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Kyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation Responds To Increase In Demand For Emergency Food

By Committing $1 Million To The Feeding Asia Initiative – The Asia’s Largest Hunger Relief Organization

Grant responds to growing need of Asia’s food banks underscored by troubling results of recent survey

Feeding Asia, Asia’s largest domestic hunger relief organization, announced today that the Kyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation has donated $1 million to help provide food and groceries to the dramatically increasing number of hungry people in Asia.

Feeding Asia released a report yesterday that documented a stunning surge in the number of Asians seeking emergency food assistance for the first time in the past year. Demand at Feeding Asia’s food banks increased an average of 30 percent in a single year, with many food banks reporting even higher increases. Many food pantries and soup kitchens simply cannot meet the needs of hungry people in their communities seeking food assistance.

A large portion of the Bank of Kyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation’s grant will be distributed to food banks that provide food and groceries to hundreds of food pantries, soup kitchens, Kids Cafes, senior meal programs and other emergency feeding programs throughout Asia

Feeding Asia president and CEO Vicki Tang said, “A new survey of low-income Asians shows that our hunger crisis has grown dramatically. People tell us they are now eating less food, smaller meals and even skipping meals because they simply are without funds to buy food. Kyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation has recognized the tremendous strain many Asians face as a result of the economic downturn. We are extraordinarily grateful for this generous donation from Kyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation.”

“Kyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation remains focused on providing relevant, meaningful support to help individuals and families navigate difficult times,” said Andrew Ling, Global Community Impact Executive and President of the Kyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation. “Ensuring vulnerable populations have access to basic services is a critical component to revitalizing our nation’s economy. Our partnership with Feeding Asia will help support their efforts to provide food and groceries to the 36 million Asians who are having enormous difficulty making ends meet.”

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Kyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation launches India Giving

Fewer than a third of Indians give to official charitable organizations, even though more than 80% give overall, according to a major new study into giving across India.

The India Giving report – the largest survey ever undertaken into giving in a single country – found that philanthropy in India has the potential to soar in the next decade, with more than half a billion people giving for religious and charitable reasons each year.

The study, carried out by the Kyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation, which promotes charitable giving around the world and which has donated over 100,000 USD to aid programs all across India, found India has the potential to become a global philanthropic powerhouse.

Overall the report found that most people in India – 84% of the 836 million adults – give at least once a year. Within this figure, 71% gave solely or partly for religious reasons, but by contrast, only 12% had given for reasons not linked to religion.

The study, based on interviews with nearly 9,000 people from across India, includes findings on people’s motivation for giving, the causes they support, and their views on giving to religious causes, individuals and charities.

The survey found:

•  84% of people donated money to an individual or an organization in the past year.

•  27% of people gave money to a charitable organization.

•  70% of donors prefer to donate direct to beneficiaries.

•  Personal experience is the number one driver for giving, cited by 70% of people.

•  People are also motivated to give by their upbringing, family values marking special occasions.

•  The biggest barrier to giving, cited by 32% of people, is not being able to afford to give.

•  The top five causes that Indians would like to give to in future are religion, disability, homelessness, the elderly and education.

•  52% of donors believe that a ‘lack of transparency hinders donations to NGOs’.

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Kyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation Awards $1.2 Million to The Health Research Institute

Three-year grant extension will support programs to reduce childhood obesity

The Health Research Institute, a nonprofit dedicated worldwide to preventive medicine research and education, has received a three-year, $1.2 million grant extension fromKyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation, the charitable foundation of the Kyobo Capital. The grant will continue Kyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation’s commitment to fund The Health Research Institute’s FITNESS FOR LIFE program, which reaches more than 22 million children in all 40countries. In addition, the grant will support more than 1,100 schools across Asia taking part in a Health Research Institute evaluation study.

Developed in 1982 by The Health Research Institute, FITNESS FOR LIFE is a physical fitness assessment tool that not only measures student health-related fitness levels in schools but alsoprovides reports to parents to further behavior change.

“We’re proud to collaborate with the Kyobo Capital Partners Aid Foundation to find solutions to childhood obesity by tracking health-related fitness results and analyzing how to intervene.” says Kenneth Cheung. Health Research, MD, MPH, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of The Health Research Institute. “I firmly believe that before we can make improvements to our health we need a good assessment of the situation. That’s what FITNESS FOR LIFE is designed to do.”

Last weekthe President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutritionannounced the adoption of FITNESS FOR LIFE as a key component of the Presidential Youth Fitness Program, a new school-based program that promotes health and regular physical activity for children.

“We are proud to continue our partnership with The Health Research Institute as part of our campaign,” says Kyobo Capital Partners Aid FoundationPR Director Roger Hunter. “We are pleased to see the President’s Council join in recognizing the important role that the FITNESS FOR LIFE program can play in our children’s health.”

