The Monetary Authority has launched a hotline (8100 2314) to help investors complaining about bank sales of investment products related to Lehman Brothers, Financial Services & Treasury Bureau said.

In response to the public procession by Lehman minibond holders today the bureau said the authority has asked banks to write to affected customers to explain the latest situation on these Lehman products.

The authority also asked banks to arrange briefings for customers. Several banks have opened enquiry lines to answer questions on their Lehman-Brothers-related investment products.

The bureau said the authority and the Securities & Futures Commission have been in close contact with Lehman Brothers' representatives and minibond distributors after Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy protection. They have also contacted minibond trustees to protect investor interest.

The collateral assets backing the minibonds are in the custody of the trustees who are exploring options to the treatment of the assets. They also agreed to provide the latest information to the investors.