The Financial Research Institute (FRI) was established in 1988 at the University of Missouri to promote education, research and service across various areas of finance. Today, through its public utility division, the FRI provides a neutral environment for stakeholders in regulated public utility industries to come together to examine, understand, and debate current issues relating to public utility policy.

The FRI Public Utility Symposium, held in the fall, is a one-day event examining issues that impacts consumers, industry, and regulators. Held on the University of Missouri campus, the symposium brings together regulators and commission staff, legislators, utility managers, policy analysts, attorneys, consumer advocates and academics. The Symposium program, topic, and speakers are determined by members of the FRI Advisory Board.

The FRI Advanced Pricing Seminar, held in late spring, brings together a range of industry experts to discuss issues around industry innovation, dynamics, and pricing in the electric industry. The FRI also hosts a Hot Topics Hotline discussion forum for its members throughout the year.

The FRI is housed within the University’s Division of Applied Social Sciences and operates in cooperation with MU Extension.

Mission Statement

Under the academic leadership of the Division of Applied Social Sciences at the University of Missouri, the Financial Research Institute, through its Public Utilities Division, serves as a neutral environment for the comprehensive examination of sound regulatory policy. The FRI provides interactive forums for consumers, regulators, industry and educators to facilitate innovation, understanding, and education in public utility policy issues.

FRI Membership

FRI Members represent regulatory, industry, and consumer stakeholders across the United States. Members, or the organizations they represent, provide financial support for the FRI. Members enjoy insider access to the FRI staff and member network, including discounted registration for FRI events. Sponsors who make more significant gifts of time and resources may be invited to have representation on the FRI Advisory Board. The Board was established in 1988 as an essential component of the FRI. Board members offer professional advice, identify the strategic direction of the FRI, and take leadership identifying and organizing topics and speakers for several FRI programs. For more information about membership or sponsorship opportunities, contact us at fri@missouri.edu.

State Commission Representation

The FRI has State Commission Board representation from 16 US States. These commissioner representatives serve on our Advisory Board to help guide our program planning. If your State Commission is interested in joining the FRI Advisory Board and participating in our programs, please contact us for more information. Current State Commissions include: