Decision on Chinese buyout of Chicago exchange delayed

Washington

THE US Securities and Exchange Commission has dodged a political hot potato - for now - by delaying a decision on whether to approve a Chinese-led group's controversial takeover of the Chicago Stock Exchange.

Facing a Wednesday deadline, the SEC, led by chairman Jay Clayton, said its commissioners will review the proposed buyout, potentially setting up a vote at an unknown date on whether it should go through. The surprise announcement effectively overrode a recommendation from the regulator's staff to give the deal the green light.