Welcome to the November 2021 issue of Credit Insurance News Digest. This issue is sponsored by Tokio Marine HCC.

Index
 
PLUS:   Our predictions for the evolving risk landscape  By Ray Massey, Director of Underwriting — Credit, Tokio Marine HCC 
Credit Insurance News
Trade credit insurers are eyeing 2022 with "cautious optimism". GTR (Global Trade Review) has reported that trade credit insurers are eyeing 2022 with "cautious optimism" after data for the first half of this year showed strong growth in short-term business. According to the Berne Union's (BU) analysis, aggregate credit limits for short-term trade credit insurance reached almost US$1.8 trillion in the first six months of 2021, "shooting past pre-pandemic levels for the first time." This figure represents 7% growth compared to the first half of 2020 and is 3% higher than the same period in 2019. In addition, BU members paid out just over US$1 billion in claims for short-term insurance policies in the first six months of 2021, a 38% drop compared to the previous half-year period and "the lowest short term claims/commitments ratio for any period in Berne Union records." The BU's optimism about the performance of the global trade credit insurance market contrasts with the more cautious update it issued in April. To read GTR's article go to https://www.gtreview.com/news/global/trade-insurers-cautiously-optimistic-as-new-business-rebounds/.
Supply chain pressures drive the growth of trade credit insurance in Asia-Pacific. Insurance Day has published an article by Ed Brittenham, Political Risk and Trade Credit Consultant at Charles Taylor Adjusting, which describes how the use of trade credit insurance in the Asia-Pacific region has grown significantly, driven by two parallel trends in the region's trade practices. One trend is the growth of global supply chains, where products or their components are frequently bought and sold multiple times with each transaction entailing a risk that the buyer will not pay. A second trend has been a reduction in the use of letters of credit in favour of less secure methods of payment. The article notes that the COVID-19 pandemic drew unprecedented attention to the critical role supply chains play in the global economy and the products and services, including trade credit insurance, that enable these chains to function smoothly. To read Insurance Day's article go to https://insuranceday.maritimeintelligence.informa.com/ID1138599/Focus-Supply-chain-pressures-drive-growth-of-credit-risk-insurance-market-in-Asia.
Harmonised Basel III-compliant trade credit insurance policy form is released. GTR (Global Trade Review) has reported that the International Trade and Forfaiting Association (ITFA) has released a harmonised Basel III-compliant trade credit insurance policy form to help banks and insurers negotiate deals. The initiative, a collaborative industry effort involving more than 40 insurers, brokers, banks and law firms, is the "first step of many in a direction to further standardise a Basel III trade credit policy," commented ITFA chair Sean Edwards. The form is designed primarily to cover receivables policies and is based on an original policy form developed by Willis Towers Watson. The project, which has been underway since October 2018, was initially launched as the Basel III Think Tank Initiative, spearheaded by Scott Ettien, Executive Vice-President at Willis Towers Watson. The group will now focus on the policy wording for the US market. To read GTR's article go to https://www.gtreview.com/news/global/industry-takes-step-towards-harmonisation-on-trade-credit-insurance/.
The trade credit village just got smaller. Does the Zurich exit matter? TXF has published an article (by Katherine Morten) which reports that despite Zurich's surprise announcement that it is running down its global trade credit business and will not be writing any new short term multi-buyer policies out of the UK or US, the trade credit insurance market remains robust and continues to develop. Scott Ettien, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Trade Credit at Willis Towers Watson, commented to TXF: "The biggest growth in the last five years has been bank programmes from trade credit insurance — such as SCF and payables programmes. The capacity grew, and it drove many insurer syndications and bank participations." Furthermore, the expected losses due to the pandemic did not materialise to the extent expected and the credit insured bank programmes "came through magnificently." To read TXF's article go to https://www.txfnews.com/News/Article/7273/The-trade-credit-village-just-got-smaller-Does-the-Zurich-exit-matter (subscription may be required).
Atradius expands its existing single transaction cover solution for digital platforms. Atradius has announced that it has significantly expanded its existing single transaction cover solution to over 130 buyer countries and other B2B marketplaces outside the chemicals sectors. Atradius and Kemiex initially developed the solution to insure bulk transactions in 2018, when the two companies co-developed a trade credit insurance solution for the raw materials and chemicals trade platform operated by Kemiex. Single transaction cover insurance, or STCI, available via the platform, is an additional service for sellers of bulk volumes that do not have a more common annual whole-turnover policy with a trade credit insurance company, or for countries and buyers that are not included in an existing policy. To read Atradius' news release go to https://group.atradius.com/virtual-event-series/kemiex-atradius/how-insurtech-is-revolutionising-digital-b2b-marketplaces.html.
