BNP Paribas serves as the global partner and majority owner of FIA, providing capital and financial support, an operational and technology platform, and overseas distribution of the Fridson Credit Strategies Fund.  BNP Paribas (www.bnpparibas.com) is a European leader in global banking and financial services and is one of the six best rated banks in the world according to Standard & Poor's. BNP Paribas Investment Partners (BNPP IP) has established itself as a leader among the multi-specialist asset managers through a unique platform offering immediate and simplified access to a broad range of partner companies. As of June 30, 2009, assets under management amounted to €339 billion (Euros), nearly half of which was managed for institutional clients. BNPP IP has over 2,600 professionals in nearly 70 countries and has over ten years of steady growth through acquisitions and joint ventures.