How quickly April has come upon us. There are good signs that the stock marts and oil prices are in a recovery mode and not heading further south. The geo-politics, however, is still fraught with increasing tensions, real or sabre-rattled.
In insurance, people and corporates are getting more risk conscious, with more natural disasters as well as cyber-crimes hitting small and big markets and all and sundry companies. Risks are getting bigger and the rush for companies to merge is also getting more serious, global uncertainties notwithstanding. There is always a new relevant niche attractive spot somewhere, and there are always funds available to make that buy or to fend off that bid.
Our Cover Story this month goes beyond the M&A frenzy with a stark reminder of the “need to be happy ever after” with some hopeful tips to stay united. Divorce or failure isn’t an option as there are lives at stake and worse, the image of the industry itself. But seriously, the “new” big seems to be getting “more” beautiful for most. They make heads turn even. The brigade of SMEs increases in its own quiet avenues and corners in hope of the feeding frenzy beginning upon them. Such is the interesting cycle of business! Watch this space as in May, AIR brings you a focused conference in Singapore on M&A in Asia with the theme of “Being strategically ready to win in the M&A game”.
Our Country Profile is on Malaysia, where the industry, hailed as one of best regulated insurance markets, is all set for going to the next level to engage the next wave of more sophisticated clients.
With the RIMS Annual Conference in San Diego, we bring you a wrap on the supply chain dynamics not just for corporate risk managers but raising interesting questions for insurers.
This April, we proudly launch the 20th Asia Insurance Industry Awards. Imagine the pride and joy of the 250 past winners. Some have remained good, a few have even disappeared but the majority has reached greater heights. I do believe in the Awards as it is not just the winning but the atmosphere it creates to “rah-rah” and inspire companies, professionals and people to strive for the best. It is never about winning but really about taking part – to feel that adrenaline rush of daring to recount your success story and having it heard by your peers and leaders. You owe it to your company to take part. So do so now. Nominations close on 31 May 2016.
Likewise, I urge the life companies in Asia to get their Agents and Advisers to take part in our 1st Asia Trusted Life Agents and Advisers Awards to salute the unsung heroes of the life business. The Gala Dinner will be held in July in conjunction with the Asia Life Summit in Singapore.
It is April. Enjoy the best that Spring brings, though this time the region seems to be in the grip of a heatwave. But as poet Wilfred Owen says, if anything can be done, “the kind old sun will know”. And I bet you the April showers are just round the corner.
With best wishes for a good balance in life and business.
Sivam Subramaniam
Editor-in-Chief
Asia Insurance Review