Launch of the first trade credit insurance policy for the fresh fruit and vegetable industry. Fresh Talk Daily has reported that EFCIS, in cooperation with Coface, has announced the launch of a trade credit insurance policy exclusively developed for the Fresh and Frozen industry sectors. "We have spent months talking and more importantly listening to businesses in these sectors to arrive at a policy that covers and addresses the specific risks and needs, which enable sales whilst providing broader levels of protection and cover," a spokesperson said. "It is a made to measure policy for these sectors and can include features you will not find in other policies as standard." For example, the option to include risks such as open price trading, delcredere and non-delcredere agent cover, cash against documents sales, dispute cover, flexible waiting period and supplier advance payment cover. To read Fresh Talk Daily's article go to https://www.fpcfreshtalkdaily.co.uk/single-post/launch-of-the-first-trade-credit-insurance-policy-for-the-fresh-fruit-and-vegetable-industry.
Global supply chains: multiple factors mean disruptions could last until 2023. Credendo has warned that current disruptions to global supply chains, rather than a temporary phenomenon arising out of COVID-19, are likely to continue in 2022, and any new setback could prolong issues until 2023. However, while supply chain disruptions could cap the ongoing economic recovery, they are unlikely to stop it. Other factors such as large infrastructure plans in the US, the Next Generation EU fund and strong demand are likely to offset the impacts of supply chain bottlenecks. Credendo also notes that the pandemic has revealed some of the limitations of the traditional just-in-time supply chain model of suppliers in different countries, encouraging a transition to regional supply chains and production capacities. "Entire sectors could restructure (e.g. retail, automotive, aerospace)", leading, in the medium to long term, to a large scale reallocation of capital and labour. To read Credendo's news release go to https://credendo.com/en/knowledge-hub/global-supply-chains-multiple-factors-mean-disruptions-could-last-until-2023.
Xenia Broking Group acquires the whole turnover trade credit and credit and financial and speciality risks teams of Parker Norfolk and Partners. Xenia Broking Group Ltd has announced that it has acquired the whole turnover trade credit and financial and specialty risk teams from specialist Lloyd’s insurance broker Parker Norfolk & Partners Ltd. The transaction marks Xenia Broking Group’ sixth acquisition to date. Tim Coles, Xenia Group CEO, commented: "This acquisition not only builds upon Xenia’s successful strategy of acquiring high quality trade credit businesses, but also marks the exciting first steps towards Xenia’s long-term strategic goal of becoming a diversified, international specialist broking group." With more than 65 employees and seven locations in the UK, Xenia is the largest independent trade credit and surety insurance broker in the UK. To read Xenia's press release go to https://xeniabroking.com/news-and-insights/xenia-launches-into-financial-and-specialty-markets-with-further-acquisition.
Trade credit insurance contributes "significantly" to Indonesia's non-life insurance industry. Fitch Ratings has published a special report that notes that Indonesia's growing trade credit insurance industry has contributed significantly to the region's non-life industry over the past five years, when other business lines, such as fire and motor, stagnated. Looking ahead, Fitch Ratings expects credit insurers and guarantors to be able to manage the underwriting risk from new business and predicts that business growth will be driven in part by government programmes to facilitate lending to micro, small and medium enterprises. This includes mandating certain insurers and guarantors to provide credit insurance and guarantees under the COVID-19 Handling Program and National Economic Recovery (PC-PEN) programme. To read Fitch Rating's news release with access to the full report go to https://www.fitchratings.com/research/insurance/indonesia-credit-insurance-market-31-10-2021.
Supply chain and inflation headwinds hamper the global recovery. Coface's latest Barometer has advised that in light of the continued recovery, it has upgraded its risk assessments for 26 countries (including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland and Belgium) and made 30 sectoral assessment upgrades. However, Coface also warns that there are accumulating signs that the global recovery is losing momentum despite the positive outlook. Pandemic outbreaks in critical supply chain links have resulted in supply disruptions that are starting to affect manufacturers' production and sales across the globe. At the same time, labour shortages, inflation, and the threat of COVID-19 add to the list of risks and uncertainties. The Barometer also notes that China's economy showed signs of a slowdown heading into the 2nd half of 2021. with growth in the third quarter up by 4.9% from a year ago — the slowest pace since the third quarter of 2020. To read Coface's Barometer go to https://www.coface.com/News-Publications/News/Barometer-Q3-2021-Supply-chain-and-inflation-headwinds-hamper-the-global-recovery.
Sian Aspinall discusses the current credit and political risk landscape. Markel International has published the fifth instalment of "Class Conversation", in which Simon Philpin, Senior Underwriter & Head of Business Development Global of Trade Credit at Markel International, is joined by Sian Aspinall, Managing Director of BPL Global. The topics covered include: 
  • Sian's view on the Credit and Political Risk landscape. 
  • Can the market accommodate new insurance players? 
  • What regions of the globe are generating the most enquiries?
  • What does "High Performance" mean for Sian?
Sian notes that BPL Global is now back to pre-pandemic enquiry levels, quote rates are also back, and claims volumes have not been more than expected. "The short sharp drop hasn't happened, it might be a long term pain . . . It all depends what will happen when the state support is removed."
To watch the video go to https://vimeo.com/635239155/7341ba3795.
