Is it a requirement that the Commission’s approval be sought for the use of the word “fund” or a derivative thereof prior to the entity being incorporated?

Yes. An entity that intends to use the word “fund” or a derivative thereof in its name is required to seek the Commission’s approval prior to incorporation. However, the Commission has streamlined its procedures to facilitate the approval process. Accordingly, where an entity upon incorporation intends to make an application for licensing, recognition or registration under SIBA, the entity may provide a written undertaking to the Registrar of Corporate Affairs (on making the application for incorporation) stating that upon incorporation, it will make an application for recognition, registration or licensing under SIBA. The undertaking will avoid the need for a separate application for approval to use the “fund” and facilitate the timely incorporation of the entity.