Talanx on Federal Reserve-decision: Statement of Dr Immo Querner, CFO of Talanx AG

„Talanx welcomes the decision by the US Federal Reserve to increase its key interest rate. Not only does this send out the right signal for greater optimism in a US economy that is well on the road to recovery after eight years, it is also an important step towards the normalisation of monetary policy conditions for capital markets. Interest rates would therefore seem to have passed their lowest point."

„If the oil price now rises and hence also the inflation rate, interest rates in Europe will similarly be able to move higher. It is to be hoped that the European Central Bank follows the lead set by the Fed. With its protracted zero-rate policy the ECB is compelling German insurers to put loans on their books, the returns on which are no longer commensurate with the risk. Furthermore, with its programme of asset purchases the ECB is constricting the market for liquid instruments, hence promoting an additional price decline and forcing investors into an unholy chase for adequate returns. The signal sent out by the US opens the way for the ECB to reconsider its expansionary monetary policy. It should not miss the opportunity."

Disclaimer

This news release contains forward-looking statements which are based on certain assumptions, expectations and opinions of the Talanx AG management. These statements are, therefore, subject to certain known or unknown risks and uncertainties. A variety of factors, many of which are beyond Talanx AG’s control, affect Talanx AG’s business activities, business strategy, results, performance and achievements. Should one or more of these factors or risks or uncertainties materialise, actual results, performance or achievements of Talanx AG may vary materially from those expressed or implied in the relevant forward-looking statement. Talanx AG does not guarantee that the assumptions underlying such forward-looking statements are free from errors nor does Talanx AG accept any responsibility for the actual occurrence of the forecasted developments. Talanx AG neither intends, nor assumes any obligation, to update or revise these forward-looking statements in light of developments which differ from those anticipated.