Taiwanese life insurers have been investing in higher-risk assets for better yields, leaving their capitalisation vulnerable to unfavourable capital and currency market movements, according to a Fitch Ratings’ report.
The ratings agency said Taiwanese life insurers have increased overseas investments, mostly fixed-income, since the early 2000s, and have shifted their portfolio from treasuries and agency bonds issued by developed countries to the corporate bonds, financial debentures and sovereign bonds of emerging markets.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Fitch said overseas investments accounted for 52.9% of invested assets at the end of May 2015 compared to 37.7% at the end of 2011.
Domestic equities and property investments also increased to 7.3% and 6.4% of invested assets from 6.2% and 4.7% at end-2011, respectively.
In contrast, Fitch said non-life insurers have adequate capital buffers to withstand investment volatility and potential catastrophe losses, with an aggregate equity-to-assets ratio of 33% at the end of April 2015.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalData
