American Stock Exchange News Release

Equity Release
Media Contact: Jeanette Volpi
American Stock Exchange
212-306-1650 / jeanette.volpi@amex.com

AMEX COMPOSITE INDEX SURGES 42% IN 2003

NEW YORK, January 5, 2004  -  The American Stock Exchange (Amex) announced that its Amex Composite Index (SYMBOL: XAX) finished the year at 1175.19, a 42% increase over 2002. The XAX, which is comprised of all the listed equities on the exchange, is the leading index over a three-year and five-year period, sharply outperforming the Russell 2000, Wilshire 5000, NYSE Composite Index, Standard & Poor's 500 Index and the Nasdaq Composite Index.

The XAX was the best performing Index during the three year bear market, rising 31% over the past three years, and surging nearly 71% over five years. In comparison, the NYSE Composite Index, Nasdaq Composite Index and Standard & Poor's 500 Index trailed with deficits.

Peter Quick, president of the American Stock Exchange, said, "We are thrilled by the performance of the Amex Composite Index. 2003 has been a tremendous year for equity listings at the Amex and we are looking forward to continuing to attract outstanding companies in 2004. We are committed to providing companies with the resources they need to prosper and grow, and the success of our index has proven that we are delivering on that promise."

The American Stock Exchange® (Amex®) is the only primary exchange that offers trading across a full range of equities, options and exchange traded funds (ETFs), including structured products and HOLDRSSM. In addition to its role as a national equities market, the Amex is the pioneer of the ETF, responsible for bringing the first domestic product to market in 1993. Leading the industry in ETF listings, the Amex lists 126 ETFs to date. The Amex is also one of the largest options exchanges in the U.S., trading options on broad-based and sector indexes as well as domestic and foreign stocks.