Press Release

Altamira High-Interest CashPerformer rate increases to 2.5%

Toronto (October 24, 2005) Effective today, Altamira Investment Services is pleased to announce an increase in the rate of its High-Interest CashPerformer to 2.5%. Altamira remains committed to offering a highly competitive rate of interest*. The change will be given to all existing and new account holders from the first dollar invested.

Whether investors are looking to save for future purchases or need a short-term parking place while they decide where to invest, High-Interest CashPerformer is an ideal alternative to traditional savings accounts, money market funds and other short-term instruments.

Key Benefits:

• Highly competitive interest rate (calculated daily)
• Easily accessible – it's not locked in
• No fees or service charges
• No minimum balance required
• Eligible for RRSP, RRIF & RESP
• Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) insured**
• Available directly from Altamira and through financial advisors via FundServ

Altamira is a leading investment services company, offering a wide range of mutual funds, savings products, managed portfolios and financial planning services. Award-winning client service, product innovation and expert advice define Altamira's distinctive approach to investment management. The company is headquartered in Toronto with offices across the country, and is a subsidiary of the National Bank of Canada. www.altamira.com

*The interest rate is an annual rate and is subject to change without notice.
**Altamira makes deposits on your behalf to the National Bank of Canada, which is a member of the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC). Altamira High-Interest CashPerformer holdings are eligible for CDIC insurance, up to $100,000, subject to CDIC rules and regulations.