The Amex changed rules to attract foreign firms.

Directors of the American Stock Exchange said they were easing trading rules in a bid to encourage more Japanese and West European companies to list their stock. The changes would allow more flexibility in listing companies that have different laws and customs for electing directors, reporting financial results and conducting shareholder votes. Currently, foreign companies seeking to list their stocks for trading on the Amex must meet the same requirements as U.S.-based firms.