Circle Peak Capital

H. Richard Vartabedian. Most recently Mr. Vartabedian functioned as Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Asset Management of North America, which manages approximately $150 billion with a staff of 1,100 in locations around the world. Mr. Vartabedian was one of the five regional managers charged with the responsibility of managing the company. He held the title of Executive Vice President of HSBC Bank USA.

Prior to joining HSBC, Mr. Vartabedian was brought into Republic National Bank to evaluate the investment organization and develop a strategic approach compatible with the Bank’s philosophy. The business model that was developed was an early representation of open architecture. Mutual funds were established, external investment managers were identified and a “best of breed” marketing approach was articulated, with a financially successful result for the Bank and improved investment results for clients.

Mr. Vartabedian began his career at Chase Manhattan moving from security analyst, to fund and portfolio management. As Division Executive of the Investment Management business he was responsible for bottom line investment and financial performance. For a five-year period, the Vista Large Cap Equity and Vista New York Tax-Exempt Funds were rated number one in their respective mutual fund peer groups.

Mr. Vartabedian holds a BA from Bates College, an MBA from Babson and attended New York University - Stern School of Business working toward a PhD in finance and completed all but his dissertation. He is a member of the New York Yacht Club and has served as Treasurer of the Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club and Chairman of the Finance Committee of the Boothbay Harbor YMCA.