FWD Group reported a 4% year-on-year increase in new business sales to US$720 million for the first quarter of 2026, driven by sustained demand in Hong Kong and Japan.
The pan-Asian life insurer recorded a new business contractual service margin of US$556 million, representing an 18% growth compared to the same period in 2025.
The Hong Kong and Macau reporting segment delivered continued growth despite a high base effect from a record first quarter the previous year.
FWD attributed this momentum to strong domestic demand and the region’s status as a financial hub for high-net-worth clients.
“This is another strong set of results, reflecting our consistent track record of performance, growth, and the diversified pan-Asian footprint and distribution model of FWD Group,”
said Huynh Thanh Phong, Group Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of FWD Group.
In Japan, the company saw growth following a strategic expansion into the retirement and savings segment in mid-2025 alongside its established protection business.
Meanwhile, expansion markets including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam posted strong growth driven by independent financial advisors and bancassurance channels.
FWD introduced 11 new products across the region during the quarter.
The product launches followed internal survey data indicating that many middle-class consumers in Asia feel financially anxious and underprepared for retirement.
The company also announced a leadership change in Thailand, a market currently facing growth headwinds from a lower interest rate environment.
Khun Knattapisit Krutkrongchai is scheduled to join FWD as Chief Executive Officer for Thailand on 11 May 2026, subject to regulatory approval.
Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Hong Kong, based on image by starmultikharisma via Magnific