Nicsa's 2023 General Membership Meeting offered a look into the advisor landscape and the shifting intermediary marketplace. Broadridge’s Tim Kresl and Columbia Threadneedle Investments’ Jim Bumpus, Head of Intermediary Markets, discussed key trends.

With the increasing product complexity and evolving investor expectations, advice models are being reshaped. The session’s audience included executives from across the asset and wealth management industry. The discussion offered the following takeaways:

1. Financial advisors are increasingly diversifying their allocations, including alternatives (liquid and non-liquid), separately managed accounts, model portfolios, active ETFs, and passive ETFs.

2. Advisors are simultaneously shifting towards a focus on holistic financial planning, spending more time with clients and less on investment management and back-end operations.

3. While the financial industry embraces product complexity and innovation, advisors are more focused on deepening client relationships.

4. Advisors continue to look toward personalized portfolios to differentiate themselves and address various client needs.

5. Advisor satisfaction has declined in recent years, likely due to lower returns in fixed income and challenging market conditions. Financial planning can help maintain client satisfaction during market fluctuations.

6. Younger investors, especially Millennials and Gen Z, are less satisfied with the traditional financial advising model, presenting an opportunity for advisors to adapt their services to meet the unique needs of younger clients.

7. A significant transfer of wealth is expected, making it essential for advisors to connect with younger investors and address their specific financial goals and needs.

8. Attracting younger and more diverse talent to the financial advisory industry is a challenge but critical for its future success.

9. Delivering value-added services, beyond just products, is crucial for financial advisors to better serve their clients.

These key takeaways highlight the evolving landscape of financial advisory services, emphasizing the importance of adaptation to meet changing client needs and the increasing focus on holistic, value-added services and financial planning.

Personal views and observations of individuals contained herein are as of the date of the live event or written material and do not necessarily reflect the views of Nicsa or its member organizations. May contain forward-looking statements subject to various uncertainties. Nothing herein is intended to be or should be construed as legal advice. Contact your own counsel in order to obtain legal advice regarding these or any other matters. The information contained herein is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation of best practices.

#GeneralIndustryTrends

#NicsaEvents

Nicsa’s 2023 General Membership Meeting featured a thought provoking, debate-style discussion on the differences between “traditional” and “Next Gen” workforces.

The different perspectives on the future of the workforce included moderator Kevin McCord, Sales Manager, National Quality Review, alongside panelists Robert Fox, Senior Manager, Clarendon Partners; Rima Haddad, Vice President, Hedge Fund Financial Reporting, JP Morgan; and LeAnn Trejo, Senior Vice President of American Funds Service Company (AFS), part of Capital Group (CG).

The conference session highlighted key learnings and insights into generational work preferences, particularly in the context of the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are the key takeaways:

1. Remote Work Success:

• The pandemic demonstrated that the business world can operate remotely, leading to the realization that tasks could be executed effectively outside of traditional office settings.
• The slow return to the office allowed individuals to ease back into work, contributing to a positive experience.

2. Hybrid Model Realization:

• The hybrid work model, combining remote and in-office work, has proven successful, with benefits including increased flexibility and improved work-life balance.
• Personalization is crucial in implementing hybrid models, recognizing that different individuals and business groups have varied needs.

3. Global Collaboration Opportunities:

• Virtual collaboration tools, such as Zoom, facilitated global collaboration and teamwork, breaking down barriers between geographically dispersed teams.
• Remote work options opened up opportunities for hiring talent globally, expanding the pool of potential candidates.

4. Agile Mindset and Flexibility:

• The importance of an agile mindset was emphasized, highlighting the need to adapt and iterate on processes, especially in the face of unexpected challenges like the pandemic.
• Setting clear boundaries is critical to prevent overwork and burnout, requiring intentional time management and communication.

5. Continuous Networking and Mentorship:

• Networking was identified as a continuous process, extending beyond transactions or one-time connections.
• Building relationships with industry leaders and fostering mentorship is vital for knowledge transfer, innovation, and career development.

6. Soft Skills Emphasis:

• Soft skills, including communication, time management, and organization, are essential in a hybrid work environment.
• The challenge lies in adapting these skills to face-to-face interactions, especially for newer generations accustomed to digital communication.

