In April 2006, Fitch Group, the parent organization of Fitch Ratings, Fitch Solutions and Algorithmics, formed the Fitch Academic Advisory Board (FAAB). The role of the board is to exchange ideas, creating a formal bridge between Fitch Ratings, Fitch Solutions, Algorithmics and academia. The Board includes a select group of prominent academicians in various areas of economics and finance, from a diverse group of universities and organizations. FAAB members include recognised experts in fixed income, real estate, credit, structured finance modelling and derivatives. The Board's objective is to provide a forum for feedback that will ultimately enhance Fitch Group's research, products and services to continue to meet the needs of the market in a timely and effective fashion.

As part of the FAAB initiative, Fitch Ratings has launched a research grant program for participating universities and has developed a graduate student summer internship program, in New York and London, as part of its goals to promote further study of the credit markets.

The Board meets annually, with its next meeting scheduled for Spring 2010.

To view the members of the Fitch Academic Advisory Board, click here.