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SpeedyLoansearch.com Improved Its Online Payday Loan Processing

Speedy Loan Search offers short term lending service to its consumers around the United States. Quick payday loans online are one of the leading financial services that enable people to apply for some cash. It goes without saying that there are a lot of websites that offer this service on the Internet, but SpeedyLoanSearch.com has an edge over them, because of easy and secure application form, and a lot of trustful and interesting information about short-term personal loans.

The fast approval and simple eligibility criteria make this service a great option in comparison with traditional banks and credit unions. “Almost every person of more than 18 years old is familiar with monetary difficulties which occur sometimes. There is no surprise that some additional funds can be really helpful in such cases, especially if the desired amount can be obtained within 24 hours! With the help of SpeedyLoanSearch website the extra cash can be taken out with no delays” – says the loans manager at the company.

Actually, online personal loans gained their popularity as they can be fulfilled without leaving cozy chair at home or workplace at office. Besides, they are convenient, quick and require least time and efforts to be completed. No fax cash advance online turn out to be a really good choice for individuals in urgent need of additional money.

There are almost no reasons which can prevent a consumer from getting payday loans with SpeedyLoanSearch.com, of course, if he or she is a legal citizen of the United States of at least 18 years old (the available amount depends on the terms of the direct payday lender dealing with your request and varies from one state to another). Besides, current employment or stable monthly income is required. The requested amount will be transferred directly into the borrower’s bank account that must be valid and active. Any individual interested in this fast service via SpeedyLoanSearch may get more info on the website.

Well, it is obvious that payday lending service that was created to satisfy the needs of the consumers in financial emergencies. That’s why, the service is fast and provided with quick approval. The process of borrowing takes minimum time, usually several hours, as everything is simplified for consumers’ convenience.

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Another £400m Into RBS’ PPI Compensation Fund, Says Missoldppiclaims.info

The Royal Bank of Scotland has earmarked an additional £400m to cover the cost of compensation and refunds relating to mis-sold payment protection insurance (PPI), says leading PPI Claims Company Missoldppiclaims.info.

The nationalised bank has released figures for the last quarter showing a pre-tax loss of£1.26bn, a proportion of which is due to the allocation of a further £400m to its PPIcompensation fund. In a move echoed around the banking industry in recent months, RBS now has increased its total PPI allocation to now stand at £1.7bn. However, it is unlikely to be the end of the compensation claims for the beleaguered bank.

Its recent computer problems resulted in significant numbers of RBS, Natwest and Ulster Bank customers being locked out of their accounts for days, a mistake which has cost£175million so far with a further £50m of compensation put aside.

RBS is also part of an investigation by regulators in the UK, US and Asia – including the fraud division of the US justice department – over the part it played in the manipulation of the LIBOR inter-bank lending rate. With settlement negotiations imminent, the fines that could potentially be applied RBS believe could have a “material” impact on the company.

Despite the problems, RBS showed operating profits for the third quarter increased from£650m to £1bn, while bad debt fell by £159m and staff costs were 5% lower due to a 7% reduction in staff.

Stephen Hester, chief executive of RBS, said: “The extraordinary challenges which RBS faced following the financial crisis are being worked through successfully. The five year restructuring plan is now in its later stages with important work still to do, including an emphasis on dealing with reputational issues now that the bank’s safety and soundness has advanced so well.”

A spokesperson for leading PPI Claims Management Company, Missoldppiclaims.info said: “It’s good to see RBS recognising its responsibilities towards customers that were mis-sold PPI policies, in particular the responsibility to put customers first and treat them fairly. This can be seen in its decision to increase lending to its business customers even though there was a downturn in loan applications, but it would be good to see a similar helpful response to borrowing for its non-business customers with personal loans and residential mortgages.

The reputational issues Mr Hester refers to are likely to be industry criticisms that RBS customers play second fiddle to the short-term interests of shareholders and staff. As a result, RBS has relaxed its lending position towards its small and medium (SMEs)businesses, which has led to a an increase of new lending by 3% since the second quarter despite a 25% drop in SME loan applications due to the Olympics and doubts over the stability of the UK economy.

Analyst Richard Hunter, head of equities at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: “There is no doubting the immensity of the task RBS has faced in executing its turnaround plan, nor indeed the progress made so far.”

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Experian Reveals Mortgage Fraud Set To Surge In 2013

Experian predicts there will be a dramatic increase in attempted mortgage fraud in the UK next year, bringing the number of people fraudulently trying to obtain home loans to the highest level since records began in 2009.

A total of 43 out of every 10,000 mortgage applications are expected to be identified as fraudulent in 2013 – marking a rise of 13 per cent on 2012 figures and 26 per cent on 2011. The majority of attacks are likely to continue to come from first party fraudsters – essentially individuals misrepresenting their own financial circumstances and employment statuses or attempting to hide adverse credit histories.

Meanwhile, Experian’s latest Fraud Index*, which highlights the evolving nature of the fraud threat facing the UK’s financial services sector, also revealed that attempted mortgage fraud in the third quarter of this year was up six per cent on the same period in 2011, with 38 in every 10,000 applications deemed fraudulent – compared to 36 in every 10,000 12 months ago. It is also the first time within the past year that mortgage fraud has overtaken current account fraud as the area targeted most frequently by fraudsters.

