Category Archives: Business

Business

Assets, Business, Financial, Financial Services, Money

Tracesmart Sign the Personal Information Promise

Cardiff based Tracesmart, leading suppliers of consumer tracing and data cleansing services, have signed the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) Personal Information Promise. Tracesmart have pledged their support and compliance with the ICO initiative as part of their companywide commitment to the ethical and compliant use of personal data.

The Personal Information Promise was launched on the 28th January 2009 by the ICO to celebrate European Data Protection Day. The aim of the Personal Information Promise is to improve compliance with the Data Protection Act 1998 and help restore public faith in organisations that hold personal information. Public trust in bodies holding such information has been tarnished in recent years following multiple instances of data breaches and many organisations displaying an apparent lack of diligence when it comes to data security.

Tracesmart are keen to demonstrate their commitment to the proper use of personal data as it is at the heart of all the company’s services. This includes their online consumer site, which members of the public use to trace people; and their Tracesmart Corporate suite of services, which are employed by various public, private and third sector organisations to reunite individuals with unclaimed assets, conduct online identity checks and cleanse consumer data.

Mike Trezise, Managing Director at Tracesmart, was the company’s official signatory and he highlighted how signing the ICO’s Personal Information Promise is very much in line with the company’s data protection culture,

“Our signing of the Personal Information Promise further reinforces our commitment to ethical data usage and corporate social responsibility. As a company Tracesmart goes to great lengths to guarantee that not only is the data we supply accurate, but also stored securely and used responsibly; both internally and by our customers. Ethical data usage is paramount in our business activities and we welcome any opportunity to build both consumer and commercial confidence in companies that handle personal information.”

About Tracesmart

  • Tracesmart Ltd was formed in 1999 and supplies a diverse range of consumer data cleansing, identity check and people tracing tools to a wide variety of industries. The company’s client base ranges from SME to Blue Chip, who are all recipients of bespoke solutions, built around their specific needs.
  • The ICO is the UK’s independent public body set up to promote access to official information and protect personal information by promoting good practice, ruling on eligible complaints, providing information to individuals and organisations, and taking appropriate action when the law is broken.
  • Mike Trezise is the founder and Managing Director of Tracesmart. With over 25 years tracing and fraud analysis experience, his unrivalled knowledge provides the company with a distinct competitive advantage.

Angel Investors, Business, Financial, Financial Services, Funding, Investment, Money, Venture Capital

Angel Investors Take Control of the Economic Stimulus Plan to Create Jobs

The Southeast Private Equity Conference (SPEC) is seeking dynamic high growth companies in search of angel investors and venture capital to present their business opportunity at the acclaimed SPEC 2009 scheduled for April 14 and April 15 in Atlanta, GA.

Conference coordinator, Karen Rands, states “the market for angel investors and early stage venture capital is on the rebound and SPEC is at the forefront in bringing these communities together to create an environment where innovative companies connect with capital, investors and resources. The response f r o m investors for early registrations to attend SPEC 2009 has been impressive and indicative of their optimism for an economic upswing.” Investors f r o m across the East coast and as far away as Detroit, Dallas and Silicon Valley have made plans to attend this particular conference for three very important reasons:

1) SPEC targets early stage and emerging growth companies that have viable business models so the valuations are still low enough to garner a significant multiple on their investment at exit.
2) The location for SPEC is a more intimate setting than most conferences held at big hotels so they can maximize the effectiveness of their time at the conference by making the strategic connections critical to their business objectives.
3) The timing of SPEC fits with busy schedules to make a two day trip with only one night stay over in Atlanta.

Companies interested in participating in this year’s event are encouraged to submit their proposals by March 15, 2009. Early Bird discount pricing savings for investors, strategic service providers, and entrepreneurs expires Feb 25, 2009. Special travel rates are available through Travelocity and Expedia to travel to Atlanta. Hotel information, application, accommodations, agenda and registration information can be found online at seprivateequity.org.

SPEC will showcase the most promising emerging growth and technology companies f r o m across the United States, providing these companies with unmatched exposure to a national audience of venture capitalists, accredited investors, investment bankers, fund managers, angel investors, corporate and private equity investors representing over $560 million in investment capital. The conference offers exclusive networking opportunities, an exhibition area, featured speakers, and investor and entrepreneur break-out sessions.

The conference is unique in bringing together early stage companies and capital sources while blending a tradeshow environment with deal flow presentations and entrepreneur and investor education. Held at the trendy 103 West in Buckhead, Georgia, SPEC 2009 creates an environment that is conducive for networking and deal making.

Investors are treated to the best in culinary creations and comfort as they mix and mingle with other investors and the CEOs of the hottest emerging growth companies in the Southeast. Investors will view unique investment opportunities to rebuild slumping portfolios and will have a direct impact on the economy by creating needed jobs with the growth of these early stage companies.

The recession had already begun when the inaugural Southeast Private Equity Conference kicked off in April 2008. Over 100 investors attended that event to preview 40 of the most exciting high growth companies of 2008. Many deals were initiated and millions of dollars were invested to help those companies act on their market opportunities. Angel Investor Michael Horton had this to say about SPEC 2008, “Congratulations on a superb job on SPEC — great organization, many interesting companies and an attendance that far exceeded my expectations.” To learn more about what investors and entrepreneurs experienced in 2008, view testimonials at seprivateequity.org/success.html.

Atlanta is rapidly becoming the hotbed of innovation and capital formation in the Southeast. Three venture capital oriented forums are scheduled for 2009. The Southeast Private Equity Conference (SPEC) differs f r o m the larger conferences, SEVC and Venture Atlanta, in 4 ways that are important to both investors and early stage companies:

1) An intimate setting at a 103 West maximizes the connections made between investors and entrepreneurs.
2) The use of breakout sessions to educate both investors and entrepreneurs brings additional value to attendees.
3) The blend of formal venture deal presentations in the Innovative Company Showcase and the reverse capital marketplace set in the Capital Expo helps investors easily find the companies they want to talk with about investing.
4) With the Fast Pitch segment scheduled during the VIP reception in the Capital Expo, investors will get a highlight of each company and opportunity to identify those they want to spend more time with the following day following full presentations by selected companies in the Innovative Company Showcase.

