harmonization across the CSA. |
We thank all the commenters for their support and input. |
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Three commenters were of the view that the status quo is sufficient for syndicated mortgages involving existing residential and commercial properties, but additional regulation was required for syndicated mortgages used for development financing. |
We agree that syndicated mortgages can involve a wide variety of property and loan types and the risks associated with investments in syndicated mortgages may vary as a result. The extent to which an investment in a syndicated mortgage is similar to an investment in the business of the borrower is not necessarily limited to syndicated mortgages sold in connection with property developments. For example, as one commenter suggested, this could be the case for syndicated mortgages on properties with businesses such retirement homes or hotels. |
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One commenter expressed support for applying the same regulation to syndicated mortgages as is currently applied to mortgage investment entities. |
In general, the requirements of the prospectus exemptions that are likely to be used to distribute syndicated mortgages, such as the accredited investor exemption or the family, friends and business associates exemption, are linked to the characteristics of the purchaser, rather than the specific terms of the securities. Accordingly, these exemptions should be suitable for the full range of syndicated mortgages that may be distributed. |
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Several commenters expressed support for the existing British Columbia regime, as discussed in more detail under "Alternative Prospectus and Registration Exemptions" (rows 39-43). |
Similarly, the requirements applicable to registrants involved in the distribution of syndicated mortgages are principles-based and would apply to the distribution of syndicated mortgages in the same way as other securities sold in the exempt market. |
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The Proposed Amendments would substantially align the requirements applicable to syndicated mortgages with those that apply to the distribution of mortgage investment entities. In addition, although certain local exemptions remain, they will substantially harmonize the treatment of syndicated mortgages under securities legislation across the CSA jurisdictions. |
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2. |
Risks of syndicated mortgages and comparisons to other securities |
Several commenters expressed the view that a few high-profile failures have created an inaccurate impression of syndicated mortgages. One of these commenters provided certain information in respect of syndicated mortgages it administers. Of the 2,083 syndicated mortgages this commenter funded in 2015, 2016 and 2017: |
We thank the commenters for their input. The Proposed Amendments are primarily intended to enhance investor protection for riskier types of syndicated mortgages marketed to retail investors. The data provided by one commenter supports the view that syndicated mortgages are relatively high-risk investments with investor losses in approximately 6.6% of the syndicated mortgages funded. |
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• |
80 (3.8%) of the mortgages led to a loss of some principal or interest; |
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• |
35 (1.7%) are currently in foreclosure proceedings; |
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• |
19 (<1%) resulted in the lenders losing all of their money; and |
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• |
3 (<1%) resulted in the lenders foreclosing on the property. |
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One commenter noted that unsecured debt will not have increased disclosure requirements, notwithstanding the commenter's view that syndicated mortgages are less risky than unsecured debt. |
We acknowledge this comment, but we have concerns with products sold as low risk on the basis that they are secured by an interest in real property. |
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3. |
Use of offering memorandum exemption |
Several commenters expressed the view that the offering memorandum exemption would rarely be used for the distribution of syndicated mortgages due to the fast pace with which such transactions are conducted. |
We thank the commenters for their input. |
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We agree that the offering memorandum exemption is likely to be used only where syndicated mortgages are marketed broadly to retail investors. Since these are the circumstances where investor protection concerns are likely to be more prevalent, we introduced additional disclosure requirements that are limited to this exemption. |
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4. |
Reports of exempt distribution |
Several commenters expressed concerns about the fees associated with filing reports of exempt distribution and that they may make borrowing more expensive as they would be passed along to the borrower. |
We acknowledge the comments regarding costs. However, we do not expect the costs of filing reports of exempt distributions to be significant compared to the costs of registering the security interest or administering a syndicated mortgage, particularly in those jurisdictions that charge a fixed fee for filing reports of exempt distribution. |
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One commenter suggested that instead of revising the filing fees, we should extend the time for filing a report of exempt distribution from ten days to one month. |
We appreciate the commenter's suggestion. However, revising the report of exempt distribution requirements is outside the scope of this project. |
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Several commenters expressed concerns that the borrower is not the most appropriate party to be required to file a report of exempt distribution and some suggested the dealer or lenders could be required to file the report of exempt distribution. |
We believe this is addressed through the additional guidance we have provided as to the identity of the issuer of a syndicated mortgage. We also note that the report of exempt distribution requires an issuer to disclose personal information about each investor. Accordingly, we do not think it would be appropriate to require a lender to file the report of exempt distribution as the lender would be required to obtain personal information from the other lenders. |
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Two commenters suggested that reports of exempt distribution should not be required if the distribution was made solely to permitted clients. |
Alberta is proposing to introduce a prospectus exemption for the distribution of syndicated mortgages to permitted clients similar to the prospectus exemption for distributions of syndicated mortgages to "institutional investors" in BCI 45-501. This exemption will not require the filing of a report of exempt distribution. |
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These commenters also noted that there is an exemption from filing reports of exempt distribution for certain distributions of securities to Canadian financial institutions and Schedule III banks but not for distributions to other commercial lenders. One of these commenters speculated that there is substantial non-compliance in jurisdictions that currently do not provide a prospectus exemption for syndicated mortgages and suggested the mortgage exemption should be available for syndicated mortgages distributed to permitted clients (as defined in section 1.1 of NI 31-103). |
The other jurisdictions are not proposing similar exemptions because they have previously considered similar comments during amendments to the report of exempt distribution and still do not favour the change because they continue to believe that the information collected in the report is necessary to inform compliance programs, improve understanding of the syndicated mortgages market and inform future policy development. |
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One commenter suggested that reports of exempt distribution should be confidential as the fees and commissions paid to mortgage brokers may be regarded as sensitive competitive information that is not today publicly disclosed. |
We thank the commenter for the feedback, but we disagree and believe transparency with respect to fees and commissions is important. Market participants can apply to the securities regulatory authorities for confidential treatment of certain records if the record contains personal or sensitive business information that would be detrimental to a person if it was disclosed to the public. |
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One commenter expressed that it could be ruinous to be required to report the names of its investors as they could be poached by a competitor. |
We acknowledge the commenter's concern but note that the names of investors participating in the distribution appear only in Schedule 1 to the report of exempt distribution, which is not made publicly available as it includes investors' personal information. |
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5. |
Definition of syndicated mortgage |
Several commenters raised potential issues with the definition of syndicated mortgages. |
We acknowledge these comments but note that the current definition of syndicated mortgage is already used in NI 45-106 and NI 31-103 by several CSA jurisdictions to exclude these products from the Mortgage Exemptions. We are not aware of any significant problems caused by the definition in those jurisdictions. One purpose of this project is to increase harmonization in the area. Accordingly, we are not proposing changes to the definition of syndicated mortgage. |
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Some commenters suggested that the definition of syndicated mortgage may be too narrow in that it would not capture non-mortgage debt securities secured by real property. |
We acknowledge that there is a wide variety of securities that may be secured by real property. This project is not intended to apply to all investments in real estate. |
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One commenter noted that most syndicated mortgage failures involved hundreds of lenders so the definition of syndicated mortgage should be revised to a mortgage in which 10 or more lenders participate. |
Please refer to commentary under "Exemption for small number of investors proposed in question 7 of March 2018 Proposal" (row 41) for commentary relating to exemptions for syndicated mortgages with a small number of investors. |
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Some commenters suggested that the definition of syndicated mortgage was so broad that it would also capture mortgage investment entities. |
We do not agree that all securities offered by mortgage investment entities would be captured by this definition. For example, the distribution of an equity investment in a mortgage investment entity is currently subject to both the prospectus and registration requirements and would not be affected by the Proposed Amendments. |
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One commenter suggested that the definition of syndicated mortgage was so broad it would capture mortgage-backed securities and sales of mortgages into the CMHC NBA MBS Program. |
Similarly, where a distribution of asset-backed securities linked to mortgages, such as pass-through certificates, pay-through certificates or other investments in securitization vehicles, involves the distribution of securities, we do not believe those securities would generally fall within the definition of a syndicated mortgage. |
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One commenter suggested that two persons in a legally recognized spousal relationship should be treated as one person on a mortgage. |
We acknowledge this comment and that the definition of syndicated mortgage may capture a mortgage where two persons in a spousal relationship are lenders. The definition of syndicated mortgage is an existing definition in NI 45-106 and NI 31-103 and we are not proposing to make any changes at this time. |
