SEC chair sucks up to financial writers

Securities and Exchange Commission chairwoman Mary Schapiro spoke Thursday night at the New York Financial Writers’ Association annual awards dinner.

Here’s some of her remarks:

“I can imagine that it’s a very interesting and exciting time to be a financial reporter. Between the economic crisis and regulatory reform efforts, investors — let alone all Americans — are thirsting for information. And, they are turning to you to help make sense of it all. At the same time, I know you’re all doing your part to keep market participants — and dare I say market regulators — on their toes. All of which helps keep our system honest and transparent.

“It is for that reason I want to especially acknowledge the N.Y. Financial Writers Association and your President Josh Friedlander. Through the college scholarships your organization awards, you encourage some of the best and brightest to pursue a career in financial journalism.

“Of course, I also want to extend my personal congratulations to Allan Sloan of Fortune magazine as this year’s Elliott Bell Award recipient. His tremendous long-term commitment to the profession is an example for all scholarship recipients to follow.

“As you know, the past year has been quite demanding for folks in your profession — and this week no different.”

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