Sponsors interested in reaching investors of all types and entrepreneurs of high growth potential companies should consider choosing a SPEC sponsorship level that fits their budget. SPEC offers a great value for sponsors looking to reach this target audience during a tight economic time. Information on sponsorship levels and benefits can be found at seprivateequity.org./sponsorship.html.

With investors looking for ways to rebuild their losses f r o m recent market fluctuations and entrepreneurs seeking capital to bring tremendous innovation and job growth opportunity to the market, the Southeast Private Equity Conference (SPEC) is poised to be a pivotal event to have profound impact on the market. Earlybird tickets are now on sale for this very important event at seprivateequity.org.

Via EPR Network
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Business, Financial, Financial Solutions, Hedge Funds, Trading

Daniel Nole Was Appointed Chief Operating Officer At Xasax

Xasax Corporation is challenging the boundaries and integration of network infrastructure and systems technologies through its leading edge Xasax Financial Backbone. Built on Dark Fiber routes and a la carte trading services, Xasax is exceeding customer expectations. In keeping with this mantra, Daniel Nole was appointed Chief Operating Officer. His mandate, to guide the process and spearhead operations in providing this ultra low latency solution to the markets.

“Xasax is pleased to have an experienced top tier player on our team. Dan’s level of expertise and industry knowledge is certainly in keeping with the Xasax gold standard of quality and service. He plays a significant role in our overall planning and execution. The entire Xasax team is excited to have him,” said Noah Lieske, Xasax Chief Executive Officer and Founder.

Mr. Nole remarked, “The Xasax Offering is unlike any other on the street today. Low latency has a new meaning and definition under the Xasax model; speed to market, scalability, customizability, and flexibility are the hallmarks of this next generation solution. I am pleased to be a part of this tradition of excellence and look forward to assisting Xasax in the expansion of its global reach.”

Mr. Noles’ prior appointments include COO at NYFIX Millennium, Portware, and FTEN. Mr. Nole leverages his grass roots beginnings in financial audit at Ernst & Young, as well as his trading and operations expertise on the Floor of the Boston Stock Exchange. Dan brings a unique blend and wealth of knowledge from leading financial technology companies to Xasax.

About Xasax:
Xasax Corporation provides an ultra-low latency financial network called the Xasax Financial Backbone built by lighting diverse dark fiber paths. The XFB encompasses the majority of available liquidity in the US with dark fiber interconnections. Xasax services include proximity hosting / co-location; raw and consolidated market data; order routing and execution management systems; Vendor of Record/entitlement solutions, and historical data warehousing. This infrastructure facilitates high-frequency traders, hedge funds, and financial service providers.

Via EPR Network
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Business, Debts, Financial, Financial Management, Financial Solutions, Money

Debt Advisers Direct have responded to new figures showing that UK gas prices have increased at over four times the rate of the European average, emphasising the importance of good financial management

Responding to new figures suggesting that British energy bills are rising four times faster than those in Europe, Debt Advisers Direct have advised consumers to take extra care over their finances – particularly with regard to repaying debts – and have said that anyone who finds themselves struggling with their debts should seek expert debt advice as soon as the problem emerges.

The figures, compiled by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), showed that energy prices have risen by 16.7% in Britain over the past year – over four times as much as the 3.8% average across Europe.

The OECD recorded a 1.3% rise in Denmark, 1.5% in Germany and 5.3% in Sweden. Of the developed nations studied, only Australia (20%) and Turkey (28.7%) experienced bigger price rises than the UK in the past year.

Energy companies have come under fire in recent months over their energy pricing –despite significant falls in the wholesale cost of gas and electricity, none of the major companies have cut their prices to consumers.

A spokesperson for Debt Advisers Direct said: “The OECD’s report demonstrates the extent to which UK energy prices have risen compared with other nations. A lot of billpayers have felt unfairly treated by their energy providers in recent months, and this news may have many wondering why the companies haven’t acted to reduce their prices yet.

“Scottish Power have recently announced a 10% cut to one of their gas tariffs, and other companies are likely to follow suit – but this cut does not cancel out the two big price rises made by most companies last year.”

The spokesperson added that a large number of people are still struggling to meet their financial commitments as a result of rising prices in the past year, with many of those experiencing debt problems.

“A combination of rising bills, rising costs of living and shrinking incomes have left many people struggling with their finances,” she said. “Some of those costs are starting to come down, but that won’t necessarily help those already in debt.

“Our advice to anyone in debt is to seek expert debt advice early. Even if living costs do come down, debt can still be a big burden and it’s important to tackle it in the right way.

“For people who want to reduce their monthly outgoings and simplify their finances in order to make their bills and debts more manageable, a debt consolidation loan might be the answer. A debt consolidation loan involves the borrower taking out a new loan to pay off their existing debts – effectively consolidating the debts into one.

“Most people who take out a debt consolidation loan lower their debt repayments by spreading them out over a longer period of time. Although this incurs more interest in the long run, it’s possible to save money in interest overall if the borrower is consolidating debts with a higher APR than the new loan.

“For more serious debts, a debt management plan could help. This is an informal agreement between the borrower and their creditors as to how the borrower intends to repay their debts – usually at a slower rate than originally agreed, and there may also be a freeze on interest and other charges.

“Alternatively, if there is no real chance of ever repaying the full debts in a realistic period of time, an IVA (Individual Voluntary Arrangement) may be the best option. An IVA is a legally-binding agreement between the borrower and their creditors for lower monthly payments, based on how much the borrower can afford.

”For an IVA to go ahead, creditors accounting for 75% of the total debt must approve the proposal. An IVA usually lasts for five years – and homeowners may be expected to release some of the equity in their homes in the 54th month of the IVA. On successful completion of the agreement, the remaining debts are considered settled.”

“Our advice to anyone unsure about how to tackle their debts is to speak to a debt adviser beforehand.”

