The role Bermuda plays in helping international businesses across the world in the current economic crisis was the focus for The Bermuda International Business Association's (BIBA) Bermuda Annual Financial Services Briefing and Reception in Hong Kong held yesterday.

The event, which was held in conjunction with the American Chamber of Commerce at The Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, attracted 150 lawyers, accountants and financial services industry advisors to a series of presentations by leaders of the Island's international business community, who provided insights into the latest regulations, business developments and opportunities for financial services businesses in Bermuda.

The Bermuda representatives included: Vicki Coelho, chairman, and Cheryl Packwood, CEO of BIBA; Frances Woo, managing partner of Appleby Hong Kong; David Lamb, partner at Conyers Dill & Pearman Hong Kong; Steve Castree, CEO of Equinoxe Alternative Investment Services; and Scott McLaren from RBC Dexia Investment Services, an affiliate of Butterfield Bank in Hong Kong.

"Bermuda is proactively delivering its messages of regulatory and legal excellence, product innovation and service at a time when international businesses around the world are beginning to put their problems behind them and focus on solutions," said Ms Packwood. "Our decision to engage and be active in key markets is proving prescient as audiences are responding to Bermuda's message and are recognising the distinct role Bermuda plays as an international business and financial centre.

A delegation of Bermuda business executives will be attending the Fund Forum Asia 2009 Conference in Singapore next week, with the event expected to draw more than 350 executives from leading Asian-based investment funds and their advisors.

In addition, BIBA, in co-ordination with the American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore, will be holding a Bermuda Financial Services Briefing and Luncheon on Tuesday May 5 at The Fullerton Hotel in Singapore.