The Wall Street Journal reports that the Securities and Exchange Commission may loosen the rules for private placements and discusses the world of private deal-making, made possible by a SEC rule called Regulation D.

Robert (Bob) Robbins, head of Pillsbury's Corporate & Securities practice, was quoted as saying that “Reg D offerings are the most prevalent form of capital-raising in the U.S.," and as cautioning that while it may be tempting to participate in a private deal, there are risks to consider and precautions to take. “And you should invest only if you're willing never to see the money again," says Robbins.