KOREA: The listing of Korean life insurers on the stock market has
provoked controversy and anticipation. But as another company in the
sector made its initial public offering this week, investors may find
themselves underwhelmed, the JoongAng Daily reported at the weekend.
According to analysts at major securities firms, the life insurance
industry is forecast to see only moderate growth. Though certainly
attractive, stock in insurers is unlikely to generate high returns. “The
insurance sector in general is currently in the midst of seeking new
growth engines [such as] globalization and the launch of new products
and high-quality services,” said Sean Shin, an analyst specializing in
the insurance sector at Mirae Asset Securities.