FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 99-54 SEC Introduces New Publication: "International Investing -- Get The Facts" Washington, DC, May 20, 1999 -- The Commission today unveiled a new publication designed to help investors better understand the issues involved with investing in foreign companies. The booklet contains basic information about international investing, and highlights the differences between investing in foreign companies versus U.S. companies. The booklet explains the added costs of international investments, as well as the different ways to invest internationally. It also lists resources investors can seek out for more information if they are interested in investing on a global level. More Americans have been investing abroad than ever before. There are currently more than 1,100 foreign companies that are traded on U.S. markets and file reports with the SEC on a regular basis. Many more unregistered foreign companies trade in the U.S. over-the-counter market. Investors can also purchase shares directly on foreign markets. Brian Lane, Director of the SEC's Division of Corporation Finance, said, "Technological advances have contributed to investors' increased interest in global investment opportunities. As a result, we want to make sure investors understand the unique risks of international investing and know how to find information about foreign companies and markets before they invest." An on-line version of the International Investing booklet is available on the SEC's website, at www.sec.gov. Copies are also available by calling 1-800-SEC-0330. # # #