Firms intending to apply to transfer client assets are advised to contact the BMA at the earliest possible opportunity, in order that the BMA may determine the nature and level of documentation to be provided and the need for an auditor or other expert opinion to be provided to support the application. The BMA will only approve the transfer of client assets to a third party if it is satisfied that the legitimate interests of the clients concerned will not be adversely affected — notably, the new holder of the client assets should be assessed as financially sound and likely to implement applicable rules relating to client assets and the fair treatment of investors.