logo

Blue Cross Surpasses Market Average with Over 20% Growth in 2024

Zawya07-05-2025

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 7 May 2025 - Blue Cross (Asia-Pacific) Insurance Limited ("Blue Cross") reported outstanding performance in the 2024 provisional statistics for Hong Kong general insurance business released by the Insurance Authority:
Blue Cross achieved a 22.1% year-on-year growth in gross written premiums, significantly outpacing the market average of 6.3% 1. Blue Cross's overall market share has also increased.
Non-medical business experienced strong growth, with premiums surging by over 30% (31.7%), mainly driven by performance in travel and personal accident, employees' compensation, general liability and motor vehicle insurance businesses. The overall market's non-medical business slightly declined by 0.9% 2.
In particular, travel and personal accident business performed the best, with a premium growth of nearly 40% (36.7%), far exceeding the overall market's growth of about 20% (20.1%) 3.
Medical business also maintained its growth momentum, recording a premium growth of nearly 20% (19.1%).
Ms. Bonnie Tse, Chief Executive Officer of Blue Cross, said, "Thanks to the staunch support of our customers and the collective efforts of our business partners, frontline and back-office teams, Blue Cross delivered wonderful results in 2024 with multiple business lines outperforming the market, cementing our strong position in the general insurance industry. Moving forward, we remain confident in our growth trajectory. Staying true to our customer-centric philosophy, we will continue to enhance our products and services catered to the needs and pain points of customers, ensuring the right protection at the right time for the right budget."
Notes:
Source: Insurance Authority's Provisional Statistics on General Business (direct business) from January to December 2024, excluding Mortgage Guarantee.
Source: Insurance Authority's Provisional Statistics on General Business (direct business) from January to December 2024, excluding Medical and Mortgage Guarantee.
Source: Insurance Authority's Provisional Statistics on General Business (direct business) from January to December 2024, non-medical part under Class of Business "Accident & Health".
Disclaimers:
This press release is for distribution in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region only. The distribution of this press release is not and shall not be construed as an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy or a provision of any insurance product outside Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Blue Cross (Asia-Pacific) Insurance Limited is a subsidiary of AIA Group Limited. It is not affiliated with or related in any way to Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association or any of its affiliates or licensees.
Hashtag: #BlueCross
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Blue Cross (Asia-Pacific) Insurance Limited
Blue Cross (Asia-Pacific) Insurance Limited ("Blue Cross") is a subsidiary of AIA Group Limited. With over 50 years of operational experience in the insurance industry, Blue Cross provides a comprehensive range of products and services including medical, travel and general insurance, which cater to the needs of both individual and corporate customers. Blue Cross distributes its products through various channels, including AIA agency force, online platform, direct sales, BEA network, insurance agents and brokers, as well as travel agencies.
In 2024, Blue Cross is assigned financial strength rating of A+ (stable outlook) and issuer credit rating of A+ (stable outlook) by S&P Global Ratings.
Blue Cross (Asia-Pacific) Insurance

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

All Eyes On What Iran Does To Oil Traffic Through Strait Of Hormuz
All Eyes On What Iran Does To Oil Traffic Through Strait Of Hormuz

