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200-strong Bermuda delegation heads to Denver for RIMS

A 200-strong delegation from Bermuda is heading to the Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS) 2014 Conference in Denver next week.

The group of representatives will be led by Premier Craig Cannonier, along with Minister of Economic Development Grant Gibbons and Minister of Finance Bob Richards. The deputy chairman of the Bermuda Business Development Agency (BDA) David Cash will also be there. A spokesman said that the BDA along with key industry executives will “represent the depth of expertise in the Bermuda market which has long earned Bermuda the reputation as ‘The World’s Risk Capital’.”

Premier Craig Cannonier said about the event: “Our presence in Denver is to support the business development efforts of many Bermuda companies that operate in the risk management sector. We want our international business community as well as their clients to know that the Government of Bermuda appreciates their business and we are here to support and enhance doing business in Bermuda.”

Civil servants are also in the delegation and include Cabinet Secretary Derrick Binns and the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education and Economic Development Ross Webber.

They will be among the 10,000 people set to attend the key industry event.

Mr Cash said: “Bermuda has always distinguished itself from its competitors by its ability to offer full suite risk management solutions to insurance and reinsurance buyers. Bermuda was the birthplace of the captive insurance vehicle and to this day remains the oldest and largest captive domicile.”

Mr Cash also referred to changes in the market, saying: “Bermuda continues to demonstrate its ability to innovate as evidenced by the impressive numbers being reported by Bermuda in the Insurance Linked Securities space.”

He added: “It is through the collaboration of the commercial insurance, reinsurance and captive markets that Bermuda continues to be a preferred domicile for all risk management needs. RIMS is our largest event and it gives us the opportunity to thank our existing clients and develop new relationships.

“Our lead position, as a one-stop-shop for risk management solutions, is on full display here through the Bermuda delegation, which is further enhanced by the participation of our Government and the Bermuda Monetary Authority.”

A two storey Bermuda-styled showpiece, described as “Bermuda’s iconic exhibit” is set to be a hub of activity in the main exhibition hall, said a Bermuda delegation spokesman. “This will serve as a key meeting place for industry and clients alike.

“BDA, along with the help of industry volunteers will make sure that all clients, ambassadors and friends of Bermuda are welcomed and presented with Bermuda’s legendary tote bag advertising Bermuda as ‘The World’s Risk Capital’.

“Various meetings with prospective and existing clients will also take place, in the upstairs meeting room as well as interviews with press.”

Bermuda will also host a Bermuda Reception, which is themed ‘Bermuda Blues Club’ and it is set for Tuesday evening at the Four Seasons Hotel. Described as an exclusive event, a spokesman said it provides an excellent opportunity to network with clients.

“This year the BDA decided to jazz things up and will feature an array of Bermudian talent ranging from culinary delights to signature Bermudian cocktails, topped off with the jazz and blues band, HTG (formerly Heritage), which will be led by the very talented Bermudian saxophone player, Gianluca Gibbons, who is currently studying at La Sierra University in Southern California.

The musician said: “I am looking forward to being involved in this great venture. With all my efforts in music and business, bridging gaps between Bermuda and the international scene has always been a great motivator for me. This opportunity is nothing short of a blessing, and representing my homeland Bermuda is an honour.

“We are really excited about this opportunity.”

Premier Cannonier said: “I am also delighted to see this level of Bermudian talent on show at this event; in particular, I am thrilled to witness the performance by an upcoming Bermudian entertainer, Gianluca.

“I am a huge proponent for supporting rising local talent.”

The spokesman added that Gosling’s, Bermuda’s flagship export, will add to “the Bermudian flare” by showcasing their “prized” Family Reserve ‘Old Rum’ for sampling by guests.

“To reinforce the Bermuda Blues theme, Gosling’s has also designed signature drinks to accompany the many local specialties such as fish chowder and rockfish with banana.

“To truly show all that Bermuda has to offer, the plasma screens at the conference and the reception will feature stunning video footage of the Island, courtesy of the Bermuda Tourism Authority.”