Bermuda Premier encouraged by NY visit

Bermuda’s Premier David Burt has met with senior business executives in New York City during a two-day visit arranged by the Bermuda Business Development Agency (BDA).

The Premier, accompanied by Economic Development & Tourism Minister Jamahl Simmons, Permanent Secretary Randy Rochester, and the BDA's head of business development Sean Moran, spent time with corporate leaders of several companies, including fund management, private equity and venture capital companies.

"I am very encouraged by the discussions that took place during our meetings in New York," said the Premier. "I know the relationships fostered will produce results for Bermuda. The government is focused on growing our current industry offerings and diversifying our economy and we know that by working with both local and international partners, we can achieve those goals."

The BDA arranged meetings with executives at numerous companies representing different industries and areas of focus. The itinerary included: a fund of funds reinsurer in the process of establishing a Bermuda office; two companies that recently set up investment management and administration operations in Bermuda; other companies considering the island as a location; plus influential legal advisors and consultants who refer prospective investors to the jurisdiction.

"The talks were very positive and productive, and gave us the opportunity to hear different perspectives on the Bermuda business experience, as well as the government's objectives for job creation and economic diversification," said Moran. "A recurring theme was that Bermuda has been successful in maintaining its blue-chip reputation by attracting quality business, but we cannot rest on our laurels. Global regulatory, taxation and geo-political changes all pose challenges. Our island must continue to work collaboratively to ensure we remain competitive in a world where technology is becoming the real equaliser."

Among those who met with the Bermuda delegation were executives from Rosh Capital Management, law firm Katten Muchin Rosenman, Centaur Fund Services, Wafra Investment Advisory Group, Derivee Capital Advisors, Rosecliff Ventures, and the Oliver Wyman Group.

According to the BDA, opportunities presented by new distributed ledger (blockchain) technology, digital banking and cryptocurrencies featured in every discussion.