Investment Bank of Greece (IBG), a subsidiary of MARFIN FINANCIAL GROUP, has entered today into a very substantial investment banking agreement with IRF European Finance Investments Ltd (IRF). Pursuant to this agreement, IBG will provide introductory services to IRF focusing in the identification of suitable investment opportunities according to the strategic plan of the company. Following the completion of a business transaction, IBG will offer advisory and follow up services. IRF is an investment company listed in AIM market (Alternative Investment Market of London Stock Exchange) having recently raised through a Public Offering the amount of US$275,000,000. In addition, the company has issued warrants worth US $420,000,000, which have been purchased by the shareholders to be exercised when the opportunity arises, raising the equity capacity of the company's investment program to a total of US $695,000,000 which can be much higher through leveraging from available banking lines. The shareholders of IRF include major International Funds, Banking institutions and High Net Worth individuals. IRF has been incorporated to serve as a vehicle for the acquisition of financial services institutions in South Eastern Europe and the Balkans with a primary focus on credit institutions and insurance companies. IBG will assist IRF in identifying, analyzing, effecting and following up a number of acquisitions aiming in establishing IRF as a significant player in South East Europe. If IBG is successful in providing the above-mentioned investment banking services, its additional contribution to the bottom line results of MARFIN FINANCIAL GROUP can increase consolidated net after tax profits of 2005 (as guided) by a minimum of 30%.