7. Cultural Building and DEI Focus:

• Building and maintaining a positive organizational culture is crucial for retention, with effective communication about the reasons behind policies and initiatives.
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, especially those involving employee resource groups (ERGs), contribute to a sense of belonging and connection.

8. Adapting to Multi-Generational Workforce:

• Managing a multi-generational workforce requires tailoring approaches to different generations, acknowledging their unique preferences and experiences.
• Onboarding and training programs should consider the diverse needs of employees from various age groups.

9. Retaining Institutional Knowledge:

• Strategies for retaining institutional knowledge include flexibility in work arrangements, fostering a supportive culture, and utilizing mentorship programs.
• Emphasizing the importance of institutional knowledge preservation contributes to the successful transition of newer generations into roles.

10. Incorporating Next-Gen Perspectives:

• Next-generation employees bring valuable perspectives, particularly in terms of adapting to virtual training and technology.
• The challenge lies in balancing technical proficiency with the development of essential soft skills.

In conclusion, the conference session highlighted the importance of adaptability, clear communication, and a focus on both technical and soft skills in managing a workforce across different generations, especially in the evolving landscape shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Personal views and observations of individuals contained herein are as of the date of the live event or written material and do not necessarily reflect the views of Nicsa or its member organizations. May contain forward-looking statements subject to various uncertainties. Nothing herein is intended to be or should be construed as legal advice. Contact your own counsel in order to obtain legal advice regarding these or any other matters. The information contained herein is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation of best practices.

#GeneralIndustryTrends

#NicsaEvent

Boston, MA – November 7, 2023 – The asset and wealth management industry has made meaningful strides on the journey to advance Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), but needs to go the distance to deeply integrate their commitments into corporate culture and everyday business decisions according to Going the Distance: Accelerating DEI in Asset and Wealth Management. Nicsa’s study is now available to the public via a fully accessible landing page. Click here to view.

The 2023-2024 study is offered by Nicsa’s Diversity Project North America and will be released to registrants of the 2023 Nicsa General Membership Meeting on November 7. The survey and resulting report were prepared with Diversity Project member Ernst & Young LLP (EY US). The study explores insights on the perception of progress in the asset and wealth management industry and presents actionable takeaways on how to advance DEI within organizations. 

Analysis of the 2023 data led to six key takeaways, each deeply explored in the Study. 

1.     Corporate culture continues to be a key area for industry improvement.

2.     Industry leaders should embrace accountability.

3.     Best practices in talent recruitment and retention must evolve.

4.     The industry must work collaboratively to standardize metrics and advance reporting maturity.

5.     Career development needs to evolve beyond traditional programs and resources.

6.     Robust training initiatives can help embed DEI in the day-to-day experience.

Corporate culture, recruitment pipelines, and talent retention continue to be key areas for industry improvement. In addition, while perceptions improved around organizations sharing DEI metrics, the standardization of those metrics remains a challenge. Overall, trending comparisons worsened when looking into measures of success, but improved when looking at commitment to advancing DEI within the industry.

These trends are explored through a lens of uncertainty, given the unique pressures of today’s economic, regulatory, and political landscape. Despite the uncertainties, the asset and wealth management industry is pushing forward in its commitment to advance DEI and striving toward a diverse workforce that reflects the communities it serves.

Jim Fitzpatrick, President & CEO of Nicsa, notes that the Study results have highlighted the value of committed resources, executive level support, action-oriented training, professional development opportunities, and data collection and reporting as key factors for accelerating DEI within the asset and wealth management industry.

“While our environment and headline news will continue to evolve and change, DEI as a business strategy is here to stay. Asset and wealth managers can’t afford to neglect the information and insights identified in our 2023-24 DEI Perception Study. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are all essential to providing the best products and services to investors worldwide,” said Fitzpatrick. “We hope that industry participants continue to engage with us via our annual Perception Study to identify trends and ideas that will benefit the industry we all serve.”

“EY is proud to join forces with Nicsa on the 2023-24 DEI Perception Study,” said Thomas Arnold, a Partner in EY Wealth and Asset Management Consulting. “We are pleased to offer this tool to help the asset and wealth management industry come together to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the business.”

