Panels

The Future of Fixed Income

Over the past year, the U.S. fixed income markets have moved from one crisis to another – first subprime and Alt-A mortgages, followed by leveraged loans and structured securities and subsequently investment grade credits. The failure of the ratings agencies, lack of transparency, poor underwriting standards, and global deleveraging have resulted in the elimination of the commercial paper market and nearly all securitization activity. Panel speakers will discuss the future of the fixed income markets. What will the financial system look like? Will securitization activity ever rebound? What steps need to be taken?

M&A: Deconstructing the Deal and Lessons Learned

This workshop will examine various case studies in order to learn the intricacies of a merger or acquisition transaction and consider the critical success factors for bringing the potential benefits of the transaction into reality. Are there pitfalls in the valuation metrics, management changeovers, and cultural transformation of the merged company that managers should be aware of prior to engaging in a transaction? What strategic rationales and deal structures have tended to create value for the long-term? In addition to reviewing past deals, panelists will discuss forward-looking trends in the M&A business. What level of activity can be expected in a difficult credit and economic environment? What impact has the string of broken private equity deals over the past year had?

Private Equity: Outlook and Future Trends

The private equity industry has experienced tremendous growth over the past decade. However, have the conditions that led to high rates of return come to an end with the bubble that existed in buyouts, debt markets, and real estate deflating? How is the industry adapting to the change in credit markets and macroeconomic environment? Private equity has also come under public scrutiny concerning the economic implications of the industry - whether it acts as a positive economic catalyst and if it is being taxed fairly. Panel speakers will share their thoughts on the current issues facing the industry and industry outlook for the next few years.

Careers in Finance: Overview and Recruiting Strategy

Panel speakers will share their experiences working in the financial services industry from what a typical day is like, type of transactions they are involved in, and value creation (and destruction) of your professional career and personal life. Panel speakers will also share tips on how to succeed in the recruiting process and errors made by applicants seeking employment at their firm.