The real question to me is, what is a "private" investment if everyone can invest in it? Why isn't it subject to the same reporting requirements as a "public" investment?
The real question to me is, what is a "private" investment if everyone can invest in it? Why isn't it subject to the same reporting requirements as a "public" investment?
You're right, the 'public'/'private' distinction is confusing and outdated. It should just be 'high-reporting' (certified by accountants/lawyers/exchanges to meet certain standards) and 'low-reporting'.
Perhaps tax-advantaged retirement accounts shouldn't be allowed into 'low-reporting' situations.
But with a person's own excess money, they shouldn't face a wealth test to invest it anywhere their judgement guides them - if they're allowed to gamble, donate, burn, over-leverage, etc that money a thousand other ways to zero as well.
This of course means that any investor into such a company needs to have a more intimate relationship and understanding of the company despite the lack of detailed reporting, which is at least one reason to have accredited investor rules.