At the SEC Speaks event, Chairman Paul Atkins announced that the Securities and Exchange Commission will reconsider rules that currently restrict how much closed-end funds can invest in private funds, signaling a potential broadening of investor access to private markets. This move is part of a broader initiative to embrace market innovation, as Atkins emphasized in his remarks. The reconsideration of these rules could have significant implications for major private equity firms such as Blackstone Inc., KKR & Co., Apollo Global Management, and Blue Owl Capital, as it may allow a broader set of investors to participate in private fund investments. Congresswoman Ann Wagner expressed support for the SEC's move, noting it aligns with her Increasing Investor Opportunities Act, which aims to provide more investment opportunities for retail investors. However, the initiative has drawn criticism from some quarters, with Better Markets warning that increasing private securities offerings could undermine public capital markets.