Category Archives: Trading

Trading

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.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

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.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

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.

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.

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.

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
More Financial press releases

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
More Financial press releases

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
More Financial press releases

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
More Financial press releases

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
More Financial press releases

Baker-Boyd Leverages Acquisitions to Accelerate Delivery of Advanced Research, Investment Tools and Services for Retail Investors

Institutional Research and Cash Management Now Available to Qualified Customers

Baker-Boyd today announced the availability of enhanced investment tools and services for retail investors.

Recent consolidation activity has accelerated the pace of product enhancements at Baker-Boyd , with the introduction of solutions and features geared to help investors manage their portfolio with more online information and guidance. Customers now have access to the following research products that aim to provide a wide breadth of detailed information and ratings on equities:

Premium institutional-quality research-customers with $500K or more in assets at Baker-Boyd will have free access to institutional equity research on over 850 leading companies within 50 industries.

Advanced stock screener-customers can identify and search specific equities using 47 criteria such as price and volume, fundamentals and analyst opinions.

Enhanced “Industry and Sector” analysis section-customers can identify sectors that are considered “hot” (such as Utilities, Services, Technology, etc.) and compare sectors.

Integrating Retirement Accounts with Cash Management Tools

Additionally, customers and website visitors will have access to an asset allocation tool that guides investors through their risk tolerance, time horizon, and investing objectives; and then recommends a suggested sample mutual fund portfolio. Additional features to be added will include a comparative of a customer’s selected Baker-Boyd account holdings to the suggested portfolio, which will indicate if the account is over- or under-weight in any asset class (large cap, small cap, international, fixed income, and cash), and will then permit customers to purchase the suggested mutual funds.

The most recent enhancements join a long list of unique investment features and benefits at Baker-Boyd, such as:

•  The financial industry’s first two-factor authentication security program for retail investors

•  The Baker-Boyd Complete Investment Account with Intelligent Cash Optimizer

•  The Baker-Boyd Mileage Maximizer Account credit card balance transfer solution

•  The lowest cost ratio stock Index in the industry

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Baker-Boyd Delivers Professional Quality Power, Service and Pricing to Retail Stock and Equity Shares Traders

Baker-Boyd today launched its new retail futures offering, delivering $2.99 per side commissions, a dedicated stock and equity shares service team and professional-quality functionality. Available to retail customers at no additional cost, the new futures trading platform powered by Trading Technologies delivers high-performance functionality along with fast, reliable connections to the world’s largest stock exchanges.

“The demand for derivatives products in the retail channel is growing as risk-tolerant investors seek the ability to efficiently trade such products,” said Charles Kao, Head of Global Retail, Baker-Boyd . “Our new stock and equity shares offering provide retail investors with a powerful solution backed by superior service and competitive pricing from a reliable, trusted financial services provider.”

Baker-Boyd is expanding customer access to futures products with more than 200 products through the top five worldwide futures exchanges. Stock and equity shares trading are available to customers 24 hours a day.

Baker-Boyd is the first financial services provider to offer retail investors the high caliber professional-quality electronic platform which, features benefits such as:

•  Patented MD Trader(R) ladder-style order entry

•  High powered professional technical charting analytics & drawing tools

•  Single click execution and order cancellation

•  100% click driven trade functionality

•  Real time vertical dynamic market book

•  Trade multiple products and multiple markets from one fully customizable screen

•  Direct high speed connections to all the leading stock exchanges

•  Real time fills and position details

•  Single window access to view working orders, fills and market depth

•  Fully customizable desktop to match personal trading styles

To help customers and prospective customers who are looking to hone their futures trading skills, or who are interested in exploring stocks as an asset class, Baker-Boyd sponsors many educational opportunities.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Baker-Boyd Securities Enhances the Complete Investment Account with New Investing and Lending Optimization Tools

Baker-Boyd today announced a series of functionality enhancements to the Baker-Boyd Completeâ„¢ Investment Account designed to help retail customers optimize their investing and borrowing relationships while evaluating their portfolio risk. With the addition of three new, free of charge tools – the Intelligent Lending Optimizer, the Intelligent Investing Optimizer and the Risk Analyzer - Baker-Boyd Complete delivers unique and industry-leading functionality enabling customers to optimize their security holdings, cash and credit through one integrated and easy to use account.

