A heavyweight line up of finance and legal professionals will consider the future of the funds industry with a particular focus on how the markets will impact International Finance Centres at the annual Funds Conference hosted and organised by Jersey Finance in London next month.

Two panel sessions will explore some of the key issues and opportunities facing the industry. The first will explore the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (AIFMD) Level 2 implementation methods and its implications on the European and offshore alternative funds industries.

Later in the programme a fresh panel will debate the current funds marketplace from an International Finance Centre perspective, discussing the key drivers for funds businesses and identifying trends in the split of real estate, private equity and hedge funds as well as the opportunities for fund managers and promoters looking to use Jersey. These panels will be moderated by Anthony Hilton, City Editor of the Evening Standard.

Two keynote presentations will open and close the event with David Smith, Economics Editor at The Sunday Times, addressing the audience with his insight into how western economies can rebalance in light of the economic crisis and steady rise of the BRIC economies. Jersey’s Treasury and Resources Minister Senator Philip Ozouf will close the conference by underscoring the States of Jersey’s commitment to safeguarding and building the future of the island’s funds industry.

Geoff Cook, who will open the event, commented:

“Against a backdrop of market volatility, economic uncertainty and regulatory burden, this year’s funds conference brings together an exceptional group of industry experts to explore these challenges and look at the opportunities ahead. Jersey has had a positive start to 2012 with the introduction of the Private Placement Fund Regime, the value of which is already being realised by fund managers. Issues such as AIFMD will continue to present regulatory challenges for jurisdictions like Jersey, however it will also offer opportunities and I look forward to generating thought-provoking debate on these important issues.”

‍

Nigel Strachan added:

“Having reported a 2.5% increase in the net asset value of funds under administration and a 25% increase in the number of unregulated funds during 2011, Jersey’s funds industry continues to perform well, strengthening its offering for sophisticated, professional and institutional investors and focusing on providing high levels of certainty. Maintaining momentum will be vital this year and this conference will undoubtedly provide a fascinating insight into what is on the horizon for our industry.”

Jersey Finance’s 7th annual Funds Conference takes place on April 18th 2012 at the British Museum starting at 12.30pm and closing at 7pm following a drinks reception. To book a place or to view the full list of speakers and the complete programme please visit http://www.jerseyfinance.je/Events/Jersey-Finance-Events/Jersey-Finance-Annual-London-Funds-Conference.