Nasdaq will tighten and accelerate actions against so-called microcap companies after the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission approves a related rule change. Under the new framework, companies with market values below $5 million that remain in that range for a specified period—reported as 30 consecutive days—can face expedited suspension and delisting. The shift is intended to strengthen enforcement against stock manipulation and other trading abuses that have been associated with smaller listed firms, where liquidity can be thinner and price swings can be more abrupt. Nasdaq’s rule update also reflects broader regulatory focus on unusual market activity in microcap stocks, including concerns about “wild market swings” and allegations of manipulation. By moving faster to halt and remove companies that fail to meet listing standards, Nasdaq aims to reduce prolonged periods in which investors may be exposed to distressed or potentially abusive trading conditions. The changes follow SEC approval, which signals the regulator’s support for more rapid listing compliance measures targeting the smallest public companies.