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“BOC Life 6th Trampoline Asian Championships 2024" Makes Its Historic Debut  Top Asian Trampoline Athletes Compete for Paris Olympics Qualification
  • News
  • 10 May 2024

“BOC Life 6th Trampoline Asian Championships 2024" Makes Its Historic Debut Top Asian Trampoline Athletes Compete for Paris Olympics Qualification

The "BOC Life 6th Trampoline Asian Championships 2024" (The Championships) made its historic debut in Hong Kong today, unveiling the two-day competitions with over 120 top trampoline athletes from 12 Asian countries and regions gathered to compete for the Paris Olympics qualifications. The Championships is title sponsored by BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (BOC Life) and organised by The Gymnastics Association of Hong Kong, China. This esteemed event, supported by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, HKSAR Government with the Arts and Sport Development Fund (ASDF) (Sports Portion), has received official authorisation from the Federation Internationale De Gymnastique (FIG) and the Asian Gymnastics Union (AGU). Committed to promoting the sports development in Hong Kong, BOC Life is thrilled to create more avenues for Hong Kong’s young athletes to develop their sporting potential and talent through this unique opportunity. Members of the public could also experience the challenging yet fun-filled trampoline sport through the trampoline experiential activities provided in the communities during the Championships. Mr. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life, shared at the opening ceremony, "We are thrilled to join hands with the Gymnastics Association of Hong Kong, China, to host this tournament in Hong Kong for the first time, and see the Championships that brings together over 120 trampoline elites from 12 Asian countries and regions, offering unique platforms not only to showcase their exceptional trampoline skills and talent, but also enhance exchanges and collaborations across the participating Asian countries and regions, creating pinnacle experiences of trampoline sports in Asia.” Mr. Kenneth Fok Kai Kong, JP, the President of the Gymnastics Association of Hong Kong, China, representing the organising committee, also expressed, "This event is not only a grand celebration of trampoline sports but also an important platform to strengthen the exchange and cooperation of trampoline sports in the Asian region. Athletes will showcase their skills and talents here while competing with outstanding players from across Asia, collectively elevating the level and quality of trampoline sports. The hosting of the Trampoline Asian Championships once again demonstrates the status and strength of Hong Kong in the international sports arena." Taking place on 11th and 12th May, 2024 at the Tsuen Wan Sports Centre, the “BOC Life 6th Trampoline Asian Championships 2024” is a remarkable showcase of Hong Kong’s significance in the Asian sports arena. The Championships attracted over 120 top trampoline athletes from 12 Asian countries and regions to compete for the 2024 Paris Olympics qualification through the tournament. In addition to the exciting competition among the elite trampolinists and medalists from the Asian Games, spectators can also support and cheering for the Hong Kong trampoline teams onsite.During the opening ceremony, Mr. Liu Xing, a member of the Trampoline Technical Committee of the International Gymnastics Federation and Chairman of the Asian Gymnastics Union Trampoline Technical Committee, hosted the oath-taking ceremony for the athletes, coaches, and judges. Mr. Pui Kwan Kay SBS BBS MH, the Honorary President of the Gymnastics Association of Hong Kong, China, commissioned Ms. He Wenna and Mr. Lu Chunlong, the Beijing Olympic trampoline champions as the Honorary Ambassadors of the Championships. Ms. He Wenna, and the distinguished Mr. Lu Chunlong, also shared their indelible journey and profound insights from their Olympics experiences, enlightened all the participating Asian trampolinists. Mr. Sun Zhaomin, Deputy-Director General of Department of Publicity, Cultural and Sports Affairs, Liaison Office of The Central People's Government in The Hong Kong S.A.R, Mr. LIU Xing, Trampoline Gymnastics Technical Committee; Trampoline Technical President of International Gymnastics Federation; Asian Gymnastics Union and Dr. Simon Fung, Chairperson of The Gymnastics Association of Hong Kong, China also officiated at the opening ceremony. The finals and award presentation ceremony of the BOC Life 6th Trampoline Asian Championships will be held from 15:30 to 16:30 on 12th May 2024 (Sunday). The organiser also provides experiential activities at Tsuen Wan Plaza, “Dream Big Jump High”, for citizens to experience the fun of trampoline. 

Cross-sector leaders Join the BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2024 Charity Race Promoting Employee Wellness and Raising Funds  For Hong Kong’s Youth Development and STEAM Education
  • News
  • 13 April 2024

Cross-sector leaders Join the BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2024 Charity Race Promoting Employee Wellness and Raising Funds For Hong Kong’s Youth Development and STEAM Education

The “BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2024”(The Marathon), the first-ever harbour marathon in Hong Kong title sponsored by BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (BOC Life), was held successfully on 13th April 2024.  The event is fully supported by the Harbourfront Commission and Energizing Kowloon East Office, Development Bureau of the HKSAR Government, with dozens of heavy-weight cross-sector leaders participated to support the charity race. The Marathon raised funds for RunOurCity Foundation and St. James’ Settlement’s youth development and STEAM education projects respectively.The Marathon started with the “CEO Run” from HarbourChill in Wanchai with participants including Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life; Vincent Cheng, Legislative Councillor and Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Hong Kong Sports Institute; Vincent Ng, Chairman of the Harbourfront Commission; April Kun, Head of Energizing Kowloon East Office, Development Bureau; Dr Fung Hong, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the CUHK Medical Centre; Francis Ngai, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of SVhk; Andes Leung, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of RunOurCity, Elton Ng, Founder and CEO of CORES, and Alex Ko, COO of Ming Pao Newspapers Limited. The Marathon showcased the cross-sector collaboration comprising the HKSAR government, commercial and social sectors, creating synergies and win-win while injecting positive energy into the society.BOC Life formed 14 corporate teams from its staff members and also colleagues of BOC Hong Kong to run for the youth development and STEAM education in Hong Kong. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life shared, “BOC Life is delighted to be the title sponsor of the first-ever harbour marathon in Hong Kong, embodying cross-sector collaboration from the HKSAR government, commercial and NGO sectors to create social value and win-win for all parties in the society. BOC Life is committed to delivering its brand promise of being the trusted life partner of its stakeholders. We work with different sectors to create greater social impact. This Marathon encourages employees to strengthen their physical wellness and enhances their resilience and team spirit, promoting the ‘Wellness Ecosystem’ and injecting positive energy to benefit the individuals, the corporations and the society at large.”Francis Ngai, Founder and CEO of the organizer SVhk said, “BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2024 is dedicated to facilitate employee wellness and promote the corporate culture of ‘Business with Purpose’, offering a practical platform for companies to show their commitment in social responsibility of ESG aspect. This year, we introduce the element of relay into the Marathon. With the CEO Run, we encourage corporate leaders to be the first baton of the relay, motivating their employees to run for a good cause together while staff members participating in other batons to complete the race as a team effort. This event not only reflects the dual commitment of the company to employee wellness and social responsibility, but also presents a mutual beneficial solution that integrates corporate mission with societal progress.”Andes Leung, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of RunOurCity, the event co-organiser & beneficiary, pointed out, “RunOurCity has consistently transformed lives through running, and in recent years, we have organised projects focusing on holistic physical and mental health. We are now dedicated to promoting the physical and mental wellness of employees and highlighting the importance of employee wellness through BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2024. This Marathon actively encourages companies to participate, raising their staff’s awareness on wellness and fostering team spirit through completing the Marathon in a relay format. It is truly meaningful as it also helps those in need in the society.”Josephine Lee, Chief Executive Officer of St. James’ Settlement, another benefiting organisation, stated, “On behalf of St. James’ Settlement, I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the Marathon as we are selected to be one of the beneficiaries of the BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2024. BOC Life generously increases the sponsorship for the new cohort of ‘BOC Life New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ Programme’, and with matching grant from the Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged under Social Welfare Department, the number of students benefiting from the programme has increased by over 50% as compared to the previous cohort. Together, we continue to cultivate the students’ knowledge in technology, environmental protection and financial management, enhancing their creativity, integration and application of knowledge and skills to face future challenges.”The course of the “BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2024” started from the HarbourChill in Wanchai and was divided into eight checkpoints, with participating corporate teams engaging in relay running. The routes covered various harbour front areas across different districts of Hong Kong, allowing participants to run into the community and enjoy the stunning Harbour scenery. The Marathon also featured support stations along the routes, providing participants with cheering and supplies. The on-site atmosphere was filled with joy and the exhilarating energy of enthusiasm. A carnival was held concurrently with corporate booths and fun-filled activities supported by various organisations. There were also performances by youth groups, making it a delightful and meaningful weekend for all participants. 

“BOC Life 6th Trampoline Asian Championships 2024" Over 120 Elite Trampoline Athletes from 12 Asian Countries & Regions Showcasing Excellence in Hong Kong
  • News
  • 11 April 2024

“BOC Life 6th Trampoline Asian Championships 2024" Over 120 Elite Trampoline Athletes from 12 Asian Countries & Regions Showcasing Excellence in Hong Kong

Title sponsored by BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (BOC Life) and organised by The Gymnastics Association of Hong Kong, China, "BOC Life 6th Trampoline Asian Championships 2024" will take place in Hong Kong for the first time on 11th and 12th May, 2024. This esteemed event, supported by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, HKSAR Government with the Arts and Sport Development Fund (ASDF) (Sports Portion), has received official authorization from the Federation Internationale De Gymnastique (FIG) and the Asian Gymnastics Union (AGU). Bringing together over 120 top trampoline athletes from 12 Asian countries and regions, this two-day competition promises to showcase the exceptional skills and talent of Asian trampoline elites, as well as compete for the qualification matches for the Paris Olympics. Mr. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life, the title sponsor of the event shared, "BOC Life is honoured to be the title sponsor of the ‘6th Trampoline Asian Championships 2024’ which will be held for the first time in Hong Kong. Together with the Gymnastics Association of Hong Kong, China, we are proud to support this prestigious sporting event that brings together elite tampolinists from 12 Asian countries and regions. Through this sponsorship, we promote the challenging and fun-filled sport of trampoline, while creating more opportunities for young athletes in Hong Kong to develop their sporting potential and talent, and cultivate a new generation that dares to break boundaries, challenges themselves, and strives for excellence. This will embody the Olympic motto of ‘Faster, Higher, Stronger’ and making contributions towards nurturing future elite trampolinists and Olympic medalists for Hong Kong."  Mr. Kenneth Fok Kai Kong, JP, the President of the Gymnastics Association of Hong Kong, China, representing the organising committee, also expressed, "The Trampoline Asian Championships serves as a premier platform for showcasing talent and fostering competition. Through hosting this significant trampoline event for the first time in Hong Kong, our aim is to promote trampoline sports and raise awareness among the citizens of Hong Kong. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for local athletes to engage in exchanges and competitions with world-class athletes, enhancing their skills and striving to become top contenders for medals. We hope that trampoline sports will become an elite program at the Hong Kong Sports Institute." During the press conference to announce the championships, Mr. Li Xiaopeng was appointed to be the ambassador for promoting the event. Coach Lam Pak Leung, the head coach of the Hong Kong Trampoline Team, also led a group of Hong Kong trampoline athletes, including Lee Kwun Wai, Liu Kit Ying Jennifer, Lai Shun Hey Marcus, to perform a professional and exciting trampoline demonstration. They showcased their skills and demonstrated their determination to compete for medals. To enhance the promotion of trampoline activities, the organising committee will set up various experiential activities in different areas throughout Hong Kong starting from late April. From 24th April to 12th May, there will be experiential activities at Tsuen Wan Plaza, allowing the public to experience the fun of trampoline.  

