NICK and GIBSTER (AKA MOONER), If we're told that the brokerage firms can lend our shares unbeknownst to the stockholder, I'll be requesting my certificates be sent to me that day. Nothing else changes other than you need to keep the paper certificates safe from fire, water and the dog--if you've got one. Gibster, this move has nothing at all to do with the possible conspiracy the Harrell's have suggested may have taken place. This is simple question for which I don't have the answer. The question is " can any/all brokerage houses loan shares held in street name for the purpose of shorting"? If the answer is yes, I can't think of any good reason to continue "dangle" any (of my) shares out there. I'll put them in my fireproof safe--thank you. Regards, Bill.