Financial Times feature on export credit during the pandemic explores how export credit agencies have "stepped up" during the pandemic. The Berne Union was featured in a recent Financial Times article that explores how the export credit insurance industry has stepped up during the pandemic and helped backstop sectors such as airlines hit hard by COVID-19. The article, which is based on an interview with Berne Union President Michal Ron on the sidelines of the Berne Union's 2021 Annual General Meeting, also examines the expanded role of ECAs in filling gaps and their agility in adapting to the new digital environment. To read the article on the Berne Union's website go to https://www.berneunion.org/Articles/Details/621/Financial-Times-feature-on-export-credit-during-the-pandemic.
The IFTA is pursuing clarity for trade credit insurance "best practice". GTR (Global Trade Review) has reported the International Trade and Forfaiting Association (IFTA) recent request to UK regulators for clarification of proposed measures to strengthen risk management processes (see October 2021: Credit Insurance News Digest) has received a reply. ITFA chairman Sean Edwards welcomed the authority’s guidance on factoring and other receivables finance — but noted that the association is "still pursuing the same degree of clarity for credit insurance." To read GTR's article go to https://www.gtreview.com/news/europe/uk-authorities-say-dear-ceo-guidance-not-applicable-to-receivables-finance.
Global chemicals industry: opportunities and challenges. Atradius has published its latest report on opportunities and challenges in the global chemicals industry. The report notes that although the chemicals industry contracted slightly during the pandemic recession, the global outlook is now largely positive, with growth projected by most analysts — especially for China and emerging economies. According to BASF, global chemical production (excluding pharmaceuticals) is expected to grow by 4.4% in 2021. This is above average for the years before the COVID-19 pandemic and represents a strong rebound. Cefic Chemdata International reported chemical sales in 2019 amounted to €1,488 billion in China, followed by Europe and the US with €543 billion and EUR 504 billion, respectively. To read Atradius' news release with a link to the report go to https://atradius.co.uk/reports/industry-trends-overview-of-opportunities-and-challenges-facing-the-global-chemicals-industry.html
New trends in country risks: A condensed view of country risk assessments by Atradius, Coface, Credendo and Euler Hermes. AU Group has released its latest AU 'G Grade' for Q4 2021. The 'G-Grade' is based on the individual assessment of a country by each of the four credit insurers and is calculated according to the real risk taken by them collectively. Also, the IMF Statistics Department's seven key indicators give a view of the key trends and the level of risk per country. This issue notes that although order books are exploding, the current all-out recovery is not without danger and some fragilities — increasing sovereign debt, disruptions in supply chains, the end of state support mechanisms — should not be overlooked. Several countries (Georgia, Kazakhstan, Botswana, Chile, Ecuador, Ireland, Mongolia and Tanzania) have seen their G-Grade improve significantly, notably due to the surge in commodity prices and the immediate impact on their economies. However, a few countries (notably Colombia and Peru) have seen their rating deteriorate. To read AU-Groups' news release, with a link to the full report, go to https://www.au-group.com/au-g-grade-q4-2021/.
81% of businesses surveyed in Asia Pacific report a decrease in profitability. Global Business and Finance Review has reported that Euler Hermes' has published a Post-pandemic Recovery Survey Report for Asia Pacific, which has found that 72% of respondents In the region have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with 81% (85% of SMEs) reporting that they have suffered a decrease in profitability. While the biggest share of respondents (32%) saw their profits drop by 11-30%, 10% of the business leaders surveyed advised that the profitability of their business had fallen by 50% or more. Electronics, food, and services were the worst impacted sectors. Looking ahead, 51% of respondents stated that they are confident in export opportunities in the next 12 months, with electronics, chemicals and food the most optimistic sectors. To read Global Business and Finance Review's article go to https://www.globalbankingandfinance.com/euler-hermes-publishes-post-pandemic-recovery-survey-report-81-reported-decrease-in-profitability/.
Looking beyond COVID-19. Q&A with Euler Hermes. With the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine and a "shred of light that our lives will be back to normal soon," Euler Hermes UK has published a Q&A with Andy Hodson, Risk, Information, Claims and Collections Director and Steve Scott, Chief Financial Officer of Euler Hermes UK and Ireland, which discusses the company's plan going forward. The topics examined include: the top three priorities for Euler Hermes now that the UK economy has reopened, the best advice you can give to a business owner to control credit risks and costs right now, and what both they and Euler Hermes have learnt during the pandemic months. To read the Q&A go to https://www.eulerhermes.co.uk/resources/how-we-work/looking-beyond-covid-19.html.
The normalisation of China's economy is proving bumpier than expected. Euler Hermes has warned that, although China quickly bounced back from the COVID-19 hit in Q1 2020, with GDP growth that year reaching +2.3% — a low level, but among very few positive growth rates in the world in 2020, a slowdown is now likely to continue through Q4 2021 and the beginning of next year. As a result, Euler Hermes has cut its GDP growth forecasts for China to +7.9% in 2021 and +5.2% in 2022, from +8.2% and +5.4%, respectively. Euler Hermes also notes that, from a global supply perspective, the Chinese economic slowdown could further raise the cost of trade and global input prices, lengthen delivery delays, and even worsen production shortfalls in the US and Europe. To read Euler Hermes' news release go to https://www.eulerhermes.com/en_global/news-insights/economic-insights/China-s-great-crunch-causes-and-consequences-at-home-and-abroad.html.
