General Insurance newsletter Friday 27th February 2026

Insurance News

Smart hiring: How employers can master the interview process - Structured interviews, multi-method assessments, and diverse panels are transforming hiring outcomes. Explore strategies like leveraging AI tools, addressing biases, and adopting behavioural frameworks to improve decision accuracy and secure top talent, in this blog. (IDEX Consulting news, 'Smart hiring: How employers can master the interview process')
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Bspoke Underwriting has secured a five-year capacity deal via the Accelerant Risk Exchange, providing £50 million annually to support its specialist personal lines portfolio, ensuring stability and flexibility for niche schemes in the UK market. (Josh Recamara, 27/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Bspoke Underwriting secures £50 million capacity for niche personal lines')
Fidelis Insurance Holdings Limited has announced a rebrand to Pelagos Insurance Capital Limited, with plans to trade under the ticker PLGO on the NYSE starting May 2026, reflecting its evolution into a strategic capital allocator and its network-driven underwriting model. (Mav Rodriguez, 26/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Fidelis Insurance announces total rebrand')
Allianz has reported a record €17.4 billion operating profit for 2025, driven by an 8.4% increase in earnings, strong performance in its property and casualty (P&C) segment, and strategic initiatives like AI deployment, sustainability integration, and shareholder-focused actions including a dividend increase and share buy-back program. (Jonalyn Cueto, 26/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Allianz reports €17.4 billion profit as new strategic cycle begins')
Willis, part of WTW, launched a global digital infrastructure group to address data-centre risks, offering end-to-end lifecycle solutions across construction, cyber, and operational resilience, reflecting growing demand for specialised digital infrastructure risk management. (Paul Lucas, 26/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Willis launches global digital infrastructure unit to target data-centre risk surge')
AXA reported record 2025 financial results with €116 billion in revenues (+6%) and €8.4 billion in underlying earnings (+9% excluding AXA IM), driven by strong P&C and life/health growth, strategic divestments, and enhanced shareholder returns. (Jonalyn Cueto, 26/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'AXA records strong growth in full-year financials')
Aspect secured Lloyd’s Europe coverholder status, allowing it to trade across the continent and expand into markets like the Netherlands, Ireland, Scandinavia, and Spain. The MGA focuses on complex mid-market risks, including recycling operations and combustible cladding, supported by local infrastructure, product diversification, and a 52% growth in late 2025. (Paul Lucas, 26/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Aspect secures Lloyd's Europe coverholder status to accelerate continental expansion')
Elitium, a new specialist MGA, has launched in the UK, focusing on commercial combined cover for manufacturing businesses and property insurance for well-maintained unoccupied premises. Co-founded by Linda Bichener and Leah Miller, who bring 45 years of underwriting experience, Elitium emphasises traditional, underwriter-led decision-making and tailored solutions for complex risks. The MGA aims to address gaps in the market with a focus on broker engagement and bespoke underwriting. (Josh Recamara, 26/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'New MGA Elitium targets UK manufacturing and unoccupied property risks')
The London P&I Club reported a successful 2026 renewal season, achieving a 14.5% growth in mutual tonnage to 56.7 million gt. The club attributed its performance to disciplined underwriting, portfolio quality, and strong member relationships. This growth was driven by organic expansion and selective underwriting, alongside high retention rates. The renewal coincided with a leadership transition, as Vassilis J. Laliotis succeeded John Lyras as chairman after 45 years of service. (Josh Recamara, 26/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'London P&I Club posts positive 2026 renewal as tonnage grows 14.5%')
