New Partnership Between AIA NZ Signals Growth for Closed Unit-Linked Policies

AIA NZ Partners with Smartshares for Transition of Unit-Linked Portfolio

Collaboration to Ensure Seamless Transition

AIA New Zealand, a leading insurer, has announced a collaboration with Smartshares, an investment funds manager and subsidiary of NZX, to facilitate a smooth and cost-efficient transition of the insurer’s $500 million unit-linked policy portfolio into SuperLife funds. This partnership aims to optimize AIA NZ’s investment strategy while maintaining the asset allocations of the unit-linked policy investors.

The SuperLife funds offer a range of investment options, including NZ Cash, International Equities, Australasian Equities, US Equities, European and Asia Pacific Equities, and International and New Zealand Fixed Income. These options provide flexibility and diversification for AIA NZ’s customers.

Commitment to Customer Service

AIA NZ has emphasized its commitment to providing a high level of service to its customers throughout this transition. The company has encouraged customers to reach out directly for any inquiries or additional information. This approach ensures transparency and helps build trust between the insurer and its policyholders.

Optimizing Investment Strategy

Len Elikhis, AIA NZ’s chief product and investments officer, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, stating that it has allowed the company to optimize its investment strategy. By collaborating with Smartshares, AIA NZ aims to create enduring value for its customers and shareholders, while also fulfilling its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments.

Stuart Miller, CIO of Smartshares, highlighted the company’s ability to provide a total investment solution for all investor types. By leveraging Smartshares’ platform, AIA NZ can automate the allocation of cashflows accurately and efficiently. This operational efficiency is critical for managing the large-scale transition of the unit-linked portfolio.

Analysis and Editorial

Streamlining Investments for Long-Term Value

The collaboration between AIA NZ and Smartshares signifies a strategic move to streamline the insurer’s investment portfolio and enhance its value proposition for customers. By leveraging the expertise and infrastructure of Smartshares, AIA NZ can optimize its investment strategy and offer a wider range of investment options to its policyholders.

Focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance Commitments

AIA NZ’s commitment to fulfilling its ESG commitments is commendable. By partnering with Smartshares, AIA NZ can ensure that its investment portfolio aligns with these principles. This focus on responsible investing not only benefits the insurer’s customers and shareholders but also contributes to sustainable development and positive impact.

Ensuring a Seamless Transition for Policyholders

Transitioning a large unit-linked policy portfolio requires careful planning and execution to minimize disruptions for policyholders. AIA NZ’s emphasis on maintaining the asset allocations of its unit-linked policy investors demonstrates the company’s commitment to protecting the financial interests of its customers.

By working closely with Smartshares, AIA NZ can automate the allocation of cashflows accurately and in a timely manner. This technological integration helps streamline the transition process and ensures that policyholders continue to receive the financial benefits they expect from their investments.

Advice and Conclusion

For current AIA NZ unit-linked policyholders, it is important to stay informed about the transition of their portfolios into SuperLife funds. AIA NZ has provided clear communication channels for inquiries or additional information, and it is recommended that policyholders take advantage of these resources.

As with any investment transition, it is wise to assess the potential impact on one’s financial goals and risk tolerance. Reviewing the investment options available within SuperLife funds can help policyholders make informed decisions about their portfolios. Seeking guidance from a qualified financial advisor may also be beneficial in navigating this transition.

Overall, the partnership between AIA NZ and Smartshares presents an opportunity for policyholders to benefit from a streamlined and diversified investment portfolio. By maintaining a focus on customer service and responsible investing, AIA NZ demonstrates its commitment to delivering long-term value and sustainability for its policyholders.