SEC to Complete Rules Expanding Access to Private Markets

Startups and hedge funds are one step away from potentially tapping a bigger pool of investors for money with the SEC’s backing.

The Securities and Exchange Commission will vote Aug. 26 on whether to adopt regulations that would expand the accredited investor definition, which dictates who can invest in private markets, according to an open meeting notice posted Wednesday.

The accredited investor rules under consideration will be based on a proposal the commission issued without support from its Democratic-leaning members last year.

The plan would let individuals with certain professional financial certifications become accredited investors, even if they don’t meet ...