IGI reported a 2025 net income of $127.2 million, down from $135.2 million in 2024, due to its strategic exit from an underperforming $50 million professional indemnity book. Despite this, IGI maintained a strong combined ratio of 85.9%, with growth in its reinsurance segment offsetting declines in specialty long-tail underwriting. Shareholder returns exceeded $108 million through buybacks and dividends. (Kenneth Araullo, 25/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'IGI profits dip as insurer dumps underperforming book')
Skuld achieved a 6% year-on-year growth in mutual P&I tonnage at the 2026/27 renewal, reaching 128 million GT, with expectations to approach 140 million GT during the policy year. The growth reflects Skuld’s focus on quality tonnage and strong broker partnerships, particularly in Asia. The club also continues to expand its diversified marine and energy portfolio, reinforcing its competitive position in the global P&I market. (Josh Recamara, 25/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Skuld lifts mutual P&I tonnage 6% at 2026/27 renewal')
CFC has launched an upgraded marine kidnap and ransom (K&R) solution featuring smart-tracking technology to address rising piracy risks. The system monitors vessels in real time, alerting clients when entering high-risk zones and enabling immediate coverage activation. This streamlined approach aims to eliminate coverage gaps and simplify the process for brokers and shipowners. (Josh Recamara, 23/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'CFC launches smart-tracking marine K&R cover amid rising piracy risk')

Mergers and Acquisitions

Gallagher has acquired German broker KROSE GmbH & Co KG, integrating its 70-strong team into Gallagher's European operations, further expanding its presence in Germany and enhancing its capabilities in the industrial and specialty insurance segments. (Josh Recamara, 27/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Gallagher snaps up German industrial specialist KROSE')
Sompo Holdings has completed its $3.5 billion acquisition of Aspen Insurance Holdings, adding specialty and reinsurance capabilities to its global platform. Aspen, which wrote $4.6 billion in GWP in 2024, will transition under the Sompo brand. The deal also includes Aspen Capital Markets, enhancing Sompo’s capital management options. (Josh Recamara, 25/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Sompo completes US$3.5 billion Aspen takeover')
Two senior brokers, Mel Franke and Ciara Curran, have acquired Coversure Teddington’s book of business from retiring franchisee Philip Macdonald. With a combined 16 years at the branch, the duo continues Coversure Network’s model of turning employees into owners. The branch, part of the Jensten Group, retains access to £650 million in GWP buying power. (Kenneth Araullo, 23/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Coversure Network turns employees into owners again as Teddington branch changes hands')

Moves

Howden has appointed Christopher Dalrymple as Group Chief Legal Officer, effective March 23, bringing over 25 years of legal leadership experience, including his previous role as General Counsel at Alleghany Corporation, as the company strengthens its senior leadership team during its expansion. (Kenneth Araullo, 27/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Howden, TMK, Consilium')
Consilium has launched an energy risk solutions division and appointed Johnny Hilliard as Managing Partner, bringing over 16 years of experience, including his previous role as Divisional Director for energy at Amwins Global Risks, as part of its broader energy platform expansion. (Kenneth Araullo, 27/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Howden, TMK, Consilium')
Malago Insurance Brokers, celebrating its 10th anniversary, appointed experienced professional Stephen Peacock as Senior Broker, reinforcing its commitment to growth and client service. Founded in 2016 by Mathew Rowles, the Bristol-based brokerage is built on strong technical expertise and a clear service ethos. (Josh Recamara, 26/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Gallagher, Malago Insurance, Intact and HDI')
Gallagher has strengthened its dispute resolution insurance practice by appointing Alexandra Carr as a Director in its London team. With 15 years of experience in complex litigation, investigations, and risk mitigation across various industries, Carr joins from Howard Kennedy to enhance Gallagher's expertise in commercial disputes and insurance litigation. (Josh Recamara, 26/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Gallagher, Malago Insurance, Intact and HDI')
