MAKE THE SWITCH
Moving your business to ClearTrust has never been easier.
TOP 3 REASONS ISSUERS SWITCH TO US:
- Seeking a better working relationship with transfer agent
- Seeking higher quality service
- Seeking faster service
TOP 5 DIFFERENTIATING FACTORS:
- Turnaround times on issuances and transfers
- Level of responsiveness to needs and requests
- Level of expertise and/or experience of transfer agent staff
- Online reporting capabilities for issuer and shareholders
- Prices for fees and services
If ClearTrust is your first transfer agent:
All you need to do is follow these simple onboarding steps.
If you are switching from another agent:
- Follow these simple onboarding steps.
- Pay final balance at your former agent.
- Let ClearTrust do the rest.
We will coordinate the records transition from your former agent, notify DTC and key industry participants of the change, and do everything we can to ensure a smooth and timely transition for you and your shareholders.
NO TIME OBLIGATION CONTRACT
Here at ClearTrust, we are dedicated to earning your business everyday. We don’t hold you to a contract that outlines a specific minimum time frame, because we treat you the way we want to be treated. We are determined to build your trust with no strings attached to lock you in.
DID YOU KNOW?
In a recent client survey, we asked why issuers chose ClearTrust as their transfer agent. We’re proud to share the results with you:
- 100% OF RESPONDENTS REPORTED THEY ARE VERY LIKELY TO RECOMMEND US TO A FRIEND OR COLLEAGUE.
- 100% OF RESPONDENTS REPORTED THEY ARE VERY SATISFIED WITH OUR STAFF AND SERVICES.
| Services and Features | Clear Trust | Large Commercial Transfer Agent |
|---|---|---|
| Original Stock Issuances | Yes | Yes |
| Stock transfers (custodial/sale transfers, retirement, conversion) | Yes | Yes |
| Standardized legal transfer requirements | Yes | Maybe |
| Maintenance of shareholder registration | Yes | Yes |
| Full digital storage of transaction records | Yes | Maybe |
| Replacement of lost stock certificates | Yes | Yes |
| Interactive voice response (IVR): a technology that allows a computer to interact with humans through the use of voice and DTMF tones input via keypad | No | Yes |
| Overseas call center | No | Yes |
| Fast and friendly customer service: online, over the phone, and face to face | Yes | No |
| Corporate actions (name change, stock splits, mergers, mass conversions/retirements) | Yes | Yes |
| Balance reporting for management and authorized shares | Yes | Maybe |
| DWAC & DRS | Yes | Yes |
| Dividend Disbursement | Yes | Yes |
| Dividend Reinvestment Plan | Yes | Yes |
| Proxy and Annual Meeting | Yes | Yes |
| Accessible and transparent proxy tabulation | Yes | Maybe |
| 24 hour access so you can view, organize, export, and analyze your data | Yes | Yes |
| Free online access for shareholders | Yes | Yes |
| SOC 1 audited | Yes | Maybe |
| Termination/exit penalty fee | No | Yes |
| Hidden/undisclosed fees | No | Yes |
| Readily available access to client contract or agreements | Yes | No |
| Regular rate increases | No | Yes |
| Compliance guidance | Yes | Maybe |
| Complimentary market maker introductions for 15-c211 filing and hands-on assistance obtaining DTC eligibility | Yes | Maybe |
| Initial and secondary public offerings | Yes | Maybe |
| Lost shareholder searches and escheatment | Yes | Yes |
| Cost basis compliance | Yes | Yes |
| Customized and white label service options | Yes | No |
Tough Questions To Ask
A great transfer agent will be an extension of your company and a voice to your shareholders. They’ll take on your needs and goals as if they were their own. Expect nothing less.
When evaluating transfer agents, ask tough questions that will help you gauge the level of service and attention you’re going to receive. Sample questions include:
- How can you help me beyond record-keeping? Can you network me with market makers, counsel, and other industry professionals?
- What is your standard turnaround time on issuances and transfers?
- What is your termination fee? On that note, why do you have a termination fee?
- How often do you raise your rates?
- Do you charge for standard shareholder lists and reports?
- What clients did you lose last year, and why?
- Do you offer online account access?
- What types of client education events do you offer? How do you communicate changes in regulations to your clients?
- Is your firm involved in industry trade associations, and to what extent?
- Will I have direct communication lines with management?