December 2024

Auld Lang Syne: The Moments That Matter

By Inessa Ruffman, JonesTrading

2024 STA WIF Chair

As we look back on a year full of seismic shifts and make our resolutions for 2025, I am reminded of the quintessential New Year's Eve song, "Auld Lang Syne." As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, we toast with our champagne flutes and sing these words - but do we ever stop to think about what they really mean? "Auld land syne" literally translates from Scottish to "times gone by" - while this may seem like a melancholy sentiment, it doesn't have to be. If anything, reflecting on the people and moments that made your year memorable is something to enjoy!

As we look back on 2024 and remember "times gone by", it reminds us that there is no small feat when it comes to the advancement of women in our industry. We ought to remember not only the strides made, but the women who inspired and brought about positive change.

This year ushered in a new era for the Women in Finance community. We welcomed a new Vice Chair, Christine Lee of Liquidnet, who has already devoted countless time and resources to the advancement of this Committee. Additionally, the 9th Annual Women in Finance Symposium featuring Ashley Banfield of Fidelity Investments and Patty Schuler of BOX Options Market received unanimous praise from our 2024 Conference attendees. Another highlight was the continued success of our Changing the Face of Financial Services Interview Series, which continues to be one of our most successful content series to date!

As we look into 2025, we have no plans to slow down! Our Women in Finance Symposium will be celebrating its 10th anniversay in 2025, and this milestone will not be taken lightly. It's through collaboration and effort of members like you who have helped fuel the growth of this wonderful event and allowed it to reach new heights. We're also exploring new ways to grow our WIF community - stay tuned for what we have in store.

On a personal note, I'd like to thank my fellow STA Board of Governors and the incoming 2025 WIF Chair, Christine Lee. It has been a true privilege to serve the Women in Finance and greater STA community as a Board Governor and your WIF Chair these past two years, and I look forward to helping foster even further growth of STA in the many years to come.

On behalf of the entire STA community, I'd like to wish you and your families a very Happy Holidays and New Year!

STA Affiliate President Spotlight: Lauren Arbid, STA Chicago

Check out our very first STA Affiliate President Spotlight, a LinkedIn-exclusive series highlighting the many STA Affiliate Presidents that lead our regional efforts across the country.

Our first Spotlight features Lauren Arbid, 2024 President of STA Chicago - take a look!

Check out our latest "Changing the Face of Financial Services" interview series, featuring Patricia Koetzner, Managing Director, Equity Sales and Trading at Siebert Williams Shank & Co.

Read Patricia's interview to learn more about how starting at a small broker dealer shaped her career, what inspires her as a leader in the equity trading world, and more.

Thank you to the incredible women who shared their stories in 2024 - we're excited to announce the series will continue in 2025!

Articles of Interest  

Breaking Stereotypes: Why Women Over 50 Are The Future Of Business

Forbes

Do you think that entrepreneurship is a young person’s game? Think again because that stereotype is dated. There is a growing trend of women over 50 starting businesses and it’s exciting! And there’s good reason for that: women over 50 are uniquely positioned to drive the future of business. Read here

“It’s Time to Level the Playing Field”: How Financial Education Can Empower Women and Transform Lives

Intuit

Across Canada, women continue to face significant hurdles in achieving financial literacy—and these challenges can have lifelong repercussions. Our recent Intuit Financial Literacy Survey revealed that more than half (55 per cent) of women feel uncertain about where to begin their financial journey, compared to just 49 per cent of men. This lack of confidence often translates into struggles with saving for retirement, reducing debt, and managing everyday expenses. For many women, financial insecurity can significantly impact their lives; it shapes their life choices, limits their opportunities, and fuels stress. Read here



The Rising Force Of Women In Dealmaking

Forbes

There’s a powerful shift happening in the world of dealmaking, one that demands our attention: women are playing an increasingly key role in shaping its future. They are driving innovation across industries—influencing investment strategies, corporate decisions, and the very nature of deals. As founders and leaders, women are opening doors that were once predominately closed. Read here

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