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10 June 2011

PRESS RELEASE 10 June 2011 Stonebridge Group announce healthy 2010-11 results Stonebridge Group, the mortgage and insurance network proposition, has today (10th June 2011) announced a healthy set of annual results for 2010-11. Profits for the network operation were 22% up on the previous year, mirrored by a 20% increase in network turnover. Stonebridge puts this increase in both turnover and profit down to a strong focus during 2010/2011 on protection advice and sales. Stonebridge Group now houses 37 appointed representative (AR) firms encompassing 107 registered individuals (RI). It believes its strategy of only recruiting highly productive, quality AR firms has helped drive the improvement seen, even at a time when the mortgage market, for example, has not produced the volumes of business witnessed in previous years. Stonebridge is actively recruiting at present and expects to announce a number of new AR firms in the coming months. The business has been focused on recruiting both existing ARs looking for a new network home plus those advisers who may have previously worked for direct to consumer provider arms but are now opting for independent status. Stonebridge Group also includes Revolution ? the firm?s business solution software system ? and a wealth management arm. Richard Adams, Managing Director of Stonebridge Group, commented: ?Our results for the Stonebridge network operation are particularly pleasing and seem to justify our focus on quality not quantity when it comes to recruiting AR firms. Over the last few years we have seen only too clearly the problems that come when networks are run based purely on AR numbers rather than a focus on recruiting quality firms who are conducting significant levels of business. Our strategy continues to hold true and the results in terms of both turnover and profit increases are clear to see. We are not interested in bringing on firms to boost numbers but we want to be able to see a sound firm generating good levels of business. In return we can offer a variety of services and support opportunities whilst ensuring the firm?s compliance needs are fully taken care of with a tight span of control. ?There is no doubt that the strength in our results came from an increasingly focused approach to the protection market which was absolutely vital given that mortgage volumes and activity are nowhere near the levels of a few years? previous. Having said that, mortgage activity appears to be improving slowly and we fully anticipate that 2011/12 will see a much more fruitful mortgage market for our firms. We aim to maintain this approach which has delivered such sound results and fully anticipate announcing a series of new developments, including the recruitment of quality AR firms, throughout the rest of the year. Our aim is to maintain this momentum which should ensure we will have another strong set of results not just over the next 12 months but also in the years ahead.? To find out more about the Stonebridge Group or if brokers are interested in joining call 01702 562220 or for further information visit www.stonebridgegroup.co.uk ENDS For further information please contact Richard Adams, Managing Director at Stonebridge Group ? 07710 076078; radams@stonebridgegroup.co.uk Paul Nye, Business Development Director at Stonebridge Group - 07733 364137; pnye@stonebridgegroup.co.uk Rob Griffiths, Director at White Dragon Communications Ltd ? 07983 641566; rob@whitedragoncomms.co.uk Notes to editors Stonebridge Group was launched in 1988 as an independent brokerage which subsequently evolved by building on an infrastructure and sustainable business model to enhance the activities of broker partners. Technology plays a large part in the Stonebridge Group proposition and its bespoke in-house system helps deliver effective customer management and enhanced service delivery as well as helping advisers maximise growth and business efficiency. After a number of years growing its adviser numbers Stonebridge Group changed its FSA permissions to become authorised as a network. The network completed full authorisation of its 60 new members in November 2010. Based in Southend, Stonebridge offers ARs a range of services and support options. Stonebridge Group supports individual needs and ambitions, and works closely with advisers to achieve them. Its? success has been built around a flexible proposition, giving real sales development and support to ensure all regulatory requirements are met. Key benefits include: Commission Rates/Lender Fees Stonebridge achieves some of the highest levels available. Payment is made weekly direct to adviser?s accounts. Strategic Planning Planning is at the heart of a successful business. Our Development Director will work closely with ARs and provide support to achieve their goals. Introducer and adviser recruitment We will help identify and recruit new introducer sources and advisers whilst providing the necessary training to ensure success. Client Bank Management This often represents a great but underutilised opportunity. We can help ARs with setting up a database, effective client contact and marketing and how to utilise call centres. Sales and Compliance Management Our regional management team work closely with advisers to help increase sales and provide all the regulatory guidance needed. Marketing and Advertising Support Used effectively this can substantially increase any firm?s business profile. We can provide support with advice on marketing strategies, provide marketing material for firms to adapt to their own style and website integration. Client Management System Our market-leading administration and client management system provides ?Real time? updates to clients, advisers and introducers. A database for client reviews and targeted mailing. Point of Sale Systems Our systems enable advisers to source the mortgage market, provide illustrations of mortgage costs and associated protection. In addition it will produce regulatory documents to support this advice process. Financial Planning Clients often have a need for a complete review of their financial situation that assists them in planning for their life goals. Stonebridge Group can help by delivering training and identifying areas of need. It can also provide access to a financial planning expert or help to identify and recruit a financial planning consultant for a business, plus it can provide assistance with marketing material and development support. Stonebridge Group Stonebridge House Main Road Hawkwell Hockley Essex SS5 4JH

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