Investor Newsletter #3 - SePTEMBER 2011

Investor Newsletter – September 2011

Welcome to our September 2011 General Finance quarterly newsletter. We appreciate your support. The purpose of this newsletter is to keep you informed about the company and various financial matters that may interest you.

New Prospectus

Our new prospectus has been registered. It shows several positive activities for the company. We are starting to grow again. Our loyal depositors are continuing to invest with us and we are receiving new funds. Our profit before tax (to 31 March 2011) increased by 89% to $189,488 from $100,159. Our total assets have grown by 27% to $6.32 million from $4.96 million in the previous year. Our capital, that is our shareholders funds, is robust at over $3.0 million.  We are receiving regular enquiries for loans, but we are continuing with our conservative stance. Our lending focus on residential property remains unchanged.

Executive Directors Become Authorised Financial Advisors (AFA’s).

Over the past few years, increased legislation has been passed to regulate both finance companies and financial advisors. The new regulations for financial advisors came into force on
1 July of this year. The two executive directors of the company, James Lockie and William Cairns, have completed the papers and passed their exams to become authorised financial advisors (AFA).  Their applications have been approved by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA).
We believe the stricter regulations, plus accreditation of advisors, will restore investors’ confidence to continue and increase their support for finance companies. The finance company sector is vital to our country’s future, as they actively fund such things as business loans, plant and equipment advances, residential construction and bridging finance.   

Monthly Income Debentures

One of our investment offerings, that differentiates us from our competition, is our monthly income debentures. This is where we pay your interest on a monthly basis. If you have amounts of $10,000 or more to invest you can chose to have your interest paid monthly. This is a great offering for those wanting to receive a regular monthly income. For example, a $20,000 investment at 8.75% for three years, will provide a monthly after tax income (assuming a tax rate of 21%) of $115.21.


Interest rates

Our interest rates have been fairly constant for the past few months. Just to remind our investors, if you are looking at a rate above 8.0%, our two year rate is 8.50% and our three year rate is 8.75%.

Next Interest Payment

Our next quarterly interest payment will be made on the evening of Friday 30 September 2011. Direct credits will be processed that evening, with cheques (if applicable) and paperwork being forwarded during the week.

If you have any questions about your investment please do not hesitate to contact William Cairns on 09 526 7801 or by email to wcairns@general.co.nz.  Our website is www.general.co.nz.    

If you want to invest more funds, you can obtain an investment statement and application form from our securities registrar.  Their number is 0800 500 602.

Your continued support is noted and appreciated.