LOS ANGELES, May 20, 2008 – Asia Society Southern California hosted its annual Gala Dinner at the Beverly Hilton Hotel and honored PIMCO’s Founder and Co-Chief Investment Officer Bill Gross for his service to the Southern California community. David Bonderman, a Founding Partner of Texas Pacific Group (TPG), was also featured, and Donald Tang, Chairman of Asia Society Southern California, served as the evening's host.

At PIMCO Bill Gross oversees the management of over $800 billion of fixed income securities. Widely regarded as the world’s top fixed-income manager, Gross is the author of numerous articles on the bond market and frequently appears in national publications and media. David Bonderman’s TPG and its affiliates have more than $48 billion of capital under management. TPG is regarded as one of the biggest and most successful private equity funds in the world.

During the dinner festivities, California State Controller John Chiang, the highest ranking Asian American in California's state government, awarded Gross a proclamation from the State of California.

A highlight of the evening was a candid and unscripted conversation between Gross and Bonderman exploring the growing economic interdependence of Asia and the United States, after which the audience had a chance to ask questions as well.

Nearly 800 supporters arrived early to participate in a silent auction that featured a Rat Pack Signature photo collage, an Eric Clapton-signed electric guitar, a Peyton Manning-autographed jersey, and a Rolling Stones group-signed vintage LP, along with donations from the local business community.