“SWOT is an acronym for the internal Strengths and Weaknesses of a firm and the environmental Opportunities and Threats facing that firm. SWOT analysis is a widely used technique through which managers create a quick overview of a company’s strategic situation. The technique is based on the assumption that an effective strategy derives from a sound “fit” between a firm’s internal resources (strengths and weaknesses) and its external situation (opportunities and threats). A good fit maximizes a firm’s strengths and opportunities and minimizes its weaknesses and threats. Accurately applied, this simple assumption has powerful implications for the design of a successful strategy.”

TIAA-CREF 

Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association (TIAA-CREF) comprises a group of companies offering financial products and services primarily for the academic, medical, cultural and research community. It provides services such as financial advice, retirement accounts, pensions, annuities, individual life and disability insurance, tuition financing, and trust services. Through its strong market position and extensive product offerings the group is in a better position to face competition. However, capital market returns and increasing competition may affect the group’s margins.