A message from Ameriprise Financial Chairman and CEO James M. Cracchiolo

October 2009

At Ameriprise Financial, our priority is to work with you to help you achieve your long-term financial goals. We know that 2009 has been a trying year, and while the stock market has stabilized over the last two quarters, the economic environment remains challenging. We appreciate the perseverance you are showing during a difficult time.

You want to be certain that the company you entrust your financial future to is solid, stable and enduring. We want you to know that we manage Ameriprise Financial with the same conservative approach we use to serve and respond to your financial needs — with a focused plan for the long term.

Strong financial position and flexibility

Over the last year, our prudent decision-making process enabled us to remain strong through the economic downturn. We continue to grow in a challenging environment while continuing to invest for the future. During the third quarter, we announced our pending acquisition of Columbia Management's long-term asset management business. We are able to make decisions like these largely because of the solid financial foundation that underpins our business: a strong excess capital position, conservative debt-to-capital ratios, substantial liquidity, and an invested asset portfolio that is both high-quality and well positioned.

We are here to help

Today, many people are asking, "What should I be doing given the economy?" You want to know how you can recover your investments, protect assets and determine where to invest, given the economy. It's important to make a concerted effort to take control of your future and there are things that everyone can consider to get back on track. Review your goals. Do they make sense for your long-term needs? Is this the time to realign them? One of the most important things to consider during this time is the level of risk with which you feel comfortable. This is only something that you can answer given your individual situation.

We know that the economic environment can be stressful and we are here to help you through this unprecedented time. Through our comprehensive approach to financial planning, our advisors gain a deep understanding of client needs and can recommend actions that address cash management, savings, borrowing, investing, protection, retirement income and estate planning. Working with an Ameriprise financial advisor can help you stay focused on your future financial goals.

The strength of Ameriprise is built on the strength of our client-advisor relationships. We value your business, and we stand behind you.

James M. Cracchiolo
Chairman and CEO
Ameriprise Financial