Who are BlackRock owned by?

Our firm’s ownership structure is designed to maintain the independence we believe is necessary to retain our commitments to client focus and investment excellence. BlackRock, Inc. (NYSE: BLK) has no single majority stockholder and has a majority of independent directors. Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation, The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. and Barclays PLC own economic interests in BlackRock approximating 34.1%, 24.6% and 19.9%, respectively, with the remainder owned by institutional and individual investors, as well as BlackRock employees.*

* Data is as of September 30, 2009, is subject to change, and is based on a pro forma estimate of assets under management at BlackRock, Inc. and Barclays Global Investors.

What areas of investment do BlackRock specialise in?
BlackRock offers a full range of equity, fixed income, cash management and alternative investment products for retail and institutional investors. Full details of our products can be found here .
What is an offshore fund?
An offshore fund is a pooled investment vehicle (such as a unit trust or open-ended investment company) that is established in low tax jurisdictions, for example Luxembourg and the Channel Islands.
Are there tax advantages to investing in an offshore fund?
For certain investors, yes.

Offshore funds are located generally within a tax neutral jurisdiction and are, therefore, not subject to most (but not all) forms of tax.

* Any dividends paid by a fund typically will not be subject to tax at source.
* Investors should be aware that certain income received by the fund from the underlying investments might be subject to withholding taxes.
* Investors should seek advice regarding the personal tax consequences of investing in an offshore fund.
Do you offer financial advice?
No, if you need financial advice on which funds are most appropriate for you, we would recommend that you contact your financial adviser.
Why is a US citizen not permitted to invest in BlackRock Global Funds and BlackRock Strategic Funds?
Under the US Securities Act of 1933 BlackRock Global Funds may not be directly or indirectly offered or sold;

* in the USA or any of its territories or possessions or areas subject to its jurisdiction
* to or for the business of a US person
How do I find out further information on specific funds?
For further information on all funds please go to the Fund Centre . Alternatively you can download brochures within our Literature Section.
Where can I find details on fund prices?
Prices are published daily and can be found under Prices and Fund Facts.
How do I make any administration changes?
If you wish to notify us of a change of name or address then the Investor Services Centre requires original written instruction. If an account is held in more than one name, all named account holders' signatures are required.