This is very interesting. I've not heard of Gemini or Ashley Partners, but McCarthy & Bennett who contacted me are offering $7.85 per share. Their commission fee is 5.8% ($9,106) deducted from the final amount.
My main concerns are the $12,000 they asked for up front as a "fully refundable share verification deposit" and the fact that if I send my share certificate off to them, would I ever see my $12,000 or the certificate again?
It was suggested, after I told them there is no way I would part with $12,000, that myself and the "client" would split this cost at $6,000 each. I would then receive in excess of $150,000 less their commission and plus the verification deposit.
Apparently the company buying my shares needed to create tax loses, hence the high price offered.
I have everything in writing from McCarty & Bennett (all sent via the internet): non-disclosure agreement, securities sale and purchased agreement, completion procedues and conditions, and all the figures involved. They have an impressive website and suggested I contact the International Securities Commission in the US (www.iscomm.us - 001 480 240 5726)) to verify their standing. I did this, but there was not one of their people available at the time to speak with me and I didn't want to stay on hold for too long. The phone was answered by an efficient receptionist however who said they would call back. They may have called while I've been away from my office; so I've not had the chance to speak as yet. Maybe someone else could give it a shot.
The "satisfied customer" I spoke to seemed very nice and appeared honest in what he said about receiving his money within 5 to 6 days and mentioned his skepticism and checking out Wachovia Bank in the US (which seems to be a major bank). I checked out his phone number and it is one of these IP/Internet phones from Magrathea Communications; so is not traceable to a specific address.
My 'gut' says leave well enough alone, but, as I said before, it would be galling if it were all above board!!
I am also waiting for somebody else to go first, preferably someone who was not recommended by McCarty & Bennett........
Anyone else out there thinking the same????
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