FWD Group Holdings Limited (1828.HK) today reported strong new business highlights for the first quarter ended 31 March 2026, demonstrating continued momentum across its pan-Asian operations. New business sales reached US$720 million on an annualised premium equivalent (APE) basis, a 4% increase compared to the same period in 2025. The new business contractual service margin grew 18% year-on-year to US$556 million, reflecting improved profitability and product mix.
Huynh Thanh Phong, Group Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of FWD Group, attributed the results to the company's diversified footprint and distribution model. “Japan and our Expansion Markets in Southeast Asia were key drivers of growth, alongside another solid performance from Hong Kong SAR, despite the high base effect from a record first quarter comparison in 2025,” he said. The Expansion Markets segment—comprising Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam—posted excellent growth, driven by the broker and independent financial advisor channel and solid bancassurance results.
In Japan, strong growth reflected the boost from its strategic expansion into the retirement and savings segment in mid-2025, complementing its long-standing protection business. The Hong Kong SAR & Macau SAR segment delivered continued growth compared to the record high first quarter in 2025, reflecting both domestic and financial hub-related demand. The Thailand & Cambodia segment focused on developing quality new business amid sustained growth headwinds from the lower rate environment in Thailand.
FWD Group introduced 11 new products across the region during the quarter. A consumer outlook survey released in February 2026 showed that the majority of Asia’s middle-class feel financially anxious and underprepared for retirement, underscoring the need for innovative insurance solutions. The company also announced that Khun Knattapisit Krutkrongchai (KK) will join as Chief Executive Officer, Thailand, effective 11 May 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.
“At FWD Group, we have confidence over the long-term that the rising middle-class trend in Asia will continue, despite the near-term impacts of external shocks on economies and consumers in the region,” added Huynh Thanh Phong. He noted that the outlook for the high-net-worth segment, served by FWD Private, remains positive, particularly given the strength of financial hubs like Hong Kong SAR.
FWD Group is a pan-Asian life and health insurance business serving approximately 40 million customers across 10 markets. The company’s customer-led and tech-enabled approach aims to deliver innovative propositions and a simpler insurance experience. For more information, visit www.fwd.com. The original press release is available at www.newmediawire.com.