BOC Life and Social Ventures Hong Kong Inaugurates Hong Kong’s First Harbour Marathon Raising Funds to Benefit Youth Development and STEAM Education
  • News
  • 03 April 2024

BOC Life and Social Ventures Hong Kong Inaugurates Hong Kong’s First Harbour Marathon Raising Funds to Benefit Youth Development and STEAM Education

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (BOC Life), in partnership with Social Ventures Hong Kong (SVhk), inaugurates the “The BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon”, a charity race to fund Hong Kong’s youth development and STEAM educational projects. The first fund-raising marathon that loops around the Hong KongHarbour, taking place on 13th April 2024, with strong support from the Harbourfront Commission and the Energizing Kowloon East Office of the Development Bureau, HKSAR Government. Embodying cross-sector collaboration, involving the public, commercial and NGO sectors, this event aims at raising funds to support RunOurCity Foundation and St. James’ Settlement’s youth development and STEAM education projects respectively. In addition, this marathon promotes employee wellness among Hong Kong’s corporations, helping staff members enhance their perseverance and endurance to meet challenges, while injecting positive energy into enterprises, individuals and the society as a whole, contributing to Hong Kong’s development into a healthy and dynamic sustainable city. The Harbour Marathon will be kicked off with a CEO Run participated by CEOs and top executives from various sectors, at HarbourChill of Wanchai, to be followed by relays of respective corporate teams to complete the 42km marathon. Through participation in this exclusive marathon, C-suite executives are enabled to show care to their employees as well as the community at large.  With the route covering the waterfronts, runners will be able to enjoy not only the stunning views of the Hong Kong Harbour but also the vistas of various districts. On the marathon day, a fun-filled carnival will be held at HarbourChill for runners’ colleagues, families and friends to support, cheer and take photos with the runners onsite. They could also participate in new sports activities and games, and enjoy a unique yet memorable day together. Details of the “The BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon” are as follows:Date:    13 April 2024 (Saturday)Time:    10:00 am to 6:00 pm (Kick-off Ceremony at 9:45 am)Start & Finish Point and Carnival: HarbourChill, Wanchai, Hong Kong.For details, please access the BOC Life Harbour Marathon website: www.harbourmarathon.hk Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life said, “BOC Life is committed to fostering cross-sector collaboration to create win-win for all parties in the society. Youth education and development has been a key focus of BOC Life’s corporate philanthropy programmes. The participating corporate teams not only be able to raise funds for youth development and education projects, but can also promote team spirit through the relay runs, encouraging employees to exercise more to enhance physical fitness as well as perseverance to positively tackle challenges in life. Furthermore, this event will create triple wins to individuals, enterprises and the society, killing multiple birds with one stone. We are thrilled to have invited heavy-weight cross-industry corporate leaders from the public, commercial, sports, medical, social services and media sectors to join the CEO Run. Their participation to walk the talk in driving employees’ wellness will set a good example for other corporations to follow.” Francis Ngai, Founder and CEO of the organizer SVhk said, “Staff well-being is a key focus of employers. The BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon has provided a good platform for companies to show their concern for the physical and mental health of their employees. They could also build staff bonding, co-operation and team spirit In addition, through the training and the race.” The HKSAR Government’s support also contributed to the smooth running of the Marathon. Vincent Ng, Chairman of the Harbourfont Commission said, “The Harbourfont Commission strives to promote the vibrant development of the harbourfront, actively enhancing its vitality for the well-being of the citizens. The BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon will take runners through the beautiful waterfront areas, and various vistas of many districts, bringing people closer to the waters and giving them an unforgettable experience.” Participants of the CEO Run include heavyweight leaders from the public, commercial and social services sectors, namely,  Vincent Cheng, Legislative Councillor and Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Hong Kong Sports Institute; Vincent Ng, Chairman of the Harbourfront Commission; Ricky Chu, Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission; Leonie Lee, Commissioner for the Harbourfront; April Kun, Head of Energizing Kowloon East Office, Development Bureau; Dr Fung Hong, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the CUHK Medical Centre; Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life; Elton NG, Founder & CEO at CORES; Alex Ko, COO of Ming Pao Newspapers Limited; Titania Woo, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Management Association; Josephine Lee, Chief Executive Officer of St. James' Settlement; Joyce Chan, Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Award for Young People; Francis Ngai, Founder and CEO of Social Ventures Hong Kong; and Andes Leung, Co-Founder and CEO of RunOurCity.  

“BOC Life New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ Programme” Enhanced to Inject New Energy into HK’s STEAM Education
  • News
  • 16 November 2023

“BOC Life New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ Programme” Enhanced to Inject New Energy into HK’s STEAM Education

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (“BOC Life”) and St. James’ Settlement jointly announced the launch of the 2023-2024 “BOC Life New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ Programme” today. The programme has been enhanced by introducing courses designed by an internationally-renowned academic institution, using a more structured approach for learning, aiming to cultivate students’ interest in innovation through fun and creative learning experiences. The programme was first introduced in 2021, with an objective to promote STEAM1 education in Hong Kong by supporting underprivileged students entitled to the “Grant-in-aid Brightens Children’s Lives Service” of St. James’ Settlement. Curated for young learners, the curriculum integrates technology application with creative exploration to unlock their potential in innovation. In addition, the curriculum incorporated elements of environmental protection and financial management education, fostering students’ awareness of these concepts from a young age. Since its inception, the programme has already benefited a total of close to 310 students. Supported by the matching grant from the Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged managed by the Social Welfare Department, this new term will run for three years and is expected to benefit another 480 students, thereby bringing the total number of beneficiaries to nearly 800. The curriculum is designed for upper primary school students, using internationally-recognised teaching materials. It is aimed to empower students with coding skills for developing mobile applications (APPs), while also integrating concepts of environment, social and governance (ESG) and financial management, for example low carbon tips. Students will also have the opportunity to explore the connection between APPs and various STEAM tools, including micro: bit minicomputer and other auxiliary tools, which will enable them to understand logical and abstract concepts, such as conditional expressions, and sequences. Ms. Vivienne Chiu, Chief Brand and Communications Officer of BOC Life, said, “BOC Life is devoted to charity projects, particularly those relating to education. This programme has been widely welcomed by schools and students. It supports the needs of STEAM education in Hong Kong by providing resources and equipment to schools, and families in need, so that students could develop their interests in STEAM and unleash their creativity. We look forward to more cross-sector collaboration in driving STEAM education and contributing to the development of innovation and technology in Hong Kong.” Ms. Josephine Lee, Chief Executive Officer of St. James’ Settlement said, “We are very grateful to BOC Life and Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged for their support, which enable the programme to continue in the next three years. For school children, knowledge on innovation and technology, ESG, as well as financial management, will become increasingly important in the future. We hope that this programme will help equip school children, enhance their creativities and innovative ideas, and strengthen their abilities to apply knowledge and skills to meet future challenges.” At the opening ceremony, students and school representative enjoyed experimental activities designed to provide them with a deeper understanding of the programme. 1 STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics 

BOC Life & Golden Age Foundation Publish White Paper on Elderly
  • News
  • 08 August 2023

