On 17 March 2025, US insurer FM broke ground on its state-of-the-art science and technology centre in Luxembourg City. The facility will be used for advanced scientific research and risk mitigation practices with clients and stakeholders across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. “This will become a true hub of partnership and thought leadership in the field of risk management, with far-reaching impact across the European region,” said Malcolm Roberts, chairman and CEO of FM, in his inaugural speech.
Research into climate, industrial technology and cyber risks
FM has operated in Luxembourg since 2017, when it established its European headquarters here. The new centre of 26,000 m2, expected to be completed in 2027, represents a significant, strategic investment for the company. FM’s focus is on building partnerships with its clients to protect their business operations and prevent losses before they happen, and the Luxembourg hub will focus on cutting-edge research on loss prevention solutions in the fields of:
- Climate hazards
- Technology in industry
- Cyber risk
We have been delighted to see the access to talent and the availability of cutting-edge research and scientific thought right here on our doorstep in Luxembourg. It has also been phenomenal to see the positive enthusiasm of the government.
“Our purpose is to protect today for a better tomorrow,” Mr Roberts pointed out. “Building a secure and prosperous future is a priority. This is where we see a strong alignment with the strategic goals of Luxembourg. We have been delighted to see the access to talent and the availability of cutting-edge research and scientific thought right here on our doorstep in Luxembourg. It has also been phenomenal to see the positive enthusiasm of the government. This provides a perfect recipe for a successful partnership.”
Strong scientific partnership with Luxembourg
According to FM, Luxembourg is a key strategic location with its central geographic position in Europe and access for clients and talent from several neighbouring countries, including France and Germany. Randy Hodge, FM’s Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the support received from Luxembourg’s national innovation agency, Luxinnovation, which made the investment journey very smooth. “Luxinnovation has helped us navigate what we needed to do and facilitate connections with government ministers and the Luxembourg Crown Prince. They gave us access to what we needed for the process,” he said.
This choice reaffirms our nation’s role as a leader fostering international scientific collaboration and innovation.
The strategic importance of FM’s investment was also emphasised by Luxembourg representatives. “I’m proud to welcome the FM science centre as a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to advancing research in climate resilience, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence,” said Stéphanie Obertin, Luxembourg’s Minister for Digitalisation and for Research and Higher Education. “These fields are not only critical to the global community’s safety and well-being, but also closely aligned with our national priorities in research, innovation and sustainable development.”
Minister Obertin pointed out the synergies between FM’s expertise and Luxembourg’s research ecosystem. “FM’s decision to establish this facility in Luxembourg highlights our country’s multicultural environment, strategic location and research and development capabilities. This choice reaffirms our nation’s role as a leader fostering international scientific collaboration and innovation,” she pointed out.
Photo credits: FM/Olivier Minaire