Episode 184: Impact of higher rates and increased volatility on insurance investors with Cindy Beaulieu, CIO of Conning’s North American Operations

In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley speaks with Cindy Beaulieu, Chief Investment Officer of Conning's North American operations, about the impact of higher interest rates and increased market volatility on insurance investors. Cindy, a seasoned expert in insurance asset management, shares her insights on how the sudden shift to a high-inflation, high-yield environment has affected insurance portfolios and how Conning has helped clients navigate these changes. She emphasizes the importance of strategic asset allocation, diversification, and staying calm during periods of uncertainty.

Cindy also discusses how insurers are reacting to higher yields, including the potential for taking less risk while still achieving desirable returns. She highlights the continued importance of non-traditional asset classes like CLOs and esoteric ABS in diversified portfolios and explains how Conning’s holistic approach to insurance asset management, including their capabilities in structured securities, investment-grade corporates, and more, helps clients manage both risks and opportunities in a changing market.

The episode wraps up with Cindy’s thoughts on the outlook for 2024, where she foresees continued challenges but also opportunities in structured securities and investment-grade corporates. She also shares valuable advice about seizing opportunities in crises and her wish to have lunch with Warren Buffett, appreciating his long-term success and ability to adapt to market cycles.