About the Study:

• This is Nicsa’s 3rd DEI Perception Study. The first report was published in 2020.
• Nicsa joined forces with EY, a member of its Diversity Project North America, to bring the 2023-34 DEI Perception Survey and Study to the asset and wealth management industry. 
• The survey measured perceptions across DEI themes such as leadership; workforce; metrics and performance; talent, hiring, and work environment; training, mentorship, and sponsorship; and DEI response and commitment.
• Approximately 1,500 respondents participated in the survey, representing a diverse set of firms and organization types within the asset and wealth management industry
• Thirty-four business leaders from 22 of Nicsa’s Diversity Project North America member firms participated in a series of roundtable sessions to share insights on the perceptions captured in the survey data.
• Quantitative data from survey responses, as well as qualitative information gathered during interactive round tables, were used to inform the 2023-34 DEI Perception Study, the results of which are intended to shape the industry’s responses and approaches to, and adaptation of, DEI issues in the near term.

Those interested in joining the asset and wealth management industry’s mission to accelerate diversity, equity and inclusion should reach out to Justine Phoenix, Head of Diversity Project North America at Nicsa.  

About Nicsa 

Nicsa is a not-for-profit trade association striving to connect all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, and advance leading practices. For over sixty years, Nicsa has promoted a collaborative environment where members come together to help strategically address the industry’s most vital issues. 

Nicsa’s Diversity Project North America champions DEI as a strategic business priority within the asset and wealth management industry. The goal of the Diversity Project North America is to advance better business results for our member firms and positive long-term impact for the clients we all serve by fostering an industry where diversity is achieved, equity is the standard, and inclusion is celebrated.

About EY

EY exists to build a better working world, helping create long-term value for clients, people and society and build trust in the capital markets.

Enabled by data and technology, diverse EY teams in over 150 countries provide trust through assurance and help clients grow, transform and operate.

Working across assurance, consulting, law, strategy, tax and transactions, EY teams ask better questions to find new answers for the complex issues facing our world today.

EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation are available via ey.com/privacy. EY member firms do not practice law where prohibited by local laws.

For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

#PressRelease

#DiversityProject

#DiversityandInclusion

A Guest Blog by BlackRock | Diversity Project North America Member 

Neurodiversity in the workplace -- different ways of thinking, learning, perceiving the world, processing information, and interacting with others -- helps organizations thrive, as such an inclusive workforce can improve creativity, innovation, and problem solving. October is National Disability Employment Awareness month, and this gives us the opportunity to shine a light on neurodivergent members of the corporate workforce whose disabilities may get less attention than others but who are no less important to an organization’s success.  

Neurodivergent is a nonmedical umbrella term that includes people with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and dyslexia. As there is no clear definition, some advocacy groups and people with mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, include them under the umbrella while others do not.

According to the National Institutes of Health, an estimated 10% to 15% of the world’s population has some kind of neurodivergence.¹ However, according to the 2023 Disability Equality^SM Index, a benchmarking tool for disability inclusion in business, the median disability self-identification rate was 4.6% among companies reporting data.² In an age when C-suite priorities include a focus on talent and innovation, this means that companies could be missing an opportunity to understand the full composition of their workforce and receive the most benefit from it. The graphic below shows some of the skills and strengths that neurodiverse people bring to the table.

Image created by Genius Within based on work by Mary Colley.

Ways to manage with neurodiversity in mind

Neurodivergent people have their own preferences for communication patterns and methods, social interaction, and workspace setting. Given the fact that corporate employees may not disclose that they are neurodivergent, managers can proactively develop and employ management practices that keep neurodivergent people in mind, and likely benefit the team as a whole.

Helpful management practices can include³:

• Adopting a person-centric management style that helps to create an environment where employees can perform at their best
  • Ensure communications are clear—tasks communicated in a rush with the process discarded can lead to confusion, stress, anxiety, and lost productivity
  • Allow flexibility around work patterns and frequency of social interaction
  • Consider role adjustments that help play to employees’ strengths across the team
  • Provide structured, positive feedback—this gives managers an opportunity to review progress and assist as necessary, and learn how they can better manage each employee
  • Provide access to support—monitor employee engagement and comfort at work.
  • Along with HR, be aware of common reasonable adjustments that are possible to enhance the employee experience for different neurominorities on the team (eg, accommodations such as software and devices, including portable and talking word processors, assistive listening systems, visual organizers; support; and access to mentors)

• Developing a path for career progression—avoid stereotypes and assumptions about someone’s career aspirations. All employees should be able to have an open conversation with their manager about their ambition and the opportunities available

• Adopt a strengths-based approach to performance management--appreciative enquiry can provide a more effective basis for improvement than negative feedback can; it is more effective to consider what people do well and try to find ways of using these strengths in other aspects of their work than to get them to invest time in areas where they have less inherent aptitude

• Focus more on the core skills and competencies needed to do the particular job well

1. Neurodiversity. National Institutes of Health. National Cancer Institute. https://dceg.cancer.gov/about/diversity-inclusion/inclusivity-minute/2022/neurodiversity. Published April 12, 2022. Accessed September 27, 2023.