Via EPR Network
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Business, Financial, Financial Services, Investment, Money

Murphy Business & Financial Corporation, one of the largest and most successful firms specializing in selling private businesses, franchises, and commercial real estate in the nation, today announced it has opened a new office in Washington, VA

New Virginia location will help better serve the company’s extensive Business Brokerage market Washington, VA – February 2, 2009 – Murphy Business & Financial Corporation, one of the largest and most successful firms specializing in selling private businesses, franchises, and commercial real estate in the nation, today announced it has opened a new office in Washington, VA. The strategic location and the addition of Brad Barnes, senior financial professional and Business Broker, whose extensive knowledge of private business transactions will allow the company to better serve business owners and buyers in Culpeper, Fauquier, Rappahannock and Warren counties in Virginia.

Brad Barnes has 14 years of comprehensive professional experience in all phases of M&A transactions, corporate finance, internal cost control, valuation, as well as organizational management. Mr. Barnes is a graduate of the Goizueta School of Business, Emory University with a degree in Finance.

Murphy Business & Financial Corporation’s new office is located at 360 Gay Street Washington, VA 22747, and can be reached by phone at (540) 675-1010.

About Murphy Business & Financial Corporation
Founded in 1994, Murphy Business & Financial Corporation, the “Nation’s Premier Brokerage Firm”, is one of the largest and most successful business brokerage firms in the nation with offices conveniently located throughout the United States. Murphy Business & Financial Corporation has unsurpassed access to buyers and sellers nationwide, and its proven process and system provides clients with the means to achieve their goals through a more successful and confidential business transaction. The company provides comprehensive Business Brokerage, Franchise Sales, Merger & Acquisition, Valuation, Commercial Real Estate, Machine and Equipment Appraisal and Business Consulting services. For more information about Murphy Business & Financial Corporation visit www.murphybusiness.com.

Via EPR Network
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Anti-Money Laundering, Banks, Business, Financial, Financial Services, Loans, Money

Tracesmart Now A Member Of The Debt Buyers And Sellers Group

Cardiff based Tracesmart, renowned supplier of debtor tracing services, has announced it has become a member of the Debt Buyers and Sellers Group (DBSG). Tracesmart has joined the DBSG as part of its commitment to the debt collection industry and to provide valuable specialist input on some of the core processes used to recover debt, namely data cleansing and tracing.

Formed for the benefit of companies who buy and/or sell debt, the DBSG is the official voice of the sector, administering best practice and offering guidance and support where needed. Created by the Credit Services Association (CSA), the group’s inaugural meeting took place in December 2003 and was officially launched at the CSA’s 2004 Annual Conference. Today the DBSG has in excess of 80 members including some of the biggest companies in the industry who trade billions of pounds worth of debt each year.

As well as helping to expand the company’s presence within the debt collection arena, joining the DBSG will help Tracesmart to keep its finger on the pulse of one of its core industries. Chris Rothwell, Sales Director for Tracesmart explained further,

“Tracesmart is already an active member of the CSA, having a regular presence at their events and in their publications and also providing consultation on key industry topics. Having a pro-active involvement has helped us expand our knowledge of the industry, build our customer base and also allowed us to provide valuable guidance on the areas in which we specialise. We now hope that by working closely with the DBSG we can both provide our expertise to enhance best practice in key recovery activities and raise our company profile.”

Tracesmart currently holds memberships and affiliations with many professional organisations and bodies; these allow the company to remain up-to-date with industry trends and also provide forums through which valuable information can be shared. Mike Trezise, Managing Director at Tracesmart, comments on the importance of aligning with industry professional bodies,

“We have a hugely diverse customer base and whether the client is a firm of solicitors conducting identity checks for anti-money launderingpurposes, or a debt collection agency using our systems to trace people, we want our services to completely fulfil their particular needs. By affiliating with professional organisations we are able to identify changes in relevant industries as they happen and tailor our services to meet client needs.”

  • Tracesmart Limited – was formed in 1999 and supplies a diverse range of consumer data cleansing, identity check and tracing tools to a wide variety of industries. Their client base ranges from SME to Blue Chip, who are all recipients of bespoke solutions, built around their specific needs.
  • Chris Rothwell – Tracesmart’s Sales Director – previously worked in both the financial markets and tracing industry. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, Chris is well placed to head up Tracesmart’s corporate sales team.
  • Mike Trezise – is the founder and Managing Director of Tracesmart. With over 25 years tracing and fraud analysis experience his unrivalled knowledge provides the company with a distinct competitive advantage.
Business, Financial, Investment, Money

The Profit-Taker: Solid Advice On The Stock Market

This phenomenal financial game was invented by the author of an international best-seller. A top-ten best-selling author of John Wiley & Sons, New York is raving mad … giving away his new book. Not only is he making a gift of the sequel to his best-selling book… now he includes a ‘Live’ stock market game.

“Why should the billionaires have all the fun?”, says Professor Don Abrams, best-selling author of The Profit-Taker.

“Don’t lose your investing skills during these bad times”, says Professor Smarba, “Hone them!”.

He invented it to reveal the finer secrets of his proven, rapid, money-maker in both good and bad markets. And it’s free… Zip. Zero. Zilch. No registration. No required email. No ‘funny’ paper money. No catches.

The Chicago Tribune says: “THE PROFIT-TAKER: SOLID ADVICE ON THE STOCK MARKET“.

The new free sequel reveals a proven strategy to grow rich – especially for late starters. It is a blueprint that awakens the self-actualizing quest to live long. Thousands are already playing the game. Modestly named ‘The Greatest Game on Earth’. It’s an adventure, not based on guessing – but on newly-gained knowledge. All this on www.profittaker.info.

Is your current investing on a grand, small or academic scale? Doesn’t matter. Is it fun? If not, the author says you’re doing something wrong.

The solution? Discover it here. Now you can control your own destiny…be your own person.

‘The Greatest Game on Earth” allows people the world over the opportunity to relish the ingenuity and pure fun of the Profit-Taker Concept.

The game provides ‘live’ examples for the free book ‘The Profit-Taker Equalizer for the Underdog’.

The game is aimed at investment professionals as well as beginners.

Unlike the ‘usual game’, it is the actual chosen common stock which decides your next move. No rolling of the dice. No dealing of the cards. No spinning of a wheel.

