The purpose of this research is to provide readers with an initial understanding of the future of the retail banking, insurance, brokerage, & investment management industries in Costa Rica, which provides geographical proximity but also challenges for United States financial services firms, including a different language, different currency, & different laws. In short, this research defines the future of financial services in Costa Rica and compares these findings to those of the United States in order to provide readers with some perspective. Costa Rica has trends parallel to those in the United States, but also many fundamental market differences. This research is part of Tiburon's coverage of the Latin America Markets.

The research starts with an explanation of the market history of Costa Rica, including these phases:

• Native Indians Phase
• Colonial Phase
• Independence Phase
• Middle Phase
• Colonial Phase

The research summarizes the growth of Costa Rica, and ranks both the leading sub-markets and the leading financial services firms.

The research addresses the four traditional financial services businesses, including:

• Retail Banking
• Insurance
• Brokerage
• Investment Management

And the research makes several predictions for Costa Rica, including:

• Highly Pronounced Wealth Divide
• Unique Risks, Including Currency Fluctuations
• Increasing Online Financial Services Potential
• Emergence of Independent Advisors Market
• Increasing Mergers & Acquisitions Opportunities
• Increasing Venture Capital & Private Equity Opportunities