Asia Insurance M&A Conference 2024

11-12 Nov 2024, Regal Hongkong Hotel, Hong Kong

Theme: "Asia's M&A Advantage: Navigating the Global Landscape and Harnessing Regional Growth Potential"

Programme

Day One: 11 November 2024, Monday
8:00am
Registration

9:00am
Chairperson’s Welcome Remarks & Introduction to the Conference Theme

Ted Hodgkinson, Partner, Huntington Partners LLP

9:15am
Honored Government Dignitary Keynote Speech

Tony Chan, Associate Director, Policy and Legislation Division, Insurance Authority

9:30am
Mind the Public Gap: Long Term Impacts of Public Policy on Private Markets

Devadas will speak on several structural forces originating from the public policy space which will shape the outlook for private markets. He will cover a wide range of policy dimensions including economic and trade, security, geopolitics and climate change.  The topic will inform market analysis, decision making and risk assessment within and by private markets over the long term as well shape the interaction between private markets and governments.
 

Devadas Krishnadas, Senior Advisor, Huntington Partners LLP

10:00am
Leadership Address and Economic Outlook Address

Overview: Mr. Joseph Chan, Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of Hong Kong, will provide an authoritative view on the regulatory, economic, and financial policies that shape the landscape for mergers and acquisitions in the insurance sector across Asia-Pacific.

Mr. Joseph H. L. Chan, JP, Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau

10:25am
Tea Break Session / Networking Session

10:45am
Plenary Session: What Do Buyers Want? Aligning Your Ambitions with M&A Market Expectations

Understanding buyer priorities is crucial to a successful merger or acquisition in the insurance industry. This plenary session will delve into what buyers are looking for in today’s dynamic market and how sellers can align their ambitions to meet these expectations. Industry leaders and M&A experts will share insights on key buyer criteria, including growth potential, technological capabilities, market position, and ESG factors. The session will explore how companies can position themselves effectively to attract the right buyers and achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.

Tommy Lam, Senior Associate, DLA Piper

11:10am
Plenary Session: How Real World Asset (RWA) Tokenisation unlock Growth and Strategic Investment in Insurance

Overview: In the investment sector, RWA tokenisation has opened up new funding channels and increased liquidity for quality assets. These innovation are presenting new growth opportunities for asset and wealth managers. With massive asset under management by the insurance sector, there are enormous untapped opportunities for the sector as well. Attendees will gain valuable insights into innovative fund raising options, how efficient access to less liquidity assets is now possible, trends in the launch of innovative financial products, etc.

King Leung, Global Head of Financial Services, Fintech & Sustainability, InvestHK, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)

11:35am
Panel Session - M&A Leaders Spotlight: Unlocking Insights and Market Dynamics in Insurance M&A

The panel discussion, "M&A Leaders Spotlight: Unlocking Insights and Market Dynamics in Insurance M&A," brings together leading executives and experts from the insurance sector to explore the current trends, opportunities, and challenges shaping mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the industry. This session will provide valuable insights into how insurers, reinsurers, brokers, and private equity firms are navigating the dynamic landscape of M&A in a post- pandemic era, marked by economic uncertainties, regulatory changes, and evolving consumer expectations.

Moderator:
Ted Hodgkinson

Partner, Huntington Partners LLP

Panellists:
Martin Noble

Chief Financial Officer, Zurich Insurance

Sean Deehan

Head of Hong Kong & Macau and Greater China Divisional Leader, Insurance Consulting and Technology, WTW

Mark VT Saunders, FIA, FASHK

Senior Advisor, Blackstone Inc., Member of the Board of Directors, Prudential plc and Council member/Co-chair of Strategy Committee, ASHK

12:35pm
Lunch Hosted by Huntington Partners LLP

2:15pm
Plenary Session - Finding the Right Partner for Insurance M&A: Strategies for Successful Collaboration and Strategic Fit

In the ever-evolving insurance landscape, identifying and securing the right partner for mergers and acquisitions is crucial for achieving strategic objectives and maximizing value. This keynote will provide valuable insights into the process of selecting the ideal partner, focusing on alignment, due diligence, and long-term success.

