Allianz Plans $3.2B Share Buyback as 4Q Profit Climbs

Allianz announced its first share buyback, planning to spend €3 billion over 12 months, alongside a 23% rise in fourth-quarter profit. The CFO discussed the company's strategic flexibility and potential for future share buybacks. Allianz is focused on its renewal agenda and is open to opportunistic deals. The company is well-positioned in the US market, particularly in asset management and life insurance, but sees potential for consolidation in the PNC business. PIMCO, Allianz's asset manager, has seen strong inflows, benefiting from market volatility and interest rate changes.

What significant financial action did Allianz announce for the first time?

• A merger with a major competitor

• A new product launch

• A share buyback program

• A dividend cut

How much does Allianz plan to spend on share repurchases over the next 12 months?

• €4 billion

• €1 billion

• €2 billion

• €3 billion

What is Allianz's approach to future share buybacks?

• They will decide based on market conditions

• They will only buy back shares if profits fall

• They are committed to regular buybacks

• They have no plans for future buybacks

In which market does Allianz see potential for consolidation?

• Asset management

• Health insurance

• Life insurance

• PNC business

What percentage of Allianz's total profit comes from the US?

• 40%

• 35%

• 30%

• 25%

What is the main concern for Allianz regarding the bond market in 2017?

• High inflation

• Increased volatility

• Decreased demand

• Low interest rates

How did PIMCO's inflows in January compare to the fourth quarter?

• They were about the same

• They were slightly higher

• They were significantly lower

• They were significantly higher