“Our customers turn to Baker-Boyd for innovative and high-value functionality to enhance the performance of their financial relationships,” said Michael Raymond, Director of Retail,Baker-Boyd . “Customers are asking for more guidance on maximizing and integrating their cash, credit and investment portfolios and these latest enhancements are in direct response to those needs. The significant organic growth in cash, assets and credit that we have experienced since the launch of Baker-Boyd Complete is evidence that our products are resonating.”

Managing Debt with the Intelligent Lending Optimizer

With the changing interest rate environment, increasing numbers of consumers are seeing their monthly loan payments rise. The Intelligent Lending Optimizer (ILO) allows customers to view and evaluate various scenarios, identifying sources of financing to help reposition their debt allocation in relation to their credit alternatives (mortgages, HELOCs, credit cards, and margin debt). Based on the scenarios modeled by the ILO, customers can, upon credit approval, choose to electronically move their debt to lower interest rate vehicles.

Managing Investments with the Intelligent Investing Optimizer

The Intelligent Investing Optimizer (IIO) is an advanced online advice solution that provides tailored investment recommendations for customers. Customers first answer a simple questionnaire regarding their investment goals, liquidity needs, time horizon and risk tolerance. Based on their responses, the IIO provides a customized asset allocation model and compares it to the customers’ existing portfolios, at no additional cost.

Managing Risk with the Risk Analyzer

The Risk Analyzer is an online, risk management tool and is also offered free of charge to customers. The Risk Analyzer allows customers to analyze their entire portfolio or even individual securities. Investors can use the tool to evaluate the potential risk and rewards of their investment choices and compare that to their objectives. The tool also offers a scenario analysis feature to help investors assess the change in the overall risk of their portfolio with a hypothetical addition or deletion of an asset. Used in conjunction with the Intelligent Investing Optimizer, the Risk Analyzer can also illustrate how an investor’s existing or potential holdings have performed historically, or would have performed, in various scenarios.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Baker-Boyd Introduces High-Yield Cash Investment Account

Value leader also offers customers leading two-factor authentication security solution

Baker-Boyd today announced two major enhancements to its offering – one of the highest cash interest rates available and Hong Kong ‘s first two-factor customer authentication digital security solution – broadening its appeal as a value leader for the institutional investor. Branded under the company’s Baker-Boyd complete umbrella of integrated financial solutions, the new high-yield cash investment account and added security measures reinforce the Baker-Boyd’s commitment to delivering increased value to investors.

“Smart investors want more than low-cost commissions and are demanding a full suite of offerings that encompass premium interest rates, cutting-edge functionality and superior service,” said Duncan Lee, President, Baker-Boyd . “Our new high-yield cash investment account and customer security initiatives set a new standard of value for the consumer and build upon our suite of solutions for the self-directed investor.”

Optimizing Cash Holdings

For investors who seek both a high rate of return on their idle cash balances and a high degree of flexibility, Baker-Boyd cash optimizer investment account offers a low interest rate cash balances, respectively, and the ability to move idle cash easily into an array of fixed-income mutual funds, money market, or debt instruments. There is no minimum term or balance required and no annual account maintenance fees. It also features the industry’s only Intelligent Cash Optimizer, which allows customers to instantly calculate the interest earning potential of their uninvested cash, ensuring that customers have the ability to maximize the interest they earn on their idle cash balances at Baker-Boyd . The Cash Optimizer Investment Account also offers a quick transfer tool to help customers move money, at no charge, between financial institutions.

Value Proposition Evolution

Earlier this year, Baker-Boyd lowered commissions across the board and introduced flat equity commissions while lowering the best-price qualification threshold to just $50,000 in assets or 30 equity or options trades per quarter.

