Welcome to the latest edition of the market.

Global economists predict that Asia is set to become a dominant force in the future as it continues to outstrip the rest of the world in terms of its economic growth.

As Lloyd’s releases new research on the region, we examine the growth of this vast economy and identify the specific opportunities and challenges facing insurers, particularly as Lloyd’s has now been given the go-ahead to develop its presence in China.

The new year heralds the expectation that market conditions will provide opportunities for underwriters, but the events of the past 12 months will have changed the way many underwriters approach risks. We outline the challenges and prospects for insurers in 2006. And with the World Cup coming up this summer, we speak to one of the market’s leading sports insurers, David Bruce of Hiscox.

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We continue to value your feedback and contributions, if you have a story please email me at kassy.margetson@lloyds.com.

I hope you enjoy the issue.