2. 2023 Disability Equality Index. American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) and Disability:IN®. https://disabilityin-bulk.s3.amazonaws.com/DEI+2023+Report_Final+508.pdf. Accessed September 27, 2023.

3. Neurodiversity at Work. Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. London, UK; 2018. https://www.cipd.org/en/knowledge/guides/neurodiversity-work/

May contain forward-looking statements subject to various uncertainties. Personal views and observations of individuals contained herein are as of the date of the live event or written material and do not necessarily reflect the views of Nicsa or its member organizations. Nothing herein is intended to be or should be construed as legal advice. Contact your own counsel in order to obtain legal advice regarding these or any other matters. The information contained herein is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation of best practices.

#DiversityandInclusion

#DiversityProject

A Guest Blog by Nicsa's Chairman and Chair of Product & Distribution Committee

If you’re like me, you strive to not only stay on top of industry trends, but anticipate them. Doing so allows for nimble and strategic business planning, and benefits me, my team, and my firm. It’s not an easy task, but it is made easier by leveraging a community of industry peers to gain transparency on the issues, build confidence in my preparation, and frankly have some great conversations with folks I respect and enjoy being around.

Nicsa’s Product & Distribution Committee represents many of the industry’s top asset and wealth managers and meets regularly to share perspectives on trends related to product development, wealth management platforms and initiatives, partner relationships, and many other current industry topics.  We recently met with executives from Cerulli for a private read-out of their industry research.

The takeaways were explored in a casual, collaborative roundtable, allowing decision makers from across the industry to contemplate and share their reactions. Topics covered included:

• Optimizing coverage models,
• Improving distribution partnerships,
• Effective data use / ROI measurement; and
• Creating digital differentiation

Our friends at Cerulli took us through an in-depth discussion around:

• The evolution of industry channels,
• The types of activities that promote effective engagement with partners,
• How to create actionable outcomes for our sales teams; and
• How distribution teams are using data and digital platforms to enhance client service.

To learn more about Cerulli research, reach out to Scott Smith at [email protected] or visit https://www.cerulli.com.

As a Nicsa member, I know that being an active and engaged member of the Product and Distribution Committee gives me unparalleled opportunity to discuss industry themes with peers, mentors, and mentees in a high-value way.  

With shifting investor preferences and a rapid expansion of the scale and scope of services in the industry, staying on the pulse of these trends is critical. Navigating evolving relationship models, expanding data analytics, and onboarding new technology are a challenge for every team. Being a part of a dynamic group of professionals allows me access to different perspectives and ultimately helps me to evaluate, plan, and lead more effectively.

If you are a product or distribution executive within the asset and wealth management industry, I’d ask you to consider taking advantage of opportunities like these at Nicsa. Our General Membership Meeting is coming up in November in Boston and we are welcoming prospects and members to join in on our line-up of great content. I look forward to welcoming new faces to our table in 2024 and beyond.

Scott Brady

Head of Product Development & Strategy, Columbia Threadneedle Investments

Chairman, Nicsa Board of Directors

Chair, Product & Distribution Committee at Nicsa

Boston, MA – October 23, 2023 -- Nicsa, a leading asset and wealth management industry association, is proud to announce the winners of the 2023 Nicsa NOVA Awards, which recognize excellence in innovation and leadership.