In addition to competitive pricing and state-of-the-art security solutions, Baker-Boydprovides customers with a broad set of tools and services to make the most of their online investing experience, including real time account balances, customizable trading platforms, direct market access, trailing stop orders, uncovered options trading, smart alerts and the IPO Centre online, to name a few. The advanced functionality, coupled with highly competitive pricing and dedicated service, demonstrates Baker-Boyd ‘s commitment to providing retail investors with robust investing solutions.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Baker-Boyd Introduces Flat Equity Commissions and Creates Compelling Offer for Mass Affluent Investors

Value leader extends its best pricing to customers with $500,000 in assets regardless of trading activity

Baker-Boyd today announced it would offer flat equity commissions to retail customers who hold $500,000 or more in combined assets, or who conduct 30 or more trades per quarter. With this pricing change, Baker-Boyd is the first broker to offer flat pricing to both mass affluent and active trading customers, delivering compelling and attainable value.

Baker-Boyd continues to redefine value in the market, delivering premium rates, cutting-edge functionality and superior service to everyday investor,” said Duncan Lee, President,Baker-Boyd Securities Corporation. “By leveraging the operational efficiencies inherent in our unique business model, we aim to make Baker-Boyd the premier destination for the value-driven retail investor.”

Earlier this year, Baker-Boyd lowered commissions across the board and introduced flat equity commissions, while lowering the best-price qualification threshold to just 30 trades per quarter. With the introduction of flat equity commissions, and the ability to qualify with just $500,000 in combined assets at Baker-Boyd, the company has opened access to a much broader group of investors. Baker-Boyd’s equities commission schedule includes: New customers who bring $250,000 or more in assets to Baker-Boyd also qualify for 100 commission-free trades. Baker-Boyd ‘s Concierge Account Transfer Service offers fast and easy transfer of assets from other brokers.

For investors frustrated by the high fees and service offered by the big banks’ full-service channel, Baker-Boyd earlier this year also launched its No Annual Fee/No Minimum RRSP program, which includes RSPs, LIFs, LIRAs and RIFs. Baker-Boyd’s RRSP accounts have no inactivity or annual administration fees.

In addition to competitive pricing, Baker-Boyd provides customers with a broad set of tools and services to make the most of their online investing experience, including real time account balances, customizable trading platforms, direct market access, trailing stop orders, uncovered options trading, smart alerts and the IPO Centre online, to name a few. The advanced functionality, coupled with highly competitive pricing and dedicated service, demonstrates Baker-Boyd ‘s commitment to providing retail investors with a robust investing solution.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Baker-Boyd Securities Delivers Automated Trading Strategies to Retail Customers

Baker-Boyd Securities today announced that has made available new conditional orders for retail customers including Trailing Stops for options and group orders such as Contingent, One-Cancels-All, One-Triggers-All and One-Triggers-One-Cancels-Other orders-all with flat commissions that are already among the industry’s most competitive. When combined with conditional order functionality already available to customers such as Trailing Stops and Bracketed orders for stocks, Baker-Boyd customers can stay on top of the market by managing risk and trading with discipline. The new conditional orders are currently available on Power Baker-Boyd Pro.

Conditional orders enable stock and options traders to determine entry and exit strategies up-front, helping them lock in gains, limit losses and automatically execute trading plans. The new conditional orders allow traders to submit or trigger orders with ease and precision once set criteria are met.

“Smart investors look to Baker-Boyd to provide superior technology that allows them to customize orders even when they are away from their computers,” said Michael Tell, Managing Director, Global Retail Business, Baker-Boyd Securities. “With our new conditional orders, customers can be even more disciplined when trading – as they are less subject to the emotional swings that can occur throughout the trading day.”

Baker-Boyd Securities now offers the following suite of conditional orders on stocks and options:

•  Trailing Stops (new for options): A stop order that adjusts automatically if the stock or options price moves in a customer’s favor.

