aSo this is it, my second time at the WIF, this time being held in Dubai departing from its normal Bermudan venue. This venue is not a hotel conference room but a dome-like tent in the middle of the financial district cooled by a number of fans – its hot! Two year’s ago this conference was extremely informative and, despite the heat, this year’s is much the same. The common theme running throughout is the global nature of our industry. In terms of its risks, capital, catastrophes and terrorism. Unlike many other conferences, many of the attendees are global CEOs who not only are here to speak but also stay to listen.
There are many delegates from the London Market – certainly a significant minority with similar numbers from Bermuda. Nevertheless it is events such as these which cover many global topics of direct relevance to London and other international markets. The WIF has remained a conference which requires serious attention as it can inform many organisations on their global strategic objectives.
Today the programme concentrated a lot on terrorism, stating that risk elimination is not possible but risk management is. It certainly validates the need for our forthcoming Cat modelling event in London which will include terrorism modelling. Aegis gave a thought-provoking presentation including graphic images and also highlighted the vulnerability of key London market exposures such as energy and maritime.
Tomorrow’s programme includes a round-table discussion by a group of CEOs. This session was good two years ago and I look forward to tomorrow’s reprisal. I must remember to downgrade from a suit and tie though.
