The March issue of Private Investor carries 2 pages referring to Crest Membership;
1. Roy Colbran on page 3.
2. A letter on page 12.
Both refer to the difficulties (in their case) of receiving information directly from companies that they invest in.
This I cannot understand as Crest Membership means that your personal name is placed on the Company Register and as such would automatically receive all company documents if asked for by post.
However, I find that one must monitor the situation as companies soon try to change you to only view documents on their websites. Often a choice document as to post/electronic information is hidden within the Annual Report/AGM documents. If these are not filled out/returned you will have assumed to have accepted electronic website information from then on.
I have now held Crest Membership for dealing/ISA accounts for over 5 years and receive all company documents.
I also find charges must cheaper than Nominee accounts and the administration better.
It is ideal for execution only brokerage.
If brokerage advice/full support is needed then I find brokers try to sell their nominee services strongly as this is more profitable. However, it is still possible to find brokers to offer Crest Membership.
Richard Hall.
