A common criticism of life insurers is that they trail businesses in other sectors in adopting new technologies and business methods. One industry titan endeavoring to counter that perception is AXA. In February of this year, the Paris-based carrier launched a €200 million venture capital fund, AXA Strategic Ventures, to “foster entrepreneurial discovery in insurance and financial services” and to enhance the customer experience. Hersch: Why did AXA establish its venture capital fund? What does the insurer hope to achieve?