
Behavioural scientist to speak at Convergence
The keynote speaker at ILS Bermuda's Convergence conference will explain to attendees how human behaviour is as important as the quantitative analysis of risk and return in investing and insurance underwriting, conference organisers said.
Paul Craven is an international speaker and specialist in behavioural science, which explains how “how real people make real decisions in the real world".
ILS Bermuda said Craven, whose book is about to be published, has developed a unique perspective on decision-making through almost 30 years in the asset management industry at Schroders, PIMCO, and Goldman Sachs. HE has also served on the Investment Committee of the £2bn Akzo Nobel pension scheme since 2014.
"He is a specialist in behavioural science, particularly the business psychology of persuasion, and a founding member of the Cialdini Institute," the organisation said. "Paul is dedicated to helping business professionals become more influential using the ethical, research-backed strategies of Dr Robert Cialdini, whose book Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion has been endorsed by Warren Buffett and many successful investors and entrepreneurs."
The conference takes place at Pier 6 on Front Street, Hamilton from October 7-9.
"Paul's keynote will explore the behavioural economics of decision-making, which is crucial for analysts, underwriters, and risk executives in the ILS and alternative risk transfer markets," ILS Bermuda said. "During this session, attendees will learn that understanding and predicting human behaviour is as important as the quantitative analysis of risk and return. Paul's deep understanding of cognitive biases, such as overconfidence, confirmation bias, and loss aversion, can help professionals recognise and mitigate these biases in their own decision-making processes, ultimately driving better outcomes in their investment and risk-taking strategies."
Jo Stanton, Chair of ILS Bermuda commented: “We're excited to welcome Paul Craven, whose groundbreaking work in behavioural science uncovers how human behaviour shapes market trends. Paul’s keynote promises to unravel the fascinating ways our actions influence economic outcomes and demonstrate that the smallest change can lead to outsized gains. We can't wait to dive into a session that's sure to be as enlightening as it is engaging.”
Craven's academic background includes an MA (Hons) in history from St. John's College, Cambridge University. His talks use anecdotes and data to show how human behaviour patterns have remained consistent despite dramatic changes in our world. Additionally, Paul is an accredited member of the exclusive Magic Circle, offering insights into ‘sleight of mind’— how cognitive biases and mental shortcuts can cause the human mind to play tricks.
To register for Convergence 2024, visit https://ilsbermuda.com/convergence
For sponsorship opportunities, email convergence@ilsbermuda.com
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