THE CONCEPT OF DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION has roots in the early 1900s and gained significant momentum in academic and social circles in the late 1960s. In the 50 years since, we’ve made much progress in creating and building diverse and inclusive corporate and educational cultures. We are getting better at recognizing the benefits of diversity and inclusion and addressing where there is room for improvement. 

Kim Peek, the savant with autism on whom the film Rain Man was based, has said, “Recognizing and respecting differences in others, and treating everyone like you want them to treat you, will help make our world a better place for everyone.”

In this issue of The Analyst, we examine what it means to embrace neurodiversity in the financial community and the benefits of harnessing the talents and skillsets of neurodivergent investment professionals. We also explore diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) performance and integration and its increasing importance in attracting and retaining talent.

Our charterholder profile features Angela Bhutani, CFA, who provides insight into her career path in private wealth and discusses the current and future landscape of private and corporate philanthropy. Author of Value Investing: From Theory to Practice, George Athanassakos, PhD, Ivey Business School, Western University, digs into value investing in our in-depth interview.

We also delve into potential pitfalls of timing the market, even during times of economic uncertainty, cautioning that those waiting for the “perfect” conditions may miss out on many beneficial opportunities.

Finally, we have exclusive coverage of two exciting CFA Society Toronto panel events, including discussions on data-driven strategy and the essentials to accelerating your career in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and sustainable investing.

We hope this issue provides insight into diversity and inclusion and encourages you to continue to make a difference in building a better and more inclusive financial community.