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6. |
Syndicated mortgage versus syndicated equity |
Several commenters suggested that the Proposed Amendments should not capture all syndicated mortgages but only those that have a loan-to-value in excess of a threshold, such as 80% or 85%, which several commenters referred to as syndicated equity. |
We thank the commenters for their input. Although we agree that the loan-to-value ratio is important, it is only one indicator of the risk of a syndicated mortgage. As a result, we do not propose to use this as the sole basis for determining the securities law requirements that should apply to the distribution of syndicated mortgages. |
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7. |
Risk acknowledgement forms |
One commenter suggested that the CSA review the efficacy of the existing risk acknowledgement forms. |
Consideration of the risk acknowledgment requirements that apply to certain prospectus exemptions is outside the scope of this project. |
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8. |
Who is the issuer? |
Several commenters suggested that commonly in syndicated mortgages the borrower is not the issuer. These commenters stressed the difference between a mortgage that is syndicated at the time of the initial loan (i.e., a shared mortgage or a mortgage with a co-lending syndicate) versus a mortgage with one initial lender who then, potentially unknown to the borrower, syndicates the mortgage to other investors. |
We thank the commenters for their input. We agree that additional guidance regarding the appropriate identity of the issuer or issuers of a syndicated mortgage is required. As suggested we have clarified in 45-106CP that, where an existing mortgage is syndicated, the party undertaking the syndication will generally be an issuer of the syndicated mortgage. In some cases, the issuer may be a mortgage broker that is syndicating the loan. Alternatively, if the entity used for the syndication is established by a mortgage broker, the mortgage broker may be a promoter of the issuer. |
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We have also provided additional guidance regarding the use of the offering memorandum exemption to distribute syndicated mortgages and the fact that the exemption is only available for the distribution by an issuer of a security of its own issue. Accordingly, where a mortgage that has already been advanced or committed is being syndicated, the exemption would only be available where the party syndicating the mortgage is the issuer. |
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9. |
Public database of syndicated mortgages |
One commenter suggested that there should be a public database of syndicated mortgages to facilitate comparison across types of properties, issuers, brokers, regions, credit, etc. |
We thank the commenter for this suggestion. Requiring detailed reporting regarding the terms of securities issued in the exempt market is beyond the current report of exempt distribution and would impose a significant burden on issuers. In addition, several regulatory and systems changes would be required that are beyond the scope of the Proposed Amendments. |
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10. |
Currently exempt professionals |
Several commenters indicated that chartered bank representatives, lawyers and other professionals currently exempt under mortgage legislation should no longer be exempt in order to level the playing field. |
Under securities laws, there is a business trigger for registration. Section 1.3 of 31-103CP contains guidance related to the business trigger for registration in the context of certain professional services. |
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In addition, there are registration exemptions that could potentially apply to a person or company involved in the distribution of syndicated mortgages. However, these do not necessarily correspond to the exemptions under mortgage legislation and may differ depending on the jurisdictions involved. |
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11. |
Statutory rights of action |
One commenter expressed that purchasers in all jurisdictions should have a statutory right of action against issuers, promoters and mortgage brokers in the event that an offering memorandum contains a misrepresentation. |
We thank the commenter for their input but changes to the statutory rights of action are beyond the scope of the Proposed Amendments. In the event of a misrepresentation in an offering memorandum, local securities legislation provides for rights of action against the issuer and, depending on the jurisdiction, certain other parties. |
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12. |
Compliance reviews |
One commenter noted that the CSA will need to allocate resources to review offering memoranda and exempt market dealers in order to improve compliance and deter fraudulent activity. |
For those jurisdictions that already exclude syndicated mortgages from the Mortgage Exemptions, our compliance programs will continue to review offering memoranda and registrants. For those jurisdictions that are amending the Mortgage Exemptions to exclude syndicated mortgages, we expect that the distribution of syndicated mortgages will be an area of focus following the implementation of the Proposed Amendments. Information provided through reports of exempt distribution will be particularly important to monitoring this area. |
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13. |
Fee disclosure |
One commenter noted that there needs to be clear disclosure about fees that lenders receive from borrowers on closing and how those fees are distributed back to investors or otherwise allocated. |
Item 18 of proposed Form 45-106F18 requires disclosure of the fees that are to be charged to the borrower, how they are to be calculated and paid and when any person involved in the distribution is entitled to payment or states that the investor may request a copy of the disclosure statement provided by the mortgage broker to the borrower concerning all fees. |
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Item 7 of Form 45-106F2 requires disclosure of compensation paid to sellers and finders. |
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Any registered dealer involved in the sale of syndicated mortgages would be subject to the obligation to disclose fees to its clients in connection with its relationship disclosure information and ongoing reporting obligations. |
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14. |
Decreased diversification |
Three commenters suggested that the March 2018 Proposal may have the unintended consequence of decreased diversification for investors because there will be fewer syndicated mortgages in which they can invest, or they will be required to make larger investments in a syndicated mortgage. |
We expect a registered dealer's suitability assessment to consider an investor's concentration in any investment, including a syndicated mortgage. Accordingly, concerns regarding diversification should be addressed in the ordinary course by the involvement of a registered dealer. |
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GENERAL REGISTRATION COMMENTS |
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15. |
Existing registration exemptions |
One commenter suggested that all mortgage brokers involved in the business of distributing syndicated mortgages should be required to be registered as a dealer without exception. |
Any mortgage broker in the business of trading securities will be required to register as a dealer or rely upon an available registration exemption. We note that there are existing registration exemptions upon which some mortgage brokers may be able to rely. For example, section 8.5 of NI 31-103 provides a dealer registration exemption for trades under certain conditions that are made through a registered dealer. |
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16. |
Cost of using registered dealer |
Several commenters expressed concerns that the requirement to use a registered dealer will significantly increase the cost of lending and create unnecessary complexities and that the required due diligence and suitability assessments are not feasible given the typically short transaction times for syndicated mortgages. |
Certain jurisdictions already exclude syndicated mortgages from the Mortgage Exemptions. The registration requirement and the category of exempt market dealer seek to require any entity that is in the business of trading securities in the exempt market to possess the required level of proficiency, integrity and solvency to participate in the market. Investors in other forms of real estate and mortgage investments, such as mortgage investment entities, currently benefit from the protections of the registration requirement. For those jurisdictions amending the Mortgage Exemptions to exclude syndicated mortgages, the Proposed Amendments would result in the same level of protection for syndicated mortgage investments as these other types of securities. |
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Mortgage brokers that are currently relying on the Mortgage Exemptions to trade syndicated mortgages in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island and Yukon will be required to seek registration or rely on an alternative registration exemption if their activities meet the business trigger for dealer registration. We acknowledge that this will involve costs. However, as for other forms of mortgage investments, we consider that such costs are justified by the benefits to investors and the market generally. |
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17. |
New registration category |
One commenter suggested that a new category of registration should be created, and the requirements should be the same as those currently applied to mortgage brokers. |
We thank the commenter for their input, but we believe the existing categories of dealer registration are appropriate. Any entity seeking registration as an exempt market dealer may seek exemptions from specific requirements of securities legislation that are not compatible with their business model. Accordingly, dealers that are prepared to accept terms and conditions that limit their activities to syndicated mortgages may seek relief from requirements that could be more applicable to exempt market dealers offering securities generally. |
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18. |
Relevant securities industry experience |
Several commenters asked for guidance as to what we would consider to be relevant securities industry experience if a mortgage broker were to apply for registration as a dealing representative or chief compliance officer of an exempt market dealer. |
For firms and individuals that apply for registration to trade in syndicated mortgages, we will consider relevant securities industry experience to include relevant experience acquired at a licensed mortgage broker, brokerage, agency or dealer, provided the applicant demonstrates the proficiency, integrity and solvency for registration. Applicants that rely on mortgage-specific experience should expect regulators to place terms and conditions restricting their trading activities to a specified class of securities (e.g., syndicated mortgages or securities of real estate issuers). |
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We propose to include clarifying language in 31-103CP as part of the Proposed Changes. |
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19. |
Know-your-product obligations |
One commenter expressed that they consider it would be part of a dealer's know-your-product obligations to ensure there has been a recent and reliable property appraisal for a syndicated mortgage distribution under any exemption. |
We thank the commenter for their input. We agree that taking reasonable steps to verify the loan-to-value ratio of a syndicated mortgage would be important for a registrant to discharge its know-your-product obligation. |
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20. |
Restricted dealer registration |
