Automatic Shelf Registration

Definition:

A less onerous regulatory regime for a Well-Known Seasoned Issuer under Rule 415 of the Securities Act in relation to the registration and issuance of new securities. Critically, it dispenses with any SEC review. This allows a single registration document to be filed for the issuance of multiple classes of securities. Issuers file for registration (effective from filing) using a Form S-3 Registration Statement or Form F-3 Registration Statement for Foreign Private Issuers.

Form S-3 Registration Statement or Form F-3 Registration Statement issuers may use shelf registration to register securities that will be offered on an immediate, continuous or even a delayed basis. The process is particularly useful for issuing certain more complex securities, such as those used in a business combination, mortgage-backed securities or closed-end fund securities and for At-the-Market (ATM) Offerings.