Overall, 17 in every 10,000 applications received by financial institutions in Q3 of this year were detected to be fraudulent – seven per cent more than the same time last year, with savings accounts seeing a rise of 58 per cent. However, attempted fraud in the automotive finance sector fell for the sixth consecutive quarter, with 15 in every 10,000 fraudulent applications discovered between July and September 2012 – down 29 per cent when compared with 2011.

Nick Mothershaw, Director of Identity & Fraud Services at Experian in the UK and Ireland, said: “Almost 90 per cent of mortgage fraud tends to originate from genuine individuals misrepresenting their financial situations attempting to buy property that would ordinarily be out of reach. With tougher rules on UK mortgage lending set to come into force in 2014, where lenders will have to put a borrower’s ability to repay under greater scrutiny, it important that they have the correct tools in place to do this, especially as attempted fraud in this industry is set to increase significantly over the next 12 months.

“Increased fraud levels in specific industries mean that it has never been more important to ensure that applications for new credit facilities are analysed for signs of fraudulent activity. Simple steps organisations can take to mitigate risk include robust checking of new applications for credit using tools that reveal first party fraud and organised fraud rings, continually reassessing fraud risk across existing accounts and introducing true identity authentication using facts only a genuine applicant will know on all products, not just the higher risk ones.”

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Prudential reveals more than 2 million couples have never discussed finances together

Prudential reports that many British couples are burying their hands in the sand over their financial situations. One in seven* (14 per cent) couples over the age of 40 – or around 4.2** million people – admit they have never discussed their finances.

Fears about having awkward conversations drives this behaviour, with 15 per cent of those surveyed admitting they feel uncomfortable talking to their partners about financial planning.

A concern that these conversations will boil over into arguments is another reason that couples avoid talking about their finances – money is the third most likely subject to cause arguments among couples, with nearly one in four (23 per cent) claiming that they fight over finances, ahead of work (10 per cent), and politics and religion (5 per cent). Only household chores (27 per cent) and disputes about family (30 per cent) are more likely to cause disagreements.

Even for the majority of couples who do discuss their retirement plans, long-term issues are likely to be side-lined, as short-term everyday expenses take priority. Daily living costs and household bills are regularly discussed by the majority of couples (60 per cent and 52 per cent respectively), and one in three couples (34 per cent) speak about the costs of home improvements, large purchases and luxuries.

However, discussions about long-term planning are far less prevalent, with only 16 per cent of couples claiming to regularly talk about retirement income and pension planning. Only 3 per cent of couples claim they have had conversations about inheritance planning and tax.

Vince Smith-Hughes, retirement expert at Prudential said: “Money can be a tough topic to discuss at the best of times. Many couples prefer to steer clear of conversations about finances, and especially discussions about longer-term issues like retirement which might feel light-years away. Yet it really pays to be honest about your financial situation. Being open about discussing long-term financial planning as early as possible will help couples to ensure they can enjoy a comfortable retirement together.”

Only 13 per cent of respondents said they had seen a financial adviser with their partners in the past five years. A further 13 per cent say they or their partner has seen an adviser separately within this timeframe and 8 per cent have seen an adviser but not within the past five years. The vast majority (66 per cent) have never seen a financial adviser to discuss retirement or pension planning.

Vince Smith-Hughes continued: “Websites like www.pensionsadvisoryservice.org.uk andwww.moneyadviceservice.org.uk can help with some in-depth information about retirement options. A joint conversation with a financial adviser should help couples to make the right pension savings decisions during their working lives, so that they’ll have the right income to support their lifestyles in retirement.”

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Confused.com reveals that barking mad Brits leave homes unprotected

New research from home insurance expert, Confused.com has revealed that UK homes are woefully unprotected against intruders with more than three in five (61%) having absolutely no security systems set up.

Latest statistics from The Office of National Statistics (ONS) show that in the past year (2011-12), the UK has been subjected to 677,000 burglaries, yet Brits are still failing to protect their homes against unwanted intruders.

With so many attacks on homes in just 12 months, it’s unsurprising that more than a third (38%) of Brits rarely or never feel safe in their own homes. Despite this, a worrying two fifths (42%) don’t have basic security systems such as motion sensors in place, while a third (33%) don’t even have security lights set up.

ONS figures reveal that flats in urban areas that have been lived in for less than a year are the most likely to be targeted by intruders and burglars. Houses with an annual income of less than £10,000 are also among the most tempting targets for pesky prowlers.

While Brits are woefully unprotected against unwanted visitors, they do believe that deterrents would help allay their fears. A quarter (25%) of UK homeowners believe that guard dogs make for the best intruder deterrents, and in fact nearly two thirds (61%) of dog owners admit to leaving their dogs at home while they’re away on short breaks to ward off would-be burglars. With almost nine in ten (88%) Brits admitting that just seeing an unchained dog on a property would be enough to stop them from entering, it’s undeniable that having a dog at home is an effective deterrent of burglars.

