Perigee Investment Counsel Inc. of Toronto has changed its name to Legg Mason Canada Inc. as a part of a comprehensive re-branding strategy. The firm is a subsidiary of Baltimore-based Legg Mason, Inc.

Legg Mason Canada will remain independently managed by its Canadian executive team, led by Stephen Griggs, president and CEO.

The name change is the culmination of a strategic initiative that began more than three years ago when Legg Mason purchased Perigee.

The company says Legg Mason Canada will grow its business in the Canadian marketplace by continuing to offer its core Canadian institutional and private client investment solutions, including cash management, fixed income, Canadian equities and balanced mandates.

It will also enhance its offerings of institutional investment products managed by its Legg Mason affiliates, including Batterymarch Financial Management, Inc., Brandywine Asset Management, LLC, Legg Mason Funds Management, Inc., Private Capital Management, LP, Royce & Associates, LLC, and Western Asset Management Co.

“Our new name sends a signal to the Canadian institutional marketplace that we are stronger, more competitive and prepared to offer a number of highly-regarded investment choices to Canadian institutional investors,” said Griggs. “Our entire team is committed to making Legg Mason Canada one of the country’s strongest asset managers.”

Legg Mason Canada Inc. had approximately $12 billion in assets under management as of Sept. 30, 2003.