M&A and the capital markets to dominate
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A), capital markets, technology and the movement of property rates will be the biggest talking points at this year’s Rendez-Vous.
That is according participants in an Intelligent Insurer online survey, who were asked to list the top talking points ahead of the event. One participant listed multiple points, which as well as capital markets, included the lack of major insurance natural catastrophes, manmade catastrophes, releasing of reserves and cyber in general.
Several participants highlighted the topic of M&A. Just one week before the Rendez- Vous, Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company announced that it will acquire Amlin Insurance for ¥634.7 billion (£3.4 billion).
On this topic, another participant said that following large-scale mergers in the industry, namely the XL/Catlin deal, talks might centre around the increasing influence of Bermudian companies in the market. Other probable topics included exchange-traded risk, the soft market and the sharing economy and impact on insurance.
“Disruptive technology and how the industry should embrace will be a big topic. Should we change ourselves to survive?” asked one.
As the reinsurance industry continues to face tough conditions, the reshaping of the market is also likely to generate conversations. “The future of ‘traditional’ reinsurance will continue to be a top point for discussion as reinsurers grapple to find their place in the market,” said another.
Another said: “The movement of property rates and the question of whether a pricing floor has materialised will be key talking points.”
