On June 2, 2008 Blue Oar plc ("Blue Oar"), the investment bank and stockbroker, announced the acquisition of Astaire & Partners Limited ("Astaire"), the independent agency stockbroker and bespoke private client discretionary fund manager, based in the City of London.

Astaire offers a comprehensive range of traditional stockbroking services. The company has developed a global network of counterparties through which it services its broad range of international clients. Formed in 1960 as a stockbroking partnership, Astaire rapidly acquired international expertise, becoming the second London stockbroker to become a full member of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and was a founder Shareholder of Euroclear. Additionally Astaire has established significant business connections in Singapore and Malaysia.

The aggregate consideration for the acquisition of Astaire was £1.67 million comprising £1.5 million in cash payable on completion and 1.3 million Blue Oar shares at 13p per share.

Nigel Gordon and Claire Mitchell of Fasken Martineau acted for Blue Oar on this matter.