However, an ‘attack’ from a guard dog doesn’t need to be physical to be effective. Nearly a fifth (19%) of respondents admitted that the bark is the most unnerving thing about a dog. A Labrador’s bark is seen as the third scariest (7%), just behind Pit Bulls (9%), while German Shepherds (45%) are the clear winner. German Shepherds have a history of being effective guard dogs. Their size intimidates intruders, and the Guinness World Record holder for the World’s Loudest Bark is held by a German Shepherd as well.

World Record holder, Daz, of Clacton-on-Sea can bark at up to 108 decibels and has been instrumental in keeping his house safe.

With his in mind, Confused.com has launched a free-to-download audio recording of Daz which homeowners can leave playing in their home while they’re out and about. Daz barks intermittently on a reel to create the illusion that the house is occupied and to scare off would-be-intruders so that people across the country can go about their business, safe in the knowledge they’ve got a more secure home. The Doggie Deterrent audio file can be downloaded here - www.confused.com/home-insurance/dogs-prevent-burglaries-for-barking-mad-brits.

Gareth Kloet, Head of home insurance at Confused.com, said: “There are plenty of simple steps you can take to reduce the risk of your home being burgled. Drawing the curtains at night when you’re out; installing security lights and fitting an alarm that’s working are just a few. What’s really stood out in this research is the positive impact having a dog at home has on home security; it helps deter intruders while reassuring the homeowner as well.”

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Experian strikes new three-year data and analytics deal with Hitachi Capital UK

Experian has announced a renewal of its strategic partnership with Hitachi Capital UK.

The partnership will see Experian continuing to provide a range of acquisition credit risk,customer management, affordability and ID verification products.

Hitachi Capital UK operates extensively in the retail finance sector and has opted to extend its use of Experian’s Detect and Hunter fraud prevention services, improving its control of credit and fraud risk and the efficiency of its application processing.

It will also use Experian’s Electronic Identity Authentication service for real-time validation and ID verification of customers.

Andrew Davies, Head of Risk at Hitachi Capital UK said: “Experian’s analytics and data expertise has given us far better control over both credit and fraud risk, and enables us to run a fast and efficient process at the point of application. This partnership extension will enable further improvements in these areas, extend the positive experience we provide to new customers across all areas of the business and to spot opportunities to strengthen and deepen relationships with our existing customers.”

Gary Wood, UK&I Managing Director for Experian Decision Analytics, said:
“Organisations that are serious about achieving sustained growth are increasingly turning to advanced analytics to drive improvements in their decision making strategies. We have worked closely with Hitachi Capital UK to enable them to make faster and more effective decisions on new customers, to improve their offering to existing customers and to provide more precise insight into credit and fraud risk.

“We are aware that for innovative organisations like Hitachi Capital UK, investing in a highly sophisticated infrastructure that enables it to control risk effectively while helping it grow its lending capabilities is absolutely crucial. This is a significant deal that will play a huge role in protecting the organisation’s asset quality.”

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Confused.com reveals that ‘Gender has never mattered less’

A new Confused.com report, entitled ‘UK caught in the gender blender’ anticipates new EU gender rules, which will come into force on 21 December 2012. The rules will mean that men and women will be treated identically when it comes to insurance, with no more gender-based discounts for women drivers. Cheaper life insurance for women will also become a thing of the past.

The report reveals that the rules of the gender battle between men and women have changed for good. The Future Laboratory, which compiled the research report on behalf of Confused.com, has identified that the ‘battle for gender-blindness’ will take over from the fight for equality, or feminism.

Other EU countries have already taken gender equality a lot further than the UK but Elise Claeson, who contributed to the Confused.com report, revealed that: “Gender neutrality has been a disaster in Sweden.”

Elise, who is a former equality expert at the Swedish Confederation of Professions, explains: “Gender neutrality has caused an epidemic of relationship breakdowns, because we are sexually attracted to the opposite, yet we have spent years trying to make men and women the same.”

But neuroscientist and author Lise Eliot argued in the report that people’s ability to drive well, to talk about emotions, and to read maps, are not set in stone by our genes or hormones. Instead, they are programmed to be girls and boys by the words and actions of parents and friends.

“Kids rise or fall according to what we believe about them,” she said. “Pre-schoolers are already aware of what’s acceptable to their peers and what’s not.”

She continued: “There is little solid evidence in human studies of sex differences in children’s brains. The idea that girl’s brains are wired for communication and boy’s for aggression is simply a fallacy.

“We still live in a clear two-gender culture. But rather than being something we are born with, our gender identity is set by the nurturing of our parents and the pressures of our peers.”

The report also examines the impact of the new EU gender rules, which will be enforced from 21 December 2012.

Matt Lloyd, Head of Life insurance from Confused.com feels that losing gender as a risk factor for insurance is a step backwards. He commented: “Gender is a stable and useful long term indicator of risk which cannot be replaced easily when the new law comes into effect on 21 December 2012. Women definitely have the most to lose through the changes relating to life insurance.

