General Insurance newsletter Friday 9th January 2026
Insurance NewsGet ahead in 2026 with key market insights - Stay ahead of the curve by accessing our 2026 Salary Guide and Market Sentiment Report. Discover the latest salary data, hiring trends, and expert advice to plan your next career move or refine your recruitment strategy. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Get ahead in 2026 with key market insights')Insurance business valuation calculator - Are you planning your 2026 business strategy, but are perhaps lacking credible data and insights on your business performance? Our free business calculator for brokers, insurers and MGAs provides an instant valuation, based on your company's profile, revenue and profit, offering you the essential data you need to make key business decisions. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Insurance business valuation calculator')How insurers and brokers are winning with predictive analytics - As competition intensifies, predictive analytics separates winners from followers in insurance. Our latest article reveals how brokers and insurers are transitioning from technology experiments to scalable solutions that address complex workflows, compliance demands, and customer expectations. Discover the strategies driving success. (IDEX Consulting news, 'How insurers and brokers are winning with predictive analytics')AI insurance tools - which ones could help you? - Key tools include InsurGPT, Eigen Technologies, and Guidewire. Which ones are you aware of and which ones could help your job? Access our detailed overview to find out. (IDEX Consulting news, 'AI insurance tools - which ones could help you?')Starpeak reported a 24% increase in gross written premiums (GWP) for 2025, surpassing its 20% growth target, driven by demand across its SportsCover Direct and Protectivity brands, sector-focused product launches, and a focus on specialist SME markets, with plans for further growth through operational scalability and new product development in 2026. (Josh Recamara, 9/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Starpeak reports 24% increase in GWP in 2025')KGM has renewed its £2 billion capacity agreement with Zurich through 2030, extending their partnership to nine years. The deal supports KGM’s growth plans, targeting over £500 million in gross written premium by 2030, and highlights Zurich’s commitment to long-term collaborations in the UK motor insurance market. (Kenneth Araullo, 8/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'KGM secures £2 billion capacity renewal with Zurich through 2030')Britain supported the US seizure of a Russian-flagged tanker linked to sanctions evasion, highlighting growing enforcement risks in marine insurance. The operation underscores challenges for insurers as ageing fleets, sanctions, and geopolitical tensions reshape risk, with shadow fleets and rerouted voyages driving higher claims and stricter underwriting. (Bryony Garlick, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Britain backs US seizure of Russian‑flagged tanker as war, sanctions reshape marine risk')The SME cyber insurance market is entering its softest phase in decades, with competitive premiums and rising demand driven by increased cyber incidents. Insurers are focusing on integrating defensive tools like threat scanning and endpoint protection into policies, while brokers emphasise education to close the protection gap and tailor solutions for resource-constrained SMEs. (David Weston, Alice Cattley, Stephen Owens, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Cyber insurers sharpen defensive edge as SME market enters ‘softest’ phase in decades')The British Insurance Brokers' Association (BIBA) has appointed veteran broadcaster Kay Burley to host its 2026 conference in Manchester. Known for her four-decade career with Sky News, Burley will chair discussions on pressing market challenges, including rising claims costs and capacity constraints. The event, themed "Time:To," will run from May 13-14, 2026, with over 9,900 professionals and 220 exhibitors expected to attend. (Kenneth Araullo, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'BIBA taps Sky News veteran Kay Burley to host 2026 conference')Gallagher has integrated the AssuredPartners aviation team into its global aerospace practice, creating a division of nearly 600 specialist risk professionals worldwide. Eric Barfield, formerly Head of AssuredPartners' aerospace practice, will lead the combined US general aviation team as President. This move strengthens Gallagher's global reach and expertise, enhancing its ability to deliver tailored solutions and compete in the highly specialised aviation insurance market. (Josh Recamara, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Gallagher expands aerospace practice with AssuredPartners integration')Blenheim Partnerships, part of the White Bear Group, has launched a specialty trade-focused managing general agent (MGA) to address complex trade-related risks. Led by Ed Parker, the MGA will underwrite products like trade disruption insurance, political risk, and trade credit, targeting clients such as financial institutions and commodity traders. This initiative aims to provide tailored solutions for volatile trade environments and enhance cohesive risk structuring. (Josh Recamara, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Blenheim Partnerships launches specialty trade MGA')Coalition has expanded