BPL Global supports the Green Guarantee Company to help close the climate finance gap in developing countries. BPL Global has announced that it has been appointed as insurance broker for the Green Guarantee Company (GGC) to provide risk transfer solutions for green financing innovation in emerging markets. Together with Sovereign Risk Insurance and Liberty Specialty Markets as lead insurance partners, and with support from the Ascot Group, BPL Global has developed a Political Risk Insurance Framework for the initiative, which will provide a basis upon which insurers can support the GGC. Gregory King-Underwood, Director, Global Portfolio Solutions and Reinsurance at BPL Global, commented: "We hope our collaboration with the Green Guarantee Company will demonstrate how insurance can provide long-term, tailored support to the financing of sustainable projects." To read BPL Global's news release go to https://bpl-global.com/2021/11/04/bpl-global-supports-the-green-guarantee-company-to-help-close-the-climate-finance-gap-in-developing-countries/.
ICISA launches studies on Loss Given Default in the global trade credit insurance market. The International Credit Insurance & Surety Association (ICISA) has released two new Loss Given default (LGD) studies for the global trade credit insurance industry. The new studies, which are based on data collected from more than 80% of the global credit insurance market by volume of premium, measure the ultimate loss relative to the exposure amount in case of a default, for large risks (defined as exposure higher than EUR 500,000 per buyer and per company). The new reports are a continuation of a previous series which covered 2005 to 2011. A free summary of these reports can be downloaded at https://www.icisa.org/lgd-studies/.
Etihad Credit Insurance is voted as a permanent member of the Berne Union. Insurance Business Asia has reported that Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI), the UAE’s federal export credit company established in 2018, has been voted as a permanent member of the Berne Union. ECI was voted as a full member for providing support and cooperating with other export credit agencies. It participated in knowledge-sharing in reinsurance, short-term credit insurance and partnership strategy development, innovation capabilities. The Berne Union also recognised ECI’s growth in supporting UAE trade and export companies through providing trade credit insurance and trade finance services. To read Insurance Business' article go to https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/asia/news/breaking-news/etihad-credit-insurance-voted-as-permanent-member-of-berne-union-313252.aspx.
LiquidX announces InBlock Digital Policy Management for trade credit insurance. LiquidX has announced the launch of InBlock Digital Policy Management pilot, a new solution that leverages Distributed Ledger Technology, smart contract technology, and AI.  InBlock is designed to integrate multi-buyer and single-buyer trade credit insurance policies into financial workflows and "create a self-executing contract that enables brokers and their clients to confirm coverage eligibility at the invoice level, authenticate debtors, and automate the manual day-to-day policy management and compliance processes." LiquidX advises that it has calculated that the trade credit insurance ecosystem loses over a billion dollars annually due to process inefficiencies, lack of transparency, and human error. LiquidX plans to release the solution to the wider market in early 2022. To read LiquidX's news release go to https://www.liquidx.com/2021/10/21/liquidx-announces-inblock-digital-policy-management-for-trade-credit-insurance/.
Recordings: SCHUMANN international Credit Risk Management Conference. SCHUMANN has published the recordings of the lectures, interviews and discussion roundtables that took place at its recent Digital Credit Risk Management Conference at the end of September. The recordings include: 
  • Challenges and Opportunities in International Receivables Finance 
  • Credit Management Challenges in Times of Uncertainty 
  • Credit Risk Mitigation Solutions in Emerging Markets
  • Digital Transformation of Surety Bonding
  • How technology is transforming export credit insurance
  • Overview of the global factoring scene
  • The concept of "sustainable finance" 
Congratulations to . . .
Tinubu Square Group was named among the world’s most innovative insurtech companies in this year’s InsurTech100 list. Sponsored by FinTech Global, the InsurTech100 recognizes the world’s most innovative technology solution providers that address the digital transformation challenges in insurance.
New Appointments
Xenia Broking has welcomed back Fiona Roxburgh as an Account Manager. Fiona previously worked for Xenia (then Credit & Business Finance Group) from 2006 until 2014. She joins the team from Marsh, where she worked as an Account Director — Trade Credit.
Grupo Catalana Occidente has announced that it has appointed Hugo Serra as new CEO. The appointment, which will take effect from 1 January 2022, marks the beginning of a handover process from the current CEO, Ignacio Álvarez. Hugo joined Grupo Catalana Occidente as a member of the Board of Directors in 2006 and, in 2013, was appointed Deputy General Manager to the Chairmanship. He is also currently vice-chairman of the Group's board of directors.
Atradius has promoted Matthew Coates to Manager — Commercial team at Atradius Collections. Matthew has been with Atradius for over 17 years and was most recently Atradius' Channel Manager FI & Credit Insurance.
Coface has appointed Rebecca Williams as Head of Direct Products, UK & Ireland. Rebecca joins Coface from Atradius, where she was Head of Commercial UK & Ireland.
Attis Credit Solutions has announced that Lisa Semple has joined their team as a Director and member of the Board. Lisa has over 20 years experience in the credit insurance market, having worked in both underwriting and broking. She most recently led the energy team within Aon.
