I. General

Q. How often do I get a statement?
Statements are sent quarterly to clients, except for clients who have less than US$50,000 in which case statements will be sent bi-annually. These statements will be sent to the address specified in the account opening forms. All client statements will only reflect the client account number details and will not indicate client names or addresses. Special arrangements can be made for clients who request monthly statements.

Q. What procedures and documentation are required to open an account? What additional procedures are required for companies?
In common with most other reputable international banking centres that pride themselves on the integrity of their operations, we require that individuals wishing to open new accounts and signatories on new company accounts complete our due diligence process. As part of this process we confirm your identity and signature by reviewing a notarized copy of your passport. We also request a reference letter from a bank and a person with a professional designation. The extent of the due diligence process for individuals is dependent on the services required from the bank. Companies are required to prove their legal existence by supplying us among other things, with incorporation documentation and corporate resolutions which approve the commencement of the banking relationship.

Q. On what basis do you charge your fees?
In our fee schedule, fees vary for different services. Investment management fees are generally charged as a percentage of assets where the Bank manages the investments. Where a client wishes to manage their own investments, a custody and investment administration fee is charged based on a percentage of assets plus certain transaction fees, where appropriate. Trust and managed company fees are generally charged based on the amount of time spent by Bank employees and the complexity of the structure. Private banking fees are charged on initial set up and ongoing transactions. We have a detailed fee schedule which is available for your review.

Q. What steps are taken to assure the confidentiality of my accounts?
In accordance with Barbados offshore banking laws client confidentiality is strictly guarded. These laws impose harsh monetary and prison penalties on bank employees who disclose confidential client information to third parties. As in most offshore jurisdictions, it should be noted that in certain very rare circumstances where a person has been accused of and convicted for certain criminal activities, authorities may petition a competent court in Barbados to order the bank to disclose information.

Q. How do I communicate with the Bank?
All communication is conducted via a password chosen by the client. Our relationship managers visit clients on a regular basis and it is our belief that face to face is still the best form of communication. Our preferred method of communication is by facsimile because it allows us to authenticate banking instructions with signatures. Telephone, secure E-Mail and postal mail are also acceptable. Our computer system in Barbados is a stand-alone system with encrypted software for electronic mail communication, and a great deal of effort and resources is devoted to maintain the strongest level of computer security.

Q. Does the Bank provide any tax advice?
While the bank employs several well-qualified financial professionals, we recognize that the tax circumstances of each client is unique, hence we do not provide tax advice. We prefer to work with a client's current tax professionals to ensure the most suitable offshore structure for a client. In the event the client does not utilize the services of a tax professional, we are happy to introduce our clients to a respected professional suitable for a clients' needs.

Q. How do I deposit funds and what happens if I need to withdraw funds quickly?
Generally we recommend wire transfer of funds into the Bank, usually due to the size of the funds being transferred. However, drafts and personal cheques are also acceptable. Most funds that are remitted to the Bank are placed into long term investment programs after consultation with clients. These investments are in most cases, easy to sell and liquidate if a client urgently needs funds; usually a client receives their funds within two weeks of requesting them. They can then be remitted to any destination as instructed by the client.

Q.Is the Bank required to report my earnings to any revenue authorities? Is the return earned by my investments taxed in Barbados?
No, the Bank is not required to and does not report details of income earned in our clients' accounts to any revenue authorities. Income earned by non-resident accounts and offshore clients are not taxed in Barbados. However, you should consult with your financial advisors to determine if you will be required to pay taxes on this income in your country of residence.

Q. Is Barbados a credible offshore jurisdiction?
Yes, attractive features of the island as a reputable offshore jurisdiction include:

• British Common Law and an unblemished offshore reputation
• Political and social stability
• Modern financial, transportation and telecommunication infrastructure
• Well-educated business and legal professionals