Laurentian Bank Securities announces platform expansion of its Equity division and opens office in Manitoba

MONTREAL, June 29, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Laurentian Bank Securities, a subsidiary of Laurentian Bank (TSX: LB) is pleased to announce that it will be opening offices in Winnipeg with the hiring of an investment banking team; Kevin Hooke Director and Tyler Wirvin Vice-President will be joining the firm on July 3rd 2012.

Mr. Hooke has over 30 years experience in corporate finance having been a founding partner and Director of Wellington West Capital and Head of Investment Banking. Mr. Wirvin has 10 years of experience having worked with Mr. Hooke at Wellington West and the Province of Manitoba Debt Capital Markets department.

Michel Trudeau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Laurentian Bank Securities stated, "We are expanding into Manitoba as we believe the growth prospects and solid economic foundation of mid western Canada provide a good backdrop for our future growth while having a local presence will prove to be a competitive advantage." He went on to say, "This is our first step in expanding our presence beyond Quebec and Ontario."

Mr. Hooke's team has raised $1.3 billion in financing for Manitoba based firms, as well as $1.5 billion in debt financing for Manitoba Hydro and the province's Builder Bonds series.

Ben Vendittelli, Senior Vice President and Head of Institutional Equity remarked, "Mr. Hooke and Mr. Wirvin share our vision and dovetail nicely into our strategy to be a strong provider of financial services to the small cap market in Canada. We will continue growing our platform with quality individuals while remaining focused on our strategic plan to grow our breadth, scale and capabilities targeting our small cap niche."

Laurentian Bank Securities Bolsters Montreal and Toronto Equity Team

Concurrently, Laurentian Bank Securities announces the hiring of Milla Craig as a consultant and special advisor to the equity group. Mrs. Craig is a seasoned veteran having worked in institutional sales at Scotia Capital and RBC. Furthermore, Laurentian Bank Securities has hired Laila Danechi as an institutional equity sales representative in Montreal. Ms. Danechi's has held positions in business development at Natcan and Montrusco Bolton.

Laurentian Bank Securities has also recently hired Nick Agostino as a Special Situations analyst in its Toronto office. Mr. Agostino has over 10 years experience having joined the firm from Euro Pacific Securities, having also held positions in equity research at Mackie Research Capital and Scotia Capital.

About Laurentian Bank Securities

Laurentian Bank Securities (LBS), is an integrated full-service investment dealer, focusing on five lines of business. The well respected Institutional Fixed Income division has a strong presence in Government and Corporate underwritings, as well as in secondary markets. In addition, the Institutional Equity division is solidly established across the country and focuses on serving clients through research, trading and investment banking in the small capitalization sector. The fast-growing Retail division and Discount Brokerage division currently serve clients through 15 offices in Quebec and Ontario. Furthermore, LBS' corresponding business provides complete back office support to a wide range of customers.

Manon Stébenne
Senior Manager
Medias and Public relations
514 284-4500, extension 8232
[email protected]