This buyout makes sense for both sides. First, AIC’s financial clout and deep pockets would enable us to greatly expand our local and regional operations and they can harness our ability to penetrate a region which promises unlimited economic growth in the years to come. Second, their global research wing will give us increased access to better and more timely investment information to take stakes in the kinds of promising small companies we have made our reputation investing in. Third, and perhaps most important to you, I have received the personal assurances of the acquisition team that there will be virtually no staff cuts. In fact, those of you who have been with our firm for a long time will actually have more opportunity for advancement rather than less, as you will be in a position to apply for transfers to many of AIC’s other divisions and operations, depending upon your background and interests.