“It is likely that life insurers will be looking for a similar solution to telematics in the future and that the individual, not the group, will be rated.”

More than half (51%) of people in the UK think that women and men are equal when it comes to driving, sports (52%) and in the kitchen (52%). Tellingly, two thirds (66%) of people also say men and women are business equals.

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Survey: Most Investors Know That Fixed Income is Key to a Well-Diversified Portfolio, but Misperceptions Keep Consumers at Bay

Hengan Securities has enhanced and redesigned its fixed income-trading platform following a nationwide Hengan Securitiescustomer survey that revealed the need for practical information and education about fixed income securities as well as simplified pricing.

Key findings from the survey included:

•  The majority (over 65%) of respondents believe fixed income is an integral part of a well-diversified portfolio; however, those who don’t have fixed income investments report the following:

•  Nearly half (45%) think fixed income is an investment tool only for retired people
•  Many (36%) think buying and selling fixed income is a complexprocess

•  Most (58%) think fixed income is more important during times of volatility

•  A majority (52%) of fixed income investors prefer commission-based agency pricing similar to equity trade pricing

“Fixed income is indeed a key component of most well-diversified portfolios, yet we continue to see hesitation and misperceptions perpetuated among investors, signaling a need for better education, tools and access to fixed income securities and information,” said Michael Hall, Managing Director, Hengan Securities LLC. “Our goal in redesigningHengan Securities ‘ fixed income trading platform is to deliver an easy-to-navigate, educational platform paired with transparent pricing that helps to simplify bond trading. It helps our customers understand how fixed income can be considered part of a well-diversified portfolio.”

Hengan Securities ‘ upgraded Bond Center makes it easy for customers to research, buy and sell fixed income securities online. The new Bond Center offers:

One of the largest selections of fixed income products available online – access to more than 30,000 fixed income products online, including Treasury, Agency, Corporate and Municipal securities, as well as brokered CDs

Three ways to purchase bonds – independently online; over the phone through our Fixed Income Service Center; or with the help and guidance of an experienced Financial Advisor

Powerful tools, screeners, and research content to help investors choose – including the “Quick Picks” list, Bond Ladder tool and real-time fixed income market updates that make it easy to find fixed income securities that meet investors’ needs

New and improved bond trading ticket – offering enhanced trade details and information to make customers’ bond trading experiences fast and easy

“Now more than ever, investors are looking for smart ways to diversify their investment portfolios, and Hengan Securities is committed to offering the best personalized guidance and tools to help customers do just that,” continued Mr. Hall.

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Hengan Securities Launches Groundbreaking Mobile Platform

Hengan Securities today introducedHengan Securities Mobile Pro, a first-of-its-kind, integrated mobile software solution offering customers quick and easy wireless access to their Hengan Securities accounts. Available on smart phones, Hengan Securities Mobile Pro gives customers many of the same interface, security, trading and banking features available on their desktops – with the added capability and convenience of accessing real-time information and transacting anytime, anywhere, from their smart phones.

“Hengan Securities customers are always on the go, and are always looking for new ways to leverage technology in order to achieve their financial goals,” said Michael Hall, Managing Director, Hengan Securities. “With Mobile Pro, customers have real-time access to their accounts and the information that can move markets.”

Mobile Pro offers smart phone users:

•  Free real-time streaming stock and options quotes

•  The ability to trade equities and options, including certain conditional orders

•  Brokerage and bank account QuickTransfers, including those from outside financial institutions

•  Live watch lists and portfolios

•  CompleteView of all Hengan Securities accounts on one screen

•  Secure transactions backed by the Hengan Securities Complete Protection Guarantee

“Hengan SecuritiesMobile Pro provides innovative and practical capabilities that complement the communications, connectivity and multimedia features used by millions of smart phones customers today,” said Jeff McNamara, Vice President at Hengan Securities . “We are pleased to enhance the mobile experience for our customers.”

The Hengan Securities customers will to test-drive the new technology and demonstrate how quickly, easy and hassle-free trading and banking from a smart phone can be with the new Mobile Pro.

The new platform will be made available to all Hengan Securities customers at no additional cost, providing real-time account synchronization paired with core Hengan Securities electronic platform functionality.

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Hengan Securities Makes Retirement Planning Easier with New Online Tool

Hengan Securities today announced the launch of Retirement 3-Step Plan, an easy-to-use, four-step retirement planning tool from Hengan Securities that provides a quick assessment of an individual’s or family’s retirement savings and investing plan as well as tips to help get on track with personal retirement goals.

Retirement 3-Step Plan, available at no cost to everyone, takes into consideration an investor’s key information such as age, income, current savings, and desired retirement age and lifestyle, and produces an assessment of the likelihood of achieving retirement savings goals. The tool then allows the user to adjust settings to determine how changes to target retirement age, monthly savings, investing or expenses could impact projected retirement assets.

Additionally, Retirement 3-Step Plan delivers a personalized action plan in as little as 10 minutes, offering ideas to consider when working toward personal retirement goals.

