National Financial Partners Corp. (NFP) is an independent distributor of financial services products to high-net-worth individuals and small to medium-sized corporations. The Company has grown organically and through acquisitions. As of August 29, 2003, it operated a national distribution network with over 1,300 producers in 40 states and Puerto Rico consisting of 132 owned firms and 180 affiliated third-party distributors. NFP targets the high-net-worth and small to medium-sized corporate markets because of their growth potential and the desire of customers within these markets for more personalized service. The Companys management approach affords its firms the entrepreneurial freedom to serve their clients most effectively while having access to the resources of a national distribution organization. At the same time, it maintains internal controls that allow the Company to effectively oversee its nationwide operations.