its UK underwriting to include cyber risks in the Isle of Man, Jersey, Guernsey, and Gibraltar. This move extends its UK footprint and offers cyber insurance and risk management support to organisations in these regions via its UK broker network. The expansion targets territories with growing cyber infrastructure and diverse economic profiles, aiming to address increasing demand for cyber coverage in non-US markets. (Kenneth Araullo, 6/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Coalition to quote Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey cyber risks via UK brokers')The International Underwriting Association (IUA) has unveiled its 2026 business plan, focusing on cyber, AI, climate risks, and parametrics. Key initiatives include launching councils for underwriting and emerging risks, enhancing claims processes, and advancing digital transformation. The IUA aims to address profitability pressures, talent shortages, and regulatory challenges while supporting members with technical services and policy advocacy. (Kenneth Araullo, 6/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'IUA outlines 2026 push on cyber, AI, climate risks and parametrics')Berkshire Hathaway has overtaken Allianz as the world’s largest insurer by nonbanking assets, reaching $1.15 trillion, according to AM Best’s 2026 rankings. Allianz dropped to second despite asset growth, while UnitedHealth Group retained its lead in net premiums written for the 11th year. The rankings highlight the growing scale of multinational insurers and their competitive edge over regional players. (Josh Recamara, 6/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Berkshire Hathaway overtakes Allianz as world’s largest insurer')Folgate Underwriting has secured new capacity with International General Insurance (IGI) for its professional indemnity portfolio. The agreement strengthens Folgate’s underwriting platform, supporting growth and a service-led approach for brokers. Recent key appointments include Debbie Farman as Head of PI Renewals and Mathew Harvey as Head of PI. (Josh Recamara, 6/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Folgate Underwriting secures new capacity with IGI')Super yacht insurance is facing increased complexity due to risks like cyber intrusions, lithium-ion battery fires, and climate volatility. Brokers must adapt to challenges such as polar route excursions, regulatory scrutiny, and crew shortages. Digital MGAs and shorter distribution chains are reshaping the market, while high-value yachts demand deeper due diligence and specialist underwriting expertise. (Bryony Garlick, 5/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Super yacht insurance faces growing complexity amid rising risk')MovesThe Lloyd's Market Association (LMA) has appointed Matthew Bellamy as Underwriting Director, reporting to CEO Sheila Cameron, where he will lead the underwriting team, provide technical support, and focus on shaping new underwriting models, bringing experience from roles at Ki Syndicate 1618 and Fidelis Partnership. (Josh Recamara, 9/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: LMA, QBE, AM Specialty and Bridge Specialty')QBE has promoted Chris Reidy, with nearly 20 years at QBE managing complex property, casualty, motor, and health claims, to Head of Core Claims, and James Villiers, with two decades of complex claims expertise including seven years managing Complex Marine and Energy Claims, to Head of Complex Claims for European operations, while appointing Scott Jacobs as Head of Claims Transformation to drive AI, automation, and modernisation, reflecting QBE's focus on innovation and customer service. (Josh Recamara, 9/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: LMA, QBE, AM Specialty and Bridge Specialty')AM Specialty Insurance Company (UK) has appointed Kevin Stephenson, with over 20 years of finance experience at AXA XL and Marco Capital, as Chief Finance Officer, and Viren Patel, with extensive expertise in enterprise risk management and ESG compliance from roles at AEGIS London, Starr Companies, and Lloyd's, as Chief Risk Officer, bolstering the company's financial and risk governance to support sustainable growth and long-term partnerships. (Josh Recamara, 9/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: LMA, QBE, AM Specialty and Bridge Specialty')Bridge Specialty International (BSI) has appointed Greg Ferguson, who previously held senior leadership roles at Ardonagh Specialty, Price Forbes, and Howden, as CEO of international distribution, a new role focused on driving growth outside the US, expanding international presence, and fostering long-term carrier partnerships with tailored products. (Josh Recamara, 9/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: LMA, QBE, AM Specialty and Bridge Specialty')AEGIS London has promoted Tom Prifti to Class Underwriter for international errors and omissions, succeeding Martin King, who retired after a 10-year tenure. Prifti, with AEGIS since 2014, brings expertise in Lloyd’s underwriting and digital trading, covering sectors like architects, lawyers, and IT professionals. (Kenneth Araullo, 8/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: AEGIS London, Specialist Risk Group, Carrick, The Exeter')Specialist Risk Group has appointed Richard Gurney as Head of Specialty, tasked with expanding international specialty offerings and exploring new investment opportunities. Gurney brings over 22 years