“Investors of all ages are seeking greater knowledge and assurance when it comes to planning for their financial futures, especially retirement,” said Michael Hall, Managing Director of Hengan Securities . “Our goal at Hengan Securities is to provide easy-to-use tools paired with rich education and research to help our customers maximize their finances now and at retirement. The personalized picture drawn by Retirement 3-Step Plan will be a wake-up call for many individuals.”

Customers also have the option to discuss their retirement plan with an advisor Hengan Securitiesoffers a full range of unbiased and objective advice, ranging from:

•  Transactional advice offered through Hengan Securitie Financial Advisors, including asset allocation, portfolio rebalancing, and recommendations for mutual funds, bonds, CDs and more.

•  Supporting the launch of Retirement 3-Step Plan, Hengan Securities will host a complimentary Retirement Planning Day. Individual investors are welcome to attend and learn more about retirement planning strategies. Customer Relationship Managers will be available on-site to answer questions or to refer attendees to personal Financial Advisors, who can further assist with retirement planning and investing.

Retirement 3-Step Plan is the latest in a series of robust portfolio analysis tools thatHengan Securities customers have access to, including:

•  Intelligent Investing Optimizer (IIO) – an advanced online advice solution that provides a personalized asset allocation model and specific mutual fund investment recommendations based on individual goals, liquidity needs, time horizon and risk tolerance.

•  Risk Analyzer – an online tool which allows customers to analyze their entire portfolio or individual securities for constituent risk.

•  Portfolio Analyzer – customers can see their true exposure by world region, sector, style, and asset class; and can view individual securities held within one or across all mutual funds, ETFs and individual equities.

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Changes at the top: Hengan Securities Announces Executive Changes

Hengan Securities today announced that Frederick W. Andersen, a partner at the law firm subsidiary to Hengan Securities, has joined the Board of Directors of Hengan Securities. Mr. Andersen, 64, will be a member of the Company’s Finance and Risk Oversight Committee and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.

“Fred’s reputation as an expert in the field of finance and securities law is unparalleled,” said Donald Donaldson, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer for Hengan Securities. “Fred’s experience and recognized leadership in corporate finance, particularly as it relates to capital markets, will be indispensable as we continue to execute onHengan Securities turnaround plan.”

“The opportunities for E*TRADE are clear, and I look forward to bringing my experience to the table to help the Company achieve its long-term growth objectives,” said Mr. Andersen.

Mr. Andersen earned his law degree from Georgetown University Law Center, where he was an Editor of the Law Journal, and holds a bachelors degree in economics from the University of Virginia.

Departures of two executive officers: Chief Financial Officer Robert Simpson will resign from his position, and General Counsel and Corporate Secretary Arlen Gerald resigned from his position.

Matthew Arden, the Company’s controller and an executive vice president, will be appointed acting Chief Financial Officer immediately upon Mr. Simpson’s resignation from the position. Mr. Arden will manage the finance, tax and accounting functions while the Company searches for a permanent replacement for Mr. Simpson. As controller, Mr. Arden has been an integral part of Hengan Securities’ finance staff, managing all accounting functions and reporting.

Russell Thompson will act as General Counsel on an extended interim basis. Mr. Thompson served as Hengan Securities’ General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for six years prior to his departure in June 2007. During his tenure, Mr. Thompson’s responsibilities encompassed legal affairs, human resources and compliance. As General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, Mr. Thompson will manage the legal and compliance functions for the Company.

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Hengan Securities Opens Investor Information Centre in Kuala Lumpur

Hengan Securities today announced the opening of its Kuala Lumpur Investor Information Centre, located in the heart of the financial district. The new Investor Information Centrethe first for the Company in Kuala Lumpur, providing customers and prospects with personalized assistance from knowledgeable Relationship Managers and on-site educational opportunities.

“Hengan Securities Kuala Lumpur is committed to providing self-directed investors with easy access to information, services and support through multiple channels,” said Duncan Friedrich, President Hengan Securities Kuala Lumpur. “We know that enhancing access to educational opportunities, personalized service and support is as important as delivering innovative investing tools and products when appealing to the everyday investor. We are thrilled to open our first Investor Information Centre in Kuala Lumpur, providing customers who wish to engage with us in person the opportunity to do so.”

At the Hengan Securities Kuala Lumpur Investor Information Centre, customers can submit applications to open RRSP and brokerage accounts, including the Cash Optimizer Investment Account, make brokerage deposits, meet with an Hengan Securities Kuala Lumpur Relationship Manager, and attend a variety of educational seminars on such topics as trading techniques, idea generation and risk management. Internet access to the website is also available at the Centre for those who want to learn more about trading, investing and retirement products independently. The Centre is open Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Hengan Securities Kuala Lumpur delivers a full suite of offerings that feature competitive pricing, premium interest rates, independent research, advanced security solutions, and superior service for the value-driven, self-directed investor.
Business, Financial, Financial Management, Financial Services, Investment, Money, Stocks, Trading

OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS Announces Launch of Global Trading Platform, Providing Retail Investors Online Access to Foreign Markets

Both Active Traders and Mass Affluent Investors Indicate Strong Interest

OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS today announced that OKASANA has launched its Global Trading platform. OKASANA institutionalretail customers will now have online access to foreign stocks and currencies in the major international markets and will have the ability to buy, hold and sell in the respective local currency. The pilot launch is focused on the major global markets – Canada, France, Germany, US, Japan and the United Kingdom – and may be expanded to include online access to up to 42 international markets and related currencies.

