News Releases

Media Advisory BMO Nesbitt Burns Economics Releases Update on the Economic Impact of Avian Flu

Dr. Sherry Cooper, Chief Economist, BMO Nesbitt Burns, is available for comment regarding her second report on the economic impact of a possible avian flu pandemic.

The 26-page report urges individuals, businesses, all levels of government as well as global health organizations to become aware of the economic risks as part of the planning process.

“In the event of a pandemic, the economic effects could be severe, affecting virtually all sectors and regions,” says Dr. Cooper. “Awareness is key to preparedness and proper surveillance, planning and preparation are essential to effective response and containment.”

For a copy of the report, please visit the following link:
http://www.bmonb.com/economics/reports/20051011/dont_fear_fear.pdf

This report continues BMO Nesbitt Burns’ analysis of the societal, business, economic and financial effects of a pandemic. The first report was co-authored by Dr. Cooper and Donald Coxe, Global Portfolio Strategist, BMO Financial Group and released on August 12, 2005.

BMO Nesbitt Burns is a leading full-service investment bank offering corporate, institutional and government clients access to a broad range of products and services including investment and corporate banking, treasury services, market risk management, institutional investing and research. BMO Nesbitt Burns is a member of BMO Financial Group (TSX, NYSE: BMO). For more information, please visit www.bmonb.com.

- 30 -