Central Bank warns about unauthorised firm

The Central Bank has warned investors that investment firm, Bernstein, Whitman & Lloyds (USA), has been operating in Ireland without permission.

The firm has been offering investments services to the Irish public without authorisation, which is a criminal offence in Ireland.

“Consumers should be aware that, if they deal with an investment firm which is not authorised, they are not eligible for compensation from the Investor Compensation Scheme”, the Central Bank said in a statement.

The names of 206 unauthorised firms have been published by the Central Bank since it was given legal powers to do so in 2008.

Investors can contact the bank with information on unauthorised firms or to check if an investment firm is authorised on (01) 224 4000.