Kevin Angelini, Head of M&A and Business Development, APAC, Zurich Insurance

2:40pm
Joint Plenary Session - People Considerations in Insurance M&A: Navigating Talent Integration and Cultural Alignment for Success

In insurance mergers and acquisitions, the human element is critical to achieving a successful outcome. This keynote will delve into the essential people considerations during M&A processes, focusing on talent integration, cultural alignment, and strategies for managing the human side of M&A to drive long- term success.

Haze Zhang

Senior Principal, M&A Strategy & Commercial Leader, Singapore & SEA, Mercer

Arvind Usretay

Regional Client Manager - Asia, Mercer Asia

3:05pm
Plenary Session: Expanding Horizons – Geographic Footprint Strategies in Insurance M&A

In today’s competitive insurance industry, expanding geographic footprint through mergers and acquisitions (M&A) presents a strategic pathway for growth, market diversification, and enhanced global presence. This plenary session will provide a comprehensive overview of the key strategies, opportunities, and challenges associated with geographic expansion in insurance M&A. Attendees will gain valuable insights from industry leaders on how to effectively enter new markets, navigate regional complexities, and leverage geographic diversification for business success.

Andy Xie, Partner, Asia Pacific Financial Services, Strategy and Transactions, Ernst & Young Transactions Limited

3:30pm
Plenary Session - Exploring the Strategic Impact of FWD Group's Investment in BRI Life Indonesia

Overview: This session will delve into the strategic implications of FWD Group’s investment in a significant minority stake in BRI Life, a key player in Indonesia’s insurance market. This plenary will explore the multifaceted strategic benefits of FWD Group’s investment in BRI Life, one of Indonesia’s leading insurance companies, and how it positions both organizations to leverage the rapidly evolving insurance landscape.

Binayak Dutta, Managing Director, FWD Group

3:55pm
Plenary Session - ESG in M&A: Environmental, Social, and Governance considerations are now central to shaping merger and acquisition decisions

In today’s rapidly evolving business environment, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations have become pivotal in shaping merger and acquisition (M&A) decisions. This session will provide a comprehensive exploration of how integrating ESG factors into M&A strategies can drive sustainable growth, mitigate risks, and enhance value creation. Industry leaders and experts will share insights on best practices, emerging trends, and practical approaches for embedding ESG principles into M&A processes.
 

John Zheng, Chief Financial Officer/Chief Investment Officer, Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance China

4:20pm
Closing Remarks

Ted Hodgkinson, Partner, Huntington Partners LLP

4:35pm
Networking Session and Tea Break

End of Conference for Day 1

 
Note: Programme is subject to change.
Day Two: 12 November 2024, Tuesday
8:00am
Registration

9:00am
Chairperson’s Welcome Remarks & Introduction to the Conference Theme

Ted Hodgkinson, Partner, Huntington Partners LLP

9:15am
Keynote Address

Ellick Tsui, Deputy Chairman, The Hong Kong Federation of Insurers

9:30am
Plenary Topic: Reinsurance Due Diligence in Mergers & Acquisitions: A Strategic Imperative

Overview: In the world of insurance mergers and acquisitions (M&A), reinsurance due diligence is essential for securing investments, stabilizing financial health, and managing risks. Reinsurance functions as a critical safety net, absorbing potential losses that could otherwise impact an acquisition’s value. Through due diligence, we assess reinsurance contracts, claims history, credit risks of reinsurers, and regulatory compliance, ensuring alignment with the acquiring company’s risk tolerance and objectives.

However, common pitfalls, such as underestimating long-term liabilities, challenges in transferring reinsurance treaties, and overlooking market cycle impacts, can lead to costly surprises post-acquisition. Real-world examples show how gaps in due diligence have, at times, resulted in unforeseen expenses, directly affecting investment returns.

