The Hits Just Keep on Comin'

I’m writing this on the last day of October – excited by the great momentum of FCS activities over the past two months, and thrilled to be on the eve of the first-ever FCS event on the West Coast. I’m flying to San Francisco to kick-off a breakfast event tomorrow, November 1. And I hope that with this trip, the seeds will be planted for a permanent chapter of the FCS in San Francisco.


But before I get ahead of myself, here’s a quick look back at September and October:


September Luncheon
On 9/21, a sold out crowd of nearly 200 welcomed our guest speaker Jim Speros, CMO of Fidelity Investments. Jim engaged the audience with great insights about the creation and success of Fidelity’s now famous “Turn Here” ad campaign, which moves its green arrow throughout the landscape… both financial and physical.

October Breakfast Club
On 10/4, a standing-room only audience enjoyed a very topical and timely presentation on “The New China.” With a lead-off presentation by John Pomfret, The Washington Post’s Asian Diplomatic Correspondent, the event provided an in-depth look at the cultural challenges of doing business with the superpower. John then joined on a panel discussion with Pablo Rasco, a senior investment strategist with HSBC, and Hongfei Huang, CEO of Insigma U.S. Kopin Tan, a senior editor with Barron’s, moderated the discussion, which provided great insights and information about the new business paradigm with China as an eager partner. While Jose offered a valuable economic perspective, Hongfei and John traded anecdotes about living and working in each other’s native land.

October Luncheon
On 10/20, Vanguard returned to the FCS stage for the first-time in many years, as Bert Dalby held court for an audience of more than 100. With a very informative presentation of the strategic philosophy of the legendary asset management firm, Bert talked about his focus on the all-important financial advisor marketplace.

FCS Charity Bowling Tournament

Since we can’t be all work and no play, the FCS was proud to host another successful Bowling night in Times Square. “Re-Racking” our January inaugural experience, John Derbick led the charge and more than 150 responded, including teams representing 15 sponsors. The camaraderie and laughs alone were worth the price of admission… saying nothing about the fashion statements and fancy shoes.

Now let’s take a look ahead…


Breakfast Club Goes to San Francisco
As I write this, some 85 guests are expected at tomorrow’s inaugural event on the West Coast. Just like June 2010, when we held our first event in Chicago, which ultimately spawned a full-blown, totally engaged chapter, I have high hopes for San Francisco. The topic is Social Media, with an industry perspective provided by Mike Ellison of Corporate Insight, followed by a panel discussion with Schwab’s Lindsay Tiles, BlackRock’s Pete Boland, Union Bank’s Juan Silvera, and Matt Day from SilverFox, who handles the digital work for Franklin Templeton. Well-deserved shout-outs to Barron’s, Investor’s Business Daily/investors.com, and The Week for being our inaugural sponsors. Look to this space for a recap of the event.

Cocktails with Content: Mobile 101
Speaking of sponsors, CNBC.com will host our next Cocktail reception at famed 30 Rock, home to the TV series “30 Rock.” Although Liz Lemon won’t be making an appearance, we will learn more about the growing interest and demand for mobile marketing from experts at TD Ameritrade, Zenithmeida, and others. I’m excited to announce that Peter Kafka of All Things Digital will be our moderator.

November Luncheon
Thinking digitally, we’re excited to welcome John Owens to be our November guest speaker at the New York Yacht Club. John heads up marketing for ING DIRECT US.

FCS Holiday Party
Before the year ends, we’ll look to celebrate all that we’ve accomplished at the (sort of) annual FCS Holiday Party. We’re proud to hold our event this year at the Explorer’s Club on the Upper East Side. The date is Tuesday, December 6th… stay tuned for special announcements!

While you’re considering your calendar, now’s the time to get involved in our January events.


FCS Race for Kids
Sure, it feels like months away, but now is the time to make your plans to be a participant in our famed Summit in the Snow. Pack your gear, bring the kids… this will be the biggest and best ever. Go to www.fcsraceforkids.org for details.

Financial Marketer of the Year
The sixth annual prize will be given out in January, but only because YOU made the right nomination by November 15. Don’t delay, send in your ballot today. Marketers can nominate themselves; media folk should think about honoring their best client. Nomination forms can be downloaded at www.fcsinteractive.com. Be proud to pick this year’s winner.

As always, I invite you to get involved in all that we do at the FCS. Just email me at kevin@fcsinteractive.com or follow me on Twitter, @FCS_Prez.