It’s the actual ‘game’ action that opens up possibilities. Opportunities!

Let the good times roll on www.profittaker.info.

Via EPR Network
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Business, Financial, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Loans, Money

The Partnership Between Rekon Technologies And Simplifile Will Allow Users Of The Rekon Processing System To Instantly And Securely Send Lien Release, Assignment And Other Documents To The Simplifile E-Recording System

Simplifile, the leader in e-recording, and Rekon Technologies, a leading software vendor in the mortgage loan servicing industry, today announce that they have entered into a strategic partnership to integrate Rekon’s lien release and assignment processing system into the Simplifile e-recording system.

The newly formed partnership will allow users of the Rekon processing system to instantly and securely send documents to the Simplifile e-recording system. The solution will automatically upload recordable documents into the customer’s Simplifile account and create a new e-recording package. This tight integration allows Rekon users to quickly and easily prepare documents and electronically record them with Simplifile’s enabled counties throughout the United States from the convenience of their own office.

“Rekon is known for its advanced method of lien release and assignment document preparation,” said Aurora Marsh, CEO of Rekon Technologies. “By integrating Rekon into the Simplifile e-recording system, the combined solution fuels the current industry trend toward paperless solutions. Our strategic partnership with Simplifile provides our clients with an opportunity to build state-of-the-art networks that will give them the edge in delivering excellent customer service, resulting in increased customer satisfaction.”

“Simplifile is pleased to work with Rekon to bring the benefits of industry leading lien release and assignment processing with the Simplifile e-recording system,” said Erik Blomquist, Simplifile Vice President of Technology. “Rekon is a leader in the mortgage loan servicing industry. With the integration of Rekon into the Simplifile e-recording system, our mutual clients will benefit from the integrated systems to more efficiently prepare and record documents, and virtually eliminate the need for paper documents.”

About Simplifile
Simplifile provides innovative, simple, and secure electronic recording services via the Internet. Simplifile’s customers include title companies, banks, attorneys, lien filers, and county and state government jurisdictions. Simplifile electronic recording services accelerate document recording and simplifies document workflow processes that reduces costly overhead associated with traditional submission and recordation methods while improving client service levels.

Simplifile is focused on building the industry’s de facto electronic recording network. As such, Simplifile provides a streamlined and scalable approach to electronic recording tailored to organizations of all shapes and sizes. For more information on how Simplifile can benefit your organization, visit www.simplifile.com or call 801.373.0151.

About Rekon Technologies
Rekon Technologies offers technology solutions to the loan servicing industry, providing tools to track, manage, prepare and record loan documents such as lien releases, assignments, UCC terminations, trailing documents and others.

Rekon Technologies’ flagship product and namesake “Rekon” is a fully sustainable workflow driven document preparation and management system, integrated with imaging and eRecording solutions to process loans from payoff to recording in a truly automated and paperless environment from anywhere in the world. Meanwhile, the DokTrak software is considered to be the most versatile document tracking and data warehousing technology solution, especially in resolving the gap between origination and servicing, including the processes of post closing and file certification for securitization. More information about Rekon Technologies and its products is available by visiting www.rekon.com or calling 626.577.4350.

“Simplifile” is a registered service mark of Simplifile, LC. Rekon is a registered trademark of Rekon Technologies, Inc., a California corporation.

Via EPR Network
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Business, Financial, Financial Management, Financial Services, Funding, Investment, Money

Sameer Al Ansari Of Dubai International Capital Recognised At 2nd Annual Private Equity World Awards MENA 2008

Dubai International Capital LLC (‘DIC’) has announced that its Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Sameer Al Ansari, was honoured with the ‘Special Merit Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Industry’ at the 2nd Annual Private Equity World Awards MENA 2008 for his invaluable contributions to the regional private equity sector. The coveted recognition from industry peers was presented to Sameer Al Ansari for the second consecutive year at a ceremony held in Dubai.

In addition to recognising Al Ansari for his leading role in the development of the private equity industry, the distinction also reflects the increasingly influential role of Dubai International Capital, the international investment company that Al Ansari helped establish in 2004.

Organised by Terrapinn, a business media company, the Private Equity World Awards MENA 2008 recognises leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators and pioneers in the MENA private equity and venture capital industries.

Sameer Al Ansari said: “It is a privilege to receive this prestigious award for the second year running. It is not only an honour to have been chosen, but the award is a testament to the talent and expertise of DIC’s team who have contributed to building DIC into a well-respected name in the private equity sphere within a span of four years.”

Sameer Al Ansari is the recipient of several accolades, including the ’50 Most Influential People in Private Equity’ by Private Equity International (2007) and the Young Arab Leaders (YAL) Award from Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Establishment for Young Business Leaders (2005).

Symon Rubens, Managing Director, Terrapinn Middle East, said: “Terrapinn would like to congratulate Mr Al Ansari on his outstanding work and contribution to the private equity industry. Our mission is to identify and reward those individuals, teams and companies who have demonstrated an unparalleled ability to succeed and it gives us great pleasure to celebrate their remarkable accomplishments.”

Under Al Ansari’s leadership, DIC has emerged as a leading investment company in the private and global equities markets with an outstanding reputation and track record. Earlier this year, DIC was named MENA Private Equity Firm of the Year in the 6th annual Awards for Excellence in Private Equity Europe 2008, organised by Dow Jones Private Equity News.

About Dubai International Capital LLC: 
Established in 2004, DIC is an international investment company with offices in Dubai and London focused on both private equity and public equity. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Dubai Holding, DIC manages an international portfolio of diverse assets that provide its stakeholders with value growth, diversification, and strategic investments. Assets under management total over US$13 billion.

Among the many accolades, DIC’s Executive Chairman and CEO, Sameer Al Ansari, is also the recipient of numerous industry awards including, Special Merit Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Industry for two consecutive years (2007, 2008) by PE World MENA Awards and was ranked as the 11th most powerful Arab in the world by Arabian Business

Via EPR Network
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Business, Career, Financial, Financial Education, Financial Services, Money

Quest CE Announces They Are Now Offering Firms An Online Annual Compliance Meeting Solution

Quest CE is pleased to announce it is now offering firms an online annual compliance meeting solution. Quest’s On-Demand Learning Platform enables firms to hold pre-recorded meetings online without the costly time and travel expenses associated with live meetings.

