Finance
Insurer Asr Says It Could Invest in Dutch Defence Companies
Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®
Posted on December 9, 2024
1 min readLast updated: January 27, 2026
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ASR, a Dutch insurer, considers investing in local defence companies under strict conditions, responding to governmental calls for a robust European defence industry.
ASR Weighs Investment in Dutch Defence Companies
AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - Dutch insurer ASR said on Monday it would consider investing in Dutch defence companies, following a call from the government to provide capital for a stronger European defence industry.
The second-largest insurer in the Netherlands normally excludes investments in defence companies under its policies for responsible investments.
It said it would now consider exceptions for companies based in the Netherlands, on the condition that they are not involved with the production or distribution of controversial weapons or civilian firearms, and don't supply high-risk countries.
"With increasing geopolitical tensions and global stability and security under pressure, there is growing political pressure and societal demand for a strong and robust Dutch and European defence industry," ASR's chief executive officer Jos Baeten said.
"ASR feels a moral responsibility and sees opportunities to contribute through targeted investments within the Netherlands, under strict conditions."
(Reporting by Bart Meijer; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)
Key Takeaways
- •ASR may invest in Dutch defence companies.
- •Investments align with government calls for stronger European defence.
- •ASR's policy normally excludes defence investments.
- •Exceptions apply if companies avoid controversial weapons.
- •Geopolitical tensions influence investment considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Insurer ASR says it could invest in Dutch defence companies
1What is the main topic?
The main topic is ASR's consideration to invest in Dutch defence companies under specific conditions.
2Why is ASR considering these investments?
ASR is responding to government calls for a stronger European defence industry amid geopolitical tensions.
3What are the conditions for ASR's investments?
ASR will only invest in companies not involved with controversial weapons or high-risk countries.
