Financial forum brings CNBC adviser to Lakewood

LAKEWOOD RANCH — Nationally recognized financial market commentator David Kotok soon will share his expertise with East County residents.

The Lakewood Ranch club Financial Forum @ the Ranch will host Kotok at 9 a.m., Dec. 2, at Lakewood Ranch Town Hall, 8175 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Kotok, who makes regular appearances on CNBC programs, is slated to speak about past, present and future markets.

“(Kotok)’s a prominent name,” forum founder Erich Weber said. “I’ve always respected his commentary and what he’s done. He’s been very successful at managing money.

“He’s also very good at explaining (complicated issues in ways anyone can understand),” he said. “(Many) of our group members read or listen to him.”

Kotok co-founded Sarasota-based Cumberland Advisors in 1973 and has been the company’s chief investment officer since then. Kotok’s commentary on the financial market has appeared in publications such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and Barron’s. He also is a frequent contributor to CNBC programs such as “Morning Call,” “Kudlow & Co.,” “Worldwide Exchange” and “Squawk on the Street,” among others.

Financial Forum @ the Ranch started almost one year ago with just three people. Over time, club meetings at the Serving Spoon restaurant have turned more into a speaker series, and now have grown large enough to attract speakers such as Kotok.

Weber said he contacted Kotok several months ago, and a representative from his Sarasota office attended a recent club meeting.

“After that, (the lady who came) said he would love to do this,” Weber said.

The Financial Forum @ the Ranch normally meets on the first and third Thursday of each month at The Serving Spoon restaurant. The club’s Dec. 16 meeting will feature a speaker from J.P. Morgan Asset Management to offer a market analysis and insight into 2011.

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].

“Past, Present and Future Markets” presented by David Kotok
WHEN: 9 a.m., Dec. 2
WHERE: Lakewood Ranch Town Hall, 8175 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.
HOST: Financial Forum @ the Ranch
CONTACT: Erich Weber, 350-5379 or [email protected]