Hi, Lindsay.

LM>  FM> Other points about 'know your client', and security (Paul Edwards says
LM>  FM> buy 10/- BHP, then the real Paul Edwards claims it wasn't him) also
LM>  FM> apply to the Internet, and are probably solvable.

LM> Security could be covered by the use of PGP, with the user's
LM> public key sent both by net and by Australia Post for confirmation.

Yes, that would be a way. I think you would need to keep the user side
of it as uncomplicated as possible, assuming that although people might
be sophisticated investors they may not be all that familiar with the
technology.

LM> For making orders, I think it would be easier and cheaper to use
LM> a fax. Although I suppose it would be cheaper for you to reply
LM> electronicly.

Probably, or even voice. There are very few people who use other than
voice (at least, of my clients). One overseas client uses fax, and
there are clients of other advisors who will send instructions that way.
I guess Paul's point is, that if you want to do it electronically then a
BBS type setup would be cheaper than using the internet. Although for
people who have an account already for work, say, maybe not cheaper for
them

LM> On the other hand, an Internet or BBS connection would be a good way
LM> to disseminate info to your clients - broker's research and the like.

Sure.

LM> There would be no need to set up a BBS yourself. Just slip a few
LM> bucks to a local BBS operator.  For another modem, a new line and
LM> a bigger hard drive, most of them would follow you anywhere.

Yes, for the research info. But if I also provided for placing orders,
and confirming the trade back to them, I'd want to run it myself.

Regards, FIM.

 * * People that fly into a rage make bad landings.
@EOT:

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