DUBAI, 15 March 2004 — Guidance Financial Group, an international Islamic financial services company, announced the launch of the Guidance Fixed Income Fund here last week. The fund will hold securities that are backed by Shariah-compliant real estate finance assets. The securities will be issued and guaranteed by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac). A first-rate issuer, a superior credit rating, and deep liquidity characterize the new securities held by Guidance, a press statement said.