The 2023 award winners are as follows:

President’s Awards

Chuck Gallant, Director, Digital and Data Strategy, BNY Mellon

Kirsten Pickens, Managing Director, Co-Head of US Distribution, FS Investments

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Strategic Leadership Award

Jenny Johnson, President and CEO, Franklin Templeton

 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Lifetime Achievement

Martin L. Flanagan, Chairman Emeritus, Invesco

Burton Keller, Founder, Director Emeritus, Delta Data

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Outstanding Service to the Fund Industry - Robert L. Gould Award

Peter Finnerty, Mutual Funds Leader, PwC

Rich Prior, President, American Funds Service Company, Capital Group (retired)

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Industry Innovation Awards 

Innovation in Distribution |  ume solutions | Due Diligence Platform

Innovation in Product Development & Marketing | State Street | Digital Experience

Innovation in Technology | Broadridge Financial Solutions | Distributed Ledger Repo

Operational Excellence | State Street Global Advisors | Proxy Voting Program

Operational Excellence | Ultimus | uFILE Application

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Emerging Leaders

Anthony Almanzar, Vice President & Senior Program Manager, State Street Global Advisors

Lilly Bahmani, Senior Manager, Nicsa

Robert Fox, Senior Manager, Clarendon Partners

Cassie McCarthy, Senior Manager, Business Transformation, EY Wealth & Asset Management Consulting

Deshaun Merrick, Vice President, Northern Trust

Sarah Segar, Director of Change Management, SS&C Technologies

Lejla Sehic, VP of Operations and Business Process, Broadridge Fi360 Solutions

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

President’s Awards

Honored posthumously for exceptional contributions to the asset and wealth management industry:

Dick Lucas - Founding Partner, FAL, the creators of SuRPAS, Retired Executive Vice President, PNC Global Investment Services (PNCGIS)

Robert Schifellite, Chairman of Investor Communication Solutions, Broadridge Financial Solutions 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

“We’re very pleased to recognize the contributions of these exceptional honorees to the asset and wealth management community. The 2023 Nicsa NOVA Awardees have demonstrated dedication, excellence. and leadership to the industry we all serve, and we look forward to celebrating them at the Nicsa GMM,” said Jim Fitzpatrick, President & CEO of Nicsa.

About Nicsa 

Nicsa is a not-for-profit trade association striving to connect all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, and advance leading practices. For over sixty years, Nicsa has promoted a collaborative environment where members come together to help strategically address the industry’s most vital issues. 

Nicsa’s Diversity Project North America champions DEI as a strategic business priority within the asset and wealth management industry. The goal of the Diversity Project North America is to advance better business results for our member firms and positive long-term impact for the clients we all serve by fostering an industry where diversity is achieved, equity is the standard, and inclusion is celebrated.

#PressRelease

#NicsaAwards

National Disability Awareness Month in October is an opportunity for individuals and organizations to recognize and celebrate the achievements, contributions, and unique challenges faced by the disabled community. Nicsa’s Diversity Project North America is committed to promoting inclusion. The DPNA Industry Events & Engagement Committee has compiled a list of resources and simple strategies to help firms and individuals make the most of this important month.

START WITH SIMPLE CHANGES:

To recognize National Disability Awareness Month, consider implementing some straightforward measures. DPNA member JP Morgan, for example, intentionally renames this month "Disability Inclusion Month" to emphasize the importance of inclusion.

LEVERAGE VIDEOS FROM NICSA:

Nicsa’s Diversity Project North America offers valuable resources in the form of informative videos that provide insights into disability awareness. Here are two video links that you can explore:

• Supporting Employees with Disabilities
• Neurodiversity Includes Everyone in the World

VISUAL ACCESSIBILITY:

Visual accessibility is a crucial component of supporting those with disabilities. You can take the following steps to enhance it:

• Hire a firm to audit your website's accessibility across various dimensions of disability. One such firm is allyant.com.
• Use Adobe Acrobat Pro DC's Accessibility Checker to ensure PDF compliance with PDF/UA standards.
• Employ the Colour Contrast Analyser for Windows to evaluate the contrast between foreground and background color combinations.

IN-PERSON INCLUSIVITY:

When conducting in-person events or working in shared office spaces, it's essential to create an inclusive environment. Consider the following measures:

• Accommodate individuals with food allergies and dietary restrictions during events.
• Arrange cubicles and office spaces to provide appropriate distance, especially for those with scent allergies.
• Use large-font name tags with phonetic spellings, pronouns, and company names to enhance inclusivity. 
• Have speakers introduce themselves by name to associate names with voices.
• Ensuring that desks, tables, chairs, and other equipment are accessible and comfortable.

