INVESTMENT SERVICES: ESCROW & DEPOSITARY

Citadel is an entity authorised by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and can provide a range of escrow services to an investment project including the receipt and release of investment purchase monies paid from investors and the ongoing distribution of investment returns due to the investors.

For projects where Citadel, as an authorised entity, is receiving and distributing money in relation to designated investment business, then this money is defined under the FCA’s Handbook as ‘client money’ and consequently the Handbook’s client money rules are applicable to Citadel in relation to those funds; the Client Asset (CASS) requirements which cover the procedures for holding of client money must be adhered to and these are based around ensuring the correct segregation and protection of the client money.

Citadel is permitted to receive or hold client money in relation to its Part 4A permissions:

• Safeguarding and administration of assets
• Establish, operate and wind-up unregulated collective investment schemes

Citadel's escrow service ensures that investment funds are paid directly from investors to an appropriately authorised entity, leaving the other entities in the structure to focus on their role. By using Citadel to receive and distribute investment monies there are significant benefits to the process, including:

1. Receipt, holding and distribution of client money by an authorised entity, avoiding the risk of handling of client money by an unauthorised entity.
2. The investor can proceed with the investment, knowing that his funds are safeguarded while they are being held by Citadel.
3. Funds held by Citadel are protected from commingling with Citadel’s own funds and/or funds of other investment projects.

Citadel is highly experienced in receiving and holding and distributing funds according to pre agreed release criteria and operates both on-shore and off-shore bank accounts in the British Isles, which are held under a Declaration of Trust. All funds are received into accounts that are recognised by Citadel's bankers as "Client Accounts". This means that they are fully protected against the demise of the parties who might logically hold the funds [including Citadel]. All standard forms of payment are accepted by Citadel and most currencies can be accommodated. Electronic banking, fully computerised accounting and regular financial reporting ensure an efficient and accurate service.

If you would like any further information, please contact Citadel today for an informal discussion.