Medallion Signature Guarantee Services (UK, Europe & Worldwide)
Share Data Ltd is Europe’s leading non-bank provider of Medallion Signature Guarantees (MSG), offering coverage for transactions up to USD $2,000,000.
A Medallion Signature Guarantee is often required when selling or transferring securities in the United States or Canada. This certification verifies the authenticity of a signature authorising the transfer of shares or other securities and confirms that the signatory has the legal authority to act.
As a fully accredited member of the Securities Transfer Agents Medallion Program (STAMP), Share Data provides legally recognised MSG stamps accepted by major US and Canadian transfer agents, including Computershare. Unlike most banks or online intermediaries, Share Data specialises in providing fast, professional, and compliant services to UK and European investors, estates, and corporate transfers. With the highest stamp limit available to a non-bank European provider, Share Data ensures clients can complete high-value cross-border securities transfers securely and efficiently.
What is a Medallion Signature Guarantee?
A Medallion Signature Guarantee is a certification used during the transfer or sale of US securities to authenticate a signature and confirm authority over the assets.
It provides assurance to transfer agents that:
Most US and Canadian transfer agents will not process a transfer without a valid Medallion Signature Guarantee.
When is a Medallion Signature Guarantee required?
A Medallion Signature Guarantee is typically required when:
These requirements often arise during estate administration, share sales, or cross-border asset transfers.
Why is it difficult to obtain a Medallion Signature Guarantee in the UK?
Obtaining a Medallion Signature Guarantee outside North America can be challenging due to:
- Limited availability — most UK and European banks do not offer the service
- Strict requirements imposed by US transfer agents
- Documentation issues identified late in the process
- Lack of familiarity with US securities procedures
These factors frequently lead to delays, particularly in estate-related transactions
Medallion Signature Limits
Each Medallion Signature Guarantee stamp carries a prefix letter indicating its maximum coverage value, known as the surety limit.
This represents the highest value of securities that can be transferred or sold under that stamp.
Share Data provides coverage for transactions up to USD $2,000,000, offering one of the highest limits available from a non-bank provider in Europe.
What We Offer
Authorised Medallion Signature Guarantee Stamps
24-hour turnaround upon receipt of all required documentation
Support for securities valued up to $2 million (as of November 2024)
Translation services for required documentation
Guidance on documentation and transfer agent requirements
FAQ
What is a Medallion Signature Guarantee?
A Medallion Signature Guarantee is a certification required to transfer or sell US securities. It verifies that a signature is genuine and that the individual signing has the legal authority to complete the transaction.
It is commonly required by US and Canadian transfer agents for share transfers, especially in estate or cross-border cases.
Is a Medallion Signature Guarantee recognised in the US and Canada?
Yes. A Medallion Signature Guarantee is recognised by US and Canadian transfer agents when issued by an accredited member of the Securities Transfer Agents Medallion Program (STAMP), such as Share Data.
Without a valid Medallion, most transfer agents will not process the transaction.
Why is a Medallion Signature Guarantee required?
A Medallion Signature Guarantee is required to protect against unauthorised share transfers and reduce the risk of fraud.
It provides assurance that the person signing has the legal authority to transfer or sell the securities.
How does Share Data provide Medallion Signature Guarantees?
Share Data is an accredited STAMP member and can issue legally recognised Medallion Signature Guarantees.
We review documentation, confirm eligibility, and provide the appropriate Medallion stamp in line with transfer agent requirements.
How long does it take to receive the Medallion Signature Guarantee?
Once all required documentation has been received and verified, Medallion Signature Guarantees can typically be issued within 24 hours.
Delays may occur if documentation is incomplete or additional checks are required.
Where can I find more detailed guidance on Medallion Signature Guarantees?
You can download our Medallion Signature Guarantee Guide, which provides a detailed overview of when a Medallion is required, how the process works, and the documentation typically needed.
You may find the following articles helpful:
- 5 things to learn about Medallion Signature Guarantee
- Why Medallion Signature Guarantees are often misunderstood
These articles are designed to help you understand the process more clearly before submitting documents.
Medallion Signature Guarantee Guide
For a more detailed overview of requirements, documentation, and common issues, you can download our guide.
If you require a Medallion Signature Guarantee to transfer or sell US or Canadian securities, the guide explains when a it is required, how the process works, and what documentation is typically needed.