A tax partner at Bermuda's branch of international accounting firm KPMG has represented the Island at a prestigious conference in Helsinki, Finland.

Jim Blankenship attended the 16th International Conference on Insurance Taxation sponsored by The Hartford Institute on Insurance Taxation, in the final week of June.

And he gave a presentation focused on evolving tax, regulatory and operational issues associated with offshore insurance.

He spoke on recent trends in securitisation, opportunities for commercial insurers in the offshore market, segregated account companies and other special-purpose vehicles.

Hundreds of delegates representing the largest and most influential companies in the US, UK, Europe and Australasia attended the conference.

It focused on the international insurance market, new insurance and financial products, trans-global investment issues and various tax, legal and regulatory issues relating to the industry.

"It was very much my pleasure and privilege to be chosen to represent the offshore insurance industry at this very important meeting,'' Mr. Blankenship said.

"There was extensive interest among all the participants in offshore insurance opportunities available in Bermuda and elsewhere.

"I am certain that Bermuda maintains an elite position in the eyes of the international insurance market and it is our goal to assist Bermuda businesses in reaping the economic benefits of that well-earned position.'' BUSINESS BUC