BOC Life & Golden Age Foundation Publish White Paper on Elderly

Hong Kong will Become a Super-Ageing Society in 2024 Advocating Joint Planning to Overcome Ageing Challenges Calling for Cross-sector Collaboration to Support Seniors & Caregivers BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (“BOC Life”) and the Golden Age Foundation (“GAF”) jointly released the “Ageing Together” White Paper today. The study explores the roles, pain points, and needs of seniors and caregivers in Hong Kong. The survey conducted for the White Paper found that caregivers also need attention and care. Given the differences in perception between seniors and caregivers regarding the current situation and expectations of seniors’ retirement life, caregivers should participate in the early planning the retirement of seniors. All sectors of society should strengthen cooperation to promote the development of elderly services and build an “age-friendly” city. According to data from the Hong Kong Census and Statistics Department, the proportion of people aged 65 and above in Hong Kong is expected to exceed 21% in 2024, thus entering the “super-ageing society.” Hong Kong's average life expectancy has consistently ranked among the highest in the world. According to a population analysis by the United Nations earlier this year, by 2050, Hong Kong is expected to have the world’s oldest population, with one in every 2.5 residents being a senior citizen. Addressing the ageing population issue has become urgent. To gain a deeper understanding of the retirement life of Hong Kong’s seniors as well as the experiences, pain points, and needs of seniors and caregivers, BOC Life conducted a quantitative research survey with 952 retired individuals and caregivers from middle-class or above families, and qualitative research through home visits to working caregivers. This White Paper, jointly released by BOC Life and GAF, has incorporated expert opinions from Prof. Vivian Lou, Director of the Sau Po Centre on Ageing at The University of Hong Kong, and Prof. Joshua Mok, Vice President of Lingnan University. Based on the survey results, the research team constructed the “Ageing Well Index”, covering four major aspects of elderly life: health, financial situation, family and relationships, and community support, to understand the satisfaction levels of seniors with their current lives. Survey results show:The “Ageing Well Index”, established through the White Paper survey, shows an average score of 6.0 out of 10, with relatively lower satisfaction levels in health and community support.While the majority of seniors undergo regular body check-ups, over 90% worry about serious health risks, over 80% about physical activity and memory and cognitive abilities, and over 60% about their mental health.The White Paper suggests that the best time for retirement planning is between the ages of 35 and 50. People between these ages with caregiving responsibilities should not only plan for their own retirement but also the elderly arrangements of their parents. The survey found that 81% of the interviewed retirees are satisfied with their present situation, but only 63% of caregivers believe their retired parents are satisfied with their present situation. For caregivers of seniors aged 80 or above, only 46% believe their parents are satisfied with their present situation. As seniors get older, the perception gap between seniors and caregivers regarding their life satisfaction widens, which may affect their caregiving and planning needs or hinder timely responses to emergencies. Financially, although 73% of interviewed seniors are satisfied with their financial arrangements, they still have financial worries. About half of the seniors use their pre-retirement monthly expenses as a benchmark for how much they would need during retirement. About 40% indicate they have not engaged in any financial planning for their retirement, indicating inadequate detailed preparation for future expenses. Among the interviewed caregivers, 85% belong to the “sandwich generation”, juggling their own careers while taking care of their families and elderly parents. Over 52% of caregivers express concern that future expenses for taking care of their parents will affect their financial plans or savings. The White Paper suggests that the best time for retirement planning is between the ages of 35 and 50. People between these ages with caregiving responsibilities should not only plan for their own retirement but also the elderly arrangements of their parents. This approach will not only enable caretakers to help their ageing parents feel more assured about their future, but also to be better equipped for planning their own retirement and care arrangements. The relevant planning should consider:The importance of early participation in and preparation for caregiving and planning.Prevention and management of related risks, including financial, health, and environmental risks.Continuous learning to enhance autonomy and skills (after retirement).Exploring and understanding related products and services that will help enhance post-retirement quality of life. Mr. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life, states, “Through this White Paper, BOC Life hopes to raise awareness among all sectors of society about the profound impact of ageing on individuals and the society. By incorporating the expertise and the experiences of the business community, social welfare sector, and academia, we can jointly develop the retirement services in Hong Kong, transform the elderly care ecosystem, and achieve synergy for the overall benefit of seniors, family caregivers, and the entire industry. We hope to establish Hong Kong as an 'age-friendly' sustainable city and contribute to the realisation of the mission to promote their sense of belonging, sense of security and sense of worthiness.” Mrs. Rebecca Choy Yung, Founder and Chairman of Golden Age Foundation, said, “To overcome the challenges posed by the ageing population, the business sector should leverage their business acumen and strategic thinking to satisfy the new needs of the middle-aged and the elderly, creating business for social good and shared value.” Prof. Vivian Lou, Director of the Sau Po Centre on Ageing at The University of Hong Kong, said, “Most caregivers are middle-aged or older females. Elderly care entails great expenses. All sectors in the society should recognise the contributions of caregivers, and support them to keep their jobs while caring for their older family members and be able to better balance between work and family.” The White Paper presents new insights into future elderly care services, proposing the collaboration of “insurance + elderly care services” to promote the development of the elderly care service industry, treating retirement planning as risk management, constructing a comprehensive risk assessment and management system, emphasising the participation of caregivers in seniors' retirement planning because “today's caregivers are tomorrow's seniors”. Early participation of caregivers in their parents’ retirement planning is mutually beneficial. The paper also advocates for continuing education for retired seniors to enhance their retirement planning capabilities, exploring the “insurance + service" model, and promoting coordinated development of elderly care services in the Greater Bay Area to improve the quality of life for seniors in both regions.

BOC Life partners with St. James’ Settlement and Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged to promote STEAM education while nurturing innovation and technology talents
  • News
  • 21 June 2023

BOC Life partners with St. James’ Settlement and Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged to promote STEAM education while nurturing innovation and technology talents

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (BOC Life) joint hands with St. James’ Settlement in staging the 2022-2023 “New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ Programme” (the Programme) Competition cum Graduation Ceremony today, with the winners of the year selected by the judges at the event. The Programme aims to promote STEAM education1 in Hong Kong - students are empowered through coding learning to unleash their creativity and potential in science and research. More to this, the Programme also strives to build students’ awareness and habits of caring the environment from an early stage, the elements of environmental protection were incorporated in the program curriculum. Since its inception in 2021, the Programme has benefited a total of close to 310 underprivileged students from 11 primary schools. Vivienne Chiu, BOC Life’s Chief Brand and Communications Officer, said: “BOC Life actively practices corporate citizenship through cross-industry collaboration to create diverse social value and multiple wins. Education is a key part of BOC Life’s philanthropic agenda.” Ms. Chiu added, “We are very pleased to partner with St. James’ Settlement in fostering STEAM education while sowing the seeds of innovation and technology for the students. Through coding education, the Programme will help nurture students to become future talents in the field of innovation and technology. We are also grateful for the tremendous support from the Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged under the Social Welfare Department, that benefits more participating students in the Programme.” The Programme offers two courses respectively for junior and senior primary students. Primary two and three students were enrolled on programming and environmentally friendly robotic workshops where they learned different coding techniques and practiced upcycling through making robots from recycled materials - the ocean-themed motors inspired school children to think about the harmfulness resulted by ocean debris. Primary four to six students took part in AI and wealth management programming workshops. Basic understanding of FinTech knowledge and its application was taught on top of the coding skills, with which students develop mobile phone apps tailored to support the underprivileged. In addition, students will also learn environmental protection concept through the second-hand items exchange app developed. “Our heartfelt thanks for the supports from BOC Life and Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged of Social Welfare Department to the Programme. The Programme provides opportunities for the students to learn knowledge and application of STEAM. The Competition cum Graduation Ceremony today enables the students to learn from each other and, more importantly, to show their enormous creativity and their care to the community and environment. We hope that the Programme can inspire the students to innovate continuously and make use of what they had learnt,” said Wendy Cheung, Assistant Chief Executive Officer of St. James’ Settlement. The winning pieces of this year not only demonstrates the students’ boundless creativity, but also exhibit their talent for upcycling from transforming everyday materials. The entries employ various materials such as beverage cartons, micro:bit components, servos, LED lights, and rainbow electric cables. The applications successfully interweave the idea of technology and care for the environment in their daily lives. 1STEAM education refers to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics.

BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2022 Successfully Raises Funds  for Youth Development Programmes and Promotes Community Positivity
  • News
  • 23 December 2022

BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2022 Successfully Raises Funds for Youth Development Programmes and Promotes Community Positivity

The BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2022, the first-ever virtual harbour marathon in Hong Kong initiated by BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) in partnership with the Social Ventures Hong Kong (‘SVhk’), was successfully held. The donations raised will support nearly 100 teenagers to participate in running programmes organised by the non-profit making organisation RunOurCity Foundation, with an aim to nurture their physical and mental development. The month-long charity run deepened the bonds of the community and received support from leaders of different sectors and the public, sharing the mission of “Run to Energise Hong Kong”. Between 19 November and 18 December, participants enjoyed the flexibility of completing the 42km run along designated routes across both sides of the Victoria Harbour at their own pace anytime. Through their runs, participants spread positive energy to the community by raising funds for the underprivileged and youth development programmes, while exercising for health and exploring the beauty of the community. On the first day of the event, a group of cross-sector executive runners joined the CEO Run at HarbourChill in Wanchai to kick off this charitable initiative.  The donations raised will be fully used for supporting teenagers to join training programmes organised by RunOurCity Foundation, with an aim to nurture physical and mental development through cultivating sportsmanship and develop positive thinking. These programmes include Youth.ROC, Youth.ONE, Running Programme for Development of SEN students and BEE Family Coach.  BOC Life is dedicated to supporting corporate philanthropy projects and building a harmonious, inclusive and sustainable society through cross-sector collaboration.

BOC Life participates in Sustainable Investing and ESG Global Conference
  • News
  • 22 December 2022

BOC Life participates in Sustainable Investing and ESG Global Conference

In Support of Industry’s Joint Effort to Promote Sustainable Development For the second year, BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) sponsored and participated in the “Sustainable Investing and ESG Conference 2022”, an international conference co-organised by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) and the World Green Organisation. BOC Life engaged in discussions and joined hands with cross-sectoral representatives worldwide to promote sustainable development as well as raise awareness on ESG. The conference served as a platform for business leaders, experts and scholars to share insightful methodologies and practical experiences on a wide range of ESG topics, including carbon asset management, carbon neutrality, the Asia-Pacific Green Deal for Business, sustainable financial instruments, green technology, ESG considerations for corporate supply chain and reporting standards.Mr. Alvin Ying, BOC Life Chief Investment Officer, was invited as a guest speaker and delivered a presentation on the progress of the Asia-Pacific Green Deal for business and green investment initiatives. He also joined a panel of industry experts to discuss ways to drive sustainability via ESG investing. The two-day “Sustainable Investing and ESG Conference 2022” was held at Cyberport in early December. It also engaged with online audience via livestream.

Hong Kong’s First-ever Virtual Harbour Marathon
  • News
  • 19 November 2022

Hong Kong’s First-ever Virtual Harbour Marathon

“BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2022” to Raise Funds for the Underprivileged and Sports Development for the Youth BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) announced its partnership with Social Ventures Hong Kong (‘SVhk’) to launch “BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2022” (the ‘virtual run’) - the first-ever virtual harbour marathon in Hong Kong with charitable causes. With the theme of “Run to Explore”, the virtual run aims to connect local communities by promoting the importance of physical and mental health as well as sustainable development of the society. This meaningful event will allow runners to enjoy the beautiful landscape of Hong Kong while raising funds to support the underprivileged and youth development programmes. A kickoff ceremony cum CEO Run was held at the HarbourChill in Wanchai today (19 November) to unveil the charity marathon. Mr. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life, together with Mr. Francis Ngai, Founder and CEO of SVhk, Dr. Andes Leung, Co-Founder and CEO of RunOurCity, and Mr. Vincent Ng, Chairman of Harbourfront Commission, officially started the virtual run. A number of cross-sector executive runners were invited to join the CEO Run to symoblise the start of this month-long charity event. Mr. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life, said, “BOC Life is committed to driving corporate philanthropic initiatives, subsidising education and development programmes for young people. By title sponsoring this exclusive virtual charity marathon, we hope to promote the importance of uplifting physical and mental well-being through sports, while creating shared value by cross-sector collaboration. The marathon also helps build a healthy, harmonious and inclusive society, and raises funds to support young people’s sports and development programmes.” Mr. Francis Ngai, Founder of SVhk, said, “SVhk has worked with organisaitons across sectors to bring hope and positive energy to Hong Kong since our establishment. Working with BOC Life and RunOurCity on the BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2022, we hope to encourage the public to explore the hidden gems and neighbourhood delights along our Victoria Harbour through running. By connecting people and places we aspire to bridge new perspectives and create a more diverse and energetic city.” All funds raised from the virtual run will be donated to the non-profit making organisation RunOurCity Foundation to support sports development programmes for the youth, with an aim to nurture teenagers’ physical and mental development through cultivating sportsmanship. The virtual run is fully supported by the Harbourfront Commission. Mr. Vincent Ng, Chairman of Harbourfront Commission, said, “Harbourfront Commission is committed to providing opportunities for public enjoyment of our harbour, through running and other leisure and fun-filled activities. The BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2022 is an excellent opportunity for the public to rediscover Victoria Harbour and reimagine harbourfront as a part of our lives.” The “BOC Life Hong Kong Harbour Marathon 2022” will last for a month, from 19 November 2022 to 18 December 2022. It designs the first round-harbour running routes in Hong Kong under the theme of “Run to Explore”. Six recommended routes total the equivalent of a full-marathon (approximately 42 km): the Kowloon section runs from West Kowloon to Lei Yu Mun while the Hong Kong Island section runs from Aldrich Bay to Belcher Bay. Runners may complete the route at their own pace in multiple attempts or in one-go. The recommended routes were put together to explore different communities along the harbour, including different neighbourhoods with distinctive community stores, in turn promoting local tourism in addition to fundraising. For enrolment and more details of the virtual run, please visit  www.harbourmarathon.hk.

