By Zya Williams
During a recent High Court hearing, Justice Rene Williams opted for a unique approach to questioning Global Bank of Commerce’s CEO regarding the institution’s financial stability.
The case revolves around Canadian businessman Jack Stroll’s attempts to recover substantial funds from his account at the bank.
Initially, the CEO, Brian Stuart-Young, was expected to address inquiries pertaining to Stroll’s financial recovery.
However, Craig Christopher, representing Stuart-Young, advocated for conducting the examination in chambers or with limited media presence.
This request stemmed from concerns regarding confidentiality and potential media misuse of sensitive information, which could detrimentally impact the bank’s reputation.
On the other side, Leslie Thomas KC, representing Stroll, argued for maintaining open justice and public interest, suggesting that limiting media access could establish an unfavorable precedent. Instead, Thomas proposed restricting the publication of specific information.
After deliberation, Justice Williams concluded that an oral examination might prolong the legal proceedings, as Stuart-Young might require time to consult records accurately.
As a result, Thomas was directed to submit his questions by a specified deadline, with the bank mandated to provide answers within two weeks. Stroll’s legal team will have the opportunity to pose additional questions, if necessary, with any subsequent hearings supervised by the Deputy Registrar.
Furthermore, Global Bank of Commerce has been instructed to settle Stroll’s court costs from the preceding two hearings, amounting to over $40,000, within a week.
Where is is his money?