I wonder if this is a test or a step to eliminate the NX rule all together.
From traderbulletin.com
The NYSE is extending the test period during which it will disengage Direct+ in five test stocks until June 20, 2003. The action affects the stocks of American Express (AXP), Pfizer (PFE), International Business Machines (IBM), Goldman Sachs (GS), and Citigroup (C).