BOC Life and St. James’ Settlement Take STEAM Education to New Heights
  • News
  • 20 October 2022

BOC Life and St. James’ Settlement Take STEAM Education to New Heights

‘New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ Programme Combines Technology & Creativity to Nurture Students’ Skills in ESG and Innovation BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) partnered with St. James’ Settlement to take Hong Kong’s STEAM education to new heights with the ‘New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ Programme (the ‘Programme’) combining technology and creativity. The Programme not only marks a new milestone for the ‘Grant-in-aid Brightens Children’s Lives Service’, but also meets the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) education needs of local students. Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) elements are also added to the Programme to help students develop environmentally friendly habits and the spirit to serve, and apply the STEAM knowledge to become ESG-centric innovators. Themed around STEAM, the Programme tailor-designed a diversity of coding courses integrating technology application, social values and environmental awareness to realise students’ creative potential. The kick off ceremony for the Programme of the 2022-2023 academic year was held today (20 October), unveiling this semester’s courses. Mr Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life, said at the ceremony, “BOC Life is committed to promoting sustainability, whilst integrating ESG into its strategy and operation. Fostering the educational development of our next generation is not only a highlight of our CSR initiatives, but also a key to sustainable development of our society. We are pleased to see that the Programme serves multiple purposes, from teaching students coding technologies, deepening their understanding of ESG, to discovering the students’ creative talent through their shrewd application of STEAM knowledge.” Ms Josephine Lee, Chief Executive Officer of St. James’ Settlement, expressed, “Applying technology into daily lives and practising green living are the current trends. Having gained knowledge in the fields of technology, environmental protection and financial management from a young age, students will enjoy a solid foundation for future studies. I thank BOC Life and ‘Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged’ for their generous support again, providing primary school students enrolled on the ‘Grant-in-aid Brightens Children’s Lives Service’ with a creative and meaningful programme.” The Programme offers two courses respectively for junior and senior primary students, with each course consisting of 16 workshops, a STEAM exploration, competitions and a graduation ceremony, totalling around 24 hours. Through a series of activities, the Programme wishes to stimulate students’ interest in STEAM and ESG. Students will be exposed to different coding skills and make their own robots using different recyclable materials collected in their daily lives. Primary two and three students will be enrolled on coding and environmentally friendly robotic workshops where they will acquire understanding of environmental protection, waste recycling and reuse, as well as learn to treasure resources. Primary four to six students will partake in AI and wealth management coding workshops, which include elements of social care on top of coding skills, enabling them to understand the needs of the underprivileged and the disadvantaged – as well as coming up with innovative mobile applications rich in personal characteristics. First launched in 2021, the Programme benefitted 162 school kids of five primary schools from underprivileged families. As the Programme rolls out for another year, an addition of 160 school kids of six primary schools from underprivileged families will take part. Yuen Kei-hon, who was primary six student of TWGHs Hok Shan School last year, participated in the inaugural year of the Programme. He shared, “I noticed that when the fifth wave of the epidemic broke out, people had to queue up to buy rapid antigen test kits or different medicines to combat the pandemic, while some people who are physically challenged were unable to go out to do so. I therefore would like to leverage the convenience brought by technology to help the physically-challenged or elderly to be able to buy the necessary anti-epidemic items while staying at home.” During the opening ceremony at David Li Kwok Po Community Hall, St. James' Church, Wan Chai, some school kids who were enrolled in the first year of the Programme joined as ‘peers’, sharing their unforgettable experience and feelings with guests. The guests also took part in the specially designed booth activities with school kids, including ball-pushing robot car and goods-sharing platform app, making the occasion brim with amusement. 

  • News
  • 31 August 2022

BOC Life Continues to Lead the Market in 1H 2022

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (“BOC Life”) announced its results for the first half of 2022. As of 30 June 2022, the standard premiums of new policies reached HK$6.604 billion, up 5.1% year-on-year. The company ranks No. 1 in Hong Kong’s life insurance market based on standard premiums of new policies, with market share increased year-on-year from 14.7% to 21.2%. Mr. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life said, “Looking forward, we will continue to optimise our business structure, speed up the digital transformation and strengthen our multi-channel strategy. We will also expand our cross-industry partnership in building an ecosystem focusing on healthy retirement, wellness, ESG and education, while allocating more resources to develop green finance, as well as introducing more certified green insurance product series by independent professional bodies. We will also get prepared to seize the business opportunities in the Greater Bay Area upon economic recovery.” According to the provisional insurance industry statistics for 1H 2022* just released by the Insurance Authority, premiums for new long-term business (excluding retirement scheme) amounted to HK$81.9 billion during the period, an increase of 1.7% year-on-year. In making its foray into new market areas, BOC Life will develop more certified green insurance products, following its launch of Hong Kong’s first green insurance plan certified by an independent third party. The company will actively promote green investment and green finance, adding fresh impetus to the Group’s sustainable development. *Remarks: Provisional Statistics for Long Term Business in 1H 2022 by the Insurance Authority: https://ia.org.hk/en/infocenter/statistics/files/2q22long.pdf

Survey findings show a significant insurance protection gap across GBA cities
  • News
  • 22 July 2022

Survey findings show a significant insurance protection gap across GBA cities

Digitalization and customer-centric products are top priorities for cross-boundary insurance As a powerhouse of China's economic growth, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area ("GBA") has a population of more than 86 million and a combined GDP of RMB12.6 trillion (equivalent to 11% of national GDP). It presents many opportunities on which insurers can capitalize. Fueled by policy support from the central and Hong Kong governments, it is envisioned that the cross-boundary insurance process could be further streamlined. Customer behaviors and preferences towards cross-boundary insurance vary across different cities hence insurers should consider specific, city-based approaches to capture customers, according to the whitepaper GBA Outlook: Opportunities in Insurance jointly published by Deloitte China and BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (BOC Life). This paper summarizes the results of more than 1,000 respondents across the GBA and other Mainland cities. Its purpose was to identify the differentiators and denominators of customer's behaviors by age between mainland cities and Hong Kong. According to the survey results, except Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hong Kong, insurance penetration in other GBA cities is less than 10%. A large majority (80%) of GBA customers have no experience in buying insurance products from Hong Kong or Macao, but they expressed a strong interest in learning more about cross-boundary insurance products, especially interested in critical illness coverage (64%) and medical insurance products (63%). Over 60% of respondents indicated that lack of familiarity with insurance products and regulations is the main reason not to subscribe insurance. "To address the protection gap and as a first-mover, insurers need to review their strategy and tactics to position themselves as a top-of-mind brand in the GBA market. Interestingly, although customers in Hong Kong mostly prefer to face-to-face interaction with their insurers, those in the mainland cities are more receptive to digital channels," says Joanna Wong, Partner, Hong Kong Insurance Leader, Deloitte China.   "In addition to complying with the regulatory requirements for cross-boundary financial services, such as capital flow and data privacy issues, insurers that are keen to establish their footprint in and beyond this region in the future should consider incorporating as many digital touchpoints as possible in the customer journey, alongside physical service centers and tech-savvy agents to maintain personalized human interaction and create a seamless customer experience." "The large population base of the Greater Bay Area provides huge market potential and new footholds for development of the insurance industry. The survey findings in the whitepaper shed light on consumer needs in the region, facilitating insurers in development of products and services to meet the different needs of customers across the GBA," says Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life.Furthermore, respondents in mainland cities with experience buying insurance from Hong Kong or Macao emphasized their offer of more reasonable premiums, higher yields and wider coverage. Another finding regarding Hong Kong-based insurers is that they are top of mind (54%) for those when buying cross-boundary insurance products; and they are seen to provide more confidence and guaranteed service quality. In terms of insurance product preferences, critical illness coverage and medical insurance products ranked top two among GBA customers – both above 80% while only 61% of Hong Kong respondents chose critical illness. In fact, many mainland customers prefer buying insurance from Hong Kong providers to improve their healthcare benefits.  The pandemic has led customers to be more health conscious, placing more emphasis on and the quality of life in general. More than 57% of the survey respondents are using health app and 23% are planning to use one for health monitoring with special interest for the rewards offered by these apps. It seems like a good opportunity for health insurers to promote the benefits of their apps to increase customers' engagement and drive loyalty. When comparing the preferences in term of products between different age groups, the choices are closely associated with one's health and financial status. 96% of the survey respondents aged between 35 and 44 years old have experience in buying insurance while it is true only for half of the age group 18 to 24 years old. Insurance products such as accident insurance, participating policy and life insurance are less popular among the young generation. Product offerings with short-term, convenient, and affordable propositions are one of the many possible tools to gain more traction in the GBA, and are aligned with future trends. These propositions will be particularly appealing to younger people who value product flexibility and affordable premiums.For Hong Kong insurers, although the pandemic has affected their business with Mainland customers, it created rising demand among customers for protection insurance products. Indeed, as indicated in the whitepaper, around two-thirds of the survey respondents are using health apps, which reflects an increased awareness of healthcare. Insurers should always stay close to customers' needs on health and wellness when designing insurance products and services.  Please click here to access the full whitepaper. 

