The Commission is amending its rules to delegate authority to the Director of the Division of Enforcement to issue formal orders of investigation. These orders designate the enforcement staff authorized to issue subpoenas in connection with investigations under the federal securities laws. This action is intended to expedite the investigative process by removing the need for enforcement staff to seek Commission approval prior to performing routine functions. The Commission is adopting this delegation for a one-year period, and at the end of the period will evaluate whether to extend the delegation (though any formal orders issued during this period will remain in effect).