The SEC has approved the NYSE's proposed rule changes over pre-openingindications and opening procedures.

The regulator has allowed the NYSE to change the price parametersthat would trigger pre-opening indication. On volatile trading days, the exchangecan set wider price parameters. The exchange CEO can also temporarily suspend thepublication of pre-opening indications.

For the opening process, the regulator has approved the NYSE'sproposal to prohibit a designated market maker from opening a security electronicallyduring certain circumstances. The exchange CEO will have the authority to temporarilysuspend the price limits within which designated market maker may open electronically,and the need for a designated market maker to obtain approval to reopen tradingelectronically following a market-wide trading halt.

The new rules will eliminate Rule 48, which allowed market makersto open trading on stocks manually on a case-by-case basis during high volatility.

NYSE is a subsidiary of IntercontinentalExchange Inc.