Monday, December 22, 2008

Buyer Beware!!

2008-12-22

Title: Investor Watch: B.C. securities regulator cautions investors about investment pitches

The British Columbia Securities Commission is publishing an Investment Caution List to warn investors about unregistered companies that have contacted B.C. residents to open brokerage accounts, or buy unqualified investments that may not comply with securities laws.

“The BCSC helps protect investors from unsuitable and potentially fraudulent investments through investor education and warnings,” said Brenda Leong, BCSC executive director. “Investors should always know who they are dealing with and research an investment, before they invest. We encourage investors to immediately report any suspicious investment activity to the BCSC.”

Investors need to be particularly careful when dealing with companies located in offshore jurisdictions. Investigating offshore companies can be complicated and can delay enforcement action. In addition, when money is sent offshore, recovery of investor funds is often difficult or impossible.

The Investment Caution List does not identify all unregistered activity or unqualified securities being promoted in the province. In compiling the Investment Caution List, the BCSC relies on information it receives from the public or other agencies.

No comments: