BTIG LTD Opens London Office Becomes Member Of London Stock Exchange

London and New York – 15 December 2008 – BTIG LLC, an institutional broker dealer specializing in equity trading and related brokerage services, today announced the next steps in its expansion with an office in London for its new BTIG Ltd. affiliate, which has received authorization by the FSA and obtained membership on the London Stock Exchange (LSE).

“These two announcements are significant milestones in BTIG’s global expansion,” said Kevin Chessen, head of BTIG LLC’s International division. “Our US clients have been encouraging us to develop a global offering. We believe a strong local presence in London will benefit our clients’ trading in the region and position us to build our brand of client service throughout Europe.”

Gary Hayes, CEO of BTIG Ltd., said, “Our proven model of high-touch execution combined with compelling value-added services is a timely offering for our markets. We are part of a global platform so naturally membership in the world’s most diverse exchange is crucial. It also shows our commitment to becoming a significant source of liquidity and market intelligence in London and the rest of Europe.”

Mr. Hayes joined BTIG Ltd. to initiate its European operations, with more than 25 years experience in the business. Prior to joining BTIG Ltd., he served as chief operating officer for Collins Stewart PLC and was a managing director with Merrill Lynch and Smith New Court PLC. He will be joined by eight professionals in the London office.

“We’re excited to expand our global capabilities with a significant presence in London,” said BTIG co-founder Steve Starker. “Proven trading skills and a commitment to excellent customer service has universal appeal to institutional clients around the world.”

About BTIG
BTIG LLC is a premier institutional brokerage and fund services company. Founded in 2002 BTIG has grown steadily from 5 employees to over 200. BTIG serves nearly 1,000 institutional customers and offers services from four divisions: Institutional Trading, Prime Brokerage, Outsource Trading and Direct Market Access. BTIG has offices in New York, San Francisco, Dallas, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Greenwich, Red Bank, Orinda and Aspen. The firm has affiliates in London, Hong Kong and Sydney.

BTIG LLC is a member of FINRA and SIPC

BTIG Australia Limited ACN 128 554 601 is a member of ASIC and ASE

BTIG Hong Kong Limited is an SFC approved broker dealer

BTIG Ltd. is authorized and regulated by the Financial Services Authority and is a member of the London Stock Exchange

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