News Release

RBC Wealth Management Named One Of Human Rights Campaign’s “Best Places To Work”

Firm receives 100% rating from HRC Foundation’s 2011 Corporate Equality Index for GLBT initiatives

MINNEAPOLIS (Oct. 4, 2010) – RBC Wealth Management announced today that for the second consecutive year, it has received a 100 percent rating in the 2010 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), an annual survey administered by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation. The top-rated businesses are recognized on HRC's annual “Best Places to Work” list.

The Corporate Equality Index is the HRC Foundation's annual report card, measuring how welcoming major corporations are in regards to their gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) employees, clients and investors, using a scale from 0 to 100 percent. Scores are based on multiple factors, such as domestic partnership benefits, GLBT employee resource groups, and inclusive nondiscrimination policies that specifically address GLBT employees.

“We are honored to receive a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index for the second consecutive year,” said John Taft, CEO of RBC U.S. Wealth Management. “We have seen first-hand how inclusion helps to create a work environment built on mutual respect, trust and fair treatment, and where personal development and creativity lead us to new heights. RBC Wealth Management appreciates the HRC Foundation’s recognition as we continue to provide opportunities that foster growth for our employees.”

“Our 100 percent Corporate Equality Index rating and Best Places to Work designation will undoubtedly strengthen our partnerships in diverse communities—specifically, within the GLBT community,” said Wanda Brackins, director of diversity. “It is RBC Wealth Management’s goal to be a trusted leader in diversity, and this recognition helps position us to serve the GLBT market as well as other emerging markets.”

The full 2011 HRC Corporate Equality Index report can be downloaded from the HRC web site at www.hrc.org/cei .

About RBC Wealth Management
In the United States, RBC Wealth Management operates as a division of RBC Capital Markets Corporation. Founded in 1909, RBC Capital Markets Corporation is a member of the New York Stock Exchange, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority and other major securities exchanges, as well as the Securities Investor Protection Corp. RBC Wealth Management has over $160 billion of assets under administration and more than 2,200 financial consultants operating in over 200 locations in 42 states.

About the Human Rights Campaign
The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

Media Contact
Jonell Lundquist, RBC Wealth Management, 612-371-2239

Important disclosure information about Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and RBC Capital Markets, LLC