One commenter suggested that existing mortgage brokers should be registered as dealers but be permitted to engage solely in trading syndicated mortgages. |
We thank the commenter for their input. If applicant firms demonstrate limited proficiency or experience beyond syndicated mortgages, we expect terms and conditions will be placed to restrict trading activities to a specified class of securities (e.g., syndicated mortgages or securities of real estate issuers). |
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21. |
Transition period |
One commenter suggested that the proposed 12-month registration transition period was not sufficient, and it should instead be 24 months. |
In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island and Yukon the registration requirement is now proposed to come into effect on December 31, 2019. These jurisdictions are of the view that this period provides an adequate amount of time for transition. |
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The exclusion for syndicated mortgages already exists in the other CSA jurisdictions and registration is already required, subject to any available exemptions. |
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22. |
Different roles of registered dealer and mortgage broker |
One commenter expressed that a registered dealer could not replace the current role of a mortgage broker, which may include underwriting the mortgage, drafting the mortgage commitment, ensuring the mortgage commitment conditions have been satisfied, ensuring the mortgage is registered before authorizing the release of investor funds, and inspecting development sites. |
The requirement to be licensed as a mortgage broker, brokerage or agency to deal in or trade in mortgages under local legislation is not affected by the Proposed Amendments. Accordingly, in some jurisdictions both a licensed mortgage broker, brokerage or agency and a registered dealer may be required. |
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Several commenters suggested that we appear to expect both mortgage broker and registered dealer to be involved in distributions of syndicated mortgages, but it is not clear how this would work, and it would not be economically feasible given the typical fees charged by brokers and dealers. |
Many jurisdictions require mortgage investments entities, such as mortgage investment corporations, to offer their securities through a registrant. Such entities are generally also required to be licensed as a mortgage broker, brokerage or agency. |
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We understand that it is not unusual for mortgage professionals involved with mortgage investment entities to maintain dual registration. |
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One commenter stated that it had consulted with its clients and they all confirmed their preference to work with mortgage brokers for these transactions. |
As discussed above, the need for the involvement of a mortgage broker, brokerage or agency will not be affected by the Proposed Amendments. |
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OFFERING MEMORANDUM EXEMPTION -- PROPERTY APPRAISALS |
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23. |
Date of appraisal |
Several commenters expressed that an appraisal should be required to be within 6 months before the date of an offering memorandum, instead of the proposed 12 months. |
We thank the commenters for their input and have revised the requirement so that an appraisal must provide a value of the property as at a date that is within 6 months preceding the date that the appraisal is delivered to the purchaser. |
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24. |
Methodology |
Three commenters expressed that the type of appraisal methodology applied, and limitations of the methodology, should be disclosed to investors in plain language. |
We have revised Item 8 of proposed Form 45-106F18 to include that the issuer must describe the type of appraisal, methodology applied and limitations of the methodology. |
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25. |
Arm's length transaction |
Several commenters stated that an appraisal should be required regardless of whether the property was acquired in an arm's length transaction as this would not guarantee the amount paid was reasonable or the fair market value. |
We thank the commenters for their input. We are not proposing to provide an exemption from the appraisal requirement under the offering memorandum exemption for properties acquired in an arm's length transaction. |
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One commenter stated that an appraisal should not be required if the property was recently acquired in an open market transaction with all parties acting at arm's length. |
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26. |
Professional liability insurance |
One commenter suggested that an appraiser should be required to have professional liability insurance appropriate to the valuation assignment. |
We acknowledge the commenter's concern. However, we are not proposing to prescribe standards for insurance for professional appraisers. To be a qualified appraiser, an appraiser must be a member in good standing of a professional association. We note that some professional associations, including the Appraisal Institute of Canada, have mandatory insurance programs for their members. |
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27. |
Waiver of requirement for appraisal |
Two commenters suggested that an investor could certify that they consider themselves an expert or professional and agree in writing to waive the requirement for an appraisal. |
We thank the commenter for this suggestion. However, we do not think that it would be appropriate to provide for this type of waiver. Appraisals are required only for distributions under the offering memorandum exemption, which is designed for distributions to retail investors. |
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Syndicated mortgages offered under other exemptions, such as the accredited investor exemption, will not require an appraisal. However, an appraisal may be provided for such distributions to respond to concerns of investors or dealers participating in the transaction. |
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28. |
Form of appraisal |
Three commenters suggested than an appraisal should be addressed to the investors or a letter of reliance should be provided from the appraiser to the investors. |
We thank the commenters for this suggestion. However, we believe an obligation to deliver an appraisal to a purchaser is sufficient. |
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29. |
Appraiser's independence |
One commenter suggested that for an appraiser to be independent it should be restricted in terms of the volume of business it receives from an issuer, issuer group or mortgage broker. |
Proposed subsection 2.9(19) of NI 45-106 provides an objective test for the independence of an appraiser. Any circumstance that, in the opinion of a reasonable person aware of all the relevant facts, could interfere with the qualified appraiser's judgment regarding the preparation of an appraisal for a property, would result in the appraiser not being independent. We agree with the commenter that the amount of business that an appraiser does with an issuer or related issuers could result in the appraiser not being independent. For example, the guidance in proposed paragraph 3.8(13)(h) of 45-106CP indicates that we would consider an appraiser not to be independent if the appraiser has received a majority of their income, either directly or indirectly, in the three years preceding the date of the appraisal from the issuer or a related party of the issuer. |
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30. |
Requirement for appraisal for syndicated mortgages distributed under other exemptions |
One commenter suggested that an appraisal should be a requirement for distributions under any exemption not just the offering memorandum exemption. |
We thank the commenters for their input. Although we have not added a requirement to provide investors with an appraisal for any exemptions other than the offering memorandum exemption, as noted above, a dealer's know-your-product obligations would likely require it to take reasonable steps to ascertain the loan-to-value ratio of a syndicated mortgage. In addition, we understand that sophisticated investors may demand adequate evidence of value of a property. |
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Another commenter suggested that an appraisal should only be required for distributions under the offering memorandum exemption as distributions under other exemptions are dependent upon the ability to structure the transaction quickly. |
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OFFERING MEMORANDUM EXEMPTION -- FORM 45-106F18 |
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31. |
Item 8 -- Appraisal |
One commenter suggested that we should repeat the requirement to deliver the appraisal to investors in Item 8 of Form 45-106F18. |
We thank the commenter for their suggestion. Item 8 of Form 45-106F18 is meant to provide investors with a description of the appraisal. This does not alter the requirement that the issuer also deliver a copy of the entire appraisal to the investor under subsection 2.9(19.1) of NI 45-106. |
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32. |
Item 19 -- Registration Documentation |
One commenter suggested that we should add the appraisal to the list of documents in Item 19 of Form 45-106F18. |
We thank the commenter for their suggestions. Item 19 of Form 45-106F18 provides a list of documents that the investor may request from the issuer after the completion of registration and disbursement of the syndicated mortgage. The issuer is required to deliver a copy of the appraisal to the investor at the same time or before the issuer delivers the offering memorandum to the investor. |
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33. |
Alternative property values |
Two commenters noted that an issuer would still be permitted to disclose any value for a property if they could demonstrate a reasonable basis for the value and they disclosed the material factors and assumptions used in arriving at the value and whether it was prepared by an independent, qualified appraiser. |
We believe that a projected future value may be relevant information for investors and the appropriate approach is to allow disclosure of such values while requiring disclosure of the factors and assumptions used in arriving at the value, together with the prominent disclosure of the appraised value. |
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One commenter suggested that we should prohibit the disclosure of a projected future value of the property or the expected market value upon completion of the development of a property regardless of whether such value was prepared by an independent, qualified appraiser. |
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34. |
Marketing materials |
One commenter suggested that any marketing, promotion or advertising material should be incorporated by reference into the offering memorandum. |
We thank the commenter for their input but note that certain jurisdictions already require OM marketing materials to be incorporated by reference into an offering memorandum and filed with the regulator. |
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35. |
Additional disclosure for other prospectus exemptions |
One commenter suggested that the proposed additional disclosure under the offering memorandum should be a requirement for any distribution of syndicated mortgages regardless of which prospectus exemption is relied upon. |
We do not currently prescribe disclosure for other exemptions, such as the accredited investor and family, friends and business associates exemptions. Introducing such disclosure would be a significant change that is beyond the scope of the Proposed Amendments. |
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36. |
Mortgage broker certificate |