Nexus Trade Credit has promoted Jordy Groot to Head of Risk Non-Can at Nexus Trade Credit, Netherlands. Jordy was previously a Senior Credit Analyst at Nexus Trade Credit.
Atradius has promoted Michael Weir to Regional Sales Leader — Atradius Collections (Cardiff & Dublin). Prior to this, Michael worked as Senior Business Development Manager for Atradius Collections, Ireland.
Nexus Group has promoted Mark Rafferty to Claims Manager, Trade Credit. Mark was previously a Senior Claims Adjuster, Trade Credit.
Willis Towers Watson has appointed Daniel Franca as Head of Trade Credit for LatAm, based in New York. Daniel joins from Coface where he was Senior Vice President — Regional Head of Financial Institutions and Structured Products.
Career Opportunities
Account Manager/Senior Account Manager.  
Australia/New Zealand
Job Description
We are looking for a self-motivated Individual to join the Global Team in Australia & New Zealand as an Account Manager or Senior Account Manager (based on experience). This is a great opportunity to develop your skill set in a dynamic, collaborative environment where you will be responsible for a portfolio of Global Clients.
Not only will you have the opportunity to work with “Big Name Clients” here locally you will be expected to work with the wider Global team as well as working in close cooperation with Risk Services, Claims & Collections.
The role will include the chance to travel across the Australia, New Zealand region and you will be instrumental in delivering first class customer service to our customers and brokers.
Applications are invited from qualified/experienced candidates where candidates are looking to expand their knowledge and broaden their horizons in a new role. To succeed you will already be able to evidence strong customer service and communication skills as well as possessing those characteristics that fit soundly within our Atradius Competencies & Values.
The role is a Full Time and can be filled in either Sydney or Melbourne.
In this position your key responsibilities will be:
  • You will be responsible for ensuring we maximize business retention and develop the existing customer portfolio with the aim of maximising customer profitability. 
  • You will be actively involved in the management of customer portfolios and will be responsible for revenue generation, risk management as well as acting as a key customer interface for the Company. 
  • The level of client support is segmented in accordance with the client service required profitability and potential. Key aspects are product delivery, risk management and profitability.
Role profile:
  • The Candidate will need to be a self-starter who can also work independently and under pressure but will also need to be a team player. 
  • It is essential that the successful candidate is a strong communicator, aware of cultural differences and sensitivities and have an aptitude for relationship building and strong inter-personal skills.
The ideal candidate will have the following profile:
  • Provide excellent customer service and support and develop a customer / broker visit plan 
  • Manage and support broker/agents relationships 
  • Develop and retain existing customer relations with the aim of maximising income growth 
  • Identify and support development of business opportunities for additional sales of services and products 
  • Work with Global Account Managers to better service local subsidiaries of multinationals 
  • Apply an understanding, aligned to the appropriate competency level and business segment for policy structures, country requirements, legal aspects and where necessary, cultural sensitivities
  • Handle and process credit limit applications, reports or any other necessary information required in servicing accounts Provide support and prepare all required information necessary for setting up draft policies, submissions, renewals or maintaining policy records according to local procedures and guidelines 
  • Work within the Oceania team to promote and process new business 
  • Process cancellations of accounts and notification of cancellation of credit limits
  • Assist in obtaining documentation for Claims 
  • Assist with internal reporting requirements (policy performance reports) in line with Atradius’s overall policies, standards and systems

Other qualifications:

Applications are invited from suitable candidates. All internal candidates are encouraged to give full due consideration to the vacancy and to discuss their aspirations with their current manager prior to submitting an application.

What do we offer? 
  • A dynamic, international and challenging work environment 
  • Training and support to reach your full potential including the opportunity for continuous professional development
  • Attractive terms and conditions, including competitive salary, pension package and a range of flexible benefits and rewards 
  • Challenging tasks with individual development and training opportunities 
  • We offer flexible working in line with our Australia/New Zealand Hybrid Working framework
Interested? Please send your CV and cover letter stating your level of commitment to Hannah Walters at hannah.walters@atradius.com.
For more detailed information or if you have any questions specifically about the role; contact Hannah Walters at hannah.walters@atradius.com or Mary Ibrahim at mary.ibrahim@atradius.com.
Senior Underwriter - Trade Finance.  New York
About Swiss Re Corporate Solutions 
 Swiss Re is one of the world’s leading providers of reinsurance, insurance and other forms of insurance-based risk transfer. We anticipate and manage risks, from natural catastrophes and climate change to cybercrime.
Swiss Re Corporate Solutions is the commercial insurance arm of the Swiss Re Group. We offer innovative insurance solutions to large and midsized multinational corporations from our approximately 50 locations worldwide. We help clients mitigate their risk exposure, whilst our industry-leading claims service provides them with additional peace of mind.
Our success depends on our ability to build an inclusive culture encouraging fresh perspectives and innovative thinking. Swiss Re Corporate Solutions embraces a workplace where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive and develop professionally regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, skillset, thought or other characteristics. In our inclusive and flexible environment everyone can bring their authentic selves to work.

