Dear  Members,

Happy 2012!

2011 is gone, but not forgotten.  Troubling news out of Europe continues to have an effect on us, interest rates are still at historic lows, and the housing market remains strong.  Even though our growth rate is slow, many economists speak positively about the Canadian economy.  This is good news, right?

While everyone at the CAGT may not have all the answers; we all have opinions.   For February’s dinner meeting let’s test out these opinions against one of the industry’s best economists, Benjamin Tal of CIBC.  As we have done in the past, we will open this year’s dinner meeting schedule with a view to the economy and what we can expect over the year to come.  We are thrilled that Benjamin Tal is joining us again, so register early and don’t forget to bring your colleagues- they deserve to be informed too.

When I took over the role of President last year, the board established 3 goals for the year ahead.  The areas addressed were membership growth, increased dinner meeting attendance, improved member engagement within the association.  I am thrilled to say, thanks to the dedication and hard work of the directors and the membership, we have made progress in achieving all of those goals.

We are not stopping here.  The programming committee has put together a stellar list of speakers for our dinner meetings, and the membership committee is on the prowl introducing new companies to the CAGT, and reconnecting with old members.  Our professional development committee is well underway in planning our Annual Credit Conference slated for early April.  From what I have seen so far, the speakers will enlighten you!

Please read your email and check the website for the announcement of new events and happenings, along with any additional details.  I am also pleased to announce, that after a brief absence, electronic payment capability is back!  Going forward, you can register and pay for all dinner meetings and the Annual Credit Conference using the PayPal link on the website.

In order to continue the growth of the association and the relevance of programming, we need to hear from you; what you like, what you didn’t like, and what you would like to hear.  As well, our strength depends on you.  If you are interested in becoming involved on a committee, sponsoring a dinner meeting, or sponsoring the Annual Credit Conference please reach out anyone on the board, including myself (jeff@consolidatedcredit.ca) .  We will respond promptly, and with excitement.

Once again, thank you for your continued support and all the best to you in the New Year.

Yours truly,
Jeff Schwartz, President
Credit Association of Greater Toronto