Two commenters indicated that the mortgage broker certificate is an important safeguard for investors and suggested the CSA issue guidance as to the extent of the broker's due diligence obligations. Another commenter supported requiring the mortgage broker to sign the OM certificate and provide additional disclosure in the offering memorandum. This commenter could not think of a circumstance where it would not be appropriate to require this in connection with the offering memorandum exemption. |
We thank the commenters for their feedback. We have removed the mortgage broker certificate requirement. |
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Several commenters suggested the mortgage broker certificate may be costly in terms of the due diligence required by the broker and may not add any value or may be of little utility for investors. Some of these commenters suggested a certification in respect of matters within, or that ought to be within, the broker's knowledge may suffice. |
If a mortgage broker is actively involved in mortgage syndication, we expect that the mortgage broker will be required to certify the offering memorandum as the issuer of the syndicated mortgage. In these circumstances, a separate mortgage broker certificate would be redundant. |
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Two commenters suggested a mortgage broker certificate should not be required unless the broker is the issuer or syndicator. |
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One commenter suggested a mortgage broker certificate may provide a false sense of security to investors and that the lack of oversight of brokers would need to be addressed if the certificate is to be a requirement. |
We acknowledge the commenter's concern. However, we note that mortgage brokers are subject to oversight under mortgage legislation. |
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PRIVATE ISSUER EXEMPTION |
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37. |
Private issuer exemption should not be available |
Two commenters supported our proposal that the private issuer exemption not be available for distributions of syndicated mortgages. |
We thank the commenters for their support. |
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38. |
Private issuer exemption should be available |
Several commenters expressed that the private issuer exemption should remain available for distributions of syndicated mortgages. |
We thank the commenters for their input, but we believe it is necessary for securities regulators to have a better understanding of this market by requiring issuers of syndicated mortgages to report distributions. |
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Two commenters suggested the exemption could remain available but with the requirement to file a report of exempt distribution. |
Issuers will continue to be able to distribute syndicated mortgages to the same group of investors using the accredited investor or family, friends and business associates exemptions. |
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Other commenters suggested there were ways the CSA could require reporting of distributions under the private issuer exemption other than the requirement to file a report of exempt distribution. |
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One commenter suggested the private issuer exemption could remain available but be limited to distributions to directors, officers or employees of the issuer. |
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One commenter suggested the private issuer exemption would be appropriate for distributions of syndicated mortgages where the property is used by the mortgagor for residential or business purposes. |
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ALTERNATIVE PROSPECTUS AND REGISTRATION EXEMPTIONS |
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39. |
No additional exemptions needed |
Two commenters were of the view that no additional prospectus exemptions were required. |
We thank the commenters for their input. Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador propose to introduce prospectus and dealer registration exemptions for the distribution of qualified syndicated mortgages by licensed mortgage brokerages, similar to the exemptions that exist in British Columbia. Alberta and Québec propose to introduce a prospectus exemption for this instance. Qualified syndicated mortgages are less likely to give rise to the same investor protection issues as other syndicated mortgages, which may have more equity-like characteristics. Please refer to Annex G in each of the above jurisdictions for the details of the above exemptions. |
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Two other commenters were of the view that, if the private issuer exemption remains available, no additional prospectus exemptions would be required. |
We do not propose to introduce additional exemptions based on the attributes of the syndicated mortgage at this time. However, we will monitor activity and may consider additional exemptions in the future. In addition, we note that market participants may seek discretionary exemptive relief to offer certain types of securities if there is a sufficient basis to determine that it would not be contrary to the public interest to grant such relief. |
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Two other commenters were of the view that creating exemptions based on classes of syndicated mortgages would be difficult and it may create confusion and uncertainty among retail investors and result in less disclosure. |
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40. |
Existing local British Columbia exemptions |
Several commenters expressed the view that the current regime in British Columbia should remain in place and the exemptions in BCI 45-501 and British Columbia Instrument 32-517 Exemption from Dealer Registration Requirement for Trades in Securities of Mortgage Investment Entities (BCI 32-517) should be made permanent and adopted across the CSA. |
As discussed above, certain jurisdictions propose to adopt exemptions similar to the existing exemptions for qualified syndicated mortgages in BCI 45-501. |
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Several commenters suggested that BCI 45-501 should be adopted with modifications including: |
We do not agree that all accredited investors should be treated as institutional investors. Syndicated mortgages may be sold under the accredited investor prospectus exemption or the family, friends and business associates prospectus exemption. However, subject to any available exemptions, the registration requirement may apply to parties involved in such distributions. |
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• |
expanding the definition of institutional investor to include accredited investors and those that would be able to invest under the family, friends and business associates exemption; |
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• |
expanding the definition of qualified syndicated mortgage by removing conditions (c) and (d){2}; or |
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• |
limiting the exemptions to mortgages on residential or commercial property with loans-to-value of 80% or less of the appraised value or purchase price. |
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One commenter was of the view that the existing form of offering memorandum for syndicated mortgages in British Columbia, Form 45-901F, provides sufficient disclosure and was preferable to the Form 45-106F2 supplemented by the Form 45-106F18. |
The requirements of proposed Form 45-106F18 are based on British Columbia Form 45-901F and the level of disclosure is intended to be comparable. |
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Three commenters were of the view that BCI 45-501 should not be adopted due to the complexity of having two different regulatory regimes and investor protection concerns given that mortgage brokers may not have the same know-your-client and suitability obligations as registered dealers. |
We acknowledge the feedback and have decided not to introduce these exemptions on a national basis at this time. As discussed above, certain jurisdictions are proposing to adopt exemptions similar to the exemptions for qualified syndicated mortgages in BCI 45-501. However, these exemptions are being adopted on a local basis because of differences in local mortgage legislation and regulation. |
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One commenter was of the view that BCI 32-517 should be repealed. |
BCI 32-517 expired on February 15, 2019. |
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41. |
Exemption for small number of investors proposed in question 7 March 2018 Proposal |
Three commenters were opposed to introducing an exemption for a small number of investors because in their view an exemption should be based on risk factors and the number of investors does not necessarily make a syndicated mortgage more or less risky or there would be more room for misrepresentation under such an exemption. |
We thank the commenters for their input. We are not proposing an exemption based on the number of lenders at this time. |
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Several commenters were supportive of the proposed exemption and one suggested the appropriate numbers of lenders would be ten or less. |
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One commenter was supportive of the proposed exemption but thought it should not be limited to the mortgagor being an individual and there may need to be restrictions around the nature of the business to exclude land development or speculative land holding businesses. |
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One commenter was of the view that the proposed exemption would be reasonable if there was sufficient disclosure on the use of premises and financial statements of the operating business. |
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42. |
Suggestions for new exemptions |
Several commenters suggested various new exemptions, including exemptions for each of the following scenarios: |
We thank the commenters for their suggestions. As discussed above, certain jurisdictions are proposing exemptions for qualified syndicated mortgages, similar to the existing British Columbia exemptions. |
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• |
Investors are exclusively accredited investors and the mortgage is not provided to a developer for purposes of land servicing, land development, the development or construction of more than one residence or the development or construction of one or more commercial or industrial buildings or properties for resale to other persons after the completion of the development or construction. |
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• |
Mortgages with loans-to-value of less than 85%, based on a third-party appraisal, and that are in first or second position. |
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• |
Investors are exclusively high-net-worth individuals. |
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• |
Investors are exclusively institutional investors. |
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• |
The issuer acts as the lead investor and has its own capital at risk alongside the investors. |
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We also note that there is an existing prospectus exemption for distributions to accredited investors, which will remain available for distributions of syndicated mortgages. |
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44. |
Further research |
One commenter suggested that the CSA should further study the primary and secondary markets for syndicated mortgages to determine which exemptions are warranted. |
We acknowledge the comment and will continue to monitor the distribution of syndicated mortgages following the adoption of the Proposed Amendments. |
{2} Conditions (c) and (d) of the existing definition of "qualified syndicated mortgage" under BCI 45-501 are the following: (c) the syndicated mortgage secures a debt obligation on property used solely for residential purposes and containing no more than four residential dwelling units, and (d) the syndicated mortgage does not secure a debt obligation incurred for the construction or development of property.
