In part four of our special series of interviews with some of the people who have made Brokerslink a success over twenty years, we speak to Anthony Lim, founder and executive chairman of Acclaim, our partner in Singapore. Anthony has been an integral part of the Brokerslink community since the start.
Anthony, you were a member of the PanAsian Alliance (PAA) when it merged with Brokerslink and Alinta in 2008 – how did the merger of those three networks impact insurance broking in the region?
As a founding member of the PanAsian Alliance, it was our aspiration to form a global insurance broking network. The merger of Brokerslink, Alinta and Brokerslink leapfrogged this aspiration.
The global broking network we have today gives brokers in the Asian region a chance to be a part of a network that is not controlled by an American-centric global entity. In Brokerslink, we in the Asian region have a strong voice on a global platform.
Brokerslink is not a European, nor American, nor Asian network - it is everything for everyone.
How has the role of independent broking in Singapore changed over these years?
The role of independent broking in Singapore has been crowded out by the large international brokers who have an increasing monopoly on large, complex risks.
However, there is a strategic role for a credible independent broker, as many clients want more options besides just the international brokers.
In this sense, Acclaim has been fortunate to be an alternative option for the large and complex risks in Singapore and the wider region. We’re proud to be able to provide solutions for such risks and offer a reliable, professional alternative to international broking firms.
What are some of your proudest Brokerslink moments?
One of my proudest moments was when Acclaim hosted our Brokerslink family for the Global Conference in Singapore in 2013.
Our partners and affiliates from around the world ended the gala dinner with singing and dancing, confirming my view that business conferences can be real fun!! In my opinion, life is too short not to have a bit of good clean fun whilst we do serious business!
In your view, what are some of the biggest milestones Brokerslink has achieved over the last 20 years?
One of the most significant milestones is the transformation of Brokerslink from a network to a global company. Brokerslink is truly a unique business model, both a global network and a global company, owned by the members with relevant shareholdings in the Brokerslink company.