BOC Life Launches ‘New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ Programme Inaugural Year Concludes with Success in Driving STEAM Education
  • News
  • 15 July 2022

BOC Life Launches ‘New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ Programme Inaugural Year Concludes with Success in Driving STEAM Education

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’), together with St. James’ Settlement’s ‘Grant-in-aid Brightens Children’s Lives Service’, launched the ‘New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ Programme (the ‘Programme’) in October 2021. Benefitting 162 school kids of five primary schools from low-income families in the first year of the Programme, was brought to a satisfactory close in July 2022. Since its inception in October 2021, the Programme has promoted STEAM education alongside social values and environmental awareness, while unleashing students’ creativity. The Programme offers two courses respectively for junior and senior primary students. Primary two and three students were enrolled on programming and environmentally friendly robotic workshops where they learnt different coding techniques and practised upcycling through making robots from recycled materials. Primary four to six students took part in AI and wealth management programming workshops. Basic understanding of FinTech was taught on top of coding skills, with which students developed mobile phone apps to help the underprivileged. Online competition for the two workshops were also successfully held in June this year. The inaugural graduation ceremony of the Programme took place at David Li Kwok Po Community Hall, St. James' Church, including an award ceremony was also held for the app design and environmentally friendly robot competitions. Not only did students get to showcase their outstanding works, but the gold prize recipients also shared the creative ideas behind their award-winning pieces. The event was live broadcast online. Ms. Vivienne Chiu, Chief Brand and Communications Officer of BOC Life, shared during the occasion, “BOC Life, as the sponsor, is encouraged to see that the Programme, under the support of St. James’ Settlement and the ‘Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged’ of the Social Welfare Department, was well-participated by school teachers and students, allowing students to strengthen their understanding and application of STEAM via coding exercises, whilst exploring their creativity and talent. We are excited that the aim of the Programme, which is to brighten children’s lives using grant-in-aid, has been fulfilled.” Ms. Josephine Lee, Chief Executive Officer of St. James’ Settlement, said, “The competitions and the graduation ceremony offer a golden opportunity for students from different schools to exchange ideas and learn from each other. I am pleased to listen to the students’ explanation of the concept behind and the design of their works, showing their rich understanding of STEAM application. St. James’ Settlement is grateful for the support of BOC Life, and we look forward to enabling more school children to learn about STEAM in the coming years.” The gold medal of the programming and environmentally friendly robotic workshops went to Wong Cheuk Hang Jasper, Primary 2 student of Sharon Lutheran School. He made his ‘Brave Rave Cat’ robot out of upcycled beverage carton and ice cream sticks. Apart from his coding knowledge, he also made use of electric materials such as Micro:bit components, server motors, LED lights and rainbow electric cables, in creating a robot based on recycling concepts and capable of accompanying children during their playtime. Primary 5 student of Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Hok Shan School, Chan Yat Po obtained the gold award for AI and wealth management programming workshops. Understanding that a majority of elderly people suffer from The Three Highs, overweight or heart disease, Yat Bo partnered with nutritionists in coming up with a series of colourful and nutritious recipes. The mobile app lets the elderly choose their meals that are both delicious and nutritious. Other than photos of the meals, the app is also equipped with voice control function, making it easier for the seniors and their caregivers to pick their food while imbuing the elderly with care and love. Apart from sponsoring the Programme, BOC Life also encouraged its staff volunteers to take school children onto an exploration journey of STEAM during which they shared scientific knowledge and conducted experiments. Through the event, the volunteers helped the students discover the fun of science and STEAM. 

  • News
  • 31 May 2022

BOC Life Delivers Market-leading 2022 Q1 Results amid Pandemic Focusing on New Business Expansion, Digitalisation and ESG

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) delivered a stable performance in the first quarter of 2022 riding on new opportunities. As of 31 March 2022, BOC Life’s standard premiums of new policies reached HK$3.63 billion, with market share rising year-on-year from 17.12% to 21.33% based on standard premiums of new policies, topping Hong Kong’s life insurance market. The value of new business also recorded strong growth. The performance of RMB-denominated insurance products continued to lead the market in the first quarter of 2022 under difficult market environment amid the pandemic, with the standard premiums of such new policies standing at HK$795 million, commanding a market share of 77.15%. Mr. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life, said, “The pandemic over the past two years has taken a significant toll on all sectors and industries. To tackle the situation, we made strategic adjustments to our business structure, in tandem with significant growth of our new business, getting the No. 1 position in the life insurance market in the first quarter of this year. In addition, the Covid-19 has propelled consumer demand for online insurance applications and protection products. To capture future growth opportunities upon border reopening in the future, we will continue to enhance our online channels while diversifying sales platforms.  Furthermore, we will enhance our tied-agent teams to provide dedicated services and innovative products.” According to the provisional statistics for Q1 2022* just released by The Insurance Authority, premiums for new long-term business (excluding retirement scheme business) amounted to HK$42.4 billion, increased by 4.2% year on year. Amid a prolonged period of economic downturn and despite adverse market conditions, BOC Life was able to outperform its peers in the first quarter of the year. Going forward, in adapting to the new normal brought about by the pandemic, BOC life will introduce more savings and protection products to meet customer needs. The company will also strengthen digitalisation, enrich its product portfolio to uplift business value. More resources and efforts will be allocated to develop green finance and ESG-themed corporate projects, and foster cross-industry collaboration to build a health and wellness ecosystem. We will continue to pioneer wellbeing and retirement businesses in the Greater Bay Area through partnerships, creating a sustainable future which will benefit the business, the environment and the society at large. Remarks: Provisional Statistics for Long Term Business in Q1 2022 by the Insurance Authority: https://www.ia.org.hk/en/infocenter/statistics/market_7_2022.html

  • News
  • 28 February 2022

BOC Life Offers St. James' Settlement Anti-pandemic Support by Joining Hands with EC Healthcare to Navigate through Hard Times Together

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) partners with EC Healthcare (HKEx: 2138) in providing St. James' Settlement with rapid antigen test (‘RAT’) kits and Sinovac vaccination service, timely meeting their needs in fighting against the virus while helping them navigate the difficult times together. Valued at HK$500,000, the RAT kits donated to St. James’ Settlement are all European Union certified with accuracy rate of over 97%. The RAT kits will be distributed to low-income families and elderly homes with urgent needs of pandemic prevention, and to frontline staff of St. James’ Settlement who are needed to help maintain essential social services. Mr. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life, said: “BOC Life is committed to giving back to society through our CSR programmes. In response to the community’s pressing needs for RAT kits amid the fifth wave of the pandemic, we are pleased to partner with EC Healthcare again to have timely contributed to this social cause in serving the urgent anti-pandemic needs.” Mr. Tang Chi Fai, Chairman, Executive Director and CEO of EC Healthcare, commented: “As a leading medical services provider in Hong Kong, EC Healthcare is always devoted to contributing to society, as well as bringing health, beauty and happiness to everyone. The Group is delighted to collaborate with BOC Life in an effort to drive the community closer to the resumption of normal daily lives.” Ms Josephine Lee, Chief Executive Officer of St. James’ Settlement expressed appreciation of this donation: “Thanks to BOC Life’s prompt action in response to the fifth wave of COVID-19, the RAT kits from BOC Life and EC Healthcare will provide immediate support to underprivileged families, elderly singletons and doubletons; as well as protecting our frontline workers at the workplace in this critical situation.” Apart from the donation of RAT kits, EC Healthcare also provides priority Sinovac vaccination for elders and children through its three designated clinics*.*Three designated EC Health clinics for Sinovac vaccination service:1. re:HEALTH - Unit 3401-03, 34/F, World Trade Centre, 280 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong2. EC Healthcare Medical Centre - Suit 01-03, 14/F, 1111 King's Road, Taikoo Shing, Hong Kong3. AI Medical - Shop 18, G/F, Tai Wo Centre, 15 Tai Wo Road, Tai Po, New TerritoriesRefer to EC Healthcare’s website for details and points to note for Sinovac vaccination service (Chinese only): https://eshop.echealthcare.com/product/%E6%96%B0%E5%9E%8B%E5%86%A0%E7%8B%80%E7%97%85%E6%AF%92%E6%BB%85%E6%B4%BB%E7%96%AB%E8%8B%97-%E7%A7%91%E8%88%88%E7%96%AB%E8%8B%97/?ref_code=T1057

BOC Life Launches Wellness Ecosystem Brand – “Live Young”
  • News
  • 15 December 2021

BOC Life Launches Wellness Ecosystem Brand – “Live Young”

Exclusive introduction of “Biological Age Model BAM”, co-developed by ReMark and GarminPartnering with Garmin, innovation and technology startups, social platforms and social enterprises to co-build an open and collaborative ecosystemBeta attracts 25,000 users, it is expected to reach 100,000 users by next year. Social sharing is key to physical and mental healthAn integrated platform of gamification with social and charity elements aims at encouraging the users to foster a healthy lifestyle BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (BOC Life) announced today the official launch of its wellness ecosystem brand – “Live Young”. Partnering with the world’s leading smartwatch label Garmin, smart health technology start-ups in Hong Kong and Asia, social platforms, local merchant brands, charities and social enterprises, to provide a brand-new wellness ecosystem for Hong Kong people. The “Live Young” programme aims at encouraging users to foster healthy lifestyles by lowering their biological age. The “Live Young” programme is cutting-edge in its exclusive introduction of the ‘Biological Age Model BAM’ algorithm, coupling gamification with charity and social elements all into one platform, encouraging users to engage in a healthy and bio age-reducing lifestyle together with their families and friends. Co-developed by ReMark and Garmin, the ‘Biological Age Model BAM’ won a gold medal in the 2021 Global FinTech Awards organised by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Enrolment in the “Live Young” rewards programme is free-of-charge. User data will be recorded by the App based on the BAM algorithm's five metrics: Sleeping Hours, BMI, Resting Heart Rate, Active Calories and Steps. Calculated on a daily basis, Bio Age results are automatically transformed into Points which can be used directly in the rewards app to redeem Garmin smartwatches and eVouchers from a wide range of partner merchants, covering groceries, healthy diet, active lifestyle and healthcare, among many others. Users may also choose to dedicate their Points to charitable causes. Beta Version Attracts 25,000 UsersThe “Live Young” rewards programme commenced its pilot run in mid-year 2021. Without any advertising promotions, the number of users has reached 25,000 by word of mouth alone, and the number of users is expected to exceed 100,000 by the end of next year. The overwhelming strong reception to the Beta version is mainly attributable to the programme’s unique social function.Mr. Ngai Chi Wai, Chief Marketing Officer of BOC Life cum Project Director of “Live Young” rewards programme, said, "Every user gets to add their family and friends in the app, form a group and take on Bio Age challenges together. Points can be shared to redeem rewards or donated for philanthropic purposes. Initial data shows that users send out more than 2,500 invitations to friends per month, and they reduced their Biological Age by 3 years and 4 months on average. We believe connection between people is the key to individual physical and mental health, especially in the post-pandemic era."Social Sharing Key to Physical and Mental HealthThrough massive user surveys and research, our ecosystem team discovered that respondents consider social sharing is essential to physical and mental wellness. While working out with friends provides the main impetus, experience sharing is also crucial to keeping them in good spirits. Respondents also indicated that understanding one’s own situation and assessing its effectiveness regularly help users sustain healthy lifestyles. ‘Wearable devices such as professional smartwatches can add colour to a health management programme on the back of their capabilities in tracking, assessment, gaming, competition and socialising with family and friends, enriching users’ health journey and helping them pursue and stick with desirable habits,’ Mr. Ngai added.Adopting a different approach to business strategy formulation, the “Live Young” project team, along with Design Thinker consultants, made use of design thinking to come up with the strategy and plan for the entire wellness ecosystem. As Mr. Ngai explained, “The Live Young rewards programme is only the first step of many in our holistic wellness ecosystem strategy. Our vision is to forge an innovative, all-win business model that connects individuals, families, peer circles and corporates with social power and well-being. Our team put themselves in the shoes of stakeholders and users during the course of multiple quantitative and qualitative research studies, with the goal of gaining insights into the needs of our customers, which in turn would facilitate the development of the prototype of the ecosystem.” Co-creating and Sharing are Important Pillars of the EcosystemPremised on in-depth cooperation with partners from across different industries, the ecosystem develops an all-win model in order to create new value and an enhanced experience for customers. The core partners of the “Live Young” ecosystem in the first phase include: world-leading smartwatch label Garmin, global reinsurance group SCOR headquartered in France and its innovative technology subsidiary ReMark, local start-up Mojodomo, well-known social platform Baby Kingdom, and charitable organisation Food Angel. The rewards programme has brought together more than 35 popular brands as partners, with the ecosystem expecting to welcome additional brands to a total of 100 merchants over the course of next year. In his remarks at the official release ceremony, Mr. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life, said, “BOC Life’s strategy featuring four main life scenarios including health, retirement, legacy and education, with health standing out from the rest with the broadest coverage. Health is a universal value shared by all, particularly in the post-pandemic age. Co-creating and sharing are important pillars of the ecosystem, BOC Life is willing to take the lead in advocating it to all. I hope the Live Young’ marque will in future not only belong to BOC Life, but become an established iconic ecosystem that is created, owned and enjoyed by all stakeholders, including customers, collaborative partners and the society at large.” 