ANNEX C
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO NATIONAL INSTRUMENT 45-106 PROSPECTUS EXEMPTIONS
1. National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions is amended by this Instrument.
2. Section 1.1 is amended by adding the following definitions:
"professional association" means an organization of real property appraisers that has its head office in Canada and that
(a) admits members on the basis of their academic qualifications, experience and ethical fitness,
(b) requires its members to comply with professional standards of competence and ethics established or endorsed by the organization,
(c) requires or encourages its members to engage in continuing professional development, and
(d) disciplines, suspends or expels its members if misconduct occurs;,
"qualified appraiser" means an individual who
(a) regularly performs property appraisals for compensation,
(b) is a member of a professional association holding the appropriate designation, certification, charter or licence to act as an appraiser for the type of property appraised, and
(c) is in good standing with the professional association referred to in paragraph (b);, and
"syndicated mortgage" means a mortgage in which two or more persons participate, directly or indirectly, as a lender in a debt obligation that is secured by the mortgage;.
3. Section 2.4 is amended by:
(a) adding "or a syndicated mortgage" after "a short-term securitized product" in subsection (4), and
(b) adding the following subsection:
(6) In Ontario, subsection 73.4(2) of the Securities Act (Ontario) does not apply to a distribution of a short-term securitized product or a syndicated mortgage..
4. Section 2.9 is amended by adding the following subsections:
(19) For the purposes of subsections (19.1) and (19.3), a qualified appraiser is independent of an issuer of a syndicated mortgage if there is no circumstance that, in the opinion of a reasonable person aware of all the relevant facts, could interfere with the qualified appraiser's judgment regarding the preparation of an appraisal for a property.
(19.1) Subsections (1), (2) and (2.1) do not apply to a distribution by an issuer of a syndicated mortgage unless, at the same time or before the issuer delivers an offering memorandum to the purchaser in accordance with subsections (1), (2) or (2.1), the issuer delivers to the purchaser an appraisal of the property subject to the syndicated mortgage that
(a) is prepared by a qualified appraiser who is independent of the issuer,
(b) includes a certificate signed by the appraiser stating that the appraisal is prepared in accordance with the applicable professional standards of the professional association of which the qualified appraiser is a member,
(c) provides the fair market value of the property subject to the syndicated mortgage, without considering any proposed improvements or proposed development, and
(d) values the property as at a date that is within 6 months preceding the date that the appraisal is delivered to the purchaser.
(19.2) An issuer of a syndicated mortgage relying on an exemption set out in subsection (1), (2) or (2.1) must not make a representation or give an opinion as to the value of a property subject to the syndicated mortgage in any communication, unless the issuer has a reasonable basis for that value.
(19.3) If an issuer of a syndicated mortgage relying on an exemption set out in subsection (1), (2) or (2.1) discloses in any communication a representation or an opinion as to the value of a property subject to the syndicated mortgage, other than the fair market value disclosed in the appraisal required under subsection (19.1), the issuer must also disclose
(a) with equal or greater prominence, the fair market value disclosed in the appraisal required under subsection (19.1),
(b) the material factors or assumptions used to determine the value, and
(c) whether or not the value was determined by a qualified appraiser who is independent of the issuer.
(19.4) The issuer must file a copy of an appraisal delivered under subsection (19.1) with the securities regulatory authority concurrently with the filing of the offering memorandum..
5. Section 2.36 is amended by:
(a) repealing subsection (1),
(b) replacing "Except in Ontario, and subject" in subsection (2) with "Subject", and
(c) replacing subsection (3) with the following:
(3) Subsection (2) does not apply to the distribution of a syndicated mortgage..
6. Section 6.4 is amended by adding the following subsection:
(3) Despite subsections (1) and (2), an offering memorandum for the distribution of a syndicated mortgage under section 2.9 [Offering memorandum] must be prepared in accordance with Form 45-106F2 and Form 45-106F18..
7. The following form is added after Form 45-106F17:
Form 45-106F18
Supplemental Offering Memorandum Disclosure for Syndicated Mortgages
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Integrate the following disclosure into your offering memorandum for a distribution of a syndicated mortgage.
2. You do not need to follow the order of items in this form. Information required in this form that has already been disclosed in response to the requirements of Form 45-106F2 Offering Memorandum for Non-Qualifying Issuers need not be repeated.
3. You do not need to respond to any item in this form that is inapplicable.
4. Certain items of this form require disclosure about the issuer of a syndicated mortgage and the borrower under a syndicated mortgage. The borrower could be the issuer of the syndicated mortgage. In these circumstances, the terms "issuer" and "borrower" are interchangeable and there is no requirement to duplicate information.
The issuer is required to provide all disclosure required under Form 45-106F2 and this form, including information about the borrower under the syndicated mortgage.
5. In this form, the distribution of a syndicated mortgage is also referred to as the "offering". The lenders or investors in a syndicated mortgage are also referred to in this form as the "purchasers".
6. In this form "principal holder" means each person who, directly or indirectly, beneficially owns or controls 10% or more of any class of voting securities of another person. If a principal holder is not an individual, in addition to the other disclosure requirements, provide the information required for the principal holder for any person that, directly or indirectly, beneficially owns or controls more than 50% of the voting rights of the principal holder.
7. In this form, "related party" has the meaning set out in the General Instructions to Form 45-106F2.
8. Where this form requires an issuer to indicate that copies of a document are available on request, the issuer must provide a copy of such document when requested.
Item 1 -- Description of the Offering
(1) Describe the investment being offered and the legal rights of the purchaser, including all of the following:
• the nature of the investment, i.e., whether it is a participation in a mortgage, an assignment of a participation in a mortgage, a mortgage unit or some other direct or indirect interest or participation in a mortgage over real property and the legal rights of the purchaser attaching to the investment;
• the rights of the purchaser on default by the borrower and the rights of the purchaser to share in the proceeds of any recovery from the borrower, in particular the purchaser's voting rights and whether the purchaser has the right to institute individual legal action against the borrower and, if not, the person or persons who may institute or coordinate the institution of legal action against the borrower;
• if the issuer of the syndicated mortgage is not the borrower under the syndicated mortgage, the rights of the purchaser against the issuer of the syndicated mortgage on default by the borrower, if any.
(2) Describe the project and the plans for the use of the funds.
Item 2 -- Raising of Funds
(1) If the funds to be raised through the offering are required to be raised in stages, disclose the period over which the funds will be raised and the factors that determine when they will be raised.