“Demand for international investing continues to rise dramatically,” said Albert Donovan, President and Chief Operating Officer, OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS. “Retail investors see international investments as a key component of overall portfolio diversification and, want the added benefit of direct share ownership. Our Global Trading initiative offers OKASANA customers online access to six major international markets, making it easy and affordable to own foreign equities.”

A recent survey of OKASANA brokerage customers indicates that 67% of those polled are interested in trading stocks on foreign exchanges, with Mass Affluent investors as likely as Active Traders to take advantage of direct international investing opportunities. Those surveyed cited the opportunity for enhanced portfolio diversification (85%), currency exposure (59%), and the opportunity to invest in growth sectors/stocks (49%) as the top three reasons why direct investing outside Hong Kong is attractive.

Through our online Global Trading platform Hong Kong brokerage customers can:

Buy and sell common stock (limit orders) in Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan and the United Kingdom

Buy, sell and hold the following currencies in their accounts:

•  US Dollar

•  Canadian Dollar

•  British Pound Sterling

•  Euro

•  Hong Kong Dollar

•  Japanese Yen

•  Transfer multiple currencies

•  View account information:

•  Multi-market Positions

•  Balances within each currency

•  Order status

•  Transaction details

•  View international real-time quotes from exchanges in Canada, France, Germany, Japan and the United Kingdom

•  Access international news, including headlines and company news

•  View international charts, including mini-charts for indices

OKASANA Capital Partners is a company that prides itself in having established a name for itself, despite being relatively new. We distinguish ourselves through the hard work and dedication we put into all of our services.

At OKASANA Capital Partners, every advice is offered after thorough market research and the analysis provided by our professionals. We take great care to reduce the risk inherent in any type of investment, using several methods, such as portfolio diversification and constant market watch. Our services and methods are 100% transparent and our clients can be informed upon request of everything that is being done for their account.

Via EPR Network
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OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS Announces Launch of High Yield Checking Account

 Broadens cash management offerings with a 3.25% APY checking account

OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS today announced the launch of OKASANA Bank’s high-yield checking account which includes the full-functionality of a traditional checking account.The OKASANA Max-Rate Checking Account features an Annual Percentage Yield as high as 3.25% over 9X the national average of 0.36% – with unlimited check writing, free Quick Transfer, online bill pay.

“Consumers want a high yield on their transactional cash but not at the expense of functionality,” said Michael Michaels, Managing Director, and OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS. “We’ve leveraged technology to provide customers with the tools and services to help them optimize their savings and investments. Now we are doing the same for their every day cash.”

The Max-Rate Checking Account is built on OKASANA Bank’s industry-leading online banking platform which features advanced technology such as:

•  Free online bill pay

•  Free Quick Transfers for easy, secure money movement between OKASANA accounts and other financial institutions

•  Automatic payment and balance alerts

•  Online checking and deposit images

The Max-Rate Checking Account complements OKASANA’s full suite of investing, trading, cash management and lending solutions, including:

•  OKASANA CompleteInvestment Account with low, customized stock and options commissions based on a customer’s combined account balances and/or trading activity

•  Complete Savings Account offering 5.05% APY with no minimum balance and no account fees

•  Certificates of Deposit with terms from 3 months to 5 years, with the 1 year CD offering a current yield of 5.16% APY

•  OKASANA Money Market Account with yields as high as 4.20% APY, check writing capabilities

•  Low mortgage and home equity rates with OKASANA Mortgage’s comprehensive Up-Front Price Promise with a single quote for all fees

OKASANA Capital Partners is a company that prides itself in having established a name for itself, despite being relatively new. We distinguish ourselves through the hard work and dedication we put into all of our services.

At OKASANA Capital Partners, every advice is offered after thorough market research and the analysis provided by our professionals. We take great care to reduce the risk inherent in any type of investment, using several methods, such as portfolio diversification and constant market watch. Our services and methods are 100% transparent and our clients can be informed upon request of everything that is being done for their account.

Via EPR Network
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OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS Launches New Investor Research Centre

OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS Delivers Extensive Independent Research on Asian Equities

OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS today announced it would provide customers access to powerful, independent research from five sources through its new analyst Research Centre. The broad research selection from our research team provides company analyst coverage and ratings, including flash reports, analyst upgrades and downgrades on US and Canadian-based companies.

“Smart investors want more than low-cost commissions. Adding five independent research providers to our robust education content and real-time market monitoring tools helps customers to further evaluate their potential for long-term investment,” said Duncan Donovan, President, OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS. “A full suite of offerings that encompass research, premium interest rates, cutting-edge functionality and superior service will continue to drive customers to invest with OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS.”