About the Role & Team:
As part of our build out of the Trade Finance team in the US, we are looking for a Senior Underwriter to grow our trade finance business. Your role will be a mix of underwriting, client and broker relationship management, specifically deepening the existing global client base, supporting new client acquisition and providing high-quality deal analysis in particular on corporate obligors under a variety of structures, working in close co-operation with the wider team. The role will also be critical to defining and executing the strategy for trade finance.
All our underwriters follow a client relationship and a transaction "End to End", combining client management with individual transaction assessment and sign-off.
The role of the team is to provide capacity and solutions for leading Trade Finance Banks and other Financial Institutions for cross border trade transactions as well as solutions for corporate clients. This involves an international work environment with a global scope and customer base. The role will therefore include extensive contact with clients and brokers.
After an appropriate period of onboarding and training, the expectation is that you quickly assume responsibilities within the team and add value by being able to:
  • Analyse trade finance deals independently including pricing, risk, structure, policy etc. 
  • Provide deep expertise in underwriting corporate obligors and structures, as well as FI obligors and structures 
  • Take on client management responsibilities as well as interactions with brokers 
  • Present transactions to internal stakeholders and defend own positions with energy
  • Identify and monitor relevant market, economic and legal developments
  • Provide training to other underwriters on corporate obligors and related trade finance structures
  • Provide input to strategic initiatives with opportunities to also lead the same 
  • Represent trade finance in the Americas region internally and externally

About You:
  • You have at least 10 years' experience with a bank, other financial institution or insurance company in Trade Finance or Credit Insurance space and an advanced understanding of trade finance and assessing Corporate risks and structures (FI risks also a plus), coupled with a University degree 
  • Your experience is in client-facing roles (brokers as well a plus) with a customer focus and service mentality (internal and external). It will be critical that you have some prior sales management experience and a mature and self-confident personality 
  • You have a strong interest in corporate risks, economic interdependencies, financial analysis, in particular applied to a range of economies and transactions around the world 
  • You also have good analytical skills combined with an open and curious mindset 
  • Your experience has allowed you to gain high cultural sensitivity and the ability to work in a robust international, multicultural and complex environment. 
  • You are a team player with "hands on" approach Willingness to travel is important and you are fluent in English.
Swiss Re is an equal opportunity employer. It is our practice to recruit, hire and promote without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, pregnancy, sexual orientations, marital status, military status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Decisions on employment are solely based on an individual's qualifications for the position being filled.
During the recruitment process, reasonable accommodations for disabilities are available upon request. If contacted for an interview, please inform the Recruiter/HR Professional of the accommodation needed.
To apply for this position go to https://careers.swissre.com/job/New-York-NY/738158001/. Reference Code: 108656
Senior Underwriter Political Risk Insurance & Sovereign Credit Risk.  London
About Swiss Re Corporate Solutions
Swiss Re is one of the world’s leading providers of reinsurance, insurance and other forms of insurance-based risk transfer. We anticipate and manage risks, from natural catastrophes and climate change to cybercrime.
Swiss Re Corporate Solutions is the commercial insurance arm of the Swiss Re Group. We offer innovative insurance solutions to large and midsized multinational corporations from our approximately 50 locations worldwide. We help clients mitigate their risk exposure, whilst our industry-leading claims service provides them with additional peace of mind.
Our success depends on our ability to build an inclusive culture encouraging fresh perspectives and innovative thinking. Swiss Re Corporate Solutions embraces a workplace where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive and develop professionally regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, skillset, thought or other characteristics. In our inclusive and flexible environment everyone can bring their authentic selves to work.

About the Role
  • As a PRI & Sovereign Credit Risk underwriter, you are dedicated to building and cultivating strong relationships with global financial institutions, corporate clients, and brokers. You seek to understand our clients' needs and service them in a highly professional and positive manner. Pursuing the right balance between developing bespoke solutions that add value to clients while maintaining an appropriate risk appetite for Swiss Re. 
  • Diligently analysing new business opportunities by accurately assessing political, sovereign credit and transactional risks, performing technical, legal and market due diligence, and reviewing financial models. Following Swiss Re's processes, underwriting guidelines, and approved approaches to business with utmost integrity. Preparing top quality transaction submissions and presenting/defending your recommendations to committees and (fellow) decision makers in the transaction approval process with confidence and passion. 
  • Contribute to portfolio management to successfully steer towards our goals by staying on top of relevant market developments, technologies, and key players, and continuously improving our products and services. Lead assigned portfolio management tasks such as regular transaction monitoring, and analysis of amendments and restructurings.
  • Work pro-actively with various other internal partners such as operations, credit risk management, IT, claims, legal & compliance etc. to ensure aligned and smooth product delivery.

About the Team
We are a very engaged and collaborative team of five underwriting professionals who provide political risk and sovereign credit risk insurance and risk sharing solutions to leading financial institutions and corporate clients engaged in the financing of and investment in cross border transactions and projects across the world, particularly in developing and emerging markets. You will encounter a diverse and international team of professionals located in London and Singapore, passionate about our sector and fully committed to our clients. Together, we build on the partnerships with our client base and continuously strive to maintain and further develop our market leadership position.

