Why was ABC Company halted and at whose request?
A stock is generally halted pending the release of material news that may affect the price of a stock. A trading halt allows the market to digest this information and also creates a level playing field among investors. Halts are issued by IIROC for regulatory reasons or at the request of the involved company. When a company requests a trading halt (usually prior to issuing a news release), the company must assure IIROC that its announcement is imminent. The nature of the announcement and the current status of events must also be disclosed to IIROC, so that IIROC can assess the need and timeframe for the trading halt. 

Does IIROC review company news releases prior to public dissemination?
Every listed company on the TSX is responsible for having IIROC review its news releases prior to being disseminated over the news wires. Listed companies on the TSX Venture Exchange must have IIROC review their news releases in accordance with TSX Venture Policy 3.3. If you are a company representative and have a question about a news release, please contact a IIROC Surveillance Officer - go to Contact Info.

What is the difference between a "trading halt", a "Cease Trade Order", a "suspension" or a "business halt"?
A trading halt is issued to suspend trading in a security while material news from the company is disseminated. Halts are usually temporary - less than two hours - with trading resuming once the company has issued the important news. Halts and resumptions are issued by IIROC or a marketplace upon which the security is listed or quoted. More about halts and resumptions...

A Cease Trade Order (CTO) is issued against a company for a variety of reasons including failing to meet its disclosure requirements such as filing a quarterly or annual financial statement, or as a result of an enforcement action that involves an investigation of wrongdoing. A CTO is often in place for an extended period of time and can be indefinite. CTOs are issued by the Securities Commissions. More about CTOs...

A suspension is issued by an exchange in situations when companies fail to meet listing requirements.

A business halt is a long trading halt implemented by the Exchange due to an ongoing review or business issues such as non-payment of fees.

How does IIROC notify the public about halts and resumptions?
IIROC disseminates a notice over the news wire services. View halts and resumptions - daily notices.

Does a halt mean there is something wrong with the listed company?
No. A halt in trading does not reflect upon the reputation or management of a company nor upon the quality of its securities. In fact, most trading halts are usually made at the request of the listed company involved.

What is the company news that led to a trading halt? Is it good or bad news?
IIROC does not divulge any material news about a company's business or financial affairs. Please contact or visit the website of the company involved for this information.