FWD Group Holdings Limited reported strong first quarter new business highlights for the three months ended 31 March 2026, showcasing consistent financial performance and strategic expansion across its pan-Asian footprint. New business sales reached US$720 million on an annualised premium equivalent (APE) basis, up 4% 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 long-term value creation.
Huynh Thanh Phong, Group Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of FWD Group, attributed the results to the company's diversified presence 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. FWD introduced 11 new products across the region during the quarter, addressing consumer needs highlighted in its February 2026 survey, which found that the majority of Asia's middle-class feel financially anxious and underprepared for retirement.
The Hong Kong SAR & Macau SAR segment delivered continued growth in Q1 2026 compared to the record high first quarter in 2025, driven by domestic demand and its role as a financial hub. Japan reported strong growth, benefiting from its strategic expansion into the retirement and savings segment in mid-2025, complementing its established protection business. The Expansion Markets segment—comprising Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam—posted excellent growth, fueled by the broker and independent financial advisor channel and solid bancassurance results. In contrast, the Thailand & Cambodia segment focused on developing quality new business amid sustained headwinds from a lower rate environment in Thailand. As previously announced, Khun Knattapisit Krutkrongchai (KK), a seasoned insurance executive with nearly 30 years of experience, will join FWD as Chief Executive Officer, Thailand, effective 11 May 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.
FWD Group remains confident in the long-term potential of Asia's rising middle class, despite near-term external shocks. The outlook for the high-net-worth segment, served by FWD Private, remains positive, particularly in financial hubs like Hong Kong SAR. More details on FWD's performance and strategy can be found on their official website at www.fwd.com and the original press release at www.newmediawire.com.
