The implications of demographic change
Population trends vary around the world, with profound and long-term implications for health care, pension systems, businesses and labor markets. With an emphasis on the aging populations of Europe and Asia, this paper examines the impact of some of the major demographic changes currently underway.» Download pdf
Convergence of insurance and capital markets
This report explores the growth of the insurance–linked securities market. It is published by the World Economic Forum in cooperation with Allianz, Barclays Capital, Deloitte, Thomson Reuters, State Farm, Swiss Re and Zurich Financial Services (project chair). The report represents the culmination of a year–long research project including more than 60 interviews with business leaders, regulators, rating agencies and leading academics.» Download pdf
An insurance industry perspective on the 2007-08 financial crisis
This paper analyzes the current financial instability from the insurance industry viewpoint – a perspective that has been mostly missing to date. The role the insurance industry has played in the current crisis is reviewed, and the paper proposes new directions for policy makers and regulators. Authored by Marian Bell, a member of Zurich’s International Advisory Council (IAC) and a former External Member of the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee, this paper benefited from feedback provided at the Council’s most recent meeting in April. The IAC is a source of invaluable external insight, innovative and informed views and advice for Zurich’s top executives. » Download pdf
Regulation and intervention in the insurance industry - fundamental issue
While a very substantial body of literature concerned with the regulation of banking has developed over recent years, dealing with both its fundamental motivation and specific forms and applications of such regulation, a similar intellectual effort concerned with insurance regulation is lacking to a considerable extent. It is the aim of this paper to work towards closing this gap. » Download pdf
What is the role of insurance in economic development
Considerable attention has been devoted to evaluating the relationship between economic growth and financial market deepening. Most of what we have learned relates to banking systems and securities markets – with insurance receiving only a passing mention. Yet, while insurance, banking, and securities markets are closely related, insurance fulfills somewhat different economic functions than do other financial services, and in turn requires particular conditions to flourish and to make a full economic contribution. » Download pdf
Living Britain
We are delighted to have joined forces with trend analysts The Future Laboratory to bring you a comprehensive study, evaluating the state of the British nation at the beginning of the 21st century. » more
