Although they might not be as visible as the state wrestling crowds or as rambunctious as the NCAA tournament participants, you may still notice hundreds of insurance professionals as they begin gathering for the Global Insurance Symposium that begins this afternoon in downtown Des Moines. 

The annual symposium provides a venue for the insurance industry to address important issues affecting the marketplace with a primary focus on technology, policy and innovation. About 700 attendees will hear keynote speeches and participate in panel discussions of industry leaders, state insurance commissioners, entrepreneurs and regulatory representatives from several states, national agencies and international offices. A highlight of the event will be a keynote address from U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley, who will provide closing remarks for the conference, which ends at noon Thursday. 

Below is a story about how the Iowa Insurance Division is using the event as a platform to promote financial literacy for Des Moines-area students.