The results of a great deal of work and sourcing of top quality speakers are now in print and I am sure all will agree that this conference more than addresses the issues facing the Financial Planning Industry now and in the future.

With the assistance of a number of our sponsors we have been able to access specialists in the fields of risk, investment, business planning, taxation and ethics. You'll be privy to thoughts on how the global economy is tracking; the possibility of facing PI claims that are not of your own making; how to cope and battle with the recent scams creating havoc amongst our prospective clients; and thoughts on how high is the bar. Never enough. Why?

In total there will be 35 business sessions to choose from. The committee has also agreed to leave two sessions untitled as we want any legislative and regulative announcements to be addressed as close to June 05 as we are able. We will then source the most appropriate speakers to discuss these issues.

We believe the team debate, or shall we say the 'healthy discussion', on "Should Harry Markowitz have followed in his father's footsteps and been a green grocer - Is Modern Portfolio Theory Dead" will create much food for thought and attract a sizeable audience.

Bob Parker, as MC, has shown a desire to be fully involved and understand as much about our industry as possible. This will no doubt ensure he will play very much a hands-on role over the three days.

Wednesday evening's "Raising the Bar - a Night of Distinction" will provide an excellent opportunity for you to sample some fine Cantabrian hospitality with a few surprises in store. Remember to put your dancing shoes in!

Finally, our thanks to our sponsors to date. Their generous support is as always much appreciated.

Major Sponsors
Tower
Telecom

Sponsors
AIA, AMP Financial Services, Asteron, AXA New Zealand, BT Funds Management, Discovery Portfolio Services, The Equitable Group, Fidelity Life, Guardian Trust, ING (NZ) Ltd, Lombard, Macquarie New Zealand, Morningstar, Perpetual Investments, Provincial Finance Ltd, Rapid Ratings, Russell Investment Group, Strategic Finance, University of Waikato