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A Year of Progress and Promise: Reflecting on 2024
By Jim Hyde, NYSE
2024 STA Chair
As 2024 draws to a close, it's a natural time to pause and reflect on all we’ve achieved together. On behalf of the STA Board of Governors and staff, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to all members, sponsors, partners, and speakers who contributed to our success this year. Your engagement and support are the foundation of our success, and we could not have accomplished so much without you.
2024 has been a year of milestones and meaningful change at both the national and regional levels. Our 91st Annual Market Structure Conference in Orlando was a tremendous success, blending insightful discussions with unique networking opportunities in a vibrant resort setting. Additionally, I’m thrilled to report that our affiliates organized over 75 in-person events throughout the year — a testament to our commitment to fostering education, community, and collaboration within our industry. The launch of our newest chapter, STA Arizona, further expanded this reach, marking a significant achievement in our work to serve securities industry professionals across the country.
On the wider stage, the outcome of this year’s elections will bring significant changes to our nation's capital. In particular, the appointment of Rep. French Hill, a former banker, as the new Chair of the House Financial Services Committee appears a positive sign for those desiring highly informed regulation for our industry. More broadly, leadership changes across both parties could add an element of unpredictability to the legislative process. Looking at the executive branch, the nomination of Paul Atkins as SEC Chair seems to portend a stark departure from the previous administration. These developments promise new challenges and opportunities for our industry, and STA remains committed to advocating for policies that support robust, fair markets.
While there is much uncertainty ahead, we look to the future with great confidence. As most of you know, Julie Andress, Managing Director, Institutional Equities at KeyBanc Capital Markets, will serve as our incoming 2025 Chair. Following many years working alongside Julie on the STA Board, I can personally attest to her exceptional leadership skills and longstanding dedication to our mission, which will ensure STA's continued success and innovation. As we enter 2025 under Julie’s leadership, we also look forward to expanding our Women in Finance committee, strengthening our affiliate-driven Young Professionals initiatives, and reinforcing our communication channels to better serve our members. Beyond that, we’re excited for our 92nd Annual Market Structure Conference (October 15-17, 2025), which will return to Washington DC on the heels of our successful Orlando event.
Serving as your Chair in 2024 has been both an honor and a privilege. It’s been inspiring to witness the passion and dedication of everyone involved in making STA a success. I’m confident that, under Julie’s leadership and with the collective energy of our community, STA will continue to drive positive change and deliver value to our members in 2025 and beyond. Hopefully, you can attend at least one of our national or regional events to experience this value in person.
As we embrace the holiday season and the promise of a new year, I encourage you to take time to reflect on our shared accomplishments and enjoy the moments that matter most with your loved ones. Thank you for an incredible year, and I wish you all a joyful holiday season and a prosperous 2025!
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