VIRTUAL MEETING ACCESSIBILITY:

Ensure that technology support is readily available and educate participants about the proper etiquette for an inclusive experience. This includes:

• Using cameras during video conferencing to facilitate lip reading and enhance visual cues.
• Expanding accessibility on event recordings by offering translations and large-font closed captioning on event replays.
• Utilizing virtual name boxes, and including company names where appropriate.

Readers can refer to the blog: How to Make Your Virtual Meetings and Events Accessible to the Disability Community for more information and ideas.

EXPLORE (AND SHARE!) AVAILABLE RESOURCES:

National Disability Awareness Month provides an excellent opportunity to educate ourselves and others about disabilities. To help you on this journey, we've compiled a list of diverse resources, including videos, books, consultants, networks, and more. Let's explore these valuable materials together and share them with others to promote awareness and understanding.

Videos

Leverage talks presented to local audiences, such as this one on redefining diversity. Tedx: When I Stopped Hiding, I Found Freedom | Ruth Rathblott

Third-Party Services

There are many consultants and providers that help their clients craft accessible practices, policies, products and services, places and promotions. One such service provider is: Tilting the Lens

Networks

DPNA member State Street operates a Disability Awareness Alliance support network that offers resources for employees with disabilities and caregivers. State Street has similar networks in various locations worldwide, all dedicated to fostering inclusivity and receiving executive-level support. Many firms across the asset and wealth management industry have resource networks. Please speak to your team leadership to help identify similar networks that may be appropriate.

Children's Material

Explore these children's books that cover a range of topics related to disabilities, including ADHD, ASD, Dyslexia, OCD, and more:

• Remarkable Remy
• Rules
• The Unstoppable Jamie
• Manny's Mood Clouds
• Violet Shrink
• The Worry Balloon
• Virginia Wolf, My Brain Is Magic
• A Day with No Words
• Hide and Shhhh
• Dark Cloud, My Whirling Twirling Motor
• The Curiosities, Brilliant Bed
• Malik's Number Thoughts
• My Busy Busy Brain
• I Talk Like a River

Other Children's Books to Explore (K-5):

• The Best List of 18 Children’s Books about Disabilities
• 19 of the Best Books for Toddlers with Autism

Middle Grade & Young Adult Books:

• 5 MG and YA Novelists with Disabled Characters Share What Inspired Their Stories
• 5 YA Titles Featuring Characters With Physical Disabilities
• 36 YA Books Showcasing Diverse Disability Representation

Adult Material

• Documentary: The Reason I Jump (2020) on Netflix
• Book: The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy with Autism by Naoki Higashida

Fiction & Non-fiction Books:

• 15 Best Books With Disability Representation to Read Now
• 12 Non-Fiction Books on Disability Inclusion
• 42 Best Books On Disabilities Curated by a Disability Activist

TV Shows & Movies:

• 11 Movies or TV Shows with Authentic Disability Representation
• 21 of the Best Films, Books, and Shows Spotlighting Experiences of Disability

Other Resources:

• Disability Pride Month - Teacher Guide
• Don't be scared to talk about disabilities. Here's what to know and what to say
• How to talk about disability sensitively and avoid ableist tropes

By exploring and sharing these resources, you can contribute to the promotion of disability awareness, inclusion, and understanding during National Disability Awareness Month and beyond.

CONCLUSION:

National Disability Awareness Month is a time to promote inclusion and raise awareness about the challenges faced by the disabled community. By implementing these simple steps and utilizing available resources, firms and individuals across the asset and wealth management industry can play a significant role in making the world a more inclusive place for everyone. Nicsa’s Diversity Project North America welcomes you to embrace the spirit of inclusion and celebrate the diversity of abilities during this important month.

Personal views and observations contained herein do not necessarily reflect the views of Nicsa or its member organizations. The information contained herein is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation of best practices.

#DiversityandInclusion

#DiversityProject

Boston, MA – October 16, 2023 – Nicsa, a leading provider of education and networking forums to professionals in the global asset and wealth management industry, announced its keynote and other speaker highlights for the 2023 General Membership Meeting  taking place on November 7-8.

GMM sessions will kick off on Tuesday November 7 with a keynote presentation by Peter Finnerty, Mutual Funds Practice Leader, PwC and Declan Byrne, PwC Partner, Mutual Fund Research and Analytics Leader.

