Abstract: An investment method wherein an investment account is initially established on behalf of an end user. In the investment method, an electronic gift certificate is created through the use of a computer for a prescribed gift amount. The gift certificate is thereafter electronically transferred to the end user through the use of a computer, with the gift certificate thereafter being redeemed by the end user for the gift amount. The gift amount is electronically transferred into the investment account, with the gift amount thereafter being transferred from the investment account into an investment product pre-selected by the end user.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for applying a coating to an elongated substrate such as a wire or cable. The coating apparatus has an opposed pair of mouthpieces each connected respectively to a pair of dispensers which are in fluid communication with a source of heated liquid such as a hot melt coating material. The mouthpieces have complimentary recesses which form a throughhole when placed in a closed position such that a wire or cable passing through the throughhole may be coated with the liquid. The dispensers are operatively connected to actuators which move the modules in opposing directions to closed and open positions.