What's in a name these days? Most of us were brought up to respect and rely on the august, gravitas-laden names of the world's banking giants. But many of those names and the businesses behind them have either ceased trading, been taken over or are relying on government financial support.

There are myriad reasons for this change to the status quo; suffice to say that the concept of long- term company accountability - to clients, staff and regulators - was allowed to disappear without a trace.

Previously, we were content being a boutique in a world dominated by financial superstores. But in a few short months our company and its peers have taken on a different role; well capitalised, without debt, and with an ability to deliver highly personalised services, we are part of a renaissance in financial services.

We hope that 'professional standards' are the cornerstone of this new order and, for our part, they continue to be a crucial feature of the DNA of our operation.