e, 897 F.2d 75, 80 (2d Cir. 1990)). Epstein does not have "'license to base claims of fraud on speculation and conclusory allegations."' Shields v. Citytrust Bancorp. Inc., 25 F.3d 1124, 1128 (2d Cir. 1994) (quoting O'Brien v. Nat'l Prop. -26- EFTA00314515 Analysts Partners, 936 F.2d 674, 676 (2d Cir. 1991)). Thus, h