Arabian Post

time20 hours ago

  • Arabian Post

All Eyes On What Iran Does To Oil Traffic Through Strait Of Hormuz

By K Raveendran Israel's strike against Iran has reignited a familiar tension in global energy markets, sending oil prices climbing into the mid-$70 per barrel range. The impact is not just visible in the numbers, but in the broader nervousness sweeping across energy trading floors and geopolitical circles alike. At the heart of this movement lies the so-called 'geopolitical risk premium'—the extra cost per barrel that markets price in when a key oil-producing region teeters on the brink of conflict. That premium has now risen to about $8 a barrel, a level surpassing even the acute flashpoints of April and October 2024, when Israel and Iran directly exchanged strikes for the first time in decades. This escalation has naturally drawn intense scrutiny, not only for the possibility of a broader military conflict but also for its potential to derail the delicate logistics of global oil supply. Among the many scenarios being modelled by analysts and strategists, one stands out as the most consequential: whether Iran will target the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow waterway, separating the Persian Gulf from the Gulf of Oman, has long been considered the most critical chokepoint in the global oil trade. Some 12 million barrels of crude pass through it daily—more than 20 percent of global consumption—with refined products pushing that number closer to 20 million barrels per day. Over 80 percent of this volume is Asia-bound, underscoring the strait's indispensable role in maintaining the energy lifelines of the region's largest economies, from India and China to Japan and South Korea. As of now, market sentiment appears to be in a state of watchful hesitation. The price jump has been meaningful but not chaotic, largely because Iran's response remains undefined. If history is any guide, Iran may opt for a calibrated retaliation targeting Israeli military sites or regional proxies, thereby avoiding a broader confrontation. Such moves, while headline-grabbing, typically result in only short-lived spikes in oil prices. The key here is the market's growing familiarity with these kinds of actions—they generate noise and some volatility, but unless they escalate further or disrupt infrastructure, their economic impact tends to be fleeting. But this time, the calculus feels different. The rhetoric on both sides has been sharper, and the regional alignments more complex. Should Iran choose to escalate further—by, for instance, targeting oil infrastructure in Saudi Arabia or the UAE, harassing tankers, or more provocatively, attempting to close or disrupt the Strait of Hormuz—then oil prices could enter a much more volatile phase. These are not theoretical risks. Iran has a long record of threatening to shut the Strait, and although it has never fully succeeded, its past actions—from missile launches to the seizure of oil tankers—have proven that it has the capacity to cause significant disruption and uncertainty. What makes the current scenario more precarious is that the available alternatives to the Strait are limited and insufficient for maintaining full flow continuity. Saudi Arabia operates the East-West pipeline, which moves oil from the Eastern Province to the Red Sea, bypassing the Strait altogether. The UAE, similarly, utilizes the Habshan-Fujairah pipeline, allowing some oil to reach global markets without passing through Hormuz. However, these routes together only handle around 6 million barrels per day—barely half of the volume typically moving through the strait. Any prolonged disruption would thus create a substantial bottleneck, forcing refiners, traders, and governments to draw down on strategic reserves or scramble for alternative sources, both of which would drive prices sharply higher. Moreover, the strategic geography of the Strait of Hormuz compounds the challenge. The narrowest point of the strait is only 21 miles wide, with shipping lanes just two miles wide in either direction. It is shared with Oman, but Iran's proximity and control over its northern shores allow it to exert considerable influence over the waters. Iran has previously used tactics like jamming GPS signals to misdirect tankers into its waters, as well as deploying fast boats to harass or seize vessels—moves that don't necessarily stop the flow of oil but make the journey riskier and more expensive. Insurance premiums on shipments rise, and so do charter rates and freight costs, all of which contribute to a rising cost base for global oil. Adding another layer of complexity is the presence of US naval forces in the region, tasked with securing free passage through the Strait. If Iran targets US military assets—either in the Persian Gulf or at bases across the Middle East—the conflict risks broadening dramatically. Such a scenario would likely see not just a spike but a sustained surge in oil prices, possibly well beyond the $100 mark, as the market prices in a protracted disruption rather than a one-off skirmish. In this sense, Iran's next move is not just a matter of military strategy—it's an economic pivot point. A restrained response could cap oil prices in the $75–$80 range, assuming no further escalation and a swift return to status quo. But any move to unsettle the energy infrastructure or shipping lanes in and around the Strait of Hormuz could catapult oil into the $90s or beyond, with reverberations across inflation, interest rates, and global growth. It's also important to consider the broader strategic environment in which this is unfolding. The global oil market has been gradually recovering from the shocks of the COVID era, with supply-demand balances tightening but still fragile. OPEC+ has been cautious with its output strategy, attempting to maintain price stability while managing spare capacity. Any geopolitical jolt that tightens supplies further could disrupt this balance, especially if it coincides with seasonal demand upticks in the northern hemisphere. China and India, the two largest consumers of Middle Eastern oil, are also watching the situation with growing unease. Both have been diversifying their oil imports and building up strategic reserves, but neither can easily replace the volumes that flow through Hormuz. The threat of prolonged disruption may prompt them to engage diplomatically behind the scenes, possibly leaning on Gulf allies or utilizing leverage with Tehran to de-escalate tensions. Meanwhile, the United States, although less dependent on Middle Eastern oil than in previous decades, remains a key player due to its security commitments and broader geopolitical interests in the region. (IPA Service)

IHC launches AI-native reinsurance platform RIQ from Abu Dhabi with $1bn backing
IHC launches AI-native reinsurance platform RIQ from Abu Dhabi with $1bn backing

