Why Taiwanese insurers’ bond ETF hunger is here to stay

Regional life insurers will seek to reweigh their portfolios to seek out sufficient returns in the low rate environment, reduce duration gaps and adapt to new capital rules.

ETFs could gain traction among institutional investors seeking flexibility to take quick tactical positions. But the instruments face potential new regulations in Hong Kong.

Australia's Hostplus sees returns fall; Cbus and Media Super start due diligence on merger; Chinese regulators take over four insurers; China's CIC may face challenges amid geopolitical tensions; HK employers face pension restructuring; Korea's KIC ties joint-venture with NACF; Korean pension schemes restart overseas investments and more.

With new rules coming into force soon that will likely curb the Taiwan insurance industry's appetite for bond ETFs, Cathay has pressed ahead before it is affected.