Intact Insurance has appointed Vicky Walker as Vice President of Property and Casualty Claims, leveraging her 25 years of experience and expertise in operational excellence, customer-focused outcomes, and team development. This move aligns with Intact’s commitment to enhancing its commercial claims capability and delivering high-quality service for brokers and customers. (Josh Recamara, 26/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Gallagher, Malago Insurance, Intact and HDI')
HDI Global has appointed Mark Mackay as Global Head of Energy and Power, effective March 1, succeeding Franz Adamczyk. With over 15 years of international insurance experience and expertise in technical underwriting, client solutions, and broker partnerships, Mackay joined HDI in 2019 after leadership roles at AXA XL and Allianz. Adamczyk, who has been with HDI since 1981, will continue contributing as a Senior Advisor and through global risk property responsibilities. (Josh Recamara, 26/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Gallagher, Malago Insurance, Intact and HDI')
Aviva has appointed Chris Cochrane as Group Chief Information Officer, effective summer 2026, succeeding John Cummings, who is retiring. Cochrane, currently Group Chief Information Technology Officer at M&G, brings extensive technology leadership experience, including roles at BT Global Services and Openreach. He expressed enthusiasm for joining Aviva to support its momentum across insurance, wealth, and retirement businesses. (Josh Recamara, 25/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aviva, Marsh Risk, IUA, Sompo and Tokio Marine Kiln')
Marsh Risk has appointed Angela Baker as UK Marsh Portfolio Solutions Leader, effective immediately. With over 30 years of industry experience, including nearly 25 years at Marsh, Baker will focus on advancing portfolio solutions like Fast Track, Marsh’s global quota share facility. She previously served as Head of Analytics Solutions and Operational Risk Consulting in the UK. (Josh Recamara, 25/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aviva, Marsh Risk, IUA, Sompo and Tokio Marine Kiln')
Chris Beazley, Chief Commercial Officer at SCOR Business Solutions and CEO of SCOR UK and SCOR Syndicate, has joined the International Underwriting Association (IUA) board. With 25 years of global industry experience, including a stint as CEO of the London Market Group, Beazley will help oversee the IUA’s efforts to optimise the trading environment for London insurance companies. (Josh Recamara, 25/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aviva, Marsh Risk, IUA, Sompo and Tokio Marine Kiln')
Sompo has appointed Sarah Stanford as CEO of Sompo UK, effective immediately, following its acquisition of Aspen. Previously CEO of Aspen UK since March 2024, Stanford will now oversee all UK property and casualty operations. She succeeds Bob Thaker, who will depart later this year, ensuring a smooth transition alongside Stanford. (Josh Recamara, 25/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aviva, Marsh Risk, IUA, Sompo and Tokio Marine Kiln')
Tokio Marine Kiln (TMK) has appointed George Leahy as an Underwriter in its liability division, reporting to Oliver Delaney, the newly promoted Head of Liability. With eight years of casualty underwriting experience, Leahy joins from Sompo International, where he specialised in international casualty business for heavy industries. His appointment aligns with TMK’s strategy to strengthen its position in the liability market. (Josh Recamara, 25/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Aviva, Marsh Risk, IUA, Sompo and Tokio Marine Kiln')
In further news...Tokio Marine Kiln has hired Lauren Storer as an Underwriter in its property & motor division, bringing over 13 years of underwriting experience, including her previous role as Senior Underwriter at Lancashire Insurance Company, as the insurer strengthens its international property portfolio. (Kenneth Araullo, 27/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: Howden, TMK, Consilium')
Markel Group has promoted Simon Wilson and Andrew Crowley to Executive Vice President roles as part of a leadership reshuffle following its reinsurance exit. Wilson, CEO of Markel Insurance, and Crowley, President of Markel Ventures, will retain their current responsibilities. Amy McCann, previously General Counsel of Markel Ventures since 2022, has also been named Chief Administrative Officer. The restructuring follows Markel's 2025 sale of its reinsurance division renewal rights to Nationwide, with the division now in run-off. (Kenneth Araullo, 24/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Markel elevates Wilson, Crowley as it reshapes leadership after reinsurance exit')