FINRA Conduct Rule 3010 requires an annual compliance meeting to be held with all registered personnel.

Quest’s On-Demand Learning Platform provides:

• Online Questionnaire Automating the Q&A Process
• Deliver Annual Compliance Meetings On-Demand Over the Internet
• Online Q&A and Feedback Board for Post Meeting Compliance

Quest’s Online Annual Compliance Solution provides an innovative online solution to administer FINRA’s annual compliance meeting requirement and other online events, allowing firms to efficiently provide online registration, delivery, and tracking of meeting attendance.

For more information on how Quest’s Online Annual Compliance Solution can save your firm time and money, contact Jim Hoehn at 877-593-3366 or jhoehn@questce.com

About Quest Compliance Education Solutions
Over the past 20-plus years, Quest CE has built a reputation of being the premier provider of Compliance Education to the financial services industry. Quest CE serves more than 100 leading insurance carriers, broker/dealers, banks, and other financial institutions. We are a privately held firm which allows us to quickly meet the ever-changing needs of our clients. Our commitment is to provide advanced custom solutions at cost effective rates while providing a level of service that greatly surpasses that of our competitors. Quest provides a single source solution for organizations training and compliance needs, saving you both time and money.

Via EPR Network
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Business, Career, Financial, Financial Education, Financial Services, Money

Quest CE Releases Their Complete Library Of Online Long Term Care Partnership Training Courses

Quest CE, the nationwide provider of continuing education for insurance professionals, announced the immediate release of their complete library of online Long Term Care Partnership training courses. The online courses enable producers to obtain their newly-mandated continuing education credits on the subject of long-term care and long-term care partnership programs.

Since the passage of the Deficit Reduction Act, most states have implemented a new long-term care partnership program. As part of the new programs, states require that all producers who sell, solicit, or negotiate long-term care insurance must complete training on this subject.

Quest CE offers courses designed to meet state-specific Long Term Care Training requirements. All of our courses are available online, complete with text, exam, and printable certificates where allowed by state. If you sell, or wish to sell long term care insurance, but unsure if you are affected by specific training requirements please visit our website (www.questce.com) for further information.

Quest CE offers Long Term Care Partnership courses in the following states:

Arizona
Arkansas
Connecticut
Delaware
Georgia
Idaho
Illinois
Maine
Maryland
Michigan
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
New Jersey
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Wisconsin

About Quest CE
Quest CE is a nationwide provider of continuing education courses to licensed insurance professionals and financial planners. Each year Quest CE delivers over 150,000 continuing education courses either over the Internet or through live CE training. More information is available at the company’s web site at www.questce.com. To find out more about Quest’s Corporate discounts and large volume orders, contact Jim Hoehn at jhoehn@questce.com or call 877-593-3366.

Via EPR Network
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Anti-Money Laundering, Business, Career, Financial, Financial Education, Financial Services, Money

Quest CE Offers A Solution To New Red Flag Rules And Anti-Money Laundering Training

Quest CE announced today the release of their new 2009 Anti-Money Laundering and Red Flags online course designed to meet USA Patriot Act requirements. To demo the new course go tohttp://www.questce.com/AML-Course-Demo/Presentation_Files/index.html

The USA PATRIOT Act requires financial institutions to develop and implement an AML compliance program.

NASD Rule 3011 outlines minimum standards for broker-dealers’ AML compliance programs. It requires firms to develop and implement a written AML compliance program. The program has to be approved in writing by a member of senior management and be reasonably designed to achieve and monitor the ongoing compliance with the requirements of the Bank Secrecy Act.

NASD Rule 3011 also requires firms to provide ongoing training for appropriate personnel. This would include training for all representatives engaged in the business of providing financial advice, the sale of financial products or services, or deal in any way with the transfer of financial interests.

Quest CE offers a complete Anti Money Laundering (AML) solution for organizations of all sizes. Quest’s Anti-Money Laundering (AML) program offers advanced capabilities that other vendors do not offer. In coordination with industry experts, Quest CE’s team of IT and database professionals created a Learning Management System (LMS) to fit the AML reporting, tracking, and training needs of Quest’s clients.

“The system allows AML program administrators the ability to run real-time reports, upload new users instantly, and send reminder emails to users who haven’t yet completed their training,” said Patrick Torhorst, Vice President of IT for Quest CE.

In addition to offering this advanced technology in a fully customizable web portal, Quest CE is offering the industry’s lowest available pricing to companies interested in utilizing Quest’s AML program. For as little as $2 per user, firms can have a web portal built to look like their own AML eUniversity complete with full reporting and tracking capabilities, and including Quest CE’s robust library of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) courses.

Quest CE can also author any firm’s proprietary courses to meet specific training needs.

About Quest CE
Over the past 20-plus years, Quest CE has built a reputation of being the premier provider of Compliance Solutions to the financial services industry. In addition to offering CE for professionals holding insurance licenses and professional designations like the CFP, CIMA, CLU/ChFC, and CPA designations, we also provide a complete spectrum of financial compliance training solutions.

Via EPR Network
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Business, Career, Financial, Financial Education, Financial Services, Money

Quest CE Has Released Their 2009 Insurance, Professional Designation And Firm Element Course Catalogs

Quest CE announced today the release of their 2009 Insurance, Professional Designation and Firm Element course catalogs. Quest’s Curriculum Development Team worked closely with clients in determining content that would meet the ever-changing needs of the financial services industry.

The Quest CE-authored courses are available online through Quest’s Compliance Education Training website. To download a course catalog go to: http://www.questce.com/Downloads.html

Quest CE offers a complete approach to Insurance, Designation and Firm Element planning, training, and implementation. Quest helps firms and individuals meet their regulatory requirements in an efficient and cost effective manner. Quest offers complete or A-La-Carte training solutions.

