Allianz China and Fudan University forge strategic partnership to advance finance and insurance research

In a significant move towards fostering collaboration and shared success in China, Allianz announced a strategic partnership with Fudan University, one of the leading universities in China renowned for its rigorous academic programs and cutting-edge research. A grand launch ceremony was held yesterday, with distinguished guests including Wu Wei, Vice Mayor of Shanghai and Gu Jun, Deputy Secretary General of Shanghai, Qiu Xin, Chair of University Council of Fudan University, Chen Zhimin, Vice President of Fudan University and Zhang Jun, Dean of the School of Economics of Fudan University, Renate Wagner, Member of the Board of Management, Allianz SE, Danny Lam, CEO of Allianz China Holding, and CEOs of Allianz business entities in China. 

The partnership is anchored by the establishment of the Fudan-Allianz Finance and Insurance Research Center, which aims to tackle pressing challenges in the finance and insurance sector, including technological innovation, risk management, and the needs of an aging society. 

Another key feature of this partnership is the sponsorship of Allianz Auditorium, a meeting facility located within the new building of the School of Economics at Fudan University. Allianz Auditorium will serve as a hub for dialogue and exchange among stakeholders in the financial sector, hosting events designed to enhance public financial literacy and engagement.

Gu Jun, Deputy Secretary General of Shanghai, attended the inauguration event to celebrate   the launch of the partnership. “The strategic cooperation between Allianz and Fudan University is of great significance and a best practice for cooperation between universities and financial institutions. We look forward to the strong alliance   between Allianz and Fudan, that not only promotes the deep integration of academic research and financial practice but also provides strong support for the cultivation of talents in the financial sector in Shanghai, enhancing Shanghai's influence as an international financial center and gateway.” 

Qiu Xin, Chair of University Council of Fudan University, highlighted in his opening remarks that this collaboration represents a pivotal milestone. “This collaboration represents a significant step taken by both parties to jointly contribute to the development of Shanghai as a financial center. Fudan will enhance collaborative innovation with Allianz, utilizing scientific planning, a pragmatic approach, and effective measures to transform the Fudan-Allianz Financial and Insurance Research Center into a pivotal think-tank research platform that spearheads industry development, thereby injecting new vitality into the construction of Shanghai's international financial center." He stated.

“The partnership with Fudan underscores Allianz's confidence to the Chinese market and marks an important step in deepening our local presence” says Renate Wagner, Member of the Board of Management, Allianz SE, “Together, Allianz and Fudan aspire to unlock opportunities for meaningful innovation, aiming to make a lasting impact on the sustainable development of the financial sector in Shanghai, across China, and around the world.”

 “By leveraging their respective strengths, both parties will continuously bolster the research capabilities of the research center.” said Professor Zhang from the School of Economics at Fudan University, “. This will produce forward-looking and practical research outcomes, addressing the needs and trends of the growing China insurance market. As a result, the center aims to become a "gold-lettered signboard  " in the finance and insurance sector” he added  .

"We aim to integrate the academic insights of leading institutions with the industry expertise of global enterprises, creating a comprehensive platform for academic research, talent cultivation, and international exchange.” Danny Lam, CEO of Allianz China Holding, reiterated Allianz China’s commitment to this collaboration, “This initiative will actively support the high-quality development of China’s financial and insurance sector." 

On the ceremony, Renate Wagner was officially appointed as Guest Professor at School of Economics, Fudan University. She received the official appointment certificate from Professor Zhang Jun, Dean of the School of Economics of Fudan University. 

Renate expressed her excitement on the new role, “I embrace it with humility, responsibility, and enthusiasm, recognizing the immense potential to bridge academic theory with practical business applications. I eagerly await returning to celebrate the inaugural achievements of our partnership and to engage with the vibrant academic community at Fudan.”