Switch to an accessible version of this website which is easier to read. (requires cookies)

Hedge Funds: Sharon calls for greater transparency, not over-regulation

September 23, 2008 2:30 PM
Originally published by Sharon Bowles MEP

The European Parliament is set to approve a report on hedge funds later today that, despite efforts from Socialist and Labour MEPs, will not introduce top-down regulation. Sharon, ALDE Shadow rapporteur, was instrumental in ensuring that the report urges more transparency and information on capital requirements, rather than singling out hedge funds and private equity specifically.

Commenting, Sharon said:

"It is important that the Parliament does not adopt a reactionary, knee jerk response to recent events. To target hedge funds and private equity specifically for regulation is not the right approach. Regulation must be non-discriminatory and must be part of a broader overall package of monitoring risk. A smart, forward looking approach is needed if we are to prevent not only the recent crisis but also any other potential mishaps. Voluntary codes have only very recently been adopted by hedge funds and must be given more time before we make any determinative judgements.

"The first draft of Mr Rasmussen's report was not acceptable to the majority of the parliament with its old school top down regulatory approach that would stifle any growth in the sector. Thankfully, many Liberal Democrat amendments that have softened the approach have been accepted and we can now look forward to the vast majority of the report to be included in the Commission's upcoming legislation on capital requirements and credit ratings agencies, expected next month.

What would you like to do next?

  • Subscribe for updates

    Read updates from this website in your desktop or online news reader

    • On a news reader website

      •  
      •  
      •  

      In a desktop news reader or a website not listed above

      •  
    • Example monthly digest email
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your email address, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image

    Join our email list

    • If you submit your email address, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image

    Follow the party's activity on...

  • Share this page

    Share this page on another website

    Link to this page

    On websites and printed material:
    medwaylibdems.org.uk/en/article/2008/205357/hedge-funds-sharon-calls-for-greater-transparency-not-over-regulation
    In text messages, Twitter, or reading over the phone:
    medwaylibdems.org.uk/a78SN

    Email this page to a friend


    • Generate different image
  • Help out or donate

    Help out in your local area

      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your email address, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image
  • Tell us what you think

    Send us your views

    • If you choose to join our email list, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us. You do not need to join our email list to complete this form.


    • Generate different image