For more information on Quest CE’s products, services, or to request a pricing proposal, contact Jim Hoehn at 877-593-3366 or jhoehn@questce.com

About Quest CE
Over the past 20-plus years, Quest CE has built a reputation of being the premier provider of Compliance Solutions to the financial services industry. In addition to offering CE for professionals holding insurance licenses and professional designations like the CFP, CIMA, CLU/ChFC, and CPA designations, Quest provides a complete spectrum of financial compliance training solutions.

Quest CE has trained and tracked more than 100,000 registered representatives and insurance agents in the past year. We offer more than 200 courses to fulfill continuing education requirements for Firm Element, state insurance and professional designation credits.

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Business, Financial, Financial Services, Financial Software, Forex, Money, Trading

eToros groundbreaking visual software presents a new approach to forex trading

Once in a while, a product comes along and revolutionizes a whole industry. This has been the case with the unique eToro forex trading platform. Due to its incredible appeal, in just one year eToro has drawn in thousands of people of all ages, from all over the world. From Canada to China, from Spain to Australia, people who have never considered trading forex before – have discovered the wonders of the Forex world with eToro.

eToro utilizes an innovative visual interface (a registered patent!) that simplifies forex trading and makes trading user-friendly for traders of all levels of experience. eToros trading arenas use visualizations that enable traders to trade forex intuitively, for example by trading on an animated world map. By using visual trade representations, eToro makes the complex forex market understandable even to first time traders.

Furthermore, eToro has drawn in countless experienced traders who have opted to switch trading platform in order to benefit from eToros user-friendly interface and superb trade execution. eToros Expert Mode allows seasoned traders to focus solely on trading, with all the features a professional trader needs, combined in one all encompassing trading screen that also provides forex news and calendar.

One of the unique characteristics of eToro is its emphasis on community which includes chats, forums and contests. Furthermore, eToros community can help the trader make his trading decisions with a tool called Top Traders Insight, which lets traders see the most popular trades of eToros 100 top profiting traders. This tool provides traders with a fantastic opportunity to use the expertise of the pros instead of doing their own market analysis.

David Morgan, from the UK, is an example of eToros traders: “I never traded forex before because all other trading platforms are complicated to understand and to use,” he says. “I started trading with eToro with just $50, and found the unique visual interface of eToro to be very friendly and educational, and within a short time, I became a professional forex trader.”

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Business, Career, Finance Jobs, Financial, Financial Management, Financial Services

Think Money is the first company in the North West to be awarded the FSSC ‘Accreditation of Training Excellence for Firms’

Financial solutions provider Think Money has been awarded the ‘Accreditation of Training Excellence for Firms’ by the Financial Services Skills Council (FSSC). It’s official recognition that the company’s training programme delivers real benefits: excellent service for customers and valuable skills for employees.

The company benefits too, of course. Excellent training means employees do a better job, but that’s not all: this accreditation also shows the company’s regulators how good Think Money’s training programme is.

Phil Robertson, Head of Staff Development at Think Money: “Training and development are absolutely vital to a company like ours – and so is recruitment. That’s another reason we’re so pleased to be the first in the North West to receive this kind of recognition from the FSSC. A lot of bright people want to work in financial services. They’re looking for a company that’ll give them a career, not just a job, and this accreditation provides cast-iron proof that this is what Think Money provides.”

But the FSSC doesn’t just recognise excellence. It also provides advice, ideas and information. It helps companies improve their training programmes even further, pointing out exactly where they need to work harder and where they could learn from examples of ‘best practice’ throughout the financial industry.

As Phil puts it: “There’s always room for improvement. We’d already met the ‘Investors in People’ standard. We’ve been one of the Sunday Times’ ‘Best 100 Companies to Work for’ for the last two years. Earning the FSSC’s ‘Accreditation of Training Excellence for Firms’ proves that we’re dedicated to continuous improvement. It’s what we expect of our staff – and it’s what they expect of us.”

Since its creation in 2006, the following eight organisations had been awarded the accreditation:

> Aon Ltd Reinsurance
> Chelsea Building Society
> Financial Services Authority
> Friends Provident UK Distribution
> Hoodless Brennan plc
> Jupiter Unit Trust Managers Limited
> Norwich Union Life
> Nsure Financial Services Limited

About Think Money
One of the UK’s leading financial solutions providers, Think Money is headquartered in Salford Quays, Manchester, and employs around 600 employees to deliver a comprehensive range of debt, loan and banking solutions. It defines its mission as ‘To educate, rehabilitate and advise on all aspects of financial management’.

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Bankruptcy, Business, Checking & Savings, Financial, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, IVA, Loans, Money, Personal Finance

Insolvency Practitioners Freeman Jones Have Commented That Ivas Remain A Very Useful Alternative That Can Avoid Many Of The Negative Consequences Associated With Bankruptcy

Responding to new statistics showing a rise in the number of people in debt applying for bankruptcy, Insolvency Practitioners Freeman Jones have highlighted the importance of addressing debt problems early, especially with a recession looming, and have pointed to the IVA (Individual Voluntary Arrangement) as a useful alternative to bankruptcy that could lessen the blow of insolvency.

The statistics, compiled by the Ministry of Justice, showed a total of 13,653 petitions for bankruptcy in the three months between July and September – 7% more compared with the same time last year, and a 1% increase on the previous quarter.

In the same time, creditors themselves filed 5,499 bankruptcy petitions against borrowers – 2% less than the previous quarter, but 10% more than July-September 2007.

In an earlier report, the Insolvency Service reported a 3.3% rise in individuals taking up IVAs in the third quarter of 2008, although the number had actually fallen by 3.1% compared with the same period last year.

A spokesperson for Freeman Jones commented: “Bankruptcy can be the best way out of debt for some people, but in many cases an IVA is a preferable alternative, as it can avoid a lot of the negative consequences associated with bankruptcy.

“Unlike bankruptcy, an IVA almost always allows borrowers to keep hold of their home – although they will be expected to release some of the equity in their home in the fourth year – and it does not carry the publicity or social stigma that bankruptcy does. It also does not prevent people from running a business or taking other positions, like bankruptcy does.

