BILL
SUBJECT
DATE
This bill would increase the aggregate amount of foreign investments
that New York life insurers
are permitted to make under Section 1405 of the Insurance Law from 14%
to 27% of admitted
assets. In addition, the bill would adjust the counterparty requirements
applicable to foreign
currency hedges pursuant to Section 1405(a)(C) of the Insurance Law.
The world's securities marketplace has undergone dramatic changes
in the last several years,
resulting in an expansion of foreign investment opportunities. Non-insurers,
which in some cases
directly compete with domestic life insurers, have already taken advantage
of this marketplace by
dramatically increasing their non-U.S. holdings.
This legislation is important in order for New York life insurers to
compete effectively in today's
global marketplace. The globalization of the world's economies,
and the expansion of financing
alternatives continue to develop at an ever-increasing pace. It is vital
that this state's life
insurers have adequate discretion to determine the appropriate diversification
of their investment
portfolios.
Many pension funds and other asset managers have determined that as
a result of continued
globalization of financial markets, an appropriate asset mix may include
20% or more of assets in
foreign markets. To require New York like insurers to limit their holdings
to only 14% not only
places them at a competitive disadvantage, but it reduces their ability
to optimize overall returns
and reduce risks.
The adjustment of the foreign investment limits allowed in this bill
will allow New York life
insurers to compete more effectively and enhance their financial position
in order to provide their
customers with superior, risk-adjusted returns on more diversified portfolios.
For the abovementioned and other reasons, The Business Council strongly
supports this legislation
and urges its adoption.