Press Release

Equity Through Education Campaign Raises CAD 1.6 million/USD 1.4 million

BMO Capital Markets to donate institutional trading commissions to North American charities

TORONTO, May 18, 2006 - BMO Capital Markets proudly announced today they have raised CAD 1.6 million/USD 1.4 million to be donated to seven charities across North America through the firms’ Equity Through Education charitable program. The monies raised were commissions earned yesterday (May 17) on all institutional equity trades in the U.S. and Canada.

The Equity Through Education charitable program was launched in 2005 to support the notion that gaining an education is a means of improving lives. Funds raised through Equity Through Education are donated to charitable organizations whose mission includes improving access to education and training for bright, deserving people who otherwise might not have the opportunity.

“Equity Through Education is an important charitable and diversity initiative that represents a partnership with our clients and our communities. It is a way for all of us to demonstrate our commitment to diversity as well as our ability to make a tangible difference,” said Eric Tripp, Co-President of BMO Capital Markets and Campaign Chair of the special trading day.

“I am pleased to say that our four Canadian charities: the Canadian Merit Scholarship Foundation (CMSF); the Foundation for the Advancement of Aboriginal Youth (FAAY); the National Educational Association of Disabled Students (NEADS); and the Pathways to Education Program will share CAD 850,000. Our three U.S.-based charities: the Jackie Robinson Foundation; YAI/National Institute for People with Disabilities Network; and the Financial Women’s Association will share USD 675,000.”

BMO Capital Markets, through its parent, BMO Financial Group (TSX, NYSE: BMO) have proud traditions of supporting community reinvestment. BMO Financial Group contributed more than CAD 37.9 million in corporate donations, sponsorships and events in 2005, supporting thousands of communities, charities and not-for-profit organizations across North America.

BMO Capital Markets is a leading full-service investment banking firm offering corporate, institutional and government clients access to a broad range of products and services including investment and corporate banking, treasury services, market risk management, institutional investing and research.