(2) If there are any arrangements under which any part of the funds raised will only become available to the borrower if certain conditions are fulfilled, describe those conditions, the procedure for the return of funds to the purchaser if the conditions are not met and any deduction or penalty imposed on the borrower or any other person for not meeting the conditions. Give details of the arrangements made for, and the persons responsible for, the supervision of the trust or escrow account or the investment of unreleased funds, and the investment policy to be followed.
Item 3 -- Other Risk Factors Specific to Syndicated Mortgages
(1) State in bold:
Investments in syndicated mortgages are speculative and involve a high degree of risk. You should be aware that this investment has not only the usual risks associated with the financial ability of the borrower to make repayments, but also additional risks associated with syndication.
(2) If the syndicated mortgage includes a personal covenant, guarantee or other financial commitment, state in bold:
The ability of the person providing the personal covenant, guarantee or other financial commitment to perform under the personal covenant, guarantee or other financial commitment will depend on the financial strength of the person. There is no assurance that the person will have the financial ability to be able to satisfy the person's obligations under the personal covenant, guarantee or other financial commitment. You might not receive any return from your investment or the initial amount invested.
(3) Disclose any risk factors associated with the offering.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Potential risk factors include, but are not limited to, any of the following:
• the reliance on the ability of the borrower to make payments under the mortgage;
• the financial strength of any person offering a personal covenant, guarantee or financial commitment;
• the ability to raise further funds as progress in development or construction takes place;
• changes in land value;
• unanticipated construction and development costs or delays;
• the ability to recover one's investment in the event of foreclosure;
• restrictions on the ability of purchasers to take action individually if the borrower defaults;
• whether there are other encumbrances on the mortgaged property and their relative priority;
• the ranking of the syndicated mortgage in relation to other mortgages and encumbrances;
• conflicts of interest between the borrower, purchasers, issuer or others involved in the offering;
• inadequate insurance coverage;
• inability to change the trustee (if any);
• the restrictions imposed by securities legislation on the resale of the syndicated mortgage.
Item 4 -- Administration of the Mortgage
(1) Describe how the syndicated mortgage will be administered as well as all parties involved, including the name, address, contact person and any relevant licences or registration held by each party.
(2) Describe the specific responsibilities of all parties involved in the administration of the syndicated mortgage, including all of the following:
• collection responsibility for payments due under the syndicated mortgage;
• commencement of legal action on default;
• follow-up on insurance expirations or cancellations;
• all other material matters of administration to be provided by the person administering the syndicated mortgage.
(3) Describe the material terms of any administration agreement related to the syndicated mortgage.
(4) Disclose all fees and expenses to be charged to the purchaser under the administration agreement and how they are to be calculated.
(5) Disclose that copies of the administration agreement are available from the issuer on request and explain how to request a copy.
Item 5 -- Trust or Other Agreement
(1) Disclose whether there is any trust or other agreement that provides for any person to make advances of the funds to the borrower and to distribute the proceeds of repayments made by the borrower.
(2) Describe the material terms of any agreement disclosed in (1), including all of the following:
• whether the purchaser is required to grant a power of attorney to the trustee and the terms of that power of attorney;
• all fees and expenses to be charged to the purchaser under the agreement;
• the specific responsibilities of all parties to the agreement, including all of the following:
• the opening of a trust account into which all investment proceeds must be paid until advanced to the borrower and into which all proceeds received in repayment of the syndicated mortgage must be paid before distribution to the purchasers;
• details of how payments related to the syndicated mortgage will be made;
• the mechanism for replacing the trustee and the procedures for dispute resolution.
(3) Disclose that copies of any agreement disclosed in (1) is available from the issuer on request and explain how to request a copy.
Item 6 -- Property Subject to Mortgage
Describe the details of the property subject to the mortgage, including all of the following:
• the address and legal description;
• the past, current and intended use;
• any proposed improvements;
• the date of acquisition of the property and the purchase price paid;
• the details, including the purchase price, of any other transactions involving the property known to the borrower, any related party of the borrower or any of their respective partners, directors, officers or principal holders;
• if the borrower is not the issuer of the syndicated mortgage, the details, including the purchase price, of any other transactions involving the property known to the issuer, any related party of the issuer or any of their respective partners, directors, officers or principal holders;
• any contractual arrangements relating to the property;
• any insurance policies applicable to the property and their status;
• any claims or litigation;
• any known contamination or environmental concerns;
• any other material facts.
Item 7 -- Description of the Syndicated Mortgage
(1) Describe the syndicated mortgage, including all of the following:
• the material terms of the syndicated mortgage, including the principal amount, term, amortization period, interest rate, maturity date, any prepayment entitlement and the ranking of the syndicated mortgage (i.e., first, second, etc.);
• the material terms and relative priority of any other mortgages or encumbrances on the mortgaged property;
• the loan-to-value ratio of the property, calculated on an aggregate basis using the loan value of the syndicated mortgage and all other mortgages or encumbrances with priority over the syndicated mortgage and the appraised value of the property described under item 8;
• the aggregate dollar amount of the funds being raised under the offering;
• the status of the syndicated mortgage, including whether there are any arrears and, if so, the amount and due dates of outstanding payments;
• the means by which the repayments by the borrower will be distributed and the procedure for establishing the proportion to which each purchaser is entitled to share in the distribution;
• the source of funds that the borrower will use to pay interest on the syndicated mortgage, including any reserve accounts or other fund maintained by the borrower or any other person.
(2) Describe the material terms of any commitment letter, or other commitment document, that sets out the terms of the commitment to advance funds to the borrower.
(3) Disclose that copies of the commitment letter, or other commitment document, are available from the issuer on request and explain how to request a copy.
Item 8 -- Appraisal
(1) Describe the most recent appraisal of the value of the property subject to the mortgage, prepared by a qualified appraiser in accordance with subsection 2.9(19.1) of National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions, including all of the following:
• the methodology used;
• all assumptions made;
• any qualifications or limitations;
• the date of the valuation.
(2) Provide details of the most recent assessment of the property subject to the mortgage, including existing improvements by any provincial or municipal assessment authority.
Item 9 -- Exemptions
Disclose any statutory or discretionary exemption from the registration requirement that is being relied upon by any person involved in the offering of the syndicated mortgage.
Item 10 -- Guarantees or Other Similar Financial Commitments
(1) Summarize the terms of any personal covenant, guarantee or other financial commitment provided in connection with the syndicated mortgage. Explain how the personal covenant, guarantee or financial commitment works.
(2) Disclose that copies of the personal covenant, guarantee or financial commitment are available from the issuer on request and explain how to request a copy.
(3) Describe the business experience of the person providing any personal covenant, guarantee or other financial commitment.
(4) Describe the financial resources of the person providing the personal covenant, guarantee or other financial commitment. The description must allow a reasonable purchaser applying reasonable effort to understand the person's ability to meet the obligations under the personal covenant, guarantee or other financial commitment.
(5) Indicate whether the purchasers will be entitled to ongoing disclosure of the financial position of the person providing any personal covenant, guarantee or other financial commitment during the period of the personal covenant, guarantee or commitment, and the nature, verification, timing and frequency of any disclosure that will be provided to purchasers.
Item 11 -- Organization of Mortgage Broker, Mortgage Brokerage or Mortgage Agency
State the laws under which any firm acting as a mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency is organized and the date of formation of the mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency.
Item 12 -- Borrower Information
If the borrower is not the issuer of the syndicated mortgage, provide the disclosure required under items 2, 3, 4 and 12 of Form 45-106F2 Offering Memorandum for Non-Qualifying Issuers as if the borrower were the issuer of the syndicated mortgage.
Item 13 -- Developer
If the property subject to the syndicated mortgage is being developed, state the laws under which the developer is organized and the date of formation of the developer. Describe the business of the developer and any prior experience of the developer in similar projects.
Item 14 -- Mortgage Broker, Mortgage Brokerage or Mortgage Agency, Partners, Directors, Officers and Principal Holders
(1) Disclose the name, municipality of residence and principal occupation for the 5 years preceding the date of the offering memorandum of any individual mortgage broker involved in the offering and the partners, directors, officers and any principal holders of any firm acting as a mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency involved in the offering.
