Terms of Service

Aureus Consulting Group Limited

Effective Date: January 1, 2025
Last Updated: January 2025

1. Introduction and Acceptance of Terms

Welcome to the websites of Aureus Consulting Group Limited ("ACGL," "Aureus Consulting," "we," "us," or "our"). These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your access to and use of our websites:

• www.acgl.uk.com (Global Website - Primary)

• www.acgl.ae (Regional Website - Middle East)

And all related services, content, and functionality (collectively, the "Services").

1.1 Agreement to Terms

By accessing or using our websites or Services, you agree to be bound by these Terms and our Privacy Policy. If you do not agree to these Terms, you must not access or use our Services.

1.2 Eligibility

Our Services are intended for business professionals and organizations seeking institutional M&A advisory services. You must be at least 18 years of age and have the legal capacity to enter into binding contracts to use our Services.

1.3 Business Use Only

Our Services are designed for business and professional purposes only. By using our Services, you represent that you are acting on behalf of a business entity or in a professional capacity.

2. About Aureus Consulting Group Limited

2.1 Company Information

Global Headquarters:
Aureus Consulting Group Limited
Suite no. 12, Dunraven Street
London, United Kingdom, W1K 7FQ
Company Registration: [UK Company Number]
Email: info@acgl.uk.com
Website: www.acgl.uk.com

Regional Office (Middle East):
Aureus Consulting Group Limited (DIFC)
Office 1502 A, Tower 2, Al Fattan Currency House, DIFC
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Email: info@acgl.ae
Website: www.acgl.ae

2.2 Services Description

Aureus Consulting Group Limited is a corporate advisory firm providing bespoke Mergers & Acquisitions solutions on a global scale, including:

• M&A Advisory and Transaction Services

• Due Diligence (Financial, Commercial, Operational)

• Strategic Divestitures and Exit Planning

• Post-Merger Integration (PMI)

• Joint Ventures and Strategic Alliances

• Corporate Finance Advisory

• Valuation Services

2.3 Regulatory Status

• United Kingdom: Subject to UK financial services regulations

• Dubai (DIFC): Operating under DIFC regulatory framework

• Professional Standards: Member of relevant professional bodies and adherent to industry codes of conduct

3. Use of Our Websites

3.1 License to Use

Subject to these Terms, we grant you a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, revocable license to access and use our websites for lawful business purposes.

3.2 Permitted Uses

You may use our websites to:

• Learn about our M&A advisory services

• Request consultations or information

• Access publicly available resources and insights

• Contact our offices

• Submit inquiries through contact forms

3.3 Prohibited Uses

You agree NOT to:

a) Illegal or Unauthorized Activities:

• Violate any applicable laws, regulations, or third-party rights

• Use our Services for any unlawful or fraudulent purpose

• Impersonate any person or entity or misrepresent your affiliation

b) Technical Interference:

• Attempt to gain unauthorized access to our systems or networks

• Introduce viruses, malware, or harmful code

• Use automated systems (bots, scrapers) without written permission

• Overload, disable, or impair our website functionality

• Bypass security measures or authentication protocols

c) Content Misuse:

• Copy, reproduce, or distribute our proprietary content without permission

• Modify, create derivative works, or reverse engineer our website

• Remove copyright, trademark, or proprietary notices

• Frame or mirror our website content on other sites

d) Competitive Intelligence:

• Use our Services to monitor availability, performance, or functionality for competitive purposes

• Extract data for competitive analysis without authorization

• Systematically retrieve content to create databases or compilations

e) Harmful Conduct:

• Harass, threaten, or defame ACGL, our staff, or other users

• Submit false, misleading, or defamatory information

• Interfere with other users' access to our Services

3.4 Account Security

If you create an account or client portal access:

• You are responsible for maintaining confidentiality of login credentials

• You must notify us immediately of any unauthorized access

• You are liable for all activities under your account

• We reserve the right to suspend or terminate accounts for violations

4. Intellectual Property Rights

4.1 Our Proprietary Rights

All content on our websites, including but not limited to:

• Text, graphics, logos, images, videos

• Website design, layout, and user interface

• Trademarks, service marks, and trade names

• Software, code, and functionality

• Methodologies, frameworks, and processes

• Reports, analyses, and proprietary research

Are owned by or licensed to Aureus Consulting Group Limited and protected by:

• UK and international copyright laws

• Trademark laws

• Trade secret laws

• Other intellectual property rights

4.2 Trademarks

The following are trademarks or registered trademarks of Aureus Consulting Group Limited:

• "Aureus Consulting Group Limited"

• "Aureus Consulting"

• "ACGL"

• Our logos and brand elements

Unauthorized use of our trademarks is strictly prohibited.