“There are some people who feel that bankruptcy is a more appropriate way out of insolvency than an IVA,” continued the spokesperson. “That’s mainly because bankruptcy is over more quickly – normally after a year – and it typically results in less of the overall debt being paid off by the borrower.

“However the restrictions placed upon borrowers by bankruptcy can sometimes outweigh the benefits, and although an IVA lasts for longer, it will do less damage to the borrower’s future prospects in the long run.

But the Freeman Jones spokesperson was quick to acknowledge that bankruptcy can sometimes be the better option. “Since an IVA requires regular monthly payments for a number of years, people with a low or unpredictable income may find that bankruptcy better suits their needs,” she said.

“Likewise, if the borrower does not have much in the way of assets, and their circumstances are unlikely to improve, then bankruptcy may be their best choice.

“It can often be difficult for people in debt to decide whether bankruptcy or an IVA is the best option – and as always, we advise anyone facing debt problems to seek expert debt advice.”

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Banks, Business, Currency, Financial, Money, Trading

M&S Money reports sales of Dubai currency hit record levels as the QE22 prepares to leave the UK for the final time

As the QE2 leaves the UK for the final time before becoming a floating hotel in Dubai, figures from foreign currency expert M&S Money suggest that the region continues to be a popular winter destination for Brits.

Last month saw the highest ever amount of sales of foreign currency for Dubai, with more than

£1million worth of UAE Dirham (AED) being sold through the network of M&S bureaux de change, as well as on the phone and internet.

October’s record figure has contributed to a 15% year-on-year increase in sales of the UAE Dirham – the currency used in the seven states which form the United Arab Emirates.

Dubai and the other UAE states have grown in popularity as a destination for Brits in recent years, whether on holiday, for business or visiting friends and family.

Hotels in Dubai have reported growing visitor numbers this year. According to the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing there was a 22 per cent growth in hotel revenues during the first three months of 2008, compared to the corresponding quarter last year.

The Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) cruise liner is the longest-serving ship in the 168-year history of the Cunard line and is currently owned by Carnival, the world’s largest cruise operator.

Having now left Southampton for the last time she will arrive in Dubai later this month, where she will undergo extensive refurbishment to become a floating hotel.

Fraser Millar, M&S Money Head of Travel Services, said: “Our travel money sales figures show that the UAE Dirham is one of the most popular currencies outside the Euro and US Dollar.

“October and November are usually the peak months for sales of the Dirham as people prepare to head-off for some winter sun. The high sales figures of last month may indicate that those who are travelling to the region are taking more cash as a result of the increased cost of living in Dubai. Travellers should bear this in mind when deciding how much currency to purchase before travelling.”

According to www.dubaifaqs.com, visitors can expect to pay around:

  • Hotel room (per night): £50
  • Small car rental (per day): £17
  • Petrol (per gallon): £1.05
  • Beer (pint): £5
  • House wine: £30
  • Bottle of water (1.5 litre): 40p
  • Burger: £2.40
  • Foreign newspaper: £3

Brits spend on average £821 per visit to the UAE, or £76 per day (Figures from the

Office for National Statistics Travel Trends 2006).

 

About M&S Money

M&S Money (originally called Marks & Spencer Financial Services) was founded in 1985 as the financial services division of Marks and Spencer Group plc. The company is now a top-ten credit card provider and the second-largest travel money retailer in the UK. M&S Money also offers travel insurance as well as providing insurance for homes, cars, travel, pets and weddings, along with loans, savings and investments.

In November 2004, Marks & Spencer sold M&S Money to HSBC, one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations with over 9,500 offices in 76 countries and territories. The business continues to operate under the M&S Money brand, with an executive committee comprising an equal number of representatives from HSBC and Marks & Spencer.

The company employs 1,200 staff at its headquarters in Chester, delivering personal financial services to its customers, reflecting the core values of Marks & Spencer — quality, value, service, innovation and trust.

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Business, Financial, Financial Services

Foreign Translations, Inc. Recently Completed A Financial Translation Services Contract With The FDIC

The FDIC Money Smart Program assists individuals with a minimal understanding of the banking structure to develop positive financial practices. The FDIC Money Smart Program has surpassed its goals in reaching over a million consumers and establishing over a thousand partnerships. The FDIC encourages the building of partnerships within communities to further the success rate of reaching more consumers. The FDIC believes that the more information people gather about banking and credit services, the more likely they are to purchase a home, save more money, and improve their overall financial well-being. According to the FDIC, training modules will be utilized throughout the United States, specifically in concentrated areas such as California and New York. The project will launch at the start of the New Year 2009.

Foreign Translations, Inc., worked diligently to ensure that the training modules were translated accurately, understanding that it is of great importance that those participating in the courses fully comprehend the mission of the Money Smart Program. The FDIC stated that Foreign Translations, Inc., assisted in providing a smooth process in translating the large volume and returning the content in a timely manner. To provide this accurate translation, Foreign Translations, Inc. ensured that Hmong was the native language of the translators assigned to the project, and that their area of expertise is in financial translations. Utilizing a financial translator native to the target language and knowledgeable in the financial services industry is the only way to ensure the effectiveness and accuracy of the FDIC documents. The project lasted three months with close and frequent communication between the FDIC and Foreign Translations’ Hmong translators. Foreign Translations, Inc. felt privileged to take part in this constructive governmental financial process to provide assistance to the public.

About Foreign Translations, Inc.
Foreign Translations, Inc. (www.foreigntranslations.com) is an 11- year old foreign language translation, interpreting and website localization firm headquartered in Greenville, SC. We offer translation services for a wide range of projects; from technical manuals, legal contracts and marketing collateral to financial statements, training manuals, e-learning courses, websites, medical journals, software, policy and procedure handbooks, newsletters and much more. With more than 1,000 native translators located in over 30 countries, we frequently translate documents r from 1,000 words to over several million in all the major languages of the world. In
addition, we provide interpreters for depositions, trials, sales meetings and conferences in every major city in the United States as well as every major country in the world. We also offer a full range of Multilingual Desktop Publishing Services in any format and any size.