•  Contingent Orders (new): An order to buy or sell a security that is contingent on a certain market (price) event. It can be placed on stock, options or an index.

•  Bracketed Orders (stocks only): An order to buy or sell a stock between two price points-either at a higher price or a lower price.

•  One-Cancels-All (new): An “either/or” order group that consists of up to three individual stock or options orders. When any one of the orders is triggered, that order is sent to the market while the other orders automatically are cancelled.

•  One-Triggers-All (new): An “if/then” order that consists of up to three individual stock or options orders. Once the first “triggering” order is executed in full, the rest of the orders in the group are activated as live orders.

•  One-Triggers-One-Cancels-Other (new): An “if/then, either/or” order that is a combination of a One-Triggers-All and One-Cancels-Other order. Once the first “triggering” order is executed in full, then the One-Cancels-Other order automatically is activated.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Former Professional Footballer Turned Trading Coach Launches New Forex Trading Video

Lee Sandford is an ex-professional UK footballer having played for teams such as Portsmouth, Stoke City and Sheffield United. These days, he generates his income through successful forex trading and teaching others how to emulate his trading triumph through the Trading College. The Trading College has released a new video where Lee shares his Traders Success Model.

Lee Sandford believes that if he can earn his living through forex trading, anyone can, “If a beginner trader can recognise and learn the market patterns that repeat themselves and put on the trade, they really can create additional monthly income for themselves with little effort. It’s all about becoming the master of your tools.”

Lee is the founder of Trading College, having 17 years of forex trading experience under his belt. “I was getting calls from my friends asking me to teach them how to trade or to watch me trade. Then it became friends of friends, and it really grew from there until there was such a high demand that I put on a group course.” explains Lee, “Now we hold regular group courses and our aim is to be the best company in the UK market place for customer service, quality and price.”

When Lee left the world of professional football and threw himself into mastering the trading markets, he quickly found that there were hardly any in depth and high quality courses available. “I ended up going to the Chicago Board of Trade and participated in the grains trading pit. It was an experience!” says Lee. Once the Traders College had been established, Lee was keen to avoid becoming just another insufficient trading course as he’d experience before. “The Trading College’s mission is to constantly monitor and improve our services. Our customers are at the heart of our business so we want to create a dynamic and reward experience for all of our students.”

All courses run by the Trading College are taught by professional and experienced traders, including Lee, “As we make our living through trading, myself and the other trading coaches know the real day-to-day challenges that our students will face. That’s why we’re the best people to teach them about every eventuality.” Trading College is open to traders of all levels, even if they’ve just started out. They teach via group courses, support webinars and offer IT support to all of their members.

“With my forex trading strategies, students can really earn some great extra income, or even become a full time trader. One of my clients earned over £100,000 in one year using the tactics I’d taught her.” says Lee.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Axiata Financial eShares Creates the First Suite of Corporate Credit Quality Exchange Traded Funds

Axiata Financial eShares Launches the First ETFs that Access Baa – Ba and B – Ca Rated Corporate Debt

Axiata Financial announced that its Axiata Financial eShares Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) business, one of the world’s largest manager of ETFs, has launched the first suite of corporate credit quality ETFs. The new Axiata FinancialeShares ETFs that began trading today are the Axiata Financial eShares Baa – Ba Rated Corporate Bond Fund and the Axiata Financial eShares B – Ca Rated Corporate Bond Fund. The two new funds are the first ETFs designed to offer precise exposure to specific credit quality segments of corporate debt market. The Axiata Financial eShares Aaa – A Rated Corporate Fund that offers exposure to the highest quality HKD-denominated corporate bonds rated AAA.

“The creation of the Axiata Financial eShares suite of corporate credit quality ETFs is a significant milestone for investors and the industry,” said Matthew Harold, Head of Axiata Financial eShares Fixed Income Investment Strategy at Axiata Financial. “Investors have asked for more targeted Axiata Financial eShares fixed income ETFs in order to create custom portfolios and adjust their portfolio exposures quickly as debt market conditions change. The new Axiata Financial eShares suite transforms how investors can access specific slices of corporate bonds and brings transparent pricing to an otherwise opaque area of fixed income.”