4.3 Limited License

You may:

• View and print individual pages for personal reference

• Share links to our content with proper attribution

• Quote brief excerpts with citation for non-commercial purposes

You may NOT:

• Republish substantial portions of our content

• Use our content for commercial purposes without written permission

• Modify or create derivative works

• Remove attribution or proprietary notices

4.4 User-Submitted Content

If you submit content to us (inquiries, feedback, suggestions):

• You grant us a worldwide, royalty-free license to use such content

• You represent that you own or have rights to submit such content

• You waive any moral rights in such content

• We are not obligated to use or respond to submitted content

5. Client Engagements and Advisory Services

5.1 Engagement Terms

These Terms govern website use only. Actual advisory services are provided under separate:

• Engagement Letters

• Service Agreements

• Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)

• Fee Arrangements

Which will supersede these Terms for matters covered by such agreements.

5.2 No Advisory Relationship

Use of our website does NOT create:

• An advisory or fiduciary relationship

• A client-advisor relationship

• Any obligation to provide services

• Confidentiality obligations (except as separately agreed)

5.3 Consultation Requests

Submitting a consultation request or inquiry:

• Does not guarantee acceptance as a client

• Does not create any contractual obligations

• May be declined at our sole discretion

• Is subject to conflict checks and qualification processes

5.4 Confidentiality

Information submitted through our website is subject to our Privacy Policy but is NOT covered by professional confidentiality unless:

• A formal engagement has commenced

• A Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) has been executed

• We have explicitly agreed to confidential treatment in writing

For confidential matters, contact us directly to execute appropriate confidentiality agreements before disclosure.

6. Disclaimers and Limitations

6.1 Website Content Disclaimer

GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY:
Content on our websites is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute:

• Professional advice (legal, financial, tax, or otherwise)

• Recommendations for specific transactions

• Offers to provide services

• Guarantees of results or outcomes

NO RELIANCE:
You should not rely on website content as a substitute for professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

6.2 No Warranties

OUR WEBSITES AND SERVICES ARE PROVIDED "AS IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE" WITHOUT WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Accuracy: We do not warrant that content is accurate, complete, or current

• Availability: We do not guarantee uninterrupted or error-free access

• Security: We do not warrant that our websites are free from viruses or harmful components

• Fitness: We do not warrant suitability for any particular purpose

• Non-Infringement: We do not warrant that use will not infringe third-party rights

6.3 Third-Party Content

Our websites may contain:

• Links to third-party websites

• References to third-party services or products

• Third-party content or advertisements

DISCLAIMER:
We do not endorse, control, or assume responsibility for third-party content. Access to third-party sites is at your own risk and subject to their terms and policies.

6.4 Forward-Looking Statements

Content may include forward-looking statements about:

• Market trends and conditions

• Industry developments

• Transaction outcomes

• Service capabilities

Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially.

6.5 Case Studies and Testimonials

Case studies, testimonials, and performance metrics:

• Represent specific client experiences and may not be typical

• Are not guarantees of future results

• May be based on aggregated or anonymized data

• Should not be relied upon as predictions of your outcomes

7. Limitation of Liability

7.1 Exclusion of Damages

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, AUREUS CONSULTING GROUP LIMITED, ITS AFFILIATES, OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, AND LICENSORS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR:

a) Indirect, Incidental, or Consequential Damages:

• Loss of profits, revenue, or business opportunities

• Loss of data or information

• Business interruption

• Reputational harm

• Loss of goodwill

b) Direct Damages Arising From:

• Use or inability to use our websites

• Reliance on website content

• Errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in content

• Unauthorized access to your data

• Third-party conduct or content

• Technical failures or security breaches

7.2 Liability Cap

TO THE EXTENT LIABILITY CANNOT BE EXCLUDED, OUR TOTAL LIABILITY TO YOU FOR ALL CLAIMS ARISING FROM WEBSITE USE SHALL NOT EXCEED:

£100 (GBP) or AED 500 (UAE Dirhams)

Whichever is applicable based on your jurisdiction.

7.3 Exceptions

Some jurisdictions do not allow exclusion of certain warranties or limitation of liability for incidental or consequential damages. In such jurisdictions, our liability is limited to the maximum extent permitted by law.