of experience from JLT and Marsh, complementing recent leadership hires Neil Nimmo and Sasa Brcerevic. (Kenneth Araullo, 8/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: AEGIS London, Specialist Risk Group, Carrick, The Exeter')HDI Global has appointed CFO Simon Hunt as interim CEO for the UK and Ireland, effective February 1, 2026, following Stephanie Ogden's departure. Hunt, who joined HDI in 2019 and previously served as Managing Director during Ogden's maternity leave, brings extensive experience across corporate and specialty divisions. Ger Twomey will step in as interim CFO, ensuring continuity and strategic focus for clients and brokers during the leadership transition. (Kenneth Araullo, 8/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'HDI Global elevates CFO Simon Hunt to interim UK and Ireland chief')Chubb has appointed Jimaan Sané as Head of Growth for its global cyber business, based in Zurich. Sané, who spent over a decade at Beazley in senior cyber leadership roles, will oversee the performance and expansion of Chubb’s cyber initiatives. His experience spans multinational underwriting teams across London, Europe, Canada, and Singapore, aligning with Chubb’s focus on disciplined growth and global market leadership in cyber insurance. (Josh Recamara, 8/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Chubb appoints head of growth for global cyber business')Verisk has expanded Tim Rayner's role to lead its underwriting and claims businesses in the UK and Ireland, along with its global life, health, and travel division. With over 25 years of industry experience, Rayner, who joined Verisk in 2018 and most recently served as CEO of Specialty Business Solutions, will continue overseeing the unit. This alignment aims to enhance client relationships and drive innovation. (Kenneth Araullo, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Verisk, Allianz, Arch, Newline, rrelentless')Allianz UK has appointed Hailey Franklin as Commercial Director for Allianz Personal Broker, a newly created role. With 13 years of experience at Allianz and in the insurance industry, Franklin will focus on enhancing trading performance and business capabilities. This appointment follows recent leadership hires, including Glyn Hughes as managing director and Vicky Yuill as distribution director. (Kenneth Araullo, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Verisk, Allianz, Arch, Newline, rrelentless')Allianz Trade has appointed David Barber as Head of Surety & Guarantee for the UK and Ireland, succeeding David Weale. With nearly 25 years in corporate credit, including 14 years at Allianz Trade, Barber has held roles such as Regional Underwriting Manager for Northern Europe and Risk Director for the UK and Ireland surety team. He will also join the UK and Ireland executive board of management. (Kenneth Araullo, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Verisk, Allianz, Arch, Newline, rrelentless')Arch Insurance International has promoted Simone Lewis to London Market Professional Indemnity Underwriting Manager. Lewis will oversee underwriting activities for the London Market PI portfolio, covering UK and international risks across various professions. With over 13 years of PI underwriting experience, she joined Arch in 2023 after roles at AXA XL and XL Catlin. (Kenneth Araullo, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Verisk, Allianz, Arch, Newline, rrelentless')Newline Group has appointed James May as Head of General Liability and Ben Ward as Head of Life Sciences & Clinical Trials, effective January 1, 2026. May has been with Newline since 2007, while Ward, who joined in 2019, has played a key role in expanding the clinical trials portfolio and launching the firm's first digital health policy. (Kenneth Araullo, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Verisk, Allianz, Arch, Newline, rrelentless')rrelentless has appointed Duane Folkard as Lead Cyber Underwriter. With over 20 years of experience in broker and underwriting leadership, portfolio development, and complex risk placement, Folkard will oversee and grow the firm's cyber underwriting function as it expands its product pipeline. (Kenneth Araullo, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Verisk, Allianz, Arch, Newline, rrelentless')Sean McGovern has been appointed Chair of the Lloyd's Market Association (LMA) for a three-year term, effective January 1, 2026, succeeding Andrew Brooks. McGovern, CEO of AXA XL's UK & Lloyd's insurance business, brings extensive experience in regulation, governance, and underwriting. His leadership aims to strengthen the LMA's support for managing agents and enhance Lloyd's market competitiveness. (Josh Recamara, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Sean McGovern appointed chair of Lloyd's Market Association')Mike Hall has officially assumed the role of CEO at The Britannia Group, effective January 1, 2026, succeeding Andrew Cutler. Hall, who joined Britannia in 2008 as an Underwriter, has held key roles including Chief Underwriting Officer and Deputy CEO. He aims to address evolving maritime risks while maintaining financial resilience and member-focused service. Cutler, who served as CEO since 2012, leaves the organisation in a strong position to pursue non-executive roles. (Josh Recamara, 7/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Mike Hall formally assumes CEO role in Britannia Group')AIG has named Eric Andersen as President