Investec Asset Management Selects FDI to Provide Sales Services

Business Wire, Jan 29, 2001

Business Editors

BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 29, 2001

Funds Distributor Inc. ("FDI") will provide a focused sales program for Investec Asset Management ("Investec") and the Investec funds, targeted initially at Merrill Lynch financial consultants. FDI will provide dedicated inbound and outbound telephone sales representatives, key account management, database development and on-going marketing support.

According to Betsy Connolly, President and CEO of FDI, "We are thrilled to partner with a firm of Investec's global structure. We believe that their broad array of investment products leave them well-positioned for great success in the U.S. We intend to be very persuasive in communicating Investec's history of success and the high quality of its investment products to the financial intermediary community".

"FDI will play an important role in our efforts to expand distribution of Investec funds through additional channels in America," said Royce Brennan, Managing Director. "Their depth and professionalism will enable us to provide the proper support for our sales program with Merrill Lynch quickly and efficiently."

FDI strives to develop tailored solutions that meet both the expectations and budget of its clients. Its broad array of services allows investment management firms, such as Investec, to thoughtfully address distribution opportunities and obstacles in a measured and cost-effective manner.

Funds Distributor Inc.

Founded in 1976, FDI provides a full range of integrated marketing, sales, legal and financing services. The firm has strategically guided institutional asset managers, banks, mutual fund companies and insurance companies to new levels of asset growth and visibility in the marketplace. Funds Distributor Inc. is a NASD registered broker-dealer and an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Boston Institutional Group, Inc.

Investec Asset Management

Investec Asset Management is a specialist international investment management company, managing approximately $25 billion of assets on behalf of individuals, governments, corporations and other institutions. The company is the investment advisor to the seven Investec (formerly Guinness Flight) Funds in the United States. With primary offices located in London, Hong Kong, Cape Town (South Africa), and Pasadena (California), Investec Asset Management currently manages more than 90 funds.