Professional services firm Aon has brought together over 100 industry commentators, policymakers and decision-makers for a two-day investment conference in Dublin.

The Aon Wealth Insights Series examined the ‘geopolitical and economic challenges’ facing investment choices in Europe, with a stated focus on pension and investment funds.

The Euro Area pension fund, at c. €3.2tn in assets, plays a big role in financial markets as institutional investors and Irish pension funds grew their asset base by 9% over the first quarter of 2023 to €128bn.

The two-day conference aimed to provide industry leaders with ideas to maximise the performance of pension and investment funds while ensuring that they integrate Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) within their strategies through responsible investing.

Minister Paschal Donohoe said: “Securing greater levels of private sector investment in Europe’s economy is one of the core priorities of the Eurogroup. Private capital is a key enabler to funding a greener, digital and more competitive Europe and investing in the continent’s future potential. However, economic certainty and stability is required to unlock increased private sector investment.

“The gathering of prominent investors and global experts at Aon in Dublin is an important opportunity to showcase the efforts being taken to further strengthen the competitiveness of the euro zone and map out Europe’s economic and fiscal future.

“By working together, governments and investors can help enhance the resilience of both the Irish and European economy and forge a pathway to economic prosperity.”

Other keynote speakers at the event included Nick Ashmore, Director of the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) and Paul Rangecroft, CEO of Wealth Solutions at Aon.

CEO of Aon Ireland Rachael Ingle added: “We’re delighted to bring influential investors here to Dublin for the Aon Wealth Insights conference. Over the past 30 years, Ireland has emerged as a key investment and financial hub in Europe with a unique pool of expertise and skills that has helped the sector to thrive.

“However, new risks are emerging which investors must prepare and plan for. From market volatility and higher interest rates to policy and geopolitical change across the continent, these challenges will directly impact retirement and investment funds.

“Through this two-day gathering of Europe’s investment community, our team at Aon can help mitigate these risks and seize new opportunities that are emerging.

“With ESG high on the agenda for leaders in every sector, responsible investing can help ensure that investors provide strong, long-term, and sustainable returns for the people and communities they serve.”

Photo: Rachael Ingle, CEO of Aon Ireland