  • News
  • 01 December 2021

BOC Life Achieved Steady Performance for the First Three Quarters of 2021

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) reported a steady performance for the first three quarters of 2021. As of 30 September 2021, the standard premiums of new policies reached HK$8.320 billion, achieved 13.39% market share while maintaining the third place in Hong Kong’s life insurance market. The Company’s RMB-denominated policies accounted for around 80% of market share in the first three quarters of 2021, with standard premiums of new RMB-denominated policies up 16% year-on-year. The standard premiums of new online business for the first three quarters this year totalled HK$952 million. Benefitted from the digital diversification, BOC Life also remains its leading position in direct sales channel.  The Insurance Authority just published the provisional statistics for the first three quarters of 2021*, new office premiums (excluding Retirement Scheme business) of long term business were HK$ 122.5 billion, marking a 24% increase. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life said, “Although affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, BOC Life maintained a similar level of business performance comparing with the same period of last year. As business derived from the Mainland China customers has yet to fully recover, I believe insurers will focus on local market expansion, hence will intensify the market competition. The improved pandemic situation, the rising vaccination rate together with the hope of border reopen, will all render a stronger revival force for Hong Kong’s economic recovery.” Looking forward, BOC Life would continue seizing the opportunities of the Greater Bay Area, to further expand its strategic partnership to develop retirement related business while establishing the wellness ecosystem. In addition, the Company will put more resources on ESG initiatives to create a triple win for the business, the environment and the society at large. * Provisional Statistics for Long Term Business for the first three quarters of 2021 by the InsuranceAuthority: https://www.ia.org.hk/en/infocenter/press_releases/files/Summary_on_2021_3Q_Provisional_Statistics.pdf 

BOC Life and Serensia Woods Sign a Strategic Cooperation Agreement
  • News
  • 15 November 2021

BOC Life and Serensia Woods Sign a Strategic Cooperation Agreement

Launching the First All-New Cooperation Project on ‘Insurance + Wellness and Retirement’ across Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao under the ‘Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin’ Initiative BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) today (15 November) entered into a Strategic Cooperation Agreement with SW Wellbeing Holdings Limited (‘Serensia Woods’), a subsidiary of Macao-based HN Group, marking the first cooperation project on ‘insurance + wellness and retirement’ across Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao under the ‘Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin’ initiative. It is also BOC Life’s first strategic cooperation project in the ‘Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin’. BOC Life is Serensia Woods’ exclusive life insurance partner in Hong Kong, as well as their first life insurance partner in the Greater Bay Area (‘GBA’). The Agreement, as witnessed by Mrs. Ann Kung, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Deputy Chief Executive and Ms. Amber Li, President of HN Group, was signed by Mr. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life and Mr. Rodrigo Yang, Chairman and Founder of Serensia Woods. Mr. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life, said: “By proactively capturing the new business opportunities on retirement arising from favourable policies, BOC Life is actively developing our retirement and financial business. In line with the Mainland’s increasing emphasis on the elderly sector, the Bank of China Group is incorporating retirement and financial services into its development strategy. This could also strengthen regional cooperation and unleash synergistic potential within the Bank of China Group. In a collective effort with Serensia Woods in the GBA, BOC Life wishes to forge a business ecosystem for ‘insurance + wellness and retirement’. We aim to build a premium wellness and retirement brand to reinforce BOC Life’s status as a Retirement Expert while providing Hong Kong and Macao customers with more quality retirement choices.”  Mr. Rodrigo Yang, Chairman and Founder of Serensia Woods, said: “With a vision of providing high-end and innovative wellness services, Serensia Woods has established the first site in Greater China integrating preventive medicine, anti-aging treatment, retirement vacation and blissful living. Serensia Woods promotes a novel lifestyle where wellness is a key part of daily life. Based on the concept of sustainable aging, we provide solutions to help people lead healthier and more colourful lives. We are very honoured to be the partner of BOC Life’s first strategic cooperation project in the ‘Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin’, as well as having BOC Life as our first insurance strategic partner in the GBA. With the continuous support from BOC Life, we look forward to further exploring the best practice in sustainable aging, which will benefit society as a whole.” Premised on law abidance, regulatory compliance and risk control, the Strategic Cooperation Agreement signed by the two parties lays out areas for further exploration and cooperation, including:1.    An innovative business model pooling resources together for ‘insurance + wellness and retirement’: Study and formulate an innovative business model for combining resources in ‘insurance + wellness and retirement’. Provide and develop specific retirement and health insurance products for the industry. Enhance and improve retirement and health insurance product lines by catering to customer needs for retirement and healthcare protection at different life stages. Provide customers with wellness-oriented value-added services by leveraging the wellness and retirement resources of Serensia Woods.2.    Join forces to create a wellness and retirement brand: Explore the building of a wellness and retirement brand, enhance the influence of both brands in GBA’s wellness and retirement market, strive to promote the co-developed products and services as top choices in the industry.3.    Explore cooperation in ‘Serensia Woods Phase II’: Look into the feasibility of jointly investing in, planning and developing the second phase of the Serensia Woods project, riding on the resources, products, services and operating strengths of the two parties. This strategic cooperation marked a new milestone on the ecosystem of GBA’s wellness services for BOC Life and Serensia Woods. Leveraging efforts with such new initiative by both parties, to build up a Hong Kong and Macao style retirement and financial services model, to bring innovations and new developments to Hong Kong Macao wellness and retirement industry, to set new visions and standards of GBA’s ‘insurance + wellness and retirement’ services.

BOC Life in STEAM Education Partnership with St. James’ Settlement  Instils Interest in Scientific Research & Innovation among Students Through ‘New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ Programme
  • News
  • 28 October 2021

BOC Life in STEAM Education Partnership with St. James’ Settlement Instils Interest in Scientific Research & Innovation among Students Through ‘New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ Programme

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) announced a new ‘BOC Life New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ programme in partnership with St. James’ Settlement. With the aim of promoting STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics), this computer programming course is customised to the educational needs of Hong Kong students, with emphasis on both application and innovation. The course marks a new milestone in St. James’ Settlement’s ‘Grant-in-aid Brightens Children’s Lives Service’ for underprivileged students with the hope of enriching their school life.  BOC Life has committed a sponsorship of HK$1 million to fund the development of this two-year programme. The project has also received a matching grant from the ‘Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged’ of the Social Welfare Department. With a total funding of HK$2 million, the project is expected to benefit at least 320 underprivileged students.  Mr Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life, said at the launch ceremony: “BOC Life is an active advocate for ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) development, and embeds it in our business operations and corporate values. The ‘BOC Life New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ programme will put students in touch with STEAM. We believe that computer programming training can help students strengthen their logical and mathematical concepts, as well as their problem-solving skills. We have also incorporated wealth management, FinTech and recycling elements into the course so as to nurture positive values in financial management and environment responsibilities from an early age. We are confident that the students will enjoy learning more about technological applications in Arts and ESG.”  With programming training as the main theme, ‘BOC Life New Generation Financial and Technology Designers’ also aims to promote environmental protection. The programme will provide two different courses for junior and senior primary students, each with 16 sessions of workshops with a total of 24 hours. The tutors will use an interactive approach to instil interest in Science, Technology and Engineering. Primary 2 and 3 students will take part in programming and environmentally friendly robotic workshops, where they will learn coding skills and make robots from recycled materials. Primary 4 to 6 students will participate in AI and wealth management programming workshops. In addition to programming skills, they will gain an understanding of FinTech and consumption patterns under electronic payments. Through participating in phone apps development, the students will be better equipped to cope with technological challenges that they may face in everyday life in future.  Ms Josephine Lee, Chief Executive Officer of St. James’ Settlement agreed that “STEAM is a trend not to be missed, but unfortunately, many schools and families lack the necessary equipment and resources to offer students the opportunity to learn. We are grateful for the generous support of BOC Life and ‘Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged’. The school children will benefit from the opportunity to acquire STEAM knowledge, while they can understand how the environment, financial management and Technology are applied in society. We also hope to help them cultivate their own interest, and learn how to use innovation to design concrete solutions for daily life challenges.”  With the addition of Arts elements, the project will shift thematically from STEM to STEAM. The course is set to launch in the current term. A launch ceremony was held today at David Li Kwok Po Community Hall, St. James' Church, Wan Chai, where Mr Tang was the first to experience the well-designed activities along with school children. There are three booths on site, featuring respectively upcycling smart robotic vehicle, smart traffic light mini-game and FinTech wealth management programming, creating a lively vibe around the venue. 

