The Central Bank has placed advertisements in three national newspapers today advising the public of court orders which have been imposed on two companies.

The orders, against James Bowen Investment Consultants Ltd and James Bowen & Associates Ltd, mean they cannot operate as, or claim to be, investment business firms under the meaning of the Investment Intermediaries Act, 1995.

The advertisements also state that the bank accounts of James Bowen Investment Consultants Ltd have been restricted. The restrictions include a requirement that the consent of the Central Bank be obtained before any payment over £500 be made from the accounts.