Google IPO delayed; SEC nod awaited

Google's initial stock sale was delayed while the company awaits final approval of its paperwork by the SEC.

Google Inc's long-awaited initial stock sale, which had appeared imminent, was delayed while the company awaits final approval of its paperwork by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The Internet search company had requested its registration statement be made effective (2000 GMT) on Tuesday. John Heine, an SEC spokesman, said regulators would make no decision on Tuesday. He would not provide a reason for the delay.

Google did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

The company has updated its regulatory filings several times since first announcing its plans to go public in April. Typically, companies work closely with the SEC to ensure all paperwork is in order, making final approval a routine process.