UNDERNEWS: The daily news service of the Progressive Review, Washington's most unofficial source The speed, secrecy and state tax exemptions offered by Delaware, along with its business-friendly courts, have long enticed everyone from blue-chip corporations to international gangsters. State officials say more than half of Fortune 500 and New York Stock Exchange companies are chartered there, and the General Accounting Office cites Delaware as a haven for foreign money launderers. You can start a Delaware company without going there. First, pick a Delaware-registered corporation agent. They advertise in magazine and on the Web. For just $85 in fees, you're in business. You don't need to open a bank account; disclose your profits, sales or purpose; or even give your name. Yearly fees of $50 to Delaware and another $100 or so to your agent will keep you there.