About you
  • Minimum of 4-7 years political risk and sovereign credit risk / banking / insurance experience in a political risk and sovereign credit risk / structured trade and commodity finance underwriting team
  • Enjoy the challenge of analysing sophisticated political risks and sovereign credit risks predominantly in emerging markets and able to make good judgements on them. Well-organised, efficient, and can deliver quality results under tight schedules.
  • Proficiency in credit and financial statement analysis, and strong analytical skills. Ideally you have a background in debt structuring plus documentation experience. Knowledge of the commodity sectors and related underwriting would be a plus. 
  • Experience in interacting with clients and forming positive and enduring relationships with them. Curious and creative mind seeking to provide better solutions to our demanding clients with persistence and thoroughness.
  • Engaging in a multi-cultural and cross-functional environment energises you. Your outstanding communication and facilitation skills allow you to work with ease with colleagues and clients globally.
  • Great teammate with excellent interpersonal skills and a positive personality who likes to take initiative, has a can-do agile mind-set, and enjoys both working independently as well as in a team.
  • Language Skills - Strong verbal and written communication skills in English required  — Other languages a plus

We are an equal opportunity employer, and we value diversity at our company. Our aim is to live visible and invisible diversity — diversity of age, race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, physical abilities, personalities and experiences – at all levels and in all functions and regions. We also collaborate in a flexible working environment, providing you with a compelling degree of autonomy to decide how, when and where to carry out your tasks.
Are you curious to learn more about what we do, how we do it, and what your role could be? Contact us to find out.
To apply for this position go to https://careers.swissre.com/job/London/736863601/. (Reference Code: 108624).
Senior Underwriter - Trade Finance. New York
About Swiss Re Corporate Solutions
Swiss Re is one of the world’s leading providers of reinsurance, insurance and other forms of insurance-based risk transfer. We anticipate and manage risks, from natural catastrophes and climate change to cybercrime.
Swiss Re Corporate Solutions is the commercial insurance arm of the Swiss Re Group. We offer innovative insurance solutions to large and midsized multinational corporations from our approximately 50 locations worldwide. We help clients mitigate their risk exposure, whilst our industry-leading claims service provides them with additional peace of mind.
Our success depends on our ability to build an inclusive culture encouraging fresh perspectives and innovative thinking. Swiss Re Corporate Solutions embraces a workplace where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive and develop professionally regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, skillset, thought or other characteristics. In our inclusive and flexible environment everyone can bring their authentic selves to work.

About the Role & Team:
As part of our build out of the Trade Finance team in the US, we are looking for an Underwriter to grow our trade finance business. Your role will be a mix of underwriting, client and broker interaction, specifically deepening the existing global client base, supporting new client acquisition and providing high-quality deal analysis in particular on corporate obligors under a variety of structures, working in close co-operation with the wider team.
All our underwriters follow a client relationship and a transaction "End to End", combining client management with individual transaction assessment and sign-off.
The role of the team is to provide capacity and solutions for leading Trade Finance Banks and other Financial Institutions for cross border trade transactions as well as solutions for corporate clients. This involves an international work environment with a global scope and customer base. The role will therefore include extensive contact with clients and brokers.
After an appropriate period of onboarding and training, the expectation is that you quickly assume responsibilities within the team and add value by being able to:
  • Analyse trade finance deals including pricing, risk, structure, policy etc 
  • Provide expertise in underwriting corporate obligors and structures, as well as FI obligors and structures 
  • Take on client management responsibilities as well as interactions with brokers
  • Present transactions to internal stakeholders and defend own positions with energy

About You:
  • You have at least 3 years' experience with a bank, other financial institution or insurance company in Trade Finance or Credit Insurance space and a basic understanding of trade finance 
  • Experience assessing Corporate risks and structures (FI risks also a plus), coupled with a University degree 
  • Experience in client-facing/ broker-facing role with a customer focus and service mentality (internal and external) 
  • You have a strong interest in corporate risks, economic interdependencies, financial analysis, in particular applied to a range of economies and transactions around the world 
  • You also have good analytical skills combined with an open and curious mindset
  • Your experience has allowed you to gain cultural sensitivity and the ability to work in a robust international, multicultural and complex environment. 
  • You are a team player with "hands on" approach Willingness to travel is important and you are fluent in English.
Swiss Re is an equal opportunity employer. It is our practice to recruit, hire and promote without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, pregnancy, sexual orientations, marital status, military status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Decisions on employment are solely based on an individual's qualifications for the position being filled.
During the recruitment process, reasonable accommodations for disabilities are available upon request. If contacted for an interview, please inform the Recruiter/HR Professional of the accommodation needed.
To apply for this position go to https://careers.swissre.com/job/New-York-NY/738170801/. (Reference 108657)
Events & Professional Development
GTR Asia, 16-18 November. Virtual. 
GTR Asia, the world’s largest trade finance gathering, returns in virtual form for 2021 on November 16-18, offering the opportunity to hear critical market insights and benefit from the unparalleled expertise of established trade leaders.
