Let’s have a look on what constitutes a CE (skull and crossbones).
Below is OTC’s definition of a scam that earns the dreaded CE. As you can see a CE can be given for numerous reasons. To say it is only based off reporting is completely misleading and false. If you follow “OTC Corporate Actions” you will find that some OTC stocks have earned a CE NOT based on quarterly numbers. HPIL past and ongoing record fits some of what is listed. Even some companies that are or have recently become current have been given a CE. Even though current, many brokerage firms are not quoting CE stocks.
From OTC:
Warning! Caveat Emptor
OTC Markets Group has discontinued the public display of quotes for this security because it has been labeled Caveat Emptor (Buyer Beware). OTC Markets Group designates certain securities as “Caveat Emptor” and places a skull and crossbones icon next to the stock symbol when there may be reason for investors to exercise additional caution and perform thorough due diligence before making an investment decision in that security. View our other compliance designations to learn more about how we use data to flag risks and inform investors.
The Caveat Emptor Designation may be assigned when OTC Markets Group becomes aware of one or more of the following:
Promotion — The security is the subject of stock promotion that may be misleading or manipulative. Promotional activities may include news releases, spam email, and newsletters, whether they are published by the issuer or a third party. See OTC Markets Group's Policy on Stock Promotion.
Investigation of Fraud or Other Criminal Activities — There is an investigation or other indication of fraudulent or other criminal activity involving the company, its securities or insiders.
Suspension/Halt — A regulatory authority or an exchange has halted or suspended trading for public interest concerns (i.e. not a news or earnings halt).
Undisclosed Corporate Actions — The security or company is the subject of a corporate action, such as a reverse merger, stock split, or name change, without adequate current information being publicly available.
Other Public Interest Concern — OTC Markets Group has determined that there is a public interest concern regarding the security. Such concerns may include, but are not limited to, unusual or unexplained trading activity, spam or disruptive corporate actions, even when current information is publicly available.