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Business, Financial Management, Investment

Dubai International Capital Adds Strategic Partnership With KEF Holding To Its Portfolio Of Assets In Emerging Markets To Support Expansion Drive

Dubai International Capital LLC (‘DIC’), the international investment arm of Dubai Holding, has announced the acquisition of a 45% stake in UAE-based KEF Holding (‘KEF’) by its Emerging Markets division. KEF is an international award-winning provider of steel castings for valves and pumps serving the oil and gas, mining, industrial, and chemical industries in the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the United States.

Sameer Al Ansari, Executive Chairman and CEO of DIC, said that, “The acquisition of KEF Holding reinforces DIC’s commitment to investing in outstanding Middle East businesses that combine strong growth potential with an experienced management team – KEF’s team have deep industry knowledge, excellent relationships within the sector and a clear vision for growth.”

Mr Al Ansari stated that he believes that KEF’s founder, Faizal Kottikollon, has in just 11 years built KEF into a significant competitor to European foundries that have been in operation for over 100 years and he pledged his full support for his strategy for sustaining an impressive growth trajectory. He continued, “As part of Dubai Holding, Dubai International Capital can access resources and relationships that are of great benefit to our portfolio companies.”

Established in 1997, KEF Holding, based in the Sharjah Hamriya Free Zone, is the holding company of its two flagship businesses including Emirates Techno Castings (‘ETC’) and JC Middle East (‘JCME’). Collectively, ETC and JCME form the Middle East’s first fully automated foundry boasting a production capacity of 36,000 tonnes per annum. KEF was recognised for its best-in-class practices, as evidenced by their award of Best Foundry in the World by Weir Clear Liquid, a division of Weir Group.

Faizal Kottikollon, CEO of KEF Holding, said: “We are delighted to choose DIC as our strategic partner and shareholder. DIC’s ability to leverage their strong relationships in our key target growth markets, mainly Saudi Arabia and India, will elevate KEF’s ready capabilities and talent. We are confident that with DIC’s market experience and guidance, KEF will be ready for an initial public offering in the near future.”

Anand Krishnan, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai International Capital and acting CEO of DIC Emerging Markets, added: “DIC congratulates KEF on creating its dynamic technology-based platform that will allow it to maximise its full growth potential and capture opportunities in new industries, products and geographies.” He further commented, “DIC is proud to complement its existing portfolio of technical manufacturing companies with the addition of KEF and will strive to add value by building synergies and relationships among all parties.”

About Dubai International Capital LLC
Established in 2004, DIC is an international investment company with offices in Dubai and London focused on both private equity and public equity, with its current CEO beingSameer Al Ansari. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Dubai Holding, DIC manages an international portfolio of diverse assets that provide its stakeholders with value growth, diversification, and strategic investments. Assets under management total over US$13 billion. DIC was named MENA Private Equity Firm of the Year in the 6th annual Awards for Excellence in Private Equity Europe 2008, organised by Dow Jones Private Equity News.

About KEF Holding
KEF Holding is the holding company of Emirates Techno Casting (ETC) and JC Middle East (JCME) based in the Sharjah Hamriya Free Zone. ETC is the flagship business of KEF Holding. ETC manufacturers precision steel castings and distributes its products to the leading market players within the oil and gas, chemical, mining, industrial, and chemical industries.

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Business, Financial, Financial Management, Financial Solutions, Investment, Money

Venulum Is Seeing Strong Interest In Its Wine Investment Portfolio From Those Looking To Weather The Financial Storm

Venulum, the private wealth management firm based in the British Virgin Islands, is seeing increasing interest in wine investment from those looking to avoid the pitfalls of the current economic climate.

Venulum recognised that investors commonly turn to hard assets in market downturns, with the idea that by investing in something real, it won’t disappear although its value may decline modestly, hence the increased interest in the company’s wine investment portfolio.

The Liv-ex 100 Fine Wine Index was flat in August and fell 3.7% in September but compared with the battering the world stocks and bonds markets are experiencing, this drop could be termed relatively insignificant, since it still shows a year to date increase of 5.5% compared to the loss of 24.1% for the FTSE 100 for example.

Much of the downturn in the Liv-ex 100 in September was down to profit taking on top wines of the recently landed 2005 Bordeaux vintage, many of which have fallen from their peak prices of late spring this year by as much as 25%.

Dennis Winson, a periodontist from Maryland has been a Venulum client since 2003 and has invested in Forward Purchase Agreements.

“My annual returns to date have consistently been between 15-20%, but I expect they will be affected by the current market turmoil,” Mr Winson said. “I take a long term approach however, and as long as I don’t need to redeem early I expect the market to see an improvement in the next year or two.”

Stephen Kern, a general dentist from Washington State, has been investing with Venulum since 2004 and has a large investment portfolio in wine. “I began investing in wine because I am interested in it and enjoy drinking it,” he says. “My returns of 15-20% per annum didn’t look that exceptional in a bull market but compared to some of my other investments, they are now looking great.”

Mr Kern invested in Forward Purchase Agreements at a modest leverage ratio of approximately three to one and feels comfortable with the level of risk.

He said; “A leverage ratio of three to one compared to property investment at up to ten to one is relatively safe but margin calls could be worrying for me so my strategy going forward is to physicalise my portfolio through Venulum‘s new Wine Portfolio Strategy.”

Fears of a sustained major correction continue to appear to be relatively unfounded, with strong demand coming from the Far East in particular.

Giles Cadman chairman of Venulum, noted: “The market remains firm, with demand for the top wines from sought after back vintages especially strong. The emerging markets continue on as if the summer crunch hardly happened and we are quietly confident that fine wine will continue to outperform the majority of other asset classes through these turbulent times.”

About Venulum:
The Venulum Group is a multinational private wealth management firm headquartered in the British Virgin Islands. The Group manages the wealth of high net worth individuals, and specialises in alternative investments often not available to the general public. Venulum helps high net worth individuals balance their portfolios.

The Venulum Group was formed in 2002 and has expanded to include offices in five countries with service offices in a further two. Since 2002 Venulum’s client base has expanded rapidly, and they now have a substantial number of United States based clients.

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