Insurance Risk
Facing the Solvency II technology challenge
The final shape of Solvency II has not yet been decided, but it is clear that whatever the result insurers will need to upgrade their technology and data-gathering approach. Clive Davidson examines how Europe’s leading insurers are meeting this challenge
Asian insurers hedge away solvency fears
Asian insurance companies have sat up and paid attention to their solvency ratios during the past two years like never before. This has led to unprecedented levels of derivatives take-up. But will this conversion to derivatives last? Harry Thompson…
Inverted swap spreads change insurer’s and pension fund’s hedging approach
Inverted swap spreads have defied earlier predictions that they were a short-term aberration to still be a feature 18 months after their first appearance. Is this set to continue and, if so, does it pose an opportunity for pension schemes and insurers?…
Flood of sovereign debt drowns out corporate bonds
Elevated government borrowing will be a fixture of the credit markets for the foreseeable future, as emergency spending and tax shortfalls heighten state financing needs. But could this excess supply of sovereign debt threaten demand for corporate bonds?…
Solvency management provides reinsurance opportunity
Testing economic conditions have prompted widespread moves by life insurers to reinsure their liabilities in order to gain capital relief. As the situation eases, will demand for reinsurance fall, or are other factors coming to prominence? Blake Evans…
