The Isle of Man Funds Association hosted their esteemed annual Autumn Luncheon in London on Thursday 13th November 2014, at the prestigious venue of the Clothworkers Hall, Mincing Lane in London.

The annual event, which has grown to be a key date in the Island’s Fund industry’s calendar, welcomed over 160 guests ranging from senior fund managers and senior professionals, investors of many international and London based funds and investment business representatives; the Isle of Man was equally represented with various Isle of Man firms both attending as delegates and hosting tables at the event.

The program commenced with a pre-lunch networking session before guests being seated for lunch. Paul Kneen, Chairman of the Association and Chief Executive Officer of the Abacus Financial Services Group provided opening remarks to guests. Mr Kneen thanked those who have supported the growth and development of the Island’s funds industry over the last year and introduced the Isle of Man’s Minister for Economic Development, Laurence Skelly MHK.

Minister Skelly updated the assembled audience on many of the positive developments in the Isle of Man economy, highlighting the benefits of its diverse sectors and a focused strategy for growth.

Following lunch, Mr Ian Morley, Special Consultant to the Funds Association in London, introduced the main speaker Mr Jim Mellon.

Mr Mellon, who is an Isle of Man resident, is known globally throughout the investment industry as an investor and entrepreneur with a flair for establishing successful international companies. Mr Mellon gave a very interesting and insightful look into significant technological developments which will impact global markets, economies and work forces, as a summary of a new book he has written with his co-author Mr Al Chalabi, entitled “Fast Forward”. 

Commenting on the event, Mr Kneen said: “This year has been an extremely busy year for the Isle of Man Funds Association with a full program of activity undertaken to promote and develop the Island as a fund jurisdiction for both traditional and niche fund services. Without doubt, the Isle of Man is a well-established jurisdiction among the international funds arena, and we are able to continue to seek to build on our efforts and grow our market share thanks to the invaluable efforts of those who continue to promote the Island as an International business centre and a reputable and effective fund jurisdiction.

“The annual luncheon not only celebrates the continued growth of our funds industry but also highlights the invaluable work and support of the Isle of Man Funds Association members and the Isle of Man Government, in particular the Department of Economic Development.”

Photo - (L-R) Jim Mellon (Investor/Entrepreneur and guest speaker at the event), Ita McArdle (Isle of man Funds Association Committee Member), Laurence Kelly MHK (Minister of Economic Development) and Paul Kneen, (Chairman of the Isle of Man Funds Association and Chief Executive Officer of the Abacus Financial Services Group).