Ludeman said 2004 SIA Chairman Richard E. Thornburgh, vice chairman of the Executive Board of Credit Suisse First Boston and a member of the Executive Board of Credit Suisse Group, had left the association strong and well-positioned to achieve even more for investors and the industry. “I want to express our thanks to Dick for his outstanding leadership and hard work over the past year,” Ludeman said.
The first item on Ludeman’s agenda is to implement SIA’s Commitment to Clarity initiative as a strong foundation for nurturing investor trust. Second, he called on the industry to work hard to promote savings and investing, especially in light of the fact that 76-million baby boomers are approaching retirement age. Third, he cited the industry’s commitment to pro-investor tax policies on capital gains and dividends. Next, he pledged that SIA would continue its efforts in support of efficient and effective regulation. And, finally, he said, “We will devote our time and attention to promoting investor education and to making sure that our industry more closely reflects the diversity of the marketplace we serve.”
Ludeman reminded SIA’s members that it is impossible to predict the future and it is critical that the industry be prepared to adapt and react to unforeseen events. “If history is any guide, before the year is out we’ll face other challenges and opportunities that nobody can foresee today,” he said. “Let’s make sure we never get lulled back into complacency.”
In conclusion, Ludeman said that SIA’s effectiveness depended on the involvement and commitment of its members. “Remember,” he said, “that SIA is a member-driven organization. And the hallmark of our success is participation. I ask you to get involved, lend your energy and your ideas to our association. We’re stronger when we work and act together.”
The full text of Daniel J. Ludeman’s speech available:
http://www.sia.com/speeches/html/ludeman11-04.html
