FT. LAUDERDALE – A large group of Jamaicans in the South Florida Diaspora turned out recently to learn of ways in which they can participate in investment opportunities in the island’s national development.
The one-day forum, which attracted nearly 150 interested attendees at the Sheraton Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, was organized by the Jamaica Consulate General in conjunction with the Jamaica USA Chamber of Commerce (JAUSACC).
Areas of interest included a range of business and investment opportunities which formed the panel discussions throughout the day. These included:
– Business Opportunities in Jamaica
– Government Assistance and Regulatory Parameters
– Investment Options in Real Estate and Financial Securities
The panelists were from private and public sector entities in Jamaica as well as the United States such as Corporate Strategies Limited, Jamaica Manufacturers Association, Jamaica Trade and Invest, Jamaica Deposit Insurance Corporation, Financial Services Commission, Jamaica Securities Dealers Association, Jamaica Realtors Association, National Commercial Bank, Mayberry Investments Limited, Capital and Credit Financial Group and the US Overseas Private Investment Corporation.
Lisa Narcisse, Master of Ceremonies at the Jamaica Investment Symposium
In response to the various alternative investment schemes operating in Jamaica, Deputy Director of the Financial Services Commission, Mr. George Roper said that those schemes that had not applied for licenses were operating illegally based on present Jamaican law and would be violation in the USA as well.
In their varied presentations, the panelists echoed encouragement for Jamaicans to take advantage of the wide range of investment opportunities in Jamaica at this time. Such investments could create individual wealth as well as job creation as they highlighted some of the factors placing Jamaica in a strategic position for investment in the global arena.
As South Florida insurance agent, Hugh Smith listened to the range of opportunities existing, he expressed that he felt more encouraged to actively pursue his interest as a returning resident after living abroad for more than 20 years.
Consul General Ricardo Allicock described the enthusiasm demonstrated at the event as a move in the right direction to help in the country’s economic development. “Our expectation is that there will be positive results to follow based on the responsiveness and expressions of interest from the participants.”
President of JAUSACC, Ms. Marie Gill also spoke of the symposium as encouraging for those with potential business interest in Jamaica at this time.
Marie Gill
Sponsors supporting the Investment Symposium included Scotia Bank, Mayberry Investments and National Commercial Bank (NCB).
Steve Higgins sings National Anthem
Aubyn Hill giving his presentation
June Deer – Jamaica Trade & Invest
