Daily Support: APCAL, Committed Actor in the Development and Professionalization of Insurance Brokerage

By Nathalie Schuh, Managing Director of APCAL

The world of insurance brokerage is evolving rapidly, and at the heart of these changes is the Professional Association of Insurance Brokers in Luxembourg (APCAL). Thanks to the ongoing support of its Members, Sponsors, and Partners, APCAL materializes projects that strengthen its commitment to the profession and contribute to its development. Let’s discover the initiatives of 2023 that testify to this dynamism.

Strengthening Documentation and Tools

APCAL invests in the regular revision of the documentation it offers, including IDD pre-contractual packs for Luxembourg and several countries in LPS, the IDD ToolBox, as well as various procedures, including those related to Sanctions and AML/CFT. This approach aims to ensure the most comprehensive and up-to-date information for insurance brokerage professionals. In addition, the association offers practical tools such as the ‘Global AML Risk Assessment,‘ enabling essential analysis to be confronted with the risk appetite of each organization, thereby enhancing the skills of brokers in the face of current challenges.

Now, it is possible to order these documents/tools directly on the APCAL website through the dedicated ‘Document Offer’ page. However, for any questions, direct contact via email at info@apcal.lu remains a preferred option.

Calendar of Obligations and Informative Conferences

APCAL informs its Members about annual reporting obligations with a dedicated calendar, ensuring optimal compliance.

Furthermore, participating in conferences such as the CAA’s LBC/FT Conference in collaboration with ACA or informational sessions with the CAA provides Members with an opportunity to access crucial information and stay up-to-date on the latest regulatory developments.

Commitment to Visibility and Advocacy for Insurance Brokerage

APCAL is actively involved in advocating for the interests of insurance brokerage. Collaboration with BIPAR, particularly this year on the Retail Investment Strategy (RIS), reflects this commitment at the European level. Furthermore, local political actions taken following the legislative campaign emphasize the importance of raising awareness among Luxembourgish policymakers about the essential nature of the insurance brokerage profession.

Regular exchanges with the Commissariat aux Assurances (CAA) and collaborations with the Association des Compagnies d’Assurances (ACA) or our Belgian counterparts at FEPRABEL highlight APCAL’s commitment to establishing strategic partnerships to support its Members in an ever-changing environment.

And let’s not forget our Sponsors and Partners who play a crucial role in the realization of our projects and the achievement of our mission. Their support not only provides visibility to the association but also contributes to strengthening the professional network of our audience. We are grateful to our partners who share our vision and actively contribute to advancing insurance brokerage in Luxembourg.

Continuous Development of Resources

APCAL expands its offerings for Members with a more comprehensive website in both French and English, providing access to regular BIPAR briefings.

Furthermore, our audience can benefit, for example, from free access to Patrimonia or negotiated rates for Abilways conferences or Compliance Aperitifs.. They also have access to Insurance Breakfasts at the preferential rate of 100 euros negotiated with Decavi.

These partnerships strengthen the professional network within the association.

E-Learning Platform and Training Program

The training schedule is also enriched year by year, with over 37 virtual or in-person training sessions delivered by a dozen trainers in 2023. These training sessions are designed to be more targeted and operational, addressing the specific needs of insurance brokers and generating the necessary tools, such as the informational session organized around LC 22/22, for example. And, of course, to allow you to complete your continuous professional development training program!

APCAL remains at the forefront of technology by also providing an E-Learning platform in partnership with Ofrion, allowing Members and Partners to access remote training through our website, tailored to their busy schedules and at competitive rates.

Furthermore, the broker or sub-broker exam preparation program continues to evolve, providing opportunities for professional development and access to the profession with all the necessary support.

Conclusion

The ongoing commitment of APCAL to its Members and the insurance brokerage profession attests to its strategic vision and determination to stay at the forefront of industry developments. With concrete projects and an ever-expanding training offering, APCAL remains a key player in supporting and professionalizing insurance brokerage in Luxembourg.