Thought Leader of the Week: Benjamin Robinson

African Americans report being significantly more confident about their financial situation than the general population, according to Prudential's 2013-2014 "The African American Financial Experience" study. "This presents an opportunity to take that optimism and make sure we are providing the education and financial management to support it," says Benjamin Robinson, chief administration officer for Prudential Annuities. (more)

Thought Leader of the Week: Michael McRoberts

The market for multifamily properties remains extremely strong for investors and owners, thanks to ongoing demand for rental apartments that is driving strong rent growth and low vacancies, says Michael McRoberts, who leads the conventional Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac lending business for Prudential Mortgage Capital Company. (more)

Thought Leader of the Week: Alexandra Galindez

African Americans cite professional financial advisors as one of the most important sources for financial information, yet the community is 13 percent less likely to be contacted by an advisor, according to Prudential's 2013-2014 "The African American Financial Experience" study. "The need and financial means are there," says Alexandra Galindez, vice president of Multicultural Marketing for Prudential. "We need to arm advisors with the data and tools to serve this market that has been underserved by the industry." (more)

Thought Leader of the Week: Michael Davis

 Nearly half of African Americans have a workplace retirement plan—such as a 401(k)—and 8 in 10 eligible to contribute to such plans are doing so, according to a new Prudential study. "While it is good news that so many members of the community are contributing to their workplace retirement plans, many continue to contribute less than their employer match or take loans from their plan," says Michael Davis, senior vice president of Stable Value for Prudential Retirement. (more)

Thought Leader of the Week: Michele Meyer-Shipp

According to Michele Meyer-Shipp diversity and inclusion should be woven into the fabric of talent initiatives as well as business practices. "At Prudential, this principle fuels our community programs and enhances our ability to engage with an increasingly diverse client base," says the company's chief diversity officer. (more)