(2) Disclose any penalty or sanction, including the reason for it and whether it is currently in effect, that has been in effect during the 10 years preceding the date of the offering memorandum, or any cease trade order that has been in effect for a period of more than 30 consecutive days during the 10 years preceding the date of the offering memorandum against any of the following:
• a mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency involved in the offering;
• a director, officer or principal holder of a firm acting as a mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency involved in the offering;
• any issuer of which a person referred to above was a director, officer or principal holder at the time of the penalty or sanction.
(3) Disclose any declaration of bankruptcy, voluntary assignment in bankruptcy, proposal under any bankruptcy or insolvency legislation, proceedings, arrangement or compromise with creditors or appointment of a receiver, receiver manager or trustee to hold assets that has been in effect during the 10 years preceding the date of the offering memorandum with respect to any of the following:
• a mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency involved in the offering;
• a director, officer or principal holder of a firm acting as a mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency involved in the offering;
• any issuer of which a person referred to above was a director, officer or principal holder at the time of the declaration, assignment, proposal, proceedings, arrangement, compromise or appointment.
Item 15 -- Developer, Partners, Directors, Officers and Principal Holders
(1) Disclose the name and address of any developer of the property subject to the syndicated mortgage.
(2) Disclose any penalty or sanction, including the reason for it and whether it is currently in effect, that has been in effect during the 10 years preceding the date of the offering memorandum, or any cease trade order that has been in effect for a period of more than 30 consecutive days during the 10 years preceding the date of the offering memorandum against any of the following:
• a developer of the property subject to the syndicated mortgage;
• a director, officer or principal holder of a developer of the property subject to the syndicated mortgage;
• any issuer of which a person referred to above was a director, officer or principal holder at the time of the penalty or sanction.
(3) Disclose any declaration of bankruptcy, voluntary assignment in bankruptcy, proposal under any bankruptcy or insolvency legislation, proceedings, arrangement or compromise with creditors or appointment of a receiver, receiver manager or trustee to hold assets that has been in effect during the 10 years preceding the date of the offering memorandum with respect to any of the following:
• a developer of the property subject to the syndicated mortgage;
• a director, officer or principal holder of a developer of the property subject to the syndicated mortgage;
• any issuer of which a person referred to above was a director, officer or principal holder at the time of the declaration, assignment, proposal, proceedings, arrangement, compromise or appointment.
Item 16 -- Conflicts of Interest
(1) Describe any existing or potential conflicts of interest among any of the following:
• the borrower;
• the issuer;
• a mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency involved in the offering;
• a developer of the property subject to the syndicated mortgage;
• any partners, directors, officers or principal holders of the borrower, issuer, mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency, or developer;
• the trustee, administrator of the mortgage, or any other person providing goods or services to the borrower, issuer, mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency or developer in connection with the syndicated mortgage.
(2) Describe any direct or indirect interest in the property subject to the syndicated mortgage, the borrower or the business of the borrower held by any of the following:
• any mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency, developer, trustee or administrator involved in the offering;
• a director, officer or principal holder of a person or company listed above.
Item 17 -- Material Contracts
(1) To the extent not already disclosed elsewhere in the offering memorandum, give particulars of every material contract relating to the offering or the syndicated mortgage entered into or to be entered into by the borrower, issuer, mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage, mortgage agency or developer, or any related party of the foregoing, within the 2 years preceding the date of the offering memorandum, or that is still in force.
(2) Disclose that copies of the material contracts are available from the issuer on request and explain how to request a copy.
Item 18 -- Disclosure of Fees Specific to the Syndicated Mortgage
(1) Disclose whether a mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency has provided a disclosure statement under mortgage legislation to the borrower concerning all fees, by whatever name those fees are called, to be charged to the borrower. Disclose that copies of the disclosure statement are available from the issuer on request and explain how to request a copy.
(2) If no mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency has provided a disclosure statement to the borrower, describe the fees, by whatever name those fees are called, that are to be charged to the borrower, how they are to be calculated and paid and when any person involved in the distribution is entitled to payment.
(3) Disclose all fees, by whatever name those fees are called, to be paid by the purchaser, directly or indirectly in connection with the syndicated mortgage.
Item 19 -- Registration Documentation
State:
In addition to all other material and documentation reasonably requested and mutually agreed upon, the purchaser should request, either from the lawyer or notary acting on the purchaser's behalf, or from the borrower, issuer or any mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage or mortgage agency involved in the distribution, all of the following documentation after the completion of registration and disbursement of the syndicated mortgage:
• a copy of the certificate of mortgage interest or assignment of the mortgage or any other document evidencing the investment;
• a copy of a confirmation signed by any secured party with priority over the syndicated mortgage confirming the outstanding balance of its encumbrance over the property and that the borrower is not in arrears with any payments;
• written confirmation of valid insurance on the property and disclosure of the interest of the purchaser in the insurance;
• written confirmation that there are no outstanding arrears or delinquent municipal property taxes on the property;
• a state of title certificate, or equivalent, within 120 days of the date of the syndicated mortgage;
• a copy of administration agreement or trust indenture;
• a copy of any agreement the purchaser entered into in connection with the distribution of the syndicated mortgage..
8. This Instrument comes into force on [December 31, 2019].
ANNEX D
PROPOSED CHANGES TO COMPANION POLICY 45-106CP PROSPECTUS EXEMPTIONS
1. Companion Policy 45-106CP Prospectus Exemptions is changed by this Document.
2. Section 3.8 is changed by adding the following subsections:
(11) Issuer of a syndicated mortgage
The offering memorandum exemption may only be used by an issuer to distribute a security of its own issue. Accordingly, only the issuer of a syndicated mortgage may use the offering memorandum exemption to distribute the syndicated mortgage.
Where a borrower enters into a mortgage with two or more persons participating as lenders under the debt obligation secured by the mortgage, or enters into a mortgage with a view to the subsequent syndication of that mortgage to two or more purchasers, lenders or investors, the borrower is the issuer of the syndicated mortgage. Consequently, the obligations to comply with the conditions of the exemption and reporting requirements (including the filing of a report of exempt distribution) would fall on the borrower.
There may be circumstances where a person other than the borrower may be an issuer of a syndicated mortgage. For example, where an existing or committed mortgage is syndicated among lenders by a party not acting on behalf of the borrower, that party will generally be an issuer of the syndicated mortgage. The determination of the identity of the issuer, or issuers, of a syndicated mortgage will depend on the facts and circumstances of the transaction.
Where a person other than the borrower is the issuer of a syndicated mortgage, the ability of the issuer to rely on the offering memorandum exemption for the distribution of the syndicated mortgage will be dependent upon the issuer providing the required information regarding the borrower, including financial statements, in the offering memorandum. The issuer's certificate that the offering memorandum does not contain a misrepresentation will extend to any information provided about the borrower under the syndicated mortgage.
(12) Professional association
The definition of "qualified appraiser" in section 1.1 of the Instrument requires a qualified appraiser to be a member of a professional association. The Appraisal Institute of Canada, The Canadian National Association of Real Estate Appraisers and l'Ordre des évaluateurs agréés du Québec are examples of organizations that we consider to meet the definition of "professional association" in section 1.1 of the Instrument.
(13) Independent qualified appraiser for syndicated mortgages
Subsection 2.9(19) of the Instrument provides the test that the issuer of a syndicated mortgage and a qualified appraiser must apply to determine whether a qualified appraiser is independent of the issuer. The following are examples of when we would consider that a qualified appraiser is not independent. These examples are not a complete list. We would consider that a qualified appraiser is not independent of an issuer if the qualified appraiser satisfies any of the following:
(a) is an employee, insider or director of the issuer;
(b) is an employee, insider or director of a related party of the issuer;
(c) is a partner of any person in paragraph (a) or (b);
(d) holds or expects to hold securities, either directly or indirectly, of the issuer or a related party of the issuer;
(e) holds or expects to hold securities, either directly or indirectly, in another issuer that has a direct or indirect interest in the property that is the subject of the appraisal or in an adjacent property;
(f) is an employee, insider or director of another issuer that has a direct or indirect interest in the property that is the subject of the appraisal or in an adjacent property;
(g) has or expects to have, directly or indirectly, an ownership, royalty or other interest in the property that is the subject of the appraisal or in an adjacent property;
(h) has received the majority of their income, either directly or indirectly, in the three years preceding the date of the appraisal from the issuer or a related party of the issuer.
