Risk Factors
Every investment has some level of risk. Risk is the term used in finance to describe the degree of uncertainty and/or potential financial loss a decision to make an investment entails. Investors typically want for bigger returns when investment hazards increase to make up for the increased risk. Investors should be aware that the EBLAML-managed EBL AML 1ST Unit Fund is not a guaranteed or assured return scheme, and that the previous performance of the Sponsors, their affiliates, or the asset manager does not guarantee the Scheme’s future performance. The name of the scheme is in no way an indication of the scheme’s quality, future prospects, or returns. Before making an investment, investors should carefully evaluate the risks associated with investing in the EBLAML managed EBL AML 1ST Unit Fund.

Business Risk
With a stock, investors purchase a piece of ownership in a company. With a bond, investors loan money to a company. Returns from both of these investments require that the company stays in business. If a company goes bankrupt and its assets are liquidated, common stockholders are the last in line to share the proceeds. If there are assets, the company’s bondholders will be paid first, then holders of preferred stock. A common stockholder gets whatever is left, which could be nothing.

Volatility Risk
Even when companies aren’t in danger of failing, their stock price may fluctuate up or down. Market fluctuations can be unsettling to some investors. A stock’s price can be affected by factors inside the company, such as a faulty product, or by events the company has no control over, such as political or market events.

Inflation Risk
Inflation is a general upward movement of prices. Inflation reduces purchasing power, which is a risk for investors receiving a fixed rate of interest. The principal concern for individuals investing in cash equivalents is that inflation will erode returns.

Interest Rate Risk
Interest rate changes can affect a bond’s value. If bonds are held to maturity the investor will receive the face value, plus interest. If sold before maturity, the bond may be worth more or less than the face value. Rising interest rates will make newly issued bonds more appealing to investors because the newer bonds will have a higher rate of interest than older ones. To sell an older bond with a lower interest rate, an investor might have to sell it at a discount.

Liquidity Risk
This refers to the risk that investors won’t find a market for their securities, potentially preventing them from buying or selling when they want. This can be the case with the more complicated investment products. It may also be the case with products that charge a penalty for early withdrawal or liquidation such as a certificate of deposit (CD).