Investor Watch: ASC Offers Tips and Resolutions for Healthy Investing in 2010

CALGARY , Jan. 5 /CNW/ - With the new calendar year, the Alberta Securities Commission (ASC) is offering some tips and resolutions for those who want to avoid unhealthy investment decisions in 2010.

The ASC recommends that investors commit to some investing resolutions that will help them protect their money now and throughout the year.

    
    -   Resolve to Check First. Everyone is busy but investors should find
        time to research any investment opportunity - and those who offer
        them - before investing. The ASC website, www.albertasecurities.com,
        has tools and tips to help investors learn how to Check First and ask
        the right investing questions before making an investment decision.
        Understand your investing risk tolerance and learn about the red
        flags of investing by doing some research in the For Investors
        section of the ASC website.

    -   Resolve to make healthy investing a family affair. Take time to talk
        to your children and other family members about money and finances.
        For example, beware of unsolicited email messages or "cold callers"
        who approach you and your family over the phone - no matter how good
        the sales pitch sounds. Never give your Social Insurance Number
        (SIN), date of birth or credit card numbers to someone you don't know
        and don't rush into any investment. Make use of the free, unbiased
        educational resources available on the ASC site for teachers, parents
        and youth.

    -   Resolve to do a background check on your broker or investment adviser
        before investing. Visit www.albertasecurities.com to learn more about
        the salesperson offering an investment opportunity. Find out how to
        conduct a background check and do a search to see if there has been
        any disciplinary action against the company offering the investment
        or the salesperson.

    -   Resolve to fight investment fraud. Make fraud prevention and
        detection part of your routine. Learn about the common tactics used
        by scammers by using our online Investment Scams resource. If you've
        been a victim, or suspect you may be involved in an investing scam,
        visit our website to find out how to make an inquiry or a complaint.
        You may also wish to contact your local Better Business Bureau or
        victim assistance unit with your local police.
    

Investors can learn to Check First and protect their money at www.albertasecurities.com.

The ASC is the regulatory agency responsible for administering the province's securities laws. It is entrusted to foster a fair and efficient capital market in Alberta and to protect investors. As a member of the Canadian Securities Administrators, the ASC works to improve, coordinate and harmonize the regulation of Canada's capital markets.

For further information: For Media Inquiries: Mark Dickey, Senior Communications Advisor, [phone]; For Investor Inquiries: ASC Public Inquiries, Toll Free 1-877-355-4488