Stockbroker First Guardian Equities(FGE) has opened a dedicated public gallery in its head office on the 32nd Floor of the East Tower of the World Trade Center, to facilitate investors to monitor and trade on the Colombo stock market.

Equipped with trading terminals and large screen display projection, First Guardian is working towards drawing in clients who are actively trading in the market on a regular basis, the brokerage said in a news release.

``First Guardian public gallery clients will have access to up-to-date research, latest corporate and economic news and speedier access to the market. First Guardian Equities sees this as an opportunity to help investors make informed decisions in an uncertain environment,’’ it said.

Speaking on the occasion, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer Rohan C. J. Goonewardene added that "This was in response to a need for a place for customers to interact with brokers and analysts to make the best investment decisions in a relaxed and professional atmosphere".

He further went on to say "It’s when markets are uncertain and turbulent that an advisor’s value is truly reflected. We as a firm have and will continue to invest in infrastructure and systems that gives our clientele a competitive edge"

Samantha Goonewardane, a Manager of the firm will be overseeing the public gallery. He has 14 years in the industry being a broker from the days of the open out cry system and has experience in handling clients during volatile conditions, the release said,

"Clients are encouraged to make use of the live data and technical and fundamental support available before making investment decisions. A segregated area with a large screen and individual terminals are available to them to follow the market calmly. When clients need information on a stock, market or economic data or are ready for a trade, brokers and analysts will be on call to serve them"