BOC Life Volunteer Team and Food Angel Jointly Prepare Healthy Meals for the Disadvantaged Community
  • News
  • 08 September 2021

BOC Life Volunteer Team and Food Angel Jointly Prepare Healthy Meals for the Disadvantaged Community

The Volunteer Team of BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) today participated in a food assistance programme organised by Food Angel, to share their love by preparing hot meals and food packs for the underprivileged communities in Hong Kong. The COVID-19 pandemic has been affecting the local economy with a surge in unemployment rate. It has added tremendous burden to the grassroots, and some of them even have difficulty in paying for their daily meals. Led by Mr Wilson Tang, the Chief Executive of BOC Life, our Volunteer Team participated in a food upcycling workshop organised by Food Angel, learning the importance of cherishing food and transforming edible surplus food into hot meals for the grassroots. This helps provide basic food access to the unemployed and those facing economic difficulties during the pandemic. BOC Life is committed to driving good corporate citizenship, developing diversified community projects to give back to the society and support those in need. “BOC Life has been actively supporting and participating in various kinds of community activities, as well as launching a variety of CSR programmes through different partnerships, to contribute to the society,” said Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life. “We appreciate the continuous support from different sectors of the community, enabling us to provide free meals to the underprivileged with the help of various corporates and volunteers,” said Ms Zoe Lee, Associate Chief Executive Officer of Food Angel. “We are much grateful for the strenuous efforts of BOC Life’s Volunteer Team, to facilitate a better understanding among corporations about our operation, in addition to taking care of the beneficiary’s needs, which will help foster our work moving forward.”

  • News
  • 01 September 2021

BOC Life Announces Stable Growth for the First Half of 2021

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) has recorded stable growth for the first half of 2021 (1H 2021). As of 30 June 2021, standard premiums of new policies reached HK$6.286 billion, representing a 16% year-on-year increase. The company saw an expansion in market share to 14.68% from 12.76% of the corresponding period last year for standard premiums of new policies, maintaining a top position in Hong Kong’s life insurance market. During 1H 2021, the standard premiums of new online life insurance policies of BOC Life totalled HK$764 million with an increase of 28% from the same period last year. The number of new policies exceeded 6,500. Our RMB-denominated policies accounted for over 80% of market share in the first half of 2021. Standard premiums of new RMB-denominated policies of BOC Life were also up over 60% year-on-year in 1H 2021. The Insurance Authority just published the provisional statistics for 1H 2021*, during which premiums for new long-term business in Hong Kong (excluding retirement scheme business) stood at HK$ 80.5 billion, marking a 22.9% surge year-on-year. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive, BOC Life said. “Helped by the easing of the pandemic, improving vaccination rate and optimism for border reopening, BOC Life delivered a stable and robust performance in 1H 2021. We are cautiously optimistic about the potential business growth after the border reopens. BOC Life boasts a diversity of distribution channels such as bancassurance, tied agency and eChannel. We expect the growth momentum to carry on for the rest of the year. Under the current low interest rate environment, we shall focus on selling protection products. Towards the second half of the year, BOC Life will officially launch the second phase of ‘Healthcare Ecosystem’, with such valuable and unique digital brand experience, to encourage the public to live with healthier lifestyles including physical and mental wellness, and fulfil BOC Life’s sustainable development under ESG (Environment, Social and Governance).” Promoting ESG has always been one of BOC Life’s strategic goals. Besides green investments and plans to launch our all-new thematic products, we are proactively stepping up our corporate social responsibility (CSR), especially via green initiatives and community participation. An ongoing CSR programme named ‘Brave the Storm Together, Guard Our Green Future’ has been launched in partnership with St. James’ Settlement to promote the concept of ‘recycle, reuse and reduce’. BOC Life also looks to contributing to the local ESG technology innovation ecosystem by working with different organisations to pioneer ESG-themed projects. * Provisional Statistics for Long Term Business in 1H 2021 by the Insurance Authority: https://www.ia.org.hk/en/infocenter/statistics/files/2q2021long.pdf

BOC Life Partners with St. James’ Settlement to Launch ‘Brave the Storm Together, Guard Our Green Future’ CSR Programme
  • News
  • 30 June 2021

BOC Life Partners with St. James’ Settlement to Launch ‘Brave the Storm Together, Guard Our Green Future’ CSR Programme

Integrating Recycling, Reduction and Educational Efforts for a Triple-win Hong Kong - BOC Group Life Assurance Co., Ltd. (‘BOC Life’) and St. James’ Settlement today announced the launch of a CSR programme – ‘Brave the Storm Together, Guard Our Green Future’ (‘Green Future’). This new initiative is a blend of green social enterprise and customised educational yet interactive programme, aiming to integrate the practice of waste recycling and reduction into business operations, daily life and education, to raise public awareness of pressing environmental issues and calls on people to each make a small habit change in order to drive decarbonisation in Hong Kong, and turn Hong Kong a greener city. According to the Environmental Protection Department*, the quantity of solid waste disposed of at landfills totalled 5.71 million tonnes in 2019, representing a daily average of 15,637 tonnes. These figures are alarming, particularly against a backdrop of limited landfill capacity. Currently Hong Kong has three strategic landfills, including the West New Territories (WENT) Landfill, South-East New Territories (SENT) Landfill and North-East New Territories (NENT) Landfill. Among them, WENT will reach saturation by 2026. Despite the Government’s announcement of the Waste Blueprint for Hong Kong earlier this year, which set out the vision of ‘Waste Reduction ‧ Resources Circulation ‧ Zero Landfill’, waste-to-energy will take time to be fully adopted. The two-year ‘Green Future’ programme hopes to respond to the critical landfill problem arising from the increase in waste loads. It is hoped that this business-social enterprise partnership can contribute to Hong Kong’s recycling and carbon reduction, thereby extending the life of landfills by relieving the loads. BOC Life will donate HK$1,000 from each policy successfully issued under its ‘Forever Wellbeing Whole Life Plan’. Donations will go to St. James’ Settlement to support this initiative, including a tailor-made ‘Little Green Shopkeeper Programme’ run by its social enterprise, Green Ladies & Green Little. School children who become Little Green Shopkeepers can learn the concept of recycle, reuse and reduce through an interactive and fun-filled educational process. They can also get an understanding of the existing landfill situations, and learn how to effectively recycle and reuse old clothing items. By acquiring eco-friendly habits at an early age, these children will become an eco-friendly force in society. The donation also supports re-employment for middle-aged women advocated by Green Ladies & Green Little. Mr Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life said, “At BOC Life, environment, social and governance (ESG) is at the core of how we operate and develop our business. It is embedded in our corporate values and culture. Despite years of deliberation, waste reduction remains a critical problem that calls for urgent resolution. I am confident that every business and individual can take a step to ‘Guard Our Green Future’. We are delighted to be partnering with St. James’ Settlement. The ‘Little Green Shopkeeper Programme’ will help educate children to use resources effectively, while promoting eco-friendly habits and re-employment for women. This initiative will thus bring both environmental and social benefits.” Ms Josephine Lee, Chief Executive Officer of St. James’ Settlement added, “Over the years, Green Ladies has been striving to promote the employment of middle-aged women and transmission of eco-friendly concepts to treasure and reuse resources. We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to BOC Life for their efforts in promoting environmental protection, waste reduction and green education. Their support to the ‘Little Green Shopkeeper’ programme enables school children to learn about eco-friendly concepts through interactive and interesting role play sessions, thereby helping them cultivate a green culture in life at a young age.” The ‘Little Green Shopkeeper Programme’ includes virtual reality experience and shop keeping training for school children. In each 2-hour session, parents can also participate in role playing, while enjoying eco learning time with their children. The junior managers will be able to acquire knowledge on reusing old things, and be awarded certificates and souvenirs afterwards. Green Ladies & Green Little is the first eco-social enterprise operated by consignment model in Hong Kong. Established in 2008, the social enterprise has been promoting eco-friendly habits and employment for middle-aged women. Through collection of high-quality fashion and accessories, it promotes second-hand clothing for sustainable use of resources. *https://www.wastereduction.gov.hk/sites/default/files/msw2019.pdf

  • News
  • 09 June 2021

BOC Life Partners with EC Healthcare to Launch “Free COVID-19 Pre-vaccination Health Assessment" for Hong Kong Citizens

BOC Group Life Assurance Co., Ltd. (‘BOC Life’) and EC Healthcare (HKEX Stock Code: 2138) announced their partnership to offer 10,000 “Free COVID-19 Pre-vaccination Health Assessment" to Hong Kong citizens on a first-come first-served basis. This incentive aims at encouraging the public to receive the COVID-19 vaccination, and help them get prepared before taking the vaccines. Together, we could boost the vaccination take-up rate while acting as a good corporate or individual citizen, to help Hong Kong become COVID-19 free. Some people are hesitant to receive the COVID-19 vaccines. For example, those who do not conduct regular medical check-ups may worry about having early chronic diseases that are unnoticed. Or sometimes people who have hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia either do not attend their medical appointments regularly or not follow up with their doctor on their health conditions. All these will deter them from getting vaccinated. This program is designed to address the mentioned needs of the Hong Kong citizens who wish to take the vaccines, and help them better understand their current and potential health situations, as well as the risks and side effects of the COVID-19 vaccines, get them well prepared before getting vaccinated. All eligible participants must be 18 years old or above and holding a valid Hong Kong identity card. Starting from 16 June 2021, eligible Hong Kong citizens can register and make an appointment on the exclusive online platform of the program. The quota of the incentive is 10,000, open for enrollment while quota is available.   Wilson Tang, Chief Executive of BOC Life, said, "BOC Life always cares about our society, and we fully support this program by sponsoring our partner EC Healthcare to provide the complimentary pre-vaccination health assessment to the public under the partnership. This program will help those who wish to get vaccinated understand about their health status through professional assessment. We encourage people to receive COVID-19 vaccination, which is the key to resuming normal life, and enable us to build a protective barrier together towards a Covid-19 free Hong Kong." Mr. Eddy Tang, Chairman, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Union Medical Healthcare said, “EC Healthcare is Hong Kong's largest non-hospital medical service provider. The Group will continue to use its unique closed-loop ecosystem of businesses to reform the traditional business model of the medical and healthcare market through corporatization, information integration and platformization. The Group is glad to corporate with BOC Life, using our medical expertise as well as staying at the forefront of the fight against the epidemic, taking our social responsibility and increase the community vaccination rate in Hong Kong so as to push Hong Kong towards zero infection.” The "Free COVID-19 Pre-vaccination Health Assessment" jointly provided by BOC Life and EC Healthcare will open to all eligible Hong Kong citizens subject to terms and conditions. For details of the "Free COVID-19 Pre-vaccination Health Assessment" program, please visit the website https://echealthcare.com/zh/promo/bocl or contact enquiry hotline at 2152 8503.