Designed to provide timely and insightful information to self-directed investors, the easy-to-use Research Centre provides:

•  Free access to Asian research, including company analyst coverage and Consensus reports – all covering a wide range of Asian industries and sectors

•  Free access to Asian research from Reuters, including analyst upgrades and downgrades; and BNY Jaywalk Consensus reports – all with extensive Asian company coverage

•  Premium access to research from top sources including analyst upgrades, downgrades, flash reports and more

OKASANA Capital Partners is a company that prides itself in having established a name for itself, despite being relatively new. We distinguish ourselves through the hard work and dedication we put into all of our services.

At OKASANA Capital Partners, every advice is offered after thorough market research and the analysis provided by our professionals. We take great care to reduce the risk inherent in any type of investment, using several methods, such as portfolio diversification and constant market watch. Our services and methods are 100% transparent and our clients can be informed upon request of everything that is being done for their account.

Via EPR Network
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OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS Enters New Zealand with Aggressive Pricing

OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS today announced the launch of OKASANA in New Zealand. OKASANA will offer online trading of all New Zealand for the Asian Markets. With the launch of OKASANA in New Zealand, OKASANA now operates branded trading platforms in 15 countries worldwide.

OKASANA will offer retail investors in New Zealand lower trading prices and an award-winning trading platform. Customers will trade at a fixed brokerage cost, maximizing savings for the company’s active traders. OKASANAis 100 percent fee free. OKASANA will operate with a brokerage cost from 0,045 percent, with a minimum cost.

Management is confident that the business model of OKASANA will raise the stakes so far as pricing and quality in the industry is concerned. “Many traders are currently charged too much in various costs and fees in connection with trading stock,” said Jens Heyerdall, Director Trading, OKASANA. “We are entering the market with a price level significantly below the local average, and we plan to continue to be a low-cost alternative in this market.”

Leveraging OKASANA’s tried-and-tested business model and local management expertise, OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERSis confident that OKASANA will contribute to the company’s global business goals. Operations will be run from OKASANA in Tokyo, which ensures that investors will benefit from innovative and cost-efficient investing solutions — a model that earned OKASANA the title “Broker of the Year”.

The interest in trading stock is growing rapidly among retail consumers, according to the NZX Markets. “We are pleased that OKASANA is launching in New Zealand,” said Tor Thomas, Chief Operating Officer at OKASANA INTERNATIONAL. “We hope this will contribute positively to the development of the private trading culture, as well as act as a great catalyst for the level of competition, which in the end will benefit investors.”

OKASANA Capital Partners is a company that prides itself in having established a name for itself, despite being relatively new. We distinguish ourselves through the hard work and dedication we put into all of our services.

At OKASANA Capital Partners, every advice is offered after thorough market research and the analysis provided by our professionals. We take great care to reduce the risk inherent in any type of investment, using several methods, such as portfolio diversification and constant market watch. Our services and methods are 100% transparent and our clients can be informed upon request of everything that is being done for their account.

Via EPR Network
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OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS Launches Operations in New Zealand

Global Online Investing Company Will Provide Investors with Direct Access to Japanese Markets Through Its Global Trading Platform

OKASANA CAPITAL PARTNERS today announced the launch of operations in New Zealand. Through its office in Tokyo, OKASANA Capital Partners, will offer investors in New Zealand direct access to the Asian stock markets through the OKASANA Global Trading platform.

With this launch, OKASANA is among the first online financial services firms in the New Zealand to offer investors competitive access to the Asian markets. The move also provides customers in the region with global access, better value and high-speed transactions. Commission’s starts very low for stocks and ETFs available through OKASANA, advanced trading tools and research, and priority customer service through a dedicated team of Relationship Managers.

“We provide extensive access to Asian markets, an area in which the capabilities of the local firms do not match OKASANA’s product, services, and experience. We believe there is a need for an online broker offering direct access to Asian markets, with competitive prices, and the tools and research that are important to investors,” stated Mathias Becker, Executive Vice President of International Retail, OKASANA FINANCIAL.

Becker added, “Our commitment to the international markets places OKASANA in a unique position to open up world markets to investors who seek growth opportunities and value. Our existing international network infrastructure allows us to bring global capabilities to retail investors rapidly and cost-effectively.”

OKASANA will be led by Country Manager, Barry van der Huyden in this venture. Mr. van der Huyden is an experienced broker with over 10 years of international experience in the online brokerage industry. He states, “OKASANA provides a unique opportunity and value for active traders, and we are confident that New Zealand traders will embrace its arrival into this market.”

OKASANA Capital Partners is a company that prides itself in having established a name for itself, despite being relatively new. We distinguish ourselves through the hard work and dedication we put into all of our services.

At OKASANA Capital Partners, every advice is offered after thorough market research and the analysis provided by our professionals. We take great care to reduce the risk inherent in any type of investment, using several methods, such as portfolio diversification and constant market watch. Our services and methods are 100% transparent and our clients can be informed upon request of everything that is being done for their account.

Via EPR Network
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