Our work

ING: Handling sensitive issues

We were engaged to advise ING on the suspension of two of its managed funds. The suspension affected more than 14,000 investors and put at risk the wider reputation of ING.

Managing the communications around the funds' suspension was complex. There was considerable confusion amongst investors around the roles of the product provider and advisers, and a great deal of misinformation circulating about the funds. During the period funds were suspended, investor and advisor groups were established. New Zealand securities regulator and Parliment's select committee became involved, all which created significant noise in the market. A proposal to wind up the funds and return a proportion of investor funds was first presented to investors in February, with the offer opening in June. We were retained to develop the communications strategy, coordinate implementation of the communications programme, provide government relations support and advice, and event support for an investor road-show. 

The offer closed in July 2009 with almost 98% of investors having accepted it.