Diamonds and other atypical investments: the Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) welcomes the initiative taken by the ARPP

Wine, forests, photovoltaic panels, works of art or diamonds: there are numerous investment proposals highlighting the possibility of a financial return which are not based on financial instruments. These so-called atypical investments involve intermediation in miscellaneous assets. These proposals:

• are subject to ex ante control by the AMF;
• can not be advertised or directly marketed on without prior allocation by the AMF of a registration number on the information document for investors are now.

By publishing its recommendation, the ARPP wishes to bring the advertising industry's attention regarding this new regulatory framework and calls for the respect of ethical practices.

The AMF welcomes this action and carries on its mobilization in order to better inform the public.
Lastly, the AMF reminds investors to follow these safety guidelines before making any investment:

• no advertising materials should make you overlook the fact that high returns always involve high risk;
• learn as much as you can about the company or intermediary trying to sell you a product (authorization/certification, company history, location of head offices, etc.);
• only invest in a product you understand;
• ask yourself how, and by whom, the purchase price or selling price of the advertised product is set, and find out the precise terms and timeline for selling the product, especially in cases where the product invests in an asset class with low liquidity.

About the AMF
The AMF is an independent public authority responsible for ensuring that savings invested in financial products are protected, providing investors with adequate information and supervising the orderly operation of markets. Visit our website www.amf-france.org.

Press contact:
AMF Communication directorate - Caroline Richard - Tél : +33 (0)1 53 45 60 39 ou +33 (0)1 53 45 60 28