Diversity is important to MetLife and on a personal level, it is important to me. During the course of my career, I have seen how varied backgrounds and experiences drive more innovative ideas. I have seen significant changes in our customer base and in the market that demonstrate how critical it is to reflect the people we serve.

Over the past few years, we have come to recognize and appreciate diversity as a key lever in improving business performance. The strength of the company and the innovation that we exhibit is based on our commitment to inclusion and openness to new cultures, experiences and ideas. After all, the more inclusive a company is, the more growth-oriented and successful it will be for customers, shareholders, and of course, employees.

To me, a diverse culture is one in which all people are empowered to succeed, where differences are respected and where unique perspectives work together to drive the best ideas. Diversity, we know, makes good business sense. It creates a more dynamic work environment, allows us to better understand and support our customers, and attracts to MetLife the very best employees.

While we have made tremendous strides in increasing awareness of diversity throughout MetLife, we will continue to ensure diversity is embedded and embraced within our company. As we stay the course on this imperative, I hope you will keep the suggestions and candor coming, and advocate for diversity in your everyday actions.

C. Robert Henrikson
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

Following are marketplace trends that underscore the business imperative of diversity at MetLife:

• By 2050, new immigrants will have increased the U.S. population by 80 million people.
• Over 50% of those who enter the workforce are people of color.
• The United States is the 5th largest Spanish-speaking country in the world with Hispanics boasting the fastest growing median household income.
• The buying power of African-Americans will rise to $852.8 billion in 2007.
• Women comprise 46.6% of the U.S. labor force and 50% of managerial and professional specialty positions.
• 40% of workers will be caring for aged parents by 2020.