Their address, Rising Expectations: 2030, will provide attendees with predictions on how expectations from investors, employees, regulators, and society as a whole will fundamentally shape the future of the entire asset and wealth management industry. View full event agenda here.

The November 8 agenda will feature Kevin Mahn, President and Chief Investment Officer, Hennion & Walsh Asset Management, who will moderate a C-Suite Roundtable around industry innovation. The following thought leaders will participate:

·       Lorna Sabbia, Managing Director, Head of Retirement & Personal Wealth Solutions, Bank of America

·       Joe Schultz, Senior Vice President, Chief Client Officer, American Century

·       Vadim Zlotnikov, Head of Fidelity Institutional, Fidelity Investments

In all, 30+ industry experts will take the stage at the 2023 Nicsa General Membership Meeting, with active engagement across Nicsa members, sponsors, and partners helping connect asset and wealth management professionals to industry best practices. View speakers here.

A preview of event highlights include:

Day 1 - Nov 7

Keynote: Rising Expectations | 2030

What's Driving the Alts Landscape

A Confident Board: Strategies for Effective Governance

The Convergence of Wealth & Retirement

Unleashing the Power of AI

Day 2 - Nov 8 

A New Dawn for the Advisor Landscape

C-Suite Roundtable: Chartering Your Trajectory

Fireside Chat: Public Policy & Economic Indicators

Generational Debate: Workforce Evolution 

View the full agenda here.

About Nicsa 

Nicsa is a not-for-profit trade association striving to connect all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, and advance leading practices. For over sixty years, Nicsa has promoted a collaborative environment where members come together to help strategically address the industry’s most vital issues. 

Nicsa’s Diversity Project North America champions DEI as a strategic business priority within the asset and wealth management industry. The goal of the Diversity Project North America is to advance better business results for our member firms and positive long-term impact for the clients we all serve by fostering an industry where diversity is achieved, equity is the standard, and inclusion is celebrated.

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#FeaturedEvent

Boston, MA – September 25, 2023 – The Nicsa 2023 General Membership Meeting (GMM) will take place November 7 -8 at the Marriott Long Wharf in Boston, MA. 

The two days of on-site learning and networking will provide timely insights into critical business pathing for 2024 and beyond. Conference content will take deep dives into AI, product development, NextGen workforce, and the retirement landscape. The event will also feature the Annual NOVA Awards Luncheon honoring industry change agents.

Conference participants will include industry executive from all facets of asset and wealth management including  product development, distribution, technology, operations, compliance, talent management and client service.

Speakers include:

Brett Beranek

General Manager of the Security Business for Nuance Enterprise Division, Nuance Communications

Gary Casagrande

Senior Vice President - Head of US Fund Administration, Northern Trust

Elena Barone Chism

Deputy General Counsel for Retirement Policy, ICI

Jim Bumpus

Head of Intermediary Markets, Columbia Threadneedle Investments

Jason Cole

Head of Public Policy, FS Investments

Brendan Cuddihy

Chief Operating Officer, CAIS

Vanessa Fernandes

Head of Digital Experience and Delivery, BNY Mellon

Robert Fox

Senior Manager, Clarendon Partners

Priya Gore

Managing Director, Data & AI, US Financial Services & Insurance, Microsoft

Rima Haddad

Vice President, Hedge Fund Financial Reporting, JP Morgan

Joanne Kane

Chief Compliance Officer, SS&C Technologies

Kenny King

Head of Alternatives, Asset Servicing, BNY Mellon

Tim Kresl

Principal, Distribution Insight, Broadridge

Matt Labovich

US Data Analytics and AI Leader, PwC

Rosa Licea-Mailloux

Vice President and Head of Compliance, Americas, MFS Investment Management

York Lo, CAIA, CIMA

Head of Alternative Product and LLCs, John Hancock Investment Management

Kevin Mahn (Moderator)

President and Chief Investment Officer, Hennion & Walsh Asset Management

Cassie McCarthy

Senior Manager, Wealth and Asset Management Consulting, EY

Kevin McCord

Sales Manager, National Quality Review

Amy Merrill

Senior Manager, EY

Kevin Murphy

Senior Vice President, Head of Workplace Retirement Distribution, Franklin Templeton

