Paul Schultz, CEO of Aon Securities, joined us for our recent ILS Asia 2021 conference and gave a keynote speech on ILS market developments across the Asia Pacific region.

Schultz explained that while Singapore is now an active hub for catastrophe bonds and insurance-linked securities (ILS) and with Hong Kong primed to issue its first deal this year as well, regional sponsor participation can help to ensure their sustainability as ILS domiciles.

For an ILS domicile to be successful, Schultz highlighted the need for a strong regulatory framework and also the need for strong regional service providers.

Schultz explained that at Aon Securities, "We think that the growth over the last couple of years has been substantial and we’re excited about what that really means for the sustainability of Singapore and ultimately Hong Kong into the region.”

“Hong Kong, we really believe will help facilitate bringing more Chinese issuers, or sponsors to market. We’re really excited about that. Obviously there’s been some coverage in the press already around some anticipated transactions that will be facilitated using Hong Kong.

“We’re excited about that just being part of the industry. And, we believe that, again, over time, the flexibility that comes through either Singapore or soon to be Hong Kong, we think will actually enable future issuance in the region, and allow for future growth,” said Schultz.