For investors, rigorous reinsurance due diligence is a strategic imperative. By safeguarding capital and minimizing risk exposure, it strengthens the foundation for successful acquisitions and maintains industry integrity. Prioritizing comprehensive due diligence supports a resilient, informed investment approach, ultimately contributing to the long-term success of both the acquiring and acquired entities in today’s dynamic market.

Anthony Egerton, Partner, Huntington Partners LLP

10:00am
Plenary Session - Data-Driven M&A: Leveraging Analytics to Identify Targets and Optimize Deals

In today's fast-paced insurance industry, data and analytics have become vital tools in driving successful mergers and acquisitions (M&A). This session will focus on how data-driven approaches are transforming the M&A landscape by enhancing target identification, due diligence, valuation, and post-merger integration. Industry leaders and analytics experts will share insights into the latest tools and techniques for leveraging data analytics to uncover hidden opportunities, assess risks, and maximize deal value.
 

Siddick Khan, Associate Director - Transaction Solutions, Asia Hong Kong, Aon

10:25am
Tea Break Session / Networking Session

10:50am
Plenary Session: The Role of M&A in Insurers' Ecosystem Expansion

Overview: Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have become key strategic tools for insurers to expand their ecosystems and drive growth. By acquiring or merging with complementary businesses, insurers can diversify their product offerings, enter new markets, and integrate innovative technologies. M&A enables insurers to enhance operational efficiencies, scale their capabilities, and build holistic customer experiences by incorporating services like health, wealth management, and digital solutions. In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, M&A allows insurers to stay competitive, capitalize on synergies, and strengthen their presence across different regions and sectors. This strategy not only accelerates growth but also positions insurers to navigate emerging challenges and opportunities in the global market.

Michelle Hu, Managing Director and Partner, Boston Consulting Group

11:15am
Panel Session: Leader's Playbook for M&A: Integrating Digital and Traditional – M&A Strategies in Asian Insurance Markets

This panel session will explore the strategic use of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) to integrate digital and traditional insurance models across Asian markets. As digital transformation reshapes the insurance industry, companies must balance innovation with established practices to remain competitive. Participants will learn how M&A can serve as a powerful tool for blending new digital capabilities with traditional business strengths, driving growth, and enhancing customer experiences in Asia's diverse and dynamic markets.
 

Moderator:
Jan Holthuis

Board Director, Global Insurance Law Connect (GILC) and Partner at Buren Legal

Panellists:
Heng Loong Cheong

Partner, M&A and Regulatory Specialist, DLA Piper Hong Kong

Johnny Cheung

Chief Legal, Compliance & Company Secretarial Officer, CTF Life

Kevin Angelini

Head of M&A and Business Development, APAC, Zurich Insurance

12:15pm
Lunch

1:30pm
Reinsurance and M&A

Donat Piras, Vice President, Business Development L&H, Swiss Re

1:55pm
Plenary Session: Warranty Insurance

William Seccombe, Head of Financial Lines - Asia, Miller Insurance Services LLP

2:20pm
Plenary Session - Building Bridges, Not Walls: Collaborative M&A Strategies for Shared Growth in Asia

This session will delve into the collaborative approaches to mergers and acquisitions (M&A) that foster mutual growth and synergy in the Asian market. Attendees will learn how to build strategic partnerships, leverage collective strengths, and navigate complex cross- border deals to drive sustainable growth and innovation.

2:45pm
Plenary Session - Untapped Potential: M&A Strategies for Entering Emerging Asian Insurance Markets

This session will focus on the opportunities and strategies for leveraging mergers and acquisitions (M&A) to enter and expand in emerging insurance markets across Asia. As emerging markets offer significant growth potential, insurers must navigate unique challenges and identify strategic M&A opportunities to establish a foothold and drive success. Attendees will gain insights into effective M&A strategies, market entry considerations, and best practices for tapping into these high-growth regions.

3:10pm
Topic To Be Advised

Tristan Ang, Board Member, PARIMA

3:35pm
Closing Remarks

Ted Hodgkinson, Partner, Huntington Partners LLP

3:50pm
Networking Session and Tea Break

End of Conference

 
Note: Programme is subject to change.

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