(14) Appraisals
Subsection 2.9(19.1) of the Instrument requires the issuer to deliver an appraisal of the property subject to a syndicated mortgage. The appraisal must disclose the fair market value of the property, without taking into account any proposed improvements or proposed development. The fair market value of the property, as it currently exists, is important information for prospective purchasers to understand the protection afforded by the security interest in the property subject to the syndicated mortgage in the event of a default by the borrower..
3. Section 4.7 is changed by deleting the first paragraph.
4. These changes become effective on [December 31, 2019].
ANNEX E
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO NATIONAL INSTRUMENT 31-103 REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, EXEMPTIONS AND ONGOING REGISTRANT OBLIGATIONS
1. National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations is amended by this Instrument.
2. Section 8.12 is amended by:
(a) replacing "In Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Québec and Saskatchewan, subsection (2)" in subsection (3) with "Subsection (2)", and
(b) repealing subsection (4).
3. This Instrument comes into force on [December 31, 2019].
ANNEX F
PROPOSED CHANGES TO COMPANION POLICY 31-103CP REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, EXEMPTIONS AND ONGOING REGISTRANT OBLIGATIONS
1. Companion Policy 31-103CP Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations is changed by this Document.
2. Section 3.3 is changed by adding the following to the end of Relevant securities industry experience:
In limited circumstances, relevant securities industry experience may include experience obtained during employment at a firm that has relied on a registration exemption. For example, experience obtained at a registered or licensed mortgage broker, mortgage brokerage, mortgage agency or mortgage dealer under applicable legislation may be considered relevant if the experience can be demonstrated to be relevant to the category applied for. In these circumstances, the regulator may also impose terms and conditions on the individual or the registered firm sponsoring the individual in order to limit their specific activities..
3. These changes become effective on [December 31, 2019].
ANNEX G
LOCAL MATTERS (ONTARIO)
Exemption for Qualified Syndicated Mortgages
In Ontario, we are proposing a registration and prospectus exemption for qualified syndicated mortgages, as set out in Schedule 1 to this Annex. The proposed definition of "qualified syndicated mortgage" is based on the definition in the amended regulations under the Mortgage Brokerages, Lenders and Administrators Act, 2006 (the MBLAA) that came into force on July 1, 2018.
The proposed definition of qualified syndicated mortgage excludes a debt obligation that is incurred for the construction or development of property. Qualified syndicated mortgages are likely more similar to conventional mortgages. Accordingly, we believe that qualified syndicated mortgages do not present the same investor protection concerns that the March 2018 Proposal was intended to address.
Primary oversight for qualified syndicated mortgages will continue to be provided by the Financial Services Commission of Ontario. Accordingly, we are not proposing to require the filing or a report of exempt distribution, to require offering materials to be delivered to the Commission or to subject such materials to the requirements related to statutory rights of action in connection with the distribution of qualified syndicated mortgages under the proposed exemption.
As noted in Annex B, we believe the introduction of this exemption for qualified syndicated mortgages also addresses concerns raised by several commenters in respect of the removal of the Private Issuer Exemption for distributions of syndicated mortgages as well as several alternative exemptions that were suggested by the commenters.
Short-term Securitized Products
As detailed in the March 2018 Proposal, in Ontario, the Proposed Amendments remove the Private Issuer Exemption for the distribution of short-term securitized products to harmonize the treatment of short-term securitized products in Ontario with the other CSA jurisdictions.
Amendments to the Securities Act (Ontario)
Bill 177 received Royal Assent on December 14, 2017. It includes amendments to the Securities Act (Ontario) to remove the existing prospectus and registration exemptions for the distributions of mortgages. As a result, the amended form of the Mortgage Exemptions included in the Proposed Amendments will apply in Ontario, in the same manner as all other CSA jurisdictions. These amendments come into force on proclamation, which we expect will correspond to the time at which the Proposed Amendments come into force.
Impact on Investors
The anticipated impact on investors is set out in the attached notice. With respect to the proposed exemptions for qualified syndicated mortgages, there will be no change from the current regime under the Proposed Amendments. As these types of mortgages are likely more similar to conventional mortgages, we believe that it is appropriate for them to continue to be exempt from the prospectus and registration requirements.
Anticipated Costs and Benefits
The anticipated costs and benefits of the Proposed Amendments are set out in the attached notice. In Ontario, the anticipated costs of the Proposed Amendments will be offset by the costs of compliance with the amended regulations under the MBLAA that came into force on July 1, 2018. In particular, the requirements for an appraisal of the fair market value of a property subject to a syndicated mortgage and the supplemental disclosure requirements for the OM Exemption are similar to requirements that apply under the MBLAA to non-qualified syndicated mortgages in the absence of the Proposed Amendments.
The proposed exemptions for qualified syndicated mortgages will also decrease the expected costs of the Proposed Amendments.
Unpublished Materials
In proposing the Proposed Amendments and the Proposed Changes, we have not relied on any significant unpublished study, report or other written materials.
Authority for Proposed Amendments
In Ontario, the rule-making authority for the Proposed Amendments is as follows:
• NI 45-106: paragraph 20 of subsection 143(1) of the Securities Act (Ontario).
• NI 31-103: paragraph 8 of subsection 143(1) of the Securities Act (Ontario).
SCHEDULE 1 TO ANNEX G
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO ONTARIO SECURITIES COMMISSION RULE 45-501 ONTARIO PROSPECTUS AND REGISTRATION EXEMPTIONS
1. Ontario Securities Commission Rule 45-501 Ontario Prospectus and Registration Exemptions is amended by this Instrument.
2. Section 1.1 is amended by adding the following definitions:
"qualified syndicated mortgage" means a syndicated mortgage that satisfies all of the following:
(a) the syndicated mortgage secures a debt obligation on property that satisfies all of the following:
(i) the property is used primarily for residential purposes;
(ii) the property includes no more than a total of four units;
(iii) if used for both commercial and residential purposes, the property includes no more than one unit that is used for commercial purposes;
(b) the syndicated mortgage does not secure a debt obligation incurred for the construction or development of property;
(c) at the time the syndicated mortgage is arranged, the amount of the debt it secures, together with all other debt secured by mortgages on the property that have priority over, or the same priority as, the syndicated mortgage, does not exceed 90 per cent of the fair market value of the property relating to the mortgage, excluding any value that may be attributed to proposed or pending development of the property;
(d) the syndicated mortgage is limited to one debt obligation;
(e) the rate of interest payable under the syndicated mortgage is equal to the rate of interest payable under the debt obligation;
(f) the term of the syndicated mortgage is the same as the term of the identified debt obligation;
"syndicated mortgage" means a mortgage in which two or more persons participate, directly or indirectly, as a lender in a debt obligation that is secured by the mortgage;.
3. Part 2 is amended by adding the following section:
2.10 Qualified syndicated mortgages -- The prospectus requirement does not apply to a distribution of a qualified syndicated mortgage on real property in a jurisdiction of Canada by a person who is registered or licensed under the Mortgage Brokerages, Lenders and Administrators Act, 2006..
4. Part 3 is amended by adding the following section:
3.5 Qualified syndicated mortgages -- The dealer registration requirement does not apply in respect to a trade in a qualified syndicated mortgage on real property in a jurisdiction of Canada by a person who is registered or licensed under the Mortgage Brokerages, Lenders and Administrators Act, 2006..
5. This Instrument comes into force on [December 31, 2019].