Released on = August 30, 2006, 12:40 am

Press Release Author = Claire Connolly

Industry = Financial

Press Release Summary = From Today SMEs wishing to import goods from abroad can take
advantage of a new trade finance service from Venture Finance. Trade finance
protects and supports organisations when importing goods from overseas suppliers, by
defining clear conditions of purchase and providing finance to settle suppliers'
terms of trade.

Press Release Body = September 1st , Express Press Release, West Sussex. From Today
SMEs wishing to import goods from abroad can take advantage of a new trade finance
service from Venture Finance. Trade finance protects and supports organisations when
importing goods from overseas suppliers, by defining clear conditions of purchase
and providing finance to settle suppliers' terms of trade.

The introduction of Venture Trade Finance (VTF) complements the financier's existing
invoice and asset-finance facilities. Venture can now support the full range of
working capital needs, providing businesses with even greater cash flow control.

VTF is a valuable platform, allowing companies to take advantage of their full
growth potential. It is particularly useful for organisations with insufficient cash
flow to pay for goods up front, or where suppliers insist upon clear evidence of the
ability to pay when orders are initially placed.

By paying a supplier direct, or opening a letter of credit, VTF can fund between 80
and 100 per cent of the cost of goods, plus duty and VAT. A letter of credit is
written assurance that the exporter will receive payment for goods. It outlines
specific terms of the deal - such as the value, currency, required supportive
documentation and deadlines - which must be adhered to before payment is made.

Letters of credit offer a range of benefits, including:
. Protection - Both parties receive full protection. The original suppliers will
only be paid if they comply exactly with the agreed terms
. Improved cash flow - Instead of paying at the time of ordering, importers can
often defer settlement until after the goods are shipped
. Priority - Goods paid for under a letter of credit often receive priority over
those paid for by other methods
. Control - The importing client has full control over the terms and conditions
under which VTF will make payment
. Flexibility - Letters of credit are flexible and can be matched to specific
business needs
. Electronic applications - VTF utilises the excellent Maxtrad system, developed by
parent company, ABN AMRO.
Brian Colvill, Manager of VTF, has 25 years' industry experience and is looking
forward to using his skills on behalf of the Venture brand. He said: "Venture
Finance is a highly respected name within the finance sector, and the launch of VTF
significantly enhances our support of the UK business community.

"Venture's relationship with ABN AMRO utilises a trusted network of banks around the
world, to support clients' global import requirements. A VTF letter of credit opens
doors which may otherwise have remained closed for many businesses, allowing them to
take advantage of overseas cost efficiencies and, in turn, become more profitable."

For more information on VTF please visit www.venture-finance.co.uk or call 0800 515
053.


About Venture Finance

Venture Finance (www.venture-finance.co.uk) provides funding solutions from start-up
to established businesses with a turnover of up to £200 million. Venture helps
companies looking to manage cash flow, fund business opportunities, purchase new
machinery, merge with or acquire a new business or expand their operations.
Venture's core finance services are invoice and
Web Site = http://www.venture-finance.co.uk

Contact Details = Midnight Communications Ltd
Sussex House
Perrymount Road
Haywards Heath
West Sussex
RH16 1DN
UK
Ph No:0800 515 053
Fax No:01273666201
venturefinance@midnight.co.uk