Independent specialty MGA HIVE Underwriters has appointed George Stylli as Chief Technology Officer. Stylli, a London Market technology specialist, brings nearly 20 years of experience in technology leadership roles at Lloyd’s managing agencies. He has a proven track record in building scalable platforms, modernising underwriting workflows, and driving technology-enabled change across various specialty classes. (Josh Recamara, 24/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: HIVE, MGAA, British Marine, Specialty MGA, AEGIS and Rokstone')
The Managing General Agents’ Association (MGAA) has appointed Manveen Twohill as Learning & Development Manager to enhance its education and insight offerings for UK MGAs in 2026. Twohill, formerly Learning & Development Global Partner at Gallagher Re, brings expertise in designing and delivering training for insurance and reinsurance professionals. In her new role, she will lead the MGAA’s refreshed Programme of Learning and Insights (POLI) and drive member engagement to help firms maximise their membership benefits. (Josh Recamara, 24/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: HIVE, MGAA, British Marine, Specialty MGA, AEGIS and Rokstone')
British Marine, part of QBE Insurance Group, has appointed Richard Inman as Portfolio Manager for British Marine P&I. Inman will oversee the P&I underwriting strategy, including risk selection and product development. He joins from Tindall Riley & Co., where he served as Associate Director of Underwriting for the Britannia P&I Club in London and Hong Kong. Inman brings over 13 years of experience in marine liability and P&I underwriting. (Josh Recamara, 24/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: HIVE, MGAA, British Marine, Specialty MGA, AEGIS and Rokstone')
Specialty MGA, the MGA platform within MNK Group, has appointed Davood Khalaghizadeh as Senior Underwriter for Directors and Officers (D&O) business. Khalaghizadeh, with extensive experience at AIG, QBE, CV Starr, Aspen, and Volante, has managed D&O portfolios across smaller lines, high excess layers, and specialist risk markets globally. In his new role, he will expand Specialty MGA’s commercial D&O presence, oversee a multi-territory book, support reinsurance strategy, and contribute to direct insurance opportunities, aligning with MNK Group’s goal to strengthen its D&O segment. (Josh Recamara, 24/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: HIVE, MGAA, British Marine, Specialty MGA, AEGIS and Rokstone')
AEGIS London has appointed Neil Bayles as its first Chief Information Officer (CIO) to drive its digital, data, and AI initiatives. In this newly created role, Bayles will develop and execute the syndicate’s IT strategy, focusing on enhancing service quality and leveraging new technologies to strengthen its competitive edge in the London market. (Josh Recamara, 24/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: HIVE, MGAA, British Marine, Specialty MGA, AEGIS and Rokstone')
Rokstone has appointed Sophie Elwood as a Class Underwriter in its international casualty division, strengthening its growing global casualty team. Elwood, with 13 years of market experience, joins from Convex, where she specialised in international casualty and underwriting complex cross-border risks. Based in the UK, she will collaborate with portfolio manager Sam Wylie as the division continues to scale. (Josh Recamara, 24/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Insurance moves: HIVE, MGAA, British Marine, Specialty MGA, AEGIS and Rokstone')
Marsh has appointed Dereck Wischmeyer as Senior Advisor in its Global Digital Infrastructure Industry Practice to lead contract strategy amid a $7 trillion data centre build-out. Wischmeyer, formerly General Counsel at Ark Data Centres, brings over 12 years of legal and commercial expertise. His role focuses on managing risks tied to asset lifecycles and reinvestment timing. (Kenneth Araullo, 23/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'Marsh taps data centre legal veteran to lead contract strategy amid $7tn build-out')
WTW has promoted George Lewkowicz to Global Proposition Leader for P&C capital modelling within its Insurance Consulting and Technology business. Lewkowicz, who joined WTW in 2022, will oversee the Igloo risk analytics platform and lead global innovation, business development, and client solutions. With nearly 20 years of experience, he aims to strengthen WTW’s capital modelling and reinsurance pricing capabilities. (Kenneth Araullo, 23/2/2026, Insurance Business, 'WTW elevates Igloo vet Lewkowicz to global P&C capital modelling chief')