Encompassing the key aspects of the live conference experience in a digital format, GTR Asia 2021 will retain GTR’s core focus on networking, collaboration and knowledge sharing, offering an unrivalled delegate mix incorporating corporates, traders, banks, insurers, lawyers, fintechs, non-bank financiers, government agencies and investors.
Whilst we hope to return to Singapore in-person for 2022, this year’s event provides a highly anticipated opportunity to connect with all corners of the market for those involved in Asian trade, with a full exhibition and extensive programme covering the latest developments and rapidly changing dynamics.
“A great opportunity to connect with delegates and hear the latest trade and trade technology developments.” J Ellwood-Russell, Simmons and Simmons"
To view the agenda for this year's event go to https://www.gtreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/GTR-Asia-2021-Virtual_Guide_Nov02.pdf.
For a free, virtual pass to attend this year's event go to https://www.gtreview.com/events/virtual/gtr-asia-2021/#tab_book.
BCR’s Alternative & Receivables Finance Forum, 18 November. London.
Businesses are adapting to changing global trade patterns and facing challenges of maintaining competitive and sustainable supply chains, while continuing to optimise their costs and cashflow. They are constantly looking for new technology-enabled funding models that have potential to help companies to adapt to geopolitical shifts, the rapid growth of eCommerce and the fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic. The Alternative & Receivables Finance Forum is a timely opportunity for receivables finance providers and ‘alternative’ SME funders to identify openings of this new trade era, address the choices SMEs are making to fill financial gaps, learn from the top industry players how the receivables finance sector is rebuilding and expanding after Covid. Join #ARF21 by booking your ticket at https://bcrpub.com/events/alternative-and-receivables-finance-2021. Professional Development.
GTR Nordics, 25 November. Stockholm.
Global Trade Review is delighted to announce that GTR Nordics will be returning to Stockholm as an in-person event, taking place on November 25, 2021. Following hot on the heels of COP26, GTR will once again provide the region’s leading trade gathering, bringing together a host of financing experts and innovators to plot a path for Nordic industry and commerce. Exploring the latest initiatives taking steps toward a carbon neutral future, an in-depth agenda will address the regulatory, efficiency and profitability challenges facing the Nordic trade and export financing sectors in the here and now, and pinpoint emerging business opportunities as the global economy sets sights on sustainable post-pandemic growth.
This hugely anticipated in-person event promises unparalleled networking opportunities with the sector’s most prominent experts, all within a Covid-safe environment in-line with the latest government regulations. For those seeking to catch up with old friends and forge fresh connections while gaining practical insights into the future of Nordic trade, export & ECA and supply chain financing, this event is not to be missed! 
Click here for more information.
Readers of Credit Insurance News' publications can receive a 10% booking discount, use code EBD10.
Stecis is getting back on track with Webinars, Classroom courses and Masterclasses.
As we all hope that the Covid-19 pandemic is under control after the summer, STECIS has planned again a number of classroom courses in November 2021. For Trade Credit Insurance and Surety Bonds, at each Foundation and Advanced courses will be offered in the vicinity of Amsterdam Schiphol. In case still necessary, all applicable Covid-19 restrictions will be in place during the classroom training courses. During the classroom trainings real, practical cases will be discussed. Additionally, various webinars on both Trade Credit Insurance and Surety Bonds have been already scheduled throughout the year. These webinars are interesting to all individuals who are starting their career in the TCI and/or Surety Bonds industry, but also for all other interested parties like brokers, re-insurers´ employees, lawyers, credit managers etc.
To expand our offering STECIS is currently developing three masterclasses on Trade Credit Insurance that will address the following topics: TCI and Digitalisation, Non-traditional TCI products and TCI and Finance. These masterclasses will be hold by top experts from the TCI industry presenting the recent developments and trends in the field of TCI. Joining these masterclass will be not only be an excellent way to keep up to date with important developments in the TCI world. The courses are also an excellent means to increase your professional network as you will meet other participants and top experts from the industry.
When the outlines of the three masterclasses are available, they will be shared via Credit Insurance News and the website of Stecis.
More information can be found on the Stecis’ website: www.stecis.org.
All courses will run at the Steigenberger Hotel at Amsterdam-Schiphol.
Further information can be obtained by sending an email to: info@stecis.org.

About the Sponsor: Tokio Marine HCC
Tokio Marine HCC (TMHCC) is a global leader in specialty insurance — backed by our strong financial ratings, with over 100 product offerings, 83 offices, and transacting business in over 180 countries.
The UK Credit business has been established for over 40 years, focusing on exceptional customer service, flexibility in relation to wordings and policy solutions, and specialist sector risk underwriting that allows added-value analysis and communication.
Our core portfolio wordings include:
  • Whole Turnover
    Providing the most comprehensive coverage, allowing review and support across a full client portfolio. 
  • Principal Customer
    Support focused only on those customers above a defined level, below which the client is happy to stand.
  • Single Risk
    For those clients with one large customer or contract only whereby the failure of that customer would have a significant impact.
We only work with specialist brokers and seek to establish a long-term relationship, for the benefit of all three parties, that we can bespoke as possible.
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