Registrars
Capita Registrars
The Registry
34 Beckenham Road
Beckenham
Kent
BR3 4TU
Tel: 020 8639 2493 (or +44 20 8639 2493 if calling from overseas) calls cost 10p a minute plus network extras, lines are open 8.30am - 5.30pm Mon-Fri
Fax: 020 8639 2387
Web: www.capitaregistrars.com
Note to shareholders - boiler room scams
During 2008, many companies became aware that their shareholders have received unsolicited phone calls or correspondence concerning investment matters. These are typically from overseas based brokers who target UK shareholders offering to sell them what often turn out to be essentially worthless or high risk US or UK investments. These operations are commonly known as boiler rooms. These brokers can be very persistent and extremely persuasive, and a 2006 survey by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) has reported that the average amount lost by investors is around £20,000.
It is not just the novice investor that has been duped in this way; many of the victims had been successfully investing for several years. Shareholders are advised to be very wary of any unsolicited advice, offers to buy shares at a discount or offers of free company reports.
If you receive any unsolicited investment advice you should:
- Make sure you obtain the correct name of the person calling and the organisation he/she represents.
- Check that the firm is properly authorised by the FSA before getting involved. You can check this at www.fsa.gov.uk/register. The FSA also maintains on its website a list of unauthorised overseas firms who are targeting, or have targeted, UK investors. Any approach from such organisations should be reported to the FSA so that this list can be updated and any other appropriate action considered. You can find this list, and report an organisation to the FSA using an online form, at www.fsa.gov.uk/pages/doing/regulated/law/alerts/overseas.shtml
- Report the matter to the FSA either by calling 0845 606 1234 or visiting www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk
- If the calls persist, hang up.
If you deal with an unauthorised firm, you will not be eligible to receive payment under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. The FSA can be contacted by completing an online form on their website.
Details of any share dealing facilities that the company endorses will be included in company mailings. More detailed information on this or similar activity can be found on the 'Money Made Clear' section of the FSA website.