Lara Rhame

Chief US Economist, FS Investments

Lorna Sabbia

Managing Director, Head of Retirement & Personal Wealth Solutions, Bank of America

Ninou Sarwono

VP, Head of Emerging Technology, Capital Group

Joe Schultz

Senior Vice President, Chief Client Officer, American Century

Scott Smith (Moderator)

Director, Cerulli Associates

Jania Stout

Senior Vice President, OneDigital | Retirement Services

LeAnn Trejo

Senior Vice President of American Funds Service Company (AFS), Capital Group

Nathan Voris

Head of Channel Strategy, Morningstar

Vadim Zlotnikov

Head of Fidelity Institutional, Fidelity Investments

Preview the GMM Agenda. See what firms are registered. Contact us to initiate a corporate registration.

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Boston, MA – July 21, 2023 — Nicsa has announced the winners of its 2023 Blackwell Scholarship Awards. Blackwell Scholars receive up to four years of scholarship support, a mentor from a Nicsa member company, and access to career networking and internship opportunities. 2023 marks the 25^th year of Blackwell Scholarship awards.

The 2023 Blackwell Scholarship recipients are as follows:

Alyssa Castro | Davidson College, class of 2027

Saanvi Chougule | New Jersey Institute of Technology, class of 2027

Nicholas Gasper | Saint Vincent College, class of 2027

Amanda Sanchez | Louisiana State University, class of 2027

Rebecca Stansell | University of Texas at Austin, class of 2027

The five new awardees represent the following firms:  Broadridge Financial Solutions, Capital Group American Funds, Federated Hermes, Franklin Templeton, and Invesco.

Thirteen additional students had their award renewed for the coming academic year. Awards are renewable for up to 4 years per student.

Maggie Banhart | Kansas State University

Berenika Belinkiy | Bryant University

Sebastian Cerro | Texas A&M University

Lizbeth Flores | University at Albany

E’Nyah Norris-Conley | Northern Arizona University

Jonathan Odima | University of Texas at Austin

Sofia Ostendorf | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Brendan Ridge | University of Pittsburgh

John Shen | University of Massachusetts Lowell

Ruth Shiferaw | Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Esha Thota | University of California, Los Angeles

Olivia Tucker | Wichita State University

Zuzanna Wheeler | Creighton University

The thirteen renewal awards represent American Century Investments, Broadridge, Calamos Investments, Capital Group, Edward Jones, Federated Hermes, Invesco, JP Morgan Chase & Co, MFS Investment Management, and State Street.

View All Recipients.

This year, eighty-one applications were submitted by children of employees representing twenty-four firms across the global asset and wealth management industry. Recipients were evaluated based on demonstrated excellence in leadership, community service and academic merit.

“Nicsa congratulates each of the well deserving 2023 Blackwell Scholars. We are very appreciative of the Nicsa member firms who generously support the Blackwell Scholarship Fund with their contributions and event participation,” said Jim Fitzpatrick, President and CEO of Nicsa.

Each year, Nicsa’s Strategic Leadership Forum (SLF) features “Nicsa Gives Back,” a day of philanthropic events including the Blackwell Scholarship Charity Golf Tournament. All proceeds from the tournament go toward the Blackwell Scholarship fund. 

About the Nicsa/William T. Blackwell Scholarship Fund

The Nicsa/William T. Blackwell Scholarship Fund was established as a tribute to former Nicsa President Bill Blackwell’s commitment to education. Since the scholarship program's inception, the fund has made over $850,000 in awards to students with financial need. The Blackwell Scholarship Fund is endowed through donations by individuals and Nicsa member companies. Blackwell Scholars receive up to four years of scholarship support, a mentor from a Nicsa member company, and access to career networking and internship opportunities.

The Blackwell Scholarship is administered by The Philanthropic Initiative, in conjunction with The Boston Foundation. 

About Nicsa 

Nicsa is a not-for-profit trade association striving to connect all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, and advance leading practices. For over sixty years, Nicsa has promoted a collaborative environment where members come together to help strategically address the industry’s most vital issues. 

Nicsa’s Diversity Project North America champions DEI as a strategic business priority within the asset and wealth management industry. The goal of the Diversity Project North America is to advance better business results for our member firms and positive long-term impact for the clients we all serve by fostering an industry where diversity is achieved, equity is the standard, and inclusion is celebrated.

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