Attracting hedge funds and further business in the captive and insurance sectors to Bermuda is one of the key objectives of the Bermuda International Business Association in the wake of a successful trip to Europe.

The Association attended the 12th annual European MARHedge Conference in Geneva and followed up with its own presentation in Paris that brought together key individuals from the global professional services and financial firms located in the French capital.

Top lawyers, accountants and financial professionals are given an outline of Bermuda's influence in the international business community and key business opportunities on the Island across the various sectors.

"Judging from the warm reception and reactions BIBA received at these two events, it is clear the international business community appreciates the dedication to professional quality and execution that characterises Bermuda," said BIBA chief executive Cheryl Packwood.

"Thousands of international companies and funds are already registered on the Island and we are poised to grow even further should the success of Paris and Geneva come to a head in the near future.

"Europe is on the verge of expansion and these first contacts place Bermuda in a nice position to start picking up business in the Hedge Fund, captive and insurance sectors. There was enormous interest in these areas in Paris. Follow up for us will be critical."

The MARHedge conference looked at alternative investment opportunities in emerging markets and other venues. While the Paris reception was put on solely by BIBA.

"The feedback from our attendees has been overwhelming. Our experience here is a clear indication that global business leaders understand the overwhelming benefits of being associated with Bermuda," Ms Packwood said.