GAMA International 2012 Annual Report - (Page 3)

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT As another GAMA fiscal year draws to a close, we are once again reminded of how vital GAMA and our industry are to insurance and financial services clients, both in the United States and abroad. Tink about the continuing challenges out there: slow economic and job growth, historically low interest rates, baby boomers moving into retirement en masse, unstable markets and the resulting risk aversion, the reduction or elimination of traditional pension plans, the possible restructuring of government entitlement programs. It’s no wonder people are concerned — and in need of solid, professional financial advice. Tis past year our industry simply did what it has done for centuries and will continue to do: find innovative ways to meet consumers’ insurance and financial services needs. Whether it’s ensuring income for boomers moving into retirement at a clip of 10,000 a day, or getting long-term care to a rapidly aging population, or guaranteeing cash flow in the event of disability, or covering the loss of the greatest asset of all — a person’s life — we help clients while offering one of greatest business opportunities in our free-enterprise system today. And while Internet use has dramatically changed both business and personal communication habits, when it comes to providing financial protection and growth for people, face-to-face interaction is still the preferred method. Here at GAMA we are all about “building the leaders who build the insurance, investment, and financial services industry,” so it’s not surprising that this annual report shows that the metrics and results for our association this past year were outstanding. We have grown our membership by more than 1,000 for the second year in a row, with a younger and more diverse demographic, while partnering with more companies and field organizations than ever. Meanwhile, we have debuted the frontline leader development program Leading From the Front and smashed the attendance and satisfaction records for our annual LAMP conference. We thank all those who team with us to help advance our mission, and pledge to continue to build the leaders who build our noble industry. Sincerely, Luis G. Chiappy, CLU ChFC CFP LUTCF AXA Equitable 2012–13 President, GAMA International GA M A INTERN A T I ON A L 2 0 1 2 A NNU A L REPOR T 3 http://www.gamaweb.com/lff

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of GAMA International 2012 Annual Report

GAMA International 2012 Annual Report