The MSRB received approval from SEC on December 14, 2017, to amend MSRB Rule G-34, on CUSIP numbers, new issue, and market information requirements (the “amendments”). The amendments will codify the MSRB’s longstanding interpretive view that brokers, dealers and municipal securities dealers (collectively, “dealers”) are “underwriters” when acting as placement agent in private placements of municipal securities, including direct purchases. In addition, the amendments will extend to non-dealer municipal advisors, the requirement that a municipal advisor obtain a CUSIP number when advising on a competitive transaction in municipal securities. Finally, the amendments will provide a principles-based exception for dealers (and municipal advisors in competitive sales) from the CUSIP number requirements when selling a new issue of municipal securities in certain circumstances where the dealer or municipal advisor reasonably believes (e.g., by obtaining a written representation) that the present intent of the purchasing entity is to hold the municipal securities to maturity or earlier redemption or mandatory tender. Dealers also will be able to rely on the principles-based exception with respect to the requirement to apply for depository eligibility for a new issue pursuant to Rule G-34. The amendments will become effective on June 14, 2018.