The Isle of Man’s financial services industry was the big winner at the Professional Advisor International Fund and Product Awards 2015 which were presented in London on Wednesday night (7th October). The Isle of Man was named ‘Best International Finance Centre’ fending off strong competition from Jersey, Guernsey, Malta, Luxembourg and Dublin.

In addition, Isle of Man-based firms won 9 out of the 13 awards presented on the night.

Laurence Skelly MHK, Minister for Economic Development, collected the award and commented:

‘This is fantastic recognition for our financial services industry. The award for Best International Finance Centre reflects the hard work of the Department’s Financial Services team which has been working with industry to shape an evolving landscape and make the Isle of Man a great place to do business with.

‘The near clean sweep of awards for Isle of Man-based firms demonstrates the world class products and services that local industry continues to offer.

‘Financial and professional services are the bedrock of the Isle of Man’s economy in terms of National Income and employment. The sector combined accounts for well over a third of the Isle of Man’s economy and, despite ongoing regulatory and global economic pressures, remains the largest contributor to the Island’s track record of 31 years of unbroken economic growth.

‘Our award for Best International Finance Centre and the widespread success for Isle of Man-based businesses shows us to be a dynamic and diversified financial centre, a transparent international business partner and an incubator for innovation.’

Now in their 16th year, the Awards honour firms in the financial services industry offering products and services across borders. There were a large number of entries to this year’s awards from a wide range of companies in the offshore sector.