That was curious indeed. And I've often wondered if Tao knew that BR petition was coming, and so duped SM into thinking the SEC would settle with him and SPNG. I've wondered if the guy is playing it straght since his efforts to look after the shareholders seem dubious at best. DUBIOUS!
the SEC settlement talks with the crooks .. have nothing to do with any share holders - its to settle the civil charges filed against them personally for securities violations
just like the DOJ .. with criminal charges
unfortunately the crooks just the company charter as the vehicle to rape and pillage the public .. and the company will pay the price for its part in the crimes and civil actions