An Informed Discussion of Financial Access for Southeast Asian Immigrants and Refugees

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago's Consumer and Community Affairs division, and the Wisconsin United Coalition of Mutual Assistance Associations co-hosted this event.

Participants gained valuable insights from experts who addressed issues and opportunities surrounding financial access for immigrants. Charles Vang was the keynote speaker and shared his experiences as a successful business owner, president of the Hmong Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce, radio personality, and leader in the community to provide a valuable perspective regarding Hmong access to business credit.

Other forum topics included:

• Demographic and historical background and interpretation of Wisconsin's growing Lao-Hmong immigrant and refugee population;
• Consumer banking laws and regulations that impact immigrants;
• A panel discussion highlighting best banking practices for reaching immigrants; and
• Home purchase and small business loan programs targeted to immigrants.