7.4 Client Engagements

Liability for actual advisory services is governed by separate engagement agreements, which may contain different limitation provisions.

8. Indemnification

8.1 Your Indemnification Obligation

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Aureus Consulting Group Limited, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, agents, and licensors from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, or expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from or relating to:

• Your use or misuse of our websites or Services

• Your violation of these Terms

• Your violation of any laws or third-party rights

• Content you submit or transmit through our Services

• Your negligence or willful misconduct

8.2 Defense and Settlement

We reserve the right to assume exclusive defense and control of any matter subject to indemnification, in which case you agree to cooperate with our defense of such claims.

9. Privacy and Data Protection

9.1 Privacy Policy

Your use of our Services is also governed by our Privacy Policy, which is incorporated into these Terms by reference. Please review our Privacy Policy at:

• Global: www.acgl.uk.com/privacy-policy

• Regional: www.acgl.ae/privacy-policy

9.2 Data Processing

By using our Services, you consent to:

• Collection and processing of your personal data as described in our Privacy Policy

• Transfer of data between our UK and UAE offices

• Use of cookies and tracking technologies

• Communications from us regarding our services (subject to opt-out rights)

9.3 Compliance

We comply with applicable data protection laws, including:

• UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018

• DIFC Data Protection Law No. 5 of 2020

• UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021

10. Communications and Electronic Signatures

10.1 Electronic Communications

By using our Services, you consent to receive communications from us electronically, including:

• Email communications

• Website notifications

• Electronic newsletters (subject to opt-out)

• Service updates and announcements

You agree that electronic communications satisfy any legal requirement that communications be in writing.

10.2 Electronic Signatures

Where applicable, you agree that electronic signatures, contracts, and records have the same legal effect as physical signatures and paper documents.

11. Modifications and Updates

11.1 Changes to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be effective upon:

• Posting the updated Terms on our websites

• Updating the "Last Updated" date at the top of this document

11.2 Material Changes

For material changes, we will provide notice through:

• Prominent website notification

• Email to registered users (where applicable)

• Reasonable advance notice period

11.3 Continued Use

Your continued use of our Services after changes constitutes acceptance of the modified Terms. If you do not agree to changes, you must discontinue use of our Services.

11.4 Website Updates

We may update, modify, or discontinue any aspect of our websites at any time without notice, including:

• Content, features, or functionality

• Availability of services or information

• Technical specifications or requirements

12. Termination

12.1 Termination by You

You may stop using our Services at any time. If you have an account, you may request account closure by contacting us.

12.2 Termination by Us

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your access to our Services at any time, with or without notice, for:

• Violation of these Terms

• Fraudulent, abusive, or illegal activity

• Conduct harmful to ACGL, our clients, or other users

• Any reason at our sole discretion

12.3 Effect of Termination

Upon termination:

• Your right to access and use our Services immediately ceases

• Provisions that by their nature should survive (liability limitations, indemnification, dispute resolution) remain in effect

• We may delete your account and data (subject to legal retention requirements)

13. Dispute Resolution and Governing Law

13.1 Governing Law

These Terms are governed by and construed in accordance with:

For Global Website (www.acgl.uk.com) and UK-based users:
The laws of England and Wales

For Regional Website (www.acgl.ae) and Middle East-based users:
The laws of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

13.2 Jurisdiction

For UK and International Users:
You agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

For Middle East and GCC Users:
You agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the DIFC Courts.

13.3 Dispute Resolution Process

Step 1: Informal Resolution
Before initiating formal proceedings, you agree to contact us at info@acgl.uk.com to attempt good-faith resolution of any dispute.

Step 2: Mediation
If informal resolution fails, parties agree to attempt mediation before pursuing litigation or arbitration.

Step 3: Arbitration (Optional)
For disputes exceeding £50,000 (or equivalent), parties may agree to binding arbitration under:

• London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA) Rules (UK/International)

• DIFC-LCIA Arbitration Centre Rules (Middle East)

13.4 Class Action Waiver

You agree to bring claims only in your individual capacity and not as part of any class, consolidated, or representative action.

13.5 Time Limitation

Any claim arising from these Terms or use of our Services must be filed within one (1) year of the claim arising, or such claim is permanently barred.

14. General Provisions

14.1 Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with our Privacy Policy and any separate engagement agreements, constitute the entire agreement between you and ACGL regarding use of our Services.

14.2 Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions remain in full force and effect, and the invalid provision shall be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid and enforceable.