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Expert audit of a company’s stock transfer service agreement and recent invoices, to ensure pricing and contract provisions are in line with today’s competitive environment. Scores of companies have chosen this approach over a Request for Proposal (RFP) exercise because little effort is required and it takes less time. No change in transfer agent is involved, the transfer agent relationship remains cordial, and cost savings achieved show adherence to best corporate practices. The Check-Up includes an update on the ever-changing stock transfer industry, and how the agent for the company (and the company itself) fit within it.
If the company chooses an RFP over a Check-Up, we will take the mystery and considerable time out of the process. We will ensure the company knows the strengths and challenges of all potential transfer agent candidates, at the outset. We will edit the company’s own RFP document or produce one ourselves addressing the company’s particular needs. We analyze and comment on proposals received from transfer agents, showing both financial and non-financial data in an “apples-to-apples” format. We prepare the company for finalist interviews, help the company pick the winning bidder, support negotiation of the agent’s new contract and prepare the company for issues relating to a shareholder records conversion, if applicable. We simplify the process, optimize pricing and ensure “contract fairness” with the chosen agent.
We take the distraction of selecting the best transfer agent for the company away from senior management, while it focuses on the IPO itself. We also make the transfer agent choice more “scientific” than simply following a legal or CPA firm’s recommendation. We know all the transfer agents, and facilitate the receipt of competitive proposals from candidates that are best suited to the company’s particular needs. The company can choose its agent looking at financial and non-financial data presented in a readily comparable format.
We help companies negotiate contracts for services that are “collateral to” stock transfer, like proxy tabulation, proxy solicitation, corporate actions, escheatment and share purchase plan administration. We can advise the company “behind the scenes,” or serve as the company’s direct interface with the service provider on a turn-key basis. As with all our services we simplify matters, save companies money and, in the process, help them demonstrate adherence to best corporate practices.
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