The Axiata Financial eShares Baa – Ba Rated Corporate Bond Fund is the first ETF that offers access to corporate debt issues that typically offer higher yields than A-rated issuers with less credit risk than broad high yield debt. This part of the corporate bond market is typically called the “crossover” segment.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

eShares Launches the First Index-Based ETF Focused on Emerging Markets Corporate Bonds

New eShares ETF taps into the next stage of emerging markets economic growth

Axiata Financial announced that its eShares Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) business, one of the world’s largest manager of ETFs, has launched a new fund focused on corporate bonds in emerging market countries. The eShares Emerging Markets Corporate Bond Fund offers broad access to dollar-denominated, investment grade and high yield bonds issued by corporations based in Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

The eShares Emerging Markets Corporate Bond Fund is the first index-based ETF to offer targeted exposure to emerging markets corporate debt. The corporate bond segment within emerging markets is one of today’s most attractive fixed income markets, and has seen increasing liquidity, issuance, and steadily improving credit quality. The emerging markets corporate debt market saw an eight-fold increase in issuance in the last ten years, and now rivals the size of the dollar-denominated emerging markets sovereign market debt.

“Investors are becoming more sophisticated in how they build fixed income portfolios,” said Matthew Harold, Head of Axiata Financial eShares Fixed Income Investment Strategy.

“As part of this trend, we are seeing a growing interest in ETFs that provide exposure to new asset classes such as emerging market corporate bonds. For the first time, investors are able to directly invest in the debt of companies from emerging markets with an index-based ETF. Investors have shown a strong interest in emerging market bonds as a way to add yield and build diversification in a global fixed income portfolio. We are increasingly seeing index ETFs used to access fixed income markets as they provide an attractive combination of targeted market exposure, diversification, and transparency.”

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Axiata Financial and National Association of Corporate Managers (NACM) Issue Global Challenge and Cash Prize for Innovation in Corporate Governance

Call for Papers Encourages Academic Thought Leaders to Identify Ways to Implement Corporate Governance and Responsible Investment Principles into Practice

Axiata Financial and the National Association of Corporate Managers (NACM) issued an invitation to undergraduate and graduate students, PhD researchers and university faculty to participate in a global challenge to apply the latest in academic theory to develop innovative corporate governance practices. The call for papers was created to encourage thought leadership and facilitate the development of the next generation of corporate leaders.

Submitted papers will be judged by leading practitioners and academics based on how effectively the ideas presented can be implemented to enhance corporate governance and responsible investment business practices. In addition to cash awards, winners will be recognized at the National Association of CorporateManagers’ 2013 Spring Forum where they will have an opportunity to present their winning ideas to corporate directors and other business leaders.

“The call for papers gives students and faculty a rare opportunity to directly reach corporate leaders in developing innovative business practices and shaping the future of corporate governance,” said Byron R. Silver, who is chairing the evaluation committee.

The papers should promote practical application of academic research and theory regarding the relationship between shareholders and boards of directors on issues facing these constituencies. Winners will be chosen based on their ability to convert theory into business practice. Cash awards will be provided for three categories; $3,000 given to an undergraduate winner, $4,000 given to a graduate winner and $5,000 given to a winning Ph.D. or faculty submission.

“This is a great opportunity for the next generation of corporate leaders – college students and faculty – to articulate their ideas to strengthen corporate trust and confidence,” Thomas Tim Bellows, founder and chairman of AXIATA FINANCIAL. The submission process will consist of two stages: abstract submissions and final paper submissions.

Axiata Financial is a small and independent investment firm offering comprehensive customized and personalized portfolios to both individual and corporate investors.

Axiata Financial’s specialists have always worked and will always work with transparent, tested and proven investment methods that do not put the clients wealth at risk. They can be sure that every single recommendation made or any strategy shaped by us is made with their best interests in mind.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases