Asset managers are one of the largest subsectors within the financial institutions industry. When assessing their risk profile, it is important to distinguish asset managers from other financial institutions as they are subject to unique regulations, risks and claims activity. Engaging risk specialists fluent in these nuances is critical as they can best differentiate your firm within the insurance marketplace and recommend appropriate solutions based on your organization’s risk profile.
Our global network of specialists has vast experience in providing informed guidance and tailored solutions to the asset management community. The depth of our industry knowledge enables us to understand the key risks facing your organization and the solutions available to address them. We welcome the opportunity to demonstrate the comprehensive value our team can bring to your asset management firm.
Asset management industry key risks
Asset managers today face a myriad of challenges that can impact operations, performance, investment strategies and reputation. Some of these challenges include:
Whether it's at the federal, state or international level, regulatory investigations and enforcement actions continue to be a leading cause of claims activity against asset managers.
Regulators have adopted or proposed rules aimed at mitigating the misrepresentation of an organization’s ESG credentials (i.e., greenwashing), increasing the risk of regulatory and investor claims activity.
New and proposed regulations increase regulatory risks for asset management firms, while the physical and transition impacts of climate change may negatively impact portfolio performance.
The ever-evolving patchwork of cybersecurity regulations, combined with the barrage of cyber-attacks and fraud, continue to pose regulatory, legal and reputational challenges for asset managers.
The more AI is incorporated into the operations of an asset manager, the greater the risks the organization faces, including compliance with new regulatory frameworks, potential job displacement, bad inputs/outputs, discriminatory behavior, cybersecurity and fraud.
Especially during periods of extreme market volatility, trade errors can occur, resulting in substantial losses and reputational harm.
WTW key differentiators
Advanced analytics and real-time insights
Our cutting-edge analytical capabilities offer asset managers sophisticated data points to support strategic risk decisions. Benefits of these models include:
- Empowered decisions: Our proprietary suite of analytics are the cornerstone of our services, providing asset management firms with data-driven insights for strategic decision-making.
- Real-time insights: Our client portal offers continuous access to real-time data and our industry-leading claims database, aiding in proactive risk management.
- Portfolio approach: Our Connected Risk Intelligence tool delivers a comprehensive view of all insurable risks, optimizing risk financing for capital efficiency.
Specialized expertise
Beyond the insurance transaction, we have teams of experts providing specialized expertise across a portfolio of risks, including:
- Enterprise risk management: Identifying, quantifying and mitigating unpredictable and interconnected risks
- Strategic risk consulting: An analytical approach that assesses risk on a basket basis
- Operational risk: Examining an organization’s risks and optimizing its insurance program accordingly
- Climate and Resilience Hub: Quantifying the impact of climate change on asset managers and their investment portfolios
- ESG: Helping organizations and their boards make informed, intelligent and integrated ESG decisions
- Captives: Risk expertise and data-driven insights to support risk retention and transfer strategies
Exceptional client service
We’re committed to delivering outstanding service, all tailored to the asset management sector’s unique needs, including:
- Board presentations: Experienced and well-versed in presenting to fund directors and trustees
- Vendor contracts: Providing assistance with insurance provisions contained within third party contracts
- Industry updates: Issue regular publications on new and evolving issues within the asset management industry and what impact, if any, they have on an insurance portfolio
Tailored solutions for asset managers
Our team understands the risks facing your industry and is available to help organizations identify optimal solutions to mitigate these risks. Our unique asset management value proposition is supported by WTW's suite of proprietary analytics and supplemented by specialists across the risk spectrum. Partner with us to navigate the complexities of risk and unlock new opportunities for growth and success.
Disclaimer
Willis Towers Watson hopes you found the general information provided in this publication informative and helpful. The information contained herein is not intended to constitute legal or other professional advice and should not be relied upon in lieu of consultation with your own legal advisors. In the event you would like more information regarding your insurance coverage, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. In North America, Willis Towers Watson offers insurance products through licensed entities, including Willis Towers Watson Northeast, Inc. (in the United States) and Willis Canada Inc. (in Canada).