Arabian Business

time2 days ago

  • Arabian Business

IHC launches AI-native reinsurance platform RIQ from Abu Dhabi with $1bn backing

International Holding Company (IHC), the UAE-based global investment firm, has launched Reinsurance Intelligence Quotient (RIQ), a new AI-native reinsurance platform headquartered in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). Backed by more than $1bn in equity commitments and supported by strategic partners including BlackRock and Lunate, RIQ is positioned to become a transformative force in global insurance and risk transfer. The launch of RIQ marks the next phase in IHC's ambition to build a technologically advanced, capital-strong reinsurance entity designed for the future of global risk. IHC launches RIQ reinsurance platform in Abu Dhabi With real-time AI-driven analytics at its core, the platform will focus on enhancing underwriting precision, accelerating capital deployment, and addressing the complex needs of clients across Property and Casualty (P&C), Life, and specialised insurance segments. The platform's launch also signals Abu Dhabi's continued emergence as a hub for innovation in financial services, with RIQ establishing its headquarters within the ADGM, the capital's rapidly expanding international finance centre. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Chairman of RIQ, said: 'With the unveiling of RIQ, we take a bold step toward shaping the future of global insurance. RIQ reflects our ambition to build a trusted, tech-forward reinsurance champion that connects global capital with high-growth markets, all from the heart of Abu Dhabi's thriving financial centre.' Syed Basar Shueb, CEO of IHC and Board Member of RIQ, said: 'RIQ is the embodiment of IHC's vision to invest in the next frontier of global financial services. Backed by AI, robust capital, and strategic alignment with world-class partners, RIQ is set to elevate the insurance and capital markets ecosystem across the region and beyond.' Mark Wilson, CEO of RIQ, said: 'We are proud to officially launch RIQ. Our new name signals our long-term commitment to building a high-performance, AI-native reinsurance company with the scale and agility to lead in a rapidly changing world. Our board's collective experience and our strategic partnerships provide an exceptional foundation for sustainable global growth.' Currently progressing through final approvals from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of ADGM, RIQ will begin full operations in the coming months. The company has already outlined a roadmap for global expansion, including talent acquisition, infrastructure development, and the pursuit of selective partnerships to drive innovation and long-term value. RIQ aims to manage more than $10bn in liabilities in the coming years, while contributing to the development of a resilient, digitally advanced insurance ecosystem anchored in Abu Dhabi and built for global reach.

2025 Beijing CBD Forum Annual Conference Kicks Off
2025 Beijing CBD Forum Annual Conference Kicks Off

Zawya

time2 days ago

  • Zawya

2025 Beijing CBD Forum Annual Conference Kicks Off

BEIJING, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 13 June 2025 - On June 11, the 2025 Beijing CBD Forum Annual Conference commenced, held concurrently with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Asia Mayors Forum. The conference will run until June 13. Beijing CBD is the city's "golden business card" and a vital gateway for the capital's global engagement. During the forum, over 6,000 representatives from politics, business, and academia worldwide gathered in Beijing to explore international economic and trade cooperation. The opening ceremony, alongside the 2025 Beijing CBD Multinational Corporation Summit, the Beijing CBD Global Board Meeting, and four other flagship international events, as well as numerous parallel forums, were held simultaneously. 70% of Speakers Are International Guests, Representing Over 40 Countries and Regions On the morning of June 11, the China World Hotel was filled with distinguished guests. Over 20 representatives from Asian cities, 30 delegates from international organizations and business associations, and more than 6,000 participants from the Global Alliance for Innovation in Business Districts and the China Business District Alliance attended the forum. Statistics show that 70% of the main forum speakers were international guests, with attendees hailing from over 40 countries and regions and spanning more than 10 core industries, sparking in-depth discussions across specialized fields. This diverse international participation infused the forum with global perspectives and cutting-edge ideas. Centered on the permanent theme of "Dialogue with the World for Common Development," the forum featured one opening ceremony (including the 2025 Beijing CBD Multinational Corporation Summit), four flagship international events, and multiple parallel forums. During the opening ceremony's achievements release session, Chaoyang District unveiled several high-quality development projects and outcomes. International business associations and global business district representatives jointly launched the "Building a Clean, Beautiful, and Sustainable World Together" initiative. Additionally, the "Belt and Road" Express Service Platform's "CBD Lounge" was inaugurated. The forum also recognized the second batch of standing council members of the Beijing CBD Multinational Corporation Summit, establishing a new benchmark for foreign-funded enterprises based on headquarters prioritization and industry leadership. Beijing CBD ranks as China's top and the world's seventh-largest business district. In 2024 alone, the CBD area added 10 new regional headquarters of multinational corporations, bringing the total to 122. Since 2000, the Beijing CBD Forum has evolved into a frontline platform for China's global dialogue and a robust pillar for Beijing's role as an international exchange hub. UNDP Asia Mayors Forum Held Concurrently, Four Flagship Events to Boost Economic Cooperation Beijing CBD is the most concentrated area for foreign-funded enterprises in the capital. The forum aims to foster international economic collaboration and attract investment. During the event, Beijing CBD will host four flagship international activities: the Beijing CBD Global Board Meeting Series, Government-Business Dialogue, Global Business Districts "Experience Beijing" Event, and Sino-Foreign Automakers Roundtable. On June 12, the Beijing Municipal Commerce Bureau and the CBD Administrative Committee will co-host a policy-focused government-business dialogue on stabilizing foreign investment. The session will interpret the latest policies, address corporate needs, and facilitate exchanges to support foreign enterprises in China. Held concurrently, the UNDP Asia Mayors Forum, themed "Collaborative Innovation: Co-Creating Low-Carbon and Sustainable Future Cities," brings together global urban leaders, multinational executives, international organization representatives, and academic experts. Guided by the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the forum emphasizes international cooperation, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and financial and technological innovation to drive urban sustainability. Beijing is accelerating its development as a global green economy leader. As a high-density economic hub, the CBD plays a critical role in energy conservation, renewable energy adoption, and efficiency improvements. In recent years, Beijing CBD has implemented policies like the "Measures to Promote High-Quality Development of Beijing CBD" and the "CBD Building Quality Grading Standards" to support green industries and enhance smart, eco-friendly services. Currently, LEED Gold or higher-certified buildings in the area span 4.9 million square meters. Beijing CBD Elected Chair of Global Alliance for Innovation in Business Districts Today, Beijing CBD stands among the world's premier business districts, alongside Manhattan, La Défense, and Hong Kong's Central. Hosting nearly 16,000 foreign entities, it is Beijing's most concentrated area for multinational regional headquarters. The CBD Administrative Committee continues to refine its business-friendly environment. Initiatives like the "CBD Investment Service Center" streamline administrative processes, while the "Headquarters Growth Plan" assists companies like BMW China and Toyota Financial Services in obtaining regional headquarters status. In May 2025, the "Beijing CBD Foreign Investment Service Center" launched, positioning itself as the "first stop for foreign enterprises entering China." Through institutional innovation, Beijing CBD advances the integrated business environment of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. In June 2023, the "Beijing CBD-Tianjin Port Collaborative Service Center" was established with Tianjin Port Group and Beijing Customs, offering one-stop logistics services. Aligned with global trade standards, Beijing CBD is building a market-oriented, law-based, and internationalized business ecosystem. It has attracted top arbitration bodies like the Beijing Arbitration Commission and the Singapore International Arbitration Centre. In 2024, Beijing CBD was elected chair of the Global Alliance for Innovation in Business Districts, enhancing Beijing's global influence. This year, multinationals like Aramco Asia and Hamamatsu Photonics have chosen the CBD for their global board meetings. Chaoyang to Issue Consumption Vouchers, CBD Pop-Up Walkway Opens Beijing CBD, home to landmarks like China World Mall, SKP, and Xiushui Street, is evolving into a trillion-yuan international commercial hub. During the forum, attendees and visitors can enjoy discounts across CBD's retail spaces. From June 13–15 (Friday–Sunday), a CBD Pop-Up Walkway will open at China World Summit Wing from 11 AM to 9 PM, featuring specialty products like Canadian ice wine, Thai cuisine, and Belgian skincare, alongside camping zones and stamp-collecting activities. Chaoyang District will distribute ¥3.5 million in consumption vouchers for retail, supermarkets, F&B, and cultural-sports sectors. The 2025 Beijing CBD Forum will host 50+ annual events, including a Hot Dog Festival, Coffee Festival, Beijing Spicy Festival, and Xiushui Street Fashion Show. Details are available on the official WeChat account "Beijing CBD Window." Hashtag: #BeijingCBDWindow The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Beijing CBD Window

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store