Franklin Templeton hosted its inaugural Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Symposium this April.
As the global landscape becomes increasingly complex and disruptive forces reshape our industry at an unprecedented pace, it is the expanded perspectives, diverse experiences and inclusive cultures within our firms that serve as catalysts for innovation and growth.”
said Regina Curry, Chief Diversity Officer, during her welcome remarks. “This diversity of perspectives and experiences is at the forefront of our ability to anticipate trends, identify opportunities and craft solutions that resonate with the ever-changing needs of our clients.”
The symposium, held April 24 and 25, centered on the theme “The Changing Faces of Wealth.” Attendees from 28 firms dived into two days of invigorating discussions. The first day’s agenda oriented around the current state of DEI, and the second day looked toward the future. Discussion topics included:
- Insights and actions to promote diversity in the talent pipeline.
- Uncovering new paths to innovation through diversity.
- The rise of artificial intelligence and the impact on DEI.
- Forging partnerships for collective DEI success.
"I am heartened by the depth of our discussions and the breadth of our collective vision for the future of DEI in the financial and investment management industry,” Regina said. The symposium made deliberate strides to work with vendors from diverse backgrounds that are women, minority or locally owned.
Over the two days we were together, we confronted our realities, challenged conventional wisdom, leaned into newfound insights and explored innovative solutions.”
Regina said and added: "we traversed a landscape marked by complexity, uncertainty and rapid change, but amid these challenges, we found hope in a community that is unwavering in its commitment to the long-term goals of DEI.”
Highlights from the agenda included:
- A keynote address about navigating the changing DEI legal landscape from Kenji Yoshino, Chief Justice Earl Warren Professor of Constitutional Law at New York University School of Law and Director of the Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging.
- A fireside chat with Franklin Templeton’s President and CEO, Jenny Johnson, moderated by Bridget Hughes, Head of Parent Research for Morningstar Research Services.
- A keynote from Frans Johansson, author of the Medici Effect, exploring how diverse teams can bring unique perspectives that lead to the development of innovative and groundbreaking products, services and solutions.
- Sandy Kaul, Head of Digital Asset and Industry Advisory Services, Franklin Templeton led a session on generational wealth and understanding investment shifts from boomers to Gen Z.
- Quinton Alston-Spratt, Head of Advisor Practice Management at Franklin Templeton provided an overview and highlights of the firm’s groundbreaking program, “The Changing Faces of Wealth: Dimensions & Insights®,” which was created to help financial professionals continue to develop meaningful connections and initiate important conversations with evolving dimensions of investors.
- In-depth panel discussions and interactive breakout sessions where facilitators led small group chats about key topics and actionable next steps.
