Canadian Government Urged to Review Risk






HSC Financial Inc. has requested that the Canadian government, through its Foreign Affairs department, review its existing published travel report for Canadians in Mexico. At present Foreign Affairs is advising that Canadians "exercise a high degree of caution" while in Mexico.

We have advised Foreign Affairs that prior to making substantial investments in a foreign country, Canadians have a right to determine the level of risk with their investments and their personal safety.

We have made the request to Foreign Affairs as a result of what may be an increased risk profile for Canadians and other foreigners in Mexico as evidenced by the following:

1. A highly visible series of recent deaths of Canadians in Mexico including, but not limited to, Bouabal Bounthavorn of British Columbia, Domenic & Nancy Ianiero of Ontario, Janette Lerch of Ontario, and Jeff Toews of Alberta. In addition to several Canadians dying, under mysterious circumstances in Mexico, other foreign nationals have recently been murdered in Mexico.

2. Canadian investors in time-share programs who have not had their contracts honored

3. Potential developer and builder malfeasance at major building sites including the Grand Venetian and Icon developments in Puerto Vallarta.

4. Increased reports of police corruption in specific resort communities, including Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

5. Increased reports of drug related violence in several Mexican communities including assassinations of several high ranking law enforcement officials.


HSC Financial Inc. provides detailed risk assessments to Canadian investors and to Canadian and American lenders financing investments in Mexico. We rely on country risk assessments provided by, among others, the Canadian government and rating agencies. These assessments need to be complete and up-to-date.