  • News
  • 01 June 2021

BOC Life Records Strong Performance in Q1 2021 With nearly 20% up in New Business YoY Ranked Second in the Market

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) has announced strong results for the first quarter of 2021. Standard premiums of new policies reached HK$3.968 billion, an 18.2% year-on-year growth (or 69% sequential growth). The company saw an increase in market share to 17.12% from 14.39% of the corresponding period last year, rising to the second position in Hong Kong’s life insurance market (from the third position in the previous year). The company’s product offerings, including RMB-denominated policies, online life insurance and Qualifying Deferred Annuity Policy (QDAP), all command market-leading positions. Among all, standard premiums of new online life insurance policies totalled approximately HK$380 million in Q1. The number of new policies was close to 3,400, up 169% from the same period last year. The Insurance Authority recently published the provisional statistics for 2021 Q1*, during which premiums for new long-term business in Hong Kong (excluding retirement scheme business) stood at HK$40.7 billion, marking a 16.1% increase year-on-year. While the industry continues to be subdued under the pandemic, the economy is poised for recovery after the pandemic is brought under control amid gradually climbing vaccination rates. ‘As the pandemic lingers, customers are more inclined to file online insurance applications, helped by the company’s multi-year effort in digitisation and product diversification, as well as our online-to-offline omnichannel sales. BOC Life tailors products and services to customers of different age groups and life stages, covering their specific protection needs. Coupled with effective investment strategy and team effort, the company achieved satisfactory results even at times of adversity,’ said Wilson Tang, Chief Executive, BOC Life. With the application of Insurtech and data analytics, BOC Life has launched a variety of insurance products catering to the needs of different customer segments, offering customers a smart experience and a choice of products that are personalised, brand-new and ever more convenient. In the future, the company will continue to focus on the local market while eyeing the opportunities in the Greater Bay Area. It will seek to strengthen collaboration with cross-industry partners, and at the same time leverage the BOC Group’s resources, in a bid to forge a new ecosystem for its insurance business. The ecosystem will serve as a new business arena to connect to relevant products and value-added services, bringing customers fresh new experience and services. * Quarterly Release of Provisional Statistics for Long Term Business in 2021 by the Insurance Authority: https://www.ia.org.hk/en/infocenter/statistics/market_6_2021.html

  • News
  • 30 November 2020

BOC Life reports outstanding 2020 Q3 performance and ranked No 3 again with online business on continual rise

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (‘BOC Life’) announced today its outstanding 2020 Q3 business performance amidst the economic downturn and the Covid-19 epidemic. The robustness of the new business has driven the company’s overall business growth in the first three quarters of the year. The third quarter new business sales saw a V-shaped rebound, rising 70% versus the previous quarter. In terms of standard premiums of new business, the company saw an increase in market share from 11.60% to 14.27%, compared to the same period last year, maintaining the third position in Hong Kong’s life insurance market. For the nine months ended 30 September 2020, standard premiums of new policies totalled HK$8.996 billion. According to the 2020 Q3(1) statistics published today by the Insurance Authority, new office premiums (excluding Retirement Scheme business) of long-term business stood at HK$98.7 billion, marking a 29.4% decrease on a year-on-year basis. Digital sales by BOC Life achieved an increase of over 30% compared to the same period last year and recorded triple growth versus the previous quarter. New online premiums of the third quarter rose to HK$440 million on a sales volume of over 4,200 policies. New online premiums reached almost 1.04 billion for the first three quarters this year. Under its digital marketing strategy, the company expedited product development for and improvement to online products, which foster strong business growth on direct sales channels. Its market share has soared to more than 60%, retaining the No 1 position. BOC Life also continued to achieve satisfactory results for its Renminbi insurance business, keeping the top market position. Wilson Tang, Chief Executive, BOC Life, said the solid performance achieved in such an extremely challenging market environment is very encouraging. He attributed the business growth to customers’ trust in the brand, the multi-channel strategy and its digital innovation. On top of developing the local insurance market, the company is also committed to forging cross-industry partnerships to capture opportunities arising from new businesses in the Greater Bay Area. By leveraging the Group’s resources, BOC Life is well-positioned to launch innovative insurance services, including the recently launched health ecosystem, which offers customers self-health management experience as well as healthcare coverage. This “prevention is better than cure” platform will help promote a health-conscious lifestyle conducive to health and longevity. The company will fully utilise insurtech and pool more resources into growing its digital channels further, providing value-added services aside from products, and offering brand new experiences to meet customers’ growing needs for more diversified and personalised customer services.Remarks:(1): Quarterly Release of Provisional Statistics for Long Term Business by the Insurance Authority: https://www.ia.org.hk/en/infocenter/statistics/market_7_2020.html

BOC Life Won Several Industry Awards
  • News
  • 20 October 2020

BOC Life Won Several Industry Awards

BOC Life is honoured with five industry accolades, in recognition of the Company’s excellence in the aspects of the RMB business and employee development.The awards include:2020 RMB Business Outstanding AwardsNote 1: Outstanding Insurance Business – Annuity Award2020 RMB Business Outstanding Awards: Saving Insurance Award (Hong Kong China)HR Distinction Awards 2020Note 2: Excellence in Employee Development – GoldHR Distinction Awards 2020: Excellence in Organization Development – SilverHR Distinction Awards 2020: Excellence in Talent Management – Silver As a market leader in the RMB business, BOC Life outperformed other competitors in the Annuity category again this year in the 2020 RMB Business Outstanding Awards hosted by Metro Finance and Hong Kong Ta Kung Wen Wei Media Group. This year, we also received the Saving Insurance Award for the first time. These awards endorse our well performed and diversified RMB annuity and savings insurance product offerings, setting a high benchmark for the insurance industry. Also, BOC Life garnered three wins in the HR Distinction Awards 2020 hosted by Human Resources Magazine. These awards are recognitions of the Company’s steadfast efforts in growing our professional talents with customized employee career plans, to fully unleash the staff members potentials in meeting the business needs. The awards are judged by a panel of senior HR professionals from all over Asia with diversified backgrounds, benchmarking with the specifically designed judging criteria. BOC Life will continue to expand our product suites with enhanced our channels and services to all customers. In addition, BOC Life will also dedicate to grow and nurture our professional talents, further reinforcing our people-centric and excellence-driven corporate values. Note 1: RMB Business Outstanding Awards endorse the financial institutions with outstanding performance in the RMB business in the past year.  This year was the 9th year of the annual award.Note 2: The HR Distinction Awards (formerly HR Innovation Awards) has celebrated organisations with proven track records of excelling in delivering organisational growth, alongside strategic human capital strategies, solutions and executions, for six consecutive years. This year marked the 6th year of the annual award.  

BOC Life Scooped Standard of Excellence in WebAward 2020
  • News
  • 28 September 2020

BOC Life Scooped Standard of Excellence in WebAward 2020

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (BOC Life) announced that its digital efforts have won industry recognition by winning the Standard of Excellence Award in the WebAward 2020* organized by Web Marketing Association.The award demonstrates industry commendation on BOC Life’s website development in meeting the seven judging criteria, namely design, copy writing, innovation, content, interactivity, navigation, and use of technology. This year, the award featured a list of entries from 42 countries for all 96 industry categories. All entries were evaluated by the abovementioned criteria by a team of professional web experts from a variety of relevant disciplines of website development. Judges included members of the media, website designers, creative directors, corporate marketing executives, content providers and webmasters.The Standard of Excellence Awards are given to those companies that outperform the industry average in their respective category. BOC Life is proud to have received the honorable award, endorsed widely by industry professionals. This accolade is also a testimony to the company’s relentless efforts in strengthening its digital channels to bring elevated convenience and brand-new experience to its stakeholders and customers.   *The WebAward is organized by Web Marketing Association to endorse well developed and outstanding websites. This year marked the 24th annual WebAward Competition.

BOC Life and Bupa announce business collaboration
  • News
  • 04 May 2020

BOC Life and Bupa announce business collaboration

BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (“BOC Life”) and Bupa (Asia) Limited (“Bupa”) are today announcing a business collaboration, whereby BOC Life’s customers will be offered the new Bupa Hero VHIS Plan – Bupa’s third certified Flexi Plan under the Government’s Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme (VHIS). BOC Life’s widely acclaimed Qualifying Deferred Annuity Policy (QDAP) products, together with the Bupa Hero VHIS Plan will bring competitive tax deductible solutions to the public for health and retirement protection.   Bupa will appoint selected insurance agents of BOC Life as general insurance agents of Bupa, extending the reach of Bupa’s market leading VHIS offering to wider customer segments. This collaboration will offer customers Bupa’s extensive healthcare support with the highest1 VHIS coverage for Asia2 that goes above and beyond other VHIS Plans in the market. The new Bupa Hero VHIS Plan provides the highest1 coverage up to HK$30 million every year for Asia2 among all VHIS plans in the market and offers Hong Kong’s first Mental Health Service Hotline and mental health clinical network. Together with its full cover for prescribed non-surgical cancer treatments in Asia2, the Hero Plan provides people in Hong Kong greater support and coverage for both their physical health and mental wellbeing. “We are delighted to collaborate with Bupa to distribute a highly competitive VHIS product in the market. With BOC Life’s strong propositions in the deferred annuity segment, the synergy between us will bring ultimate benefits to customers who are looking for compelling health and retirement protection from expert provider” said Wilson Tang, Chief Executive, BOC Life.“Supporting people’s holistic health and mental wellbeing is a priority for us, and with the introduction of the Bupa Hero VHIS Plan, we have taken our VHIS offerings to the next level.  We really value our collaboration with BOC Life, which enables our high-quality health insurance products to reach a more extensive customer network, especially at this challenging time when so many people are looking for excellent medical services to meet their physical and mental health needs” said Andrew Merrilees, General Manager, Bupa Hong Kong. Eligible policyowner or his/her spouse may be entitled to tax deductions according to the guideline issued by the Hong Kong Inland Revenue Department on his/her BOC Life QDAP products and Bupa Hero VHIS Plan underwritten.1 VHIS Plan for Asia, Australia and New Zealand coverage. Source: VHIS website as of 29 April 20202 Asia includes Australia and New Zealand