1 November 2006

Speaking at today’s Annual General Meeting, the chairman reported that current trading is broadly in line with a conservative budget.  While our corporate finance and securities divisions are operating at a marginally lower level than in the equivalent period last year, the climate for our banking division is unchanged and our investment division continues to make good progress.  In addition, we anticipate some significant realisation gains in our private equity and property businesses.  

Further Enquiries:

Colin Keogh
Group Chief Executive
Close Brothers Group plc
020 7426 4000