28 February 2006

At the AGM today, Jamie Matheson, Executive Chairman said:

“I am pleased to tell you that the year is proceeding well. Our Investment Management business continues to enjoy a good performance and our Corporate Broking Division has had a very strong first quarter.

Against this background, I am happy to inform you that this morning your Board approved a first interim dividend of 2.5p per share against 2p this time last year. This dividend is payable on 6th April 2006 to shareholders on the register on 10th March. ”