Bill Greiner is very deserving of this recognition. This award speaks volumes to the expertise that UMB provides our asset management clients.

2005 was a year of growth and improved financial performance for our company. 2006 will be a year in which we will continue to make investments to position our company for continued growth. Key investments will be made in people, technology and our distribution network.

Trading expertise is something that you can purchase on the marketplace.

The transaction reflects our disciplined strategy of investing capital in core businesses where we can leverage scale and expertise for competitive advantage. In addition to being a great strategic fit, the deal is compelling financially.

But it takes me away from my expertise. It's not intellectual capital, which is what we're allegedly all about.

Education is a lifelong experience. Experience is a lifelong education. Education plus experience equals expertise.