Established as the Prudential Mutual Assurance and Loan Association in 1848, today we are an international retail financial services company with significant operations in Asia, the US and the UK. Our purpose is to promote the financial well-being of our customers and their families, with a particular focus on saving for retirement and security in retirement. Worldwide we employ over 27,000 people and our shareholders number 75,438 (at 31 December 2008). We are listed on the London and New York stock exchanges.The Group is structured around four main business units: Prudential Corporation Asia, Jackson National Life Insurance Company, Prudential UK & Europe and M&G. These are supported by central functions which are responsible for leading Group strategy, cash and capital management, leadership development and succession, reputation management and other core Group functions.Our portfolio of well-known and respected brands has attracted more than 21 million customers (and policy holders and unit holders) worldwide. Across the Group we have £249 billion of funds under management (at 31 December 2008).