and CEO-elect, effective February 16, 2026. Andersen, a former Aon executive, will succeed Peter Zaffino as CEO after June 1, 2026. With nearly three decades at Aon, Andersen brings extensive leadership experience, including roles as President and CEO of Aon Benfield and Aon Risk Solutions Americas. This appointment follows AIG's multi-year succession planning and positions Andersen to lead the company into its next phase. (Kenneth Araullo, 6/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'AIG names ex-Aon president Eric Andersen CEO-elect')Jensten Group has appointed David McMillan as Non-Executive Chair of its board, effective January 1, 2026, following Bain Capital's acquisition of the company in November 2025. McMillan, formerly CEO of esure, has also held senior roles at Aviva and QBE. Additionally, Andy Homer has joined the board after stepping down from the Brown & Brown Europe board in 2024. (Kenneth Araullo, 6/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Jensten, Liberty Specialty Markets, Westfield Specialty, Ventis, and more')Liberty Specialty Markets has named David Saillen as Chief Underwriting Officer for Europe. Based in Zurich, he will oversee underwriting performance and lead the Invest in Europe 2030 strategy. Saillen succeeds Pierre-Edouard Fraigneau and brings over a decade of experience at Liberty, including leading fine art and specie in continental Europe. (Kenneth Araullo, 6/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Jensten, Liberty Specialty Markets, Westfield Specialty, Ventis, and more')Westfield Specialty has appointed Cornelia Röskau as CEO of Westfield Specialty Europe, a new entity set to begin underwriting in April, pending regulatory approval. Based in Luxembourg, Röskau will report to Anthony Baldwin, President of Westfield Specialty International. She joins from Sompo, where she served as European CEO of SI Insurance, and has held leadership roles at Globality Health and Groupe Henner. (Kenneth Araullo, 6/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Jensten, Liberty Specialty Markets, Westfield Specialty, Ventis, and more')Ventis, a commercial and residential real estate MGA backed by Mission, has appointed Holly Ivall as Lead Trading SME Underwriter and promoted Zoe Hughes to Senior Underwriter. Ivall will manage Acturis referrals, monitor submissions, and handle new business, reporting to CEO Gareth Roberts. Hughes, with two years at Ventis, will oversee the UK and Ireland book, managing renewals and adjustments within SLA timelines. (Kenneth Araullo, 6/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Jensten, Liberty Specialty Markets, Westfield Specialty, Ventis, and more')Addept Insurance has appointed Lauren Woods as Head of Claims Operations. Woods will oversee claims, drive innovation, and manage supplier performance and panels. She joins from Arc Legal Group, where she was Head of Home Emergency, and previously worked at Call Assist. (Kenneth Araullo, 6/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Jensten, Liberty Specialty Markets, Westfield Specialty, Ventis, and more')Carbon has appointed Rebecca Ince as Chief Operating Officer, effective January 5, 2026. Ince will oversee operations, technology, data, compliance, and risk. She joins from Dual International and previously held senior roles at Hiscox. Carbon has grown its premium from £15 million to £320 million in five years. (Kenneth Araullo, 6/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Jensten, Liberty Specialty Markets, Westfield Specialty, Ventis, and more')Callum Beaton has begun his term as President of the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII), succeeding Nicola Stacey. Debbie Mitchell will serve as Deputy President. Beaton brings decades of experience in broking, underwriting, and captive insurance, while Mitchell has a long career in financial planning. The CII aims to enhance professional standards and talent development, including partnerships with Birmingham City University and EDII. (Jonalyn Cueto, 5/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Beaton begins term as CII president')Broadway Insurance Partners has appointed Lauren Winstanley as Group Development Director to drive business growth and partnerships. Winstanley, who joined in 2022, brings 24 years of industry experience and has advised high-net-worth clients and corporations. The firm recently reported 66% growth in gross written premium and expanded its leadership team to support national expansion. (Jonayln Cueto, 5/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'Broadway Insurance Partners appoints group development director')Dougie Barnett, a veteran of AXA UK, has retired after a career spanning over four decades in underwriting, risk management, and loss prevention. Barnett, who joined AXA in 2001, played a key role in addressing underinsurance, developing risk strategies, and representing AXA in industry initiatives. He also contributed to global risk management and emerging risk strategies, including sustainability and electric vehicles. (Josh Recamara, 5/1/2026, Insurance Business, 'AXA UK veteran Dougie Barnett retires')Not subscribed yet? Subscribe for the latest news, market trends, and weekly insights - all delivered straight to your inbox.All information provided in this market digest has been gathered from Insurance Business, Business Insurance and IDEX Consulting.
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