AIG Australia seeks brokers’ backing
AIG Australia CEO Chris Townsend is touring the country to reassure brokers and their clients that the local operation of the battered US insurance giant is in good shape and eagerly awaiting rebranding.
Regional Manager Corporate Accounts Practice Tony McHarg says AIG Australia is keen to promote transparency, and while the AIG situation has not affected the local operation directly, it has been affected by “perception”.
“It is important for us to focus on frequent, factual, proactive communication – to brokers, clients and staff,” he told insuranceNEWS.com.au.
“We’re here to stay and are getting on with taking care of customers. The business is in an excellent financial position and is positioned well for future growth.
“Despite the events of the past few months our liquidity remains strong, as is our ability and willingness to pay claims. [AIG’s] general insurance companies did not cause this situation, but they will play a crucial role in the solution.”
Mr McHarg says it is important to note that neither AIG Australia nor AIG NZ have taken a single dollar of $US180 billion ($259.8 billion) so far advanced to AIG by the US Treasury.
He says AIU Holdings, of which the local operations will be a part, will be positioned as a strong, clearly separate, independently run entity, with a brand distinct from AIG.
“This is a powerful step forward, positioning us well for growth and enabling us to compete on the strength of our history and performance without being encumbered by other events,” he said.
Regional Manager Corporate Accounts Practice Tony McHarg says AIG Australia is keen to promote transparency, and while the AIG situation has not affected the local operation directly, it has been affected by “perception”.
“It is important for us to focus on frequent, factual, proactive communication – to brokers, clients and staff,” he told insuranceNEWS.com.au.
“We’re here to stay and are getting on with taking care of customers. The business is in an excellent financial position and is positioned well for future growth.
“Despite the events of the past few months our liquidity remains strong, as is our ability and willingness to pay claims. [AIG’s] general insurance companies did not cause this situation, but they will play a crucial role in the solution.”
Mr McHarg says it is important to note that neither AIG Australia nor AIG NZ have taken a single dollar of $US180 billion ($259.8 billion) so far advanced to AIG by the US Treasury.
He says AIU Holdings, of which the local operations will be a part, will be positioned as a strong, clearly separate, independently run entity, with a brand distinct from AIG.
“This is a powerful step